CEE finds “ideal partner” to power its next phase

Centre for Energy Equality (CEE) has been found the “ideal partner” to help realise its full potential following a substantial minority investment from BGF.

Founded in 2022 by Andrew Ross and John McHugh, CEE designs and develops solutions to address energy poverty and grid flexibility.

Since its inception, CEE has continued to deliver in its mission to support the low-carbon transition, including the increasing number of vulnerable households.

Working alongside network operators, energy suppliers, local authorities and industry partners, CEE identifies and pilots solutions directly with communities. 

In a deal advised by George Barnes, Associate Corporate Director at KBS Corporate, with K3 Tax Advisory also supporting the vendors, CEE has received substantial investment from BGF – which will enable the company to grow its services, bring new products to market and expand its team.

“We set out from day one to create a purpose-driven enterprise that made the clean energy transition fair, inclusive and accessible to all,” explained Andrew Ross, CEE co-founder and CEO. “It’s our firm view that no community should be left behind as we strive for a net-zero future.

“To build on the momentum we’ve built in the last four years, we needed an investment partner that shared our mission-led approach and provided patient, flexible support to help bring our solutions to market and see us realise our full potential.

“We have found the ideal partner in BGF – an investor with the model and expertise to support our growth, but one whose values align with ours.”

As part of the deal, Jonathan Earl, partner at BGF, will join the CEE board. Monica Collings OBE, a member of the BGF Talent Network, takes up the position of Chair.

“CEE is an exceptional business with purpose at its core,” said Elle Swire, Investor at BGF. “From its social enterprise roots, it has rapidly evolved into a high-growth organisation, playing a fundamental role in converting energy innovation into positive impact by embedding it in communities up and down the country.

“We’re excited to join CEE on the next phase of their journey as they work with stakeholders across the energy ecosystem to bring more innovations to life and ensure all projects are shaped by real needs and deliver shared value.”

KBS Corporate’s George Barnes thanked colleagues Fahad Latif (Transaction Support Executive), Lile Ashley (Senior Research Analyst) and Alex Foster (Senior Document Writer) for their important roles in the transaction process.

“It’s been a pleasure advising Andy and John on this transaction,” said George. “They have built a business with genuine purpose, and BGF is exactly the right partner to help them realise its full potential.

“We wish them and the whole team every success as they move into this next chapter.”