Gregory Askew – senior analyst at NextEnergy Capital – was a standout winner for Rising Star of the Year in Europe in the renewables sector.  

Greg plays a crucial role in the NextEnergy’s M&A activity, all while studying for his CFA Level 1 and Level 2 exams. Simply put, as one judge said “his profile stands out from the rest” and “a key contributor” to the firm.  

As part of his role at the fund manager, Greg has constructed key systems and workstreams within the business to drive efficiencies and improve productivity across multiple departments. 

According to the submission, Greg has played a pivotal role in securing a key asset sale for NextEnergy Solar Fund (NESF), delivering the second phase of the Capital Recycling Programme.  

He has been involved in screening “countless” investments, spanning thousands of MWs to selling assets in one the most challenging markets that the renewable infrastructure market has faced to date.  

Greg has been involved in finding solutions to “elaborate problems”, such as building out the team’s valuation BESS model alongside the firm’s Head of Battery Storage, which played a key factor in multiple acquisitions. 

On top of his contributions to M&A, according to the submission, Greg organised a strategy day for UK team in 2023 to focus on how to develop/improve/grow the UK business while building in essential ESG workstreams to better NextEnergy projects and the surrounding environment, coupling with our mission of leading the transition to clean energy. 

One judge said Greg is an impressive talent and is an “exceptional professional, driven to continually develop and optimise his career in infrastructure”. 

Another judge said that Gregory “shows an impressive range of deals and has taken on an exceptional level of additional expertise”. 

While another member of the judging panel said: “Gregory showcases clear evidence of success and demonstrates rigour in executing his role, goes an extra mile in his responsibilities.” 

As one judge concluded: “Greg is a real rising star - a key member of the team, with a prodigious work rate and an avid interest in the technical aspects of the sector, he stands out for his enthusiasm and drive.” 

Since joining NextEnergy, Greg has been involved in: 

• CfD AR6 budget modelling: Ensuring maximum value for NEC and the industry
• NESF sale of Hatherden and Whitecross
• NPUK acquisition of Horton Wood
• Involved in PPA negotiations with key offtakers to help decarbonise their businesses, instilling investors with the confidence to invest in the UK energy market
• Secured approval for EPC contracts and beginning construction for multiple solar assets, driving forwards Net Zero commitments of the firm, the UK, and the globe