Infrastructure investment is the backbone of societal progress, shaping the physical foundations that support the efficient functioning of our communities. From transportation systems to energy networks, the impact of these investments is far-reaching. In recent years, the infrastructure landscape has undergone significant transformations, evolving from a niche asset class to a key component in institutional investors’ portfolios. As we look ahead, the next 12 months promise a positive outlook for infrastructure, driven by its ability to provide stable returns, investment yield, and protection against inflation.
While infrastructure fundraising experienced a slowdown recently due to the ‘denominator effect,’ wherein portfolio asset allocations reached limits, the trend is expected to reverse in the next 12 to 24 months. According to Preqin, infrastructure is anticipated to be the second-fastest growing form of private capital assets under management, with a projected compound annual growth rate of 13.3% until 2027.
The energy sector is currently undergoing an unprecedented low-carbon transition. Policy incentives, technological advancements, and shifting consumer demands are driving momentum. Traditional renewables like hydro, solar, and wind are well-established, but emerging opportunities in biogas, biomethane, energy storage, and hydrogen present exciting prospects for infrastructure investors.
As the second-largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in Europe, the transport sector is undergoing a transformative shift. Policies targeting electric vehicles, renewable fuels, and emissions-trading schemes are creating new investment opportunities. Electrification of rail and bus fleets, vehicle-charging networks, shipping, port infrastructure, and ground service equipment at airports are areas poised for growth.
The utility sector, responsible for essential services like energy transmission, water management, and district heating, is adapting to trends like decarbonisation and electrification. Investments in small to mid-sized market segments, where assets can respond swiftly to changes in customer demand, are proving attractive. Opportunities in district heating, regulated energy utilities, and waste management are on the rise.
The digital segment encompasses broadcast and mobile towers, fibre networks, data centres, and emerging technologies like 5G. These assets offer stability in revenues and, in some cases, subsidy backing. From a sustainability perspective, digital infrastructure plays a crucial role in enhancing connectivity, fostering digital inclusion, and supporting remote working.
The coming year holds a robust pipeline of new investment opportunities in infrastructure. The global imperative to decarbonise energy, transportation, and utilities not only necessitates significant capital investment but also opens doors to attractive, sustainable, long-term opportunities for investors. As we navigate this evolving landscape, the prospect of infrastructure as a critical component in shaping a sustainable future is both promising and exciting.
(Source: abrdn)