Mubadala Investment Company and Korea’s Glenwood Private Equity have completed their co-investment in NanoH2O Co. Ltd, a Seoul-based water technology company, after fulfilling all closing conditions and securing the necessary regulatory approvals, according to the UAE’s state news agency WAM.
NanoH2O, previously known as LG Water Solutions, was created as a division of LG Chem in 2014 before becoming an independent company earlier this year. It manufactures reverse osmosis (RO) membranes used in desalination and brackish water treatment.
RO technology is widely regarded as the most energy-efficient large-scale desalination method and has become a core component of global strategies to meet rising water demand.
With more than 95 per cent of its revenue generated outside South Korea, NanoH2O supplies municipal and industrial clients in multiple regions. The company’s international footprint is seen as a key advantage at a time when water scarcity and climate-driven pressures are increasing demand for lower-energy water treatment solutions.
Mubadala boosts global water technology footprint
Mohamed Albadr, Head of Asia at Mubadala, said the sovereign investor sees long-term potential in NanoH2O’s technology and market position. “We have strong conviction in NanoH2O’s technology leadership and long-term growth potential. This investment aligns with our strategy to partner with companies advancing solutions to global challenges and reinforces our long-standing commitment to Korea and the broader Asian market,” he said. “In partnership with Glenwood PE, we look forward to supporting NanoH2O’s international growth and reaffirming its position as a global leader.”
Mubadala said the investment complements its broader focus on energy transition and sustainability-linked assets. Abdulla Mohamed Shadid, Head of Energy and Sustainability at Mubadala, said the need for secure and low-carbon water sources is shaping investment decisions worldwide.
“Water security and decarbonisation are converging as global priorities, and reverse osmosis membranes are essential to delivering water at scale with lower energy intensity. NanoH2O stands out for its proven technology, global footprint and a replacement-driven business model that rewards continuous innovation,” he said.
He added that the company is well placed to expand in the Middle East and North Africa.
Glenwood Private Equity said the acquisition fits its strategy of backing high-quality assets that emerge from corporate carve-outs. Sangho Lee, the firm’s CEO, said, “Our investment in NanoH2O reflects Glenwood’s strong conviction in identifying and partnering with high-quality businesses that are considered non-core or less core within their respective conglomerates through corporate carve-outs.”
NanoH2O is expected to use the capital and new ownership structure to accelerate expansion and scale production, particularly in regions with large desalination markets.
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