2 0 1 7 A N N U A L R E P O RT
P R O D U C T I V I T Y . S U S T A I N A B I L I T Y . V I S I O N .
INVESTING IN SOLUTIONS
FOR CLIMATE CHANGE
C L I M A T E C H A N G E S O L U T I O N S
ABOUT HANNON ARMSTRONG
Hannon Armstrong (NYSE: HASI) is a capital and services provider to the sustainable infrastructure markets focused on
reducing climate changing greenhouse gas emissions (“GHG” or carbon emissions) as well as mitigating the impact of, or
increasing resiliency to, climate change. We focus primarily on the energy efficiency, renewable energy and other sustainable
infrastructure markets.
>175% TOTAL SHAREHOLDER RETURN SINCE OUR IPO *
HASI
S&P
DJIA
SNL Finance REIT
$100
$127
$138
$194
$100
$100
$100
$122
$97
$84
$138
$127
$96
$140
$123
$88
$207
$157
$145
$109
$278
$191
$165
$127
*Assumes $100 invested at closing on April 18, 2013 (our first day of trading) and that all dividends were reinvested without the
payment of any commissions. SNL Finance REIT index is an index created by S&P Global Market Intelligence. See Annual Report on
Form 10-K for additional information.
2017
0$ . 57
GAAP Earnings
per Share;
78% Annual GAAP
EPS Growth
1.27$
Core Earnings
per Share1;
6% Annual Core
EPS Growth
1 Billion
$
Transactions closed
10. 2 %
Core Return on
Equity 2
1 Core Earnings is a non-GAAP financial measure. See our Annual Report on Form 10-K for an explanation of Core Earnings and a reconciliation to our GAAP earnings.
2 Represents Core Earnings divided by the average of the stockholders’ equity as of the last day of each quarter.
2
HASI$127HASI$138HASI$194HASI$207HASI$2784/18/201312/31/201312/31/201412/31/201512/31/201612/31/2017$70$80$90$100$110$120$130$140$150$160$170$180$190$200$210$220$230$240$250$260$270$2804/18/201312/31/201312/31/201412/31/201512/31/201612/31/2017 L E T T E R F R O M T H E C E O R E S U L T S
DEAR STOCKHOLDERS:
Over 40 years ago, I read Diet for a Small Planet, detailing the environmental impact of meat production due to systemic inefficiencies.
This led to a lifetime of curiosity, engagement and commitment to the environment. As my understanding of the environmental costs of
inefficiencies grew, I realized my career mission: increase efficiency in the generation and use of energy in the electric power sector.
By the mid ’90s, the mounting threat of climate change focused me on accelerating the uptake of cleaner energy technology and
improving the efficiency of the built environment. My career at Hannon Armstrong has been motivated and shaped by this commitment.
Five years ago, recognizing the potential size and opportunity to invest in environmentally beneficial infrastructure projects, we believe
we became the first publicly traded company focused on investing in sustainable infrastructure projects to address climate change,
leveraging our decades of experience investing in similar assets.
Our thesis continues to be validated. Our pipeline of investment opportunities grows, even as we invest approximately $1 billion a
year, indicating a large and expanding market. The International Energy Agency and the International Renewable Energy Agency
recently estimated that more than $100 trillion could be spent globally on energy efficiency and renewable energy over the next
35 years.
The appeal of energy efficiency and renewable energy has grown rapidly as the economics challenge and displace the status
quo. LED lighting, wind and solar, with or without storage, continue to decline in cost. Additionally, the number and influence of
environmental, social and governance (ESG) investors continues to grow. These investors are demanding investment vehicles, such as
Hannon Armstrong, that achieve demonstrable positive outcomes.
Unfortunately, according to NASA, 17 of the 18 warmest years since 1880 have occurred since 2001 . At Hannon Armstrong, we
are focused on responsibly growing the business to address this reality. This January, I had the opportunity to engage with researchers
in Antarctica and expand my knowledge as well as concerns regarding climate change. I came away from the trip humbled by the
enormity of the problem and energized by our ability to create, define, and lead the sustainable investment market for the benefit of
stockholders and the environment.
