Equity

Equity investment implies a partial or full ownership of the project or company. Utilities, independent power producers, and developers may make equity investments in clean energy projects to support development phases. Institutional investors and wealthy individuals can also provide equity to projects in the form of stock purchases via corporate stock or other vehicles, such as yieldcos, master limited partnerships, and renewable energy investment trusts. Corporate institutions may also use their balance sheets for direct investments in energy efficiency upgrades or renewable energy installations. Residential and commercial end users may also use their own capital to install energy efficiency equipment or renewable energy generation equipment.