Member Q&A: Georg Obert, wpd invest

As part of our member Q&A series, we spoke to Georg Obert, managing director of Wpd Invest GmbH about his views on the industry. Georg has a track record of working on wind and solar photovoltaic investments for institutional investors, listed funds, and private investors in Europe, Canada and Australia, with a combined capacity of over 550MW.

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How long have you worked in renewables?

Since 2004, in several roles for investors and developers in Australia, Canada and several European countries.In ten words or fewer, what does your firm do?We provide one-stop solutions for institutional investors.

In which markets do you see the biggest opportunities at present?

Offshore wind in different stages throughout Europe and onshore in the Nordics.

What is the biggest challenge facing wind, and how would you solve it?

Figuratively speaking, keeping your eyes dry in head wind, in order to focus on all the right details. And more generally, making our investments work for the long run. We do so by using the longstanding industry expertise and the deep value chain of our group. We use our expertise with institutional investors to tie up all ends, providing transaction security and seizing the right opportunities, while letting the wrong ones go.

Of the deals you’ve worked on, which is your favourite and why?

Successfully closing a portfolio wind farm deal with Infigen Energy for €150+m (ASX published in 2011): my favourite because it took me over a year to convince them to sell. Close to the end it seemed that I was the only person who believed it would finally happen.

Which trends will affect the wind sector most in the next 5-10 years?

Sector coupling, maybe blockchain and PPAs.

What are the most important lessons you’ve learned during your career?

There are no shortcuts to any place worth going. If you are in it for the long term, act accordingly, as trust is slowly earned, but easily lost.Did you have a mentor and what did they teach you?

I have worked with many people over the years, some inspiring me to see what is possible, others teaching me what to avoid. I am equally grateful that I had the opportunity to work with so many people in different countries. Other than that: greater things are done by a great team.

What do you enjoy most about working in wind?

There’s never been a dull moment in the 14 years I have worked in this industry and it’s a great community too.

Why did you join A Word About Wind?

I had the aim of expanding my network to the UK and beyond.