17 of the 18
warmest years since
1880 have occurred
since 2001
$100 Trillion
could be spent globally
on energy efficiency
and renewable energy
over the next 35 years
while increasing overall
GDP growth
76%
of total carbon emission
reduction by 2050
will be achieved from
energy efficiency and
renewable energy
investments
40%
reduction in
levelized cost of
wind and solar
entering service
in 2022
compared to
2014 estimates
See the section titled “Market Conditions” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for source data.
3
L E T T E R F R O M T H E C E O R E S U L T S
2017 REVIEW
In 2017, we invested almost $1 billion and increased Core Earnings 6% for the year ended December 31, 2017, compared to
December 31, 2016. We increased assets by 25%, kept our forward-looking yield above 6.1% and increased portfolio diversity.
Anticipating higher short-term interest rates, we fixed 92% of our interest rate exposure and increased leverage from 1.7 to 2.2 times
equity. Taken together, this strong performance allowed us to achieve a 10.2% Core Return on Equity.
Our pipeline of efficiency, renewable energy and other sustainable infrastructure assets continues to grow. Our goal is to allocate
capital to the assets with the best risk-adjusted returns – now and in the future. As persistently low natural gas prices stress margins for
investments in utility scale electricity generation, we continue to expand our efforts in the Behind-the-Meter (B-T-M) assets. Our B-T-M
investments fund the installation of the energy efficiency and solar solutions at commercial, residential, and governmental buildings.
This subset of the built environment accounts for approximately 40% of the energy consumed annually in the U.S. For decades, we
have financed the leading engineering companies in the B-T-M market, a market that we intend to continue to lead and expand
in 2018.
OUTLOOK FOR 2018
While our pipeline is strong in 2018, as announced in our fourth quarter earnings call, we expect increased variability in our quarterly
results, due to the attractiveness of today’s securitization market. We can securitize assets at favorable prices and recognize earnings,
but optimizing our securitizations creates lumpiness in any one quarter. We announced three-year compounded annual guidance of
8% to 12% total shareholder returns, which we expect to be realized from 2% to 6% compounded annual growth in Core Earnings
as well as an approximate 6% dividend yield. Our growth in Core Earnings will be in addition to the growth produced to offset our
higher interest expense as a result of fixing substantially all our interest rate exposure. We believe fixing rates at near historic lows was
a prudent decision that leaves our earnings profile in a much stronger position as short-term rates continue to rise in 2018.
MEASURING OUR ESG IMPACT
This year’s annual report features our commitment to ESG metrics that should bring improved value to stockholders. Starting
with the “E, ” environmental, we continue to set the bar for other large sources of capital to report the environmental impact of all their
investments, not just the ones they want to talk about. CarbonCount® continues to be our true north in understanding impact from our
investments. Social, or “S, ” aspects of the business include substantial employee engagement regarding the mission and purpose of our
firm. Our business is hard work, and our employees rise to the challenges as a result; thankfully, they do it with a sense of mission and
purpose. Good governance, the “G” in ESG, is a core value of our firm, and we will continue to implement appropriate improvements
derived from our ongoing focus on best practices.
CONCLUSION
Again, I want to thank the Hannon Armstrong team for an outstanding 2017. We have a lot to be proud of from our first five years as
a public company and we have even more to look forward to over the next five years. Thank you for investing in Hannon Armstrong.
Respectfully,
Jeffrey W. Eckel
Chairman, President and CEO
April 10, 2018
4
F I N A N C I A L H I G H L I G H T S 2 0 1 7
GROWING OUR BALANCE SHEET WITH A DIVERSIFIED PORTFOLIO OF LONG DATED ASSETS…
BALANCE SHEET PORTFOLIO
FORWARD LOOKING YIELD
Portfolio
($ in billions)
# of Investments
(As of 12/31)
Forward Looking Yield1
(As of 12/31)
Weighted Average Life in Years2
(As of 12/31)
$2.0
$1.6
$1.2
$0.8
$0.4
$0
$0.9B
80+
2014
$1.6B
130+
$1.3B
105+
$2.0B
175+
200
150
100
50
6.2%
5.8%
5.4%
5.0%
2015
~
31% CAGR
2016
2017
6.0%
13
6.2%
6.2%
6.1%
10
11
12
2014
2015
2016
2017
16
12
8
4
0
…WHILE CONTINUING TO LOCK IN A STRONG RETURN ON EQUITY
FIXED RATE DEBT LEVEL
Fixed Rate Debt %
(As of 12/31)
