The new financing is designed to support solar installations built directly on or adjacent to customer sites, with electricity consumed on site under long-term PPAs. Structured at portfolio level, it allows multiple on-site projects to be funded under a single debt framework.
23 GWh of battery storage secured via FPAs in 2025
Behind-the-meter solar, which is typically installed directly on or adjacent to customer sites, is increasingly used by businesses and private entities seeking to manage energy costs, reduce exposure to volatile wholesale prices and improve supply security. Such systems also reduce reliance on grid capacity, an issue that has become more acute in parts of the UK as electrification accelerates.
For developers and lenders, behind-the-meter portfolios offer a different risk profile from utility-scale solar, with revenues driven less by wholesale market exposure and more reliant on long-term C&I contracts.
KEY 2026 expo line-up highlights finance and energy strategies
According to Alight, demand in the UK is being driven by both cost and decarbonisation considerations. “We are in a rapid growth phase in the UK and see strong interest from customers driven by both financial and environmental considerations,” said Warren Campbell, CEO of Alight. “This funding facility allows us to accelerate the rollout of behind-the-meter projects with large commercial and industrial customers.”
For the UK’s commercial and industrial sector, behind-the-meter and private-wire solar are emerging as complementary options to utility-scale projects, particularly where grid access and price certainty remain key concerns. (TF)
