NextEnergy Capital Initiative Launched

London, July 31^st, 2007 – Mr. Michael Bonte-Friedheim today launched a merchant banking initiative focused on the European renewable energy market. NextEnergy Capital’s primary strategy is to identify, acquire and manage renewable energy assets throughout Europe on behalf of its financial backer.

NextEnergy Capital is targeting opportunities across the technology spectrum (principally solar, wind, biomass, hydro and geothermal) and has an active pipeline of transactions under negotiation. The company has the ability to invest in early-stage development projects, plants under construction and operating assets.

In addition, NextEnergy Capital will undertake capital raising and M&A-related projects on behalf of selected clients in the sector. NextEnergy Capital Limited is regulated by the FSA.