100%
80%
60%
40%
20%
0%
50%
2014
CORE RETURN ON EQUITY
92%
10.0%
9.3%
9.6%
10.1%
10.2%
71%
67%
2015
~
23% CAGR
2016
2017
8.0%
6.0%
4.0%
2.0%
0%
2014
2015
2016
2017
1 Represents forward looking unlevered estimated return on assets (core) yield.
2 Excludes match-funded transactions.
5
E N V I R O N M E N T A L | S O C I A L | G O V E R N A N C E H I G H L I G H T S
Hannon Armstrong is focused on achieving a high level of environmental and social responsibility
and strong corporate governance (“ESG”):
• Board level focus on integrating ESG into our significant analyses,
HANNON ARMSTRONG EMISSIONS DATA
1
strategies, activities, policies and communications
Scope
2017 Data
Verification
Target
• First U.S. public company to commit to Climate Disclosure Standards Board
initiative to implement the recommendations of the Task Force on
Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD)
• Active corporate and employee engagement
• Implemented a number of additional Corporate Governance
improvements in 2017
Scope 1
Scope 2
Scope 3
0 metric tons of
CO2 equivalent
0 metric tons of
CO2 equivalent
See Page 7
for our investments
Bureau
Veritas
Bureau
Veritas
Zero
Zero
Internal
Negative
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT CONTINUES TO GROW
CUMULATIVE METRIC TONS OF CO2 REDUCED ANNUALLY
CUMULATIVE GALLONS OF WATER SAVED ANNUALLY
2,500,000
2,000,000
1,500,000
2,339,000
1,809,000
1,323,000
1,000,000
672,000
500,000
331,000
1.5 Billion
1.1 Billion
1.5 Billion
1.25 Billion
1 Billion
750 Million
628 Million
913 Million
773 Million
0
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
500 Million
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
CARBONCOUNT® TOTAL METRIC TONS OF C02
OFFSET ANNUALLY PER $1,000 INVESTED
CARBONCOUNT® TOTAL METRIC TONS OF
C02 OFFSET ANNUALLY PER $1,000 INVESTED2
IMPACT BY CLASS
1.43
0.75
0.60
0.45
0.30
0.15
0
0.72
0.52
0.39
0.56
0.46
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
1.50
1.20
0.90
0.60
0.30
0
0.45
0.47
EFFICIENCY
SOLAR
WIND
1 In addition to our internal review, Bureau Veritas North America, Inc. was commissioned as an independent auditor to verify our GHG emissions measurements and annual reporting
under the GHG measurement and reporting protocols of the World Resources Institute (WRI)/World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) Greenhouse Gas
(GHG) Protocol Corporate Accounting and Reporting Standard (Scope 1 and 2).
2 A CarbonCount® score (annual metric tons of carbon dioxide offset per $1,000 invested) is applied to each investment. As such, CarbonCount® is included as part of our negative
Scope 3 emissions data.
6
2 0 1 7 I M P A C T
SUSTAINABILITY
We define sustainability as positively impacting the environment while being neutral or negative on GHG emissions. As part of
our investment evaluation process, projects are screened for GHG reductions and other environmental benefits, such as water use
reduction. We plan to report these metrics on an annual basis, which are included as part of our negative Scope 3 emissions data.
If carbon counts and capital is scarce, we believe in evaluating investments not only for their financial returns, but also for their
impactfulness in reducing GHG.
