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Octopus launches new EIS tranche

13 May 2013

Octopus today announced that it has opened a new tranche of its Octopus Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS). The latest tranche will invest into the renewable energy sector with a particular focus on solar companies.

Octopus has been managing EIS’ since 2004 and is now one of the largest EIS providers in the UK. In recent years the Octopus EIS has focused on the renewables opportunity as it looks to invest in technologies and companies that are supporting the advancement of the UK’s renewables market.

A key area of investment has been in the solar sector. Working closely with its in house solar development partner Lightsource Renewable Energy (Lightsource), Octopus has become one of the largest investors in commercial solar in the UK deploying over £325 million into solar projects since 2011.

Commenting on the launch John Thorpe, Business Line Manager for EIS, said: “We are seeing continued demand for our Octopus EIS from advisers and investors. This latest tranche will build on our proven track record and expertise in solar investment, as well as enabling investors to gain access to the broader renewables market as we expand our green energy investments. There is a significant growth opportunity in renewable energy spurred on by the UK’s commitment to increase the amount of energy it gets from renewable sources to 15% by 2020 from 1% in 2005.”

Demand for EIS products has continued to grow in recent years with more advisers and investors becoming familiar with the tax benefits and investment opportunities associated to the product. This has been complemented by an increasing number of businesses applying for EIS qualification.

John Thorpe added: “EIS’ are frequently compared to Venture Capital Trusts, and both products offer a highly tax efficient way for people to invest their money and diversify their portfolio. While both VCTs and EIS’ offer income tax relief and tax-free growth, there are key differences - not least in EIS’ offering tax benefits after a shorter holding period of three years. With EIS investments also becoming exempt from inheritance tax after just two years, they are particularly attractive for investors looking to address their IHT liability.”

This is the first EIS tranche that Octopus has launched since the Retail Distribution Review came into effect at the end of last year that will offer ongoing adviser charges. The product is expected to remain open until 31 July 2013.

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