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HMC Capital is strategically narrowing its energy investment focus to wind and battery storage projects as it embarks on a renewed effort to raise $1 billion in equity for a new energy platform, chaired by former Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard. Since entering the energy sector last year, HMC has made significant acquisitions, including the purchase of battery project developer Stor-Energy and a $950 million acquisition of Victorian assets from Neoen, a leader in renewable energy and storage.

The acquisition of Neoen's Victorian assets was necessitated by competition concerns regarding Brookfield, its new owner. HMC asserts that the purchase price was at least 20% below replacement costs, positioning it favorably in the market. HMC's CEO, David di Pilla, expressed confidence in the value of these assets, emphasizing a shift away from peripheral technologies like green hydrogen in favor of a focused strategy on core developments.

The immediate focus includes two key projects: the 600 MW Kentbruck wind project, proposed in Victoria, and the 600 MW Moorabool battery storage facility near Geelong. HMC intends to leverage these assets to attract institutional investors, structuring the fund as a closed-ended vehicle targeting a 15-20% internal rate of return (IRR) over seven years.

Additionally, HMC plans to expand its team by adding 15 personnel to enhance project delivery capabilities. The companyás development portfolio encompasses over 5.5 GW of assets and aims to grow its energy platform from $1 billion to potentially between $5 billion and $10 billion in the coming years.

In summary, HMC Capital is positioning itself as a significant player in Australia's renewable energy landscape, aligning its strategy with investor expectations while supporting the nationás decarbonization goals.