SUSTAINABILITY REPORT CARD
Technology
Wind
Wind
Wind
Wind
Efficiency
Efficiency
Solar
Wind
Solar
Efficiency
Solar
Efficiency
Solar
Efficiency
Efficiency
Efficiency
Solar
Solar
Solar
Solar
Efficiency
Solar
Efficiency
Solar
Efficiency
Efficiency
Solar
Efficiency
CarbonCount ®
Metric Tons of CO2
offset/$1,000
1.62
1.49
1.48
1.48
1.38
1.26
1.04
1.02
1.01
1.00
0.74
0.68
0.57
0.55
0.55
0.47
0.47
0.46
0.46
0.46
0.42
0.40
0.40
0.39
0.38
0.37
0.35
0.32
Region
West
West
West
West
Northeast
South
West
South
West
Midwest
West
West
West
South
Midwest
Northeast
South
West
West
West
South
Northeast
South
West
Northeast
South
Northeast
Midwest
Technology
Solar
Solar
Efficiency
Efficiency
Efficiency
Efficiency
Solar
Solar
Solar
Solar
Efficiency
Solar
Solar
Efficiency
Solar
Solar
Solar
Efficiency
Solar
Solar
Efficiency
Efficiency
Efficiency
Other
Other
Other
Other
Seismic Retrofits
CarbonCount ®
Metric Tons of CO2
offset/$1,000
0.32
0.31
0.30
0.28
0.27
0.27
0.23
0.22
0.22
0.21
0.20
0.20
0.19
0.18
0.17
0.17
0.17
0.16
0.16
0.15
0.15
0.12
0.11
0.04
0.04
0.04
0.04
*
Region
West
West
West
West
South
West
West
National
Northeast
Northeast
West
West
West
West
West
West
West
West
West
West
South
South
South
South
South
South
South
West
2017 Totals
Metric Tons of CO2 Offset
530,000
Carbon Count ®
0.56
Gallons of Water Saved
352 million
Estimated carbon savings are calculated using the estimated kilowatt hours (“kWh”), gallons of fuel oil, million British thermal units (“MMBtus”) of natural gas and gallons of water saved as appropriate, for each project.
The energy savings are converted into an estimate of metric tons of CO2 equivalent emissions based upon the project’s location and the corresponding emissions factor data from the U.S. Government and International
Energy Agency. Portfolios of projects are represented on an aggregate basis.
CarbonCount® is a third-party scoring tool offered by The Alliance to Save Energy that evaluates investments in U.S.-based, energy efficiency and renewable energy projects to determine how effectively they can be
expected to reduce CO2 emissions per $1,000 of investment.
*Investments in seismic retrofits provide resiliency in the event of an earthquake. A secondary benefit of such retrofits includes the preservation of carbon embedded in the built environment.
7
E N V I R O N M E N T A L | S O C I A L | G O V E R N A N C E H I G H L I G H T S
EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT
Hannon Armstrong is focused on achieving a high level of employee engagement as part of our overall ESG strategy:
• Focus on hiring and retaining diverse and highly talented employees and empowering them to create value for
our stockholders
• Employees generally receive a portion of their compensation in the form of stock grants tied to performance
• Workforce is ˜40% female and ˜20% minority
• Regular employee meetings on sustainability and corporate performance with our CEO
• Competitive benefits that help our employees and their families be healthy
• Encourage our employees to continue to develop in their careers, including by obtaining advanced degrees
or professional certifications
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
In addition to our support of employee community activities and our contribution to environmental organizations,
Hannon Armstrong’s investments fund a healthier community and support jobs:
170,000
School children benefit
annually from schools
upgraded through
our investments
950,000
Veterans benefit annually
from hospitals upgraded
through our investments
70,000
Jobs are supported
by our investments in
the U.S. economy
Estimated benefit based on project size and investment, length of construction, and industry and government data sources.
8
E N V I R O N M E N T A L | S O C I A L | G O V E R N A N C E H I G H L I G H T S
GOVERNANCE HIGHLIGHTS
Hannon Armstrong’s corporate governance is focused on being closely aligned with the interests of our stockholders.
Notable features, which are described in more detail in our proxy statement, include:
• Annual re-election of each of our directors
• Active stockholder outreach program
• Six of our seven directors are independent
• Annual vote on executive compensation
• Two of our directors each qualify as an
• Formal Code of Business Conduct and Ethics
“audit committee financial expert”
and Whistleblower policies
• Two of our directors are women in furtherance
• Minimum stock holdings of executives and directors with
of our board diversity policy
prohibition on pledging or hedging of securities
• Majority vote policy for the election of directors
• Formal clawback policy
• Targeted director retirement age of 75
BOARD MEMBERS 2017
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Richard J. Osborne
Lead Independent
Director
Rebecca B. Blalock
Charles M. O’Neil
Chair,
Finance and Risk
Committee
Jeffrey W. Eckel
Chairman
Steven G. Osgood
Chair,
Audit Committee
Mark J. Cirilli
Chair,
Compensation
Committee
Teresa M. Brenner
Chair,
Nominating,
Governance and
Corporate
Responsibility
Committee
9
EXECUTIVE MANAGEMENT
Steven L. Chuslo
General Counsel
& Executive Vice President
Daniel K. McMahon, CFA
Executive Vice President
Portfolio Management
Jeffrey W. Eckel
Chairman, President
& Chief Executive Officer
J. Brendan Herron
Chief Financial Officer
& Executive Vice President
Nathaniel J. Rose, CFA
Chief Investment Officer
& Executive Vice President
Corporate Headquarters
1906 Towne Centre Boulevard, Suite 370
Annapolis, MD 21401
info@hannonarmstrong.com
Phone: 410 -571-9860
Investor Relations Contact
Investors@hannonarmstrong.com
Phone: 410 -571- 6189
Stock Listing
Hannon Armstrong
Sustainable Infrastructure
Capital, Inc.’s common
stock is listed on the
New York Stock Exchange
under the symbol “HASI”.
Annual Report Design
Thomas Puckett Brand Intelligence
Some of the information contained in this
document are forward-looking statements
and within the meaning of Section 27A of
the Securities Act of 1933, as amended,
and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934, as amended. When used in this
document, words such as “believe,” “expect,”
“anticipate,” “estimate,” “plan,” “continue,”
“intend,” “should,” “may,” “target,” or similar
expressions, are intended to identify such
forward-looking statements. Forward-looking
statements are subject to significant risks and
uncertainties. Investors are cautioned against
placing undue reliance on such statements.
Actual results may differ materially from those
set forth in the forward-looking statements.
Factors that could cause actual results to differ
materially from those described in the
forward-looking statements include those
discussed under the caption “Risk Factors”
included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K
for our fiscal year ended December 31, 2017,
which was filed with the U.S. Securities and
Exchange Commission (SEC), as well as in
other reports that we file with the SEC.
Forward-looking statements are based on
beliefs, assumptions and expectations as of
April 2018. We disclaim any obligation to
publicly release the results of any revisions
to these forward-looking statements reflecting
new estimates, events or circumstances
after April 2018.
P R O D U C T I V I T Y . S U S T A I N A B I L I T Y . V I S I O N .
10
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
È ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF
1934
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017
OR
‘ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT
OF 1934
For the transition period from
to
Commission File Number: 001-35877
HANNON ARMSTRONG SUSTAINABLE
INFRASTRUCTURE CAPITAL, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Maryland
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
1906 Towne Centre Blvd
Suite 370
Annapolis, MD
(Address of principal executive offices)
46-1347456
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
21401
(Zip Code)
(410) 571-9860
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of Each Class
Common Stock, $0.01 par value
Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered
New York Stock Exchange
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
None
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes È No ‘
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act. Yes ‘ No È
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act
of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to
such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes È No ‘
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data
File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for
such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes È No ‘
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§ 229.405 of this chapter) is not contained
herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in
Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. È
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting
company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer”, “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company” and
“emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer È
Non-accelerated filer ‘ (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
‘
Accelerated filer
Smaller reporting company ‘
Emerging growth company ‘
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with
any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ‘
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ‘ No È
As of June 30, 2017, the aggregate market value of the registrant’s common stock (includes unvested restricted stock) held by non-affiliates of the
registrant was $1.2 billion based on the closing sales price of the registrant’s common stock on June 30, 2017 as reported on the New York Stock Exchange.
On February 21, 2018, the registrant had a total of 53,348,376 shares of common stock, $0.01 par value, outstanding (which includes 1,393,419
shares of unvested restricted common stock).
Portions of the registrant’s proxy statement for the 2018 annual meeting of stockholders are incorporated by reference into Part III of this
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Page
5
5
13
51
51
51
51
52
52
56
57
80
83
120
120
120
121
121
121
121
121
121
122
122
127
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PART I
Business
Item 1.
Item 1A. Risk Factors
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments
Item 2.
Item 3.
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures
Properties
Legal Proceedings
PART II
Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer
Purchases of Equity Securities
Selected Financial Data
Item 6.
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
Item 8.
Item 9.
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures
Item 9B. Other Information
Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
PART III
Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers, and Corporate Governance
Item 11. Executive Compensation
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related
Stockholder Matters
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions and Director Independence
Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services
PART IV
Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules
Item 16. Form 10-K Summary
- 2 -
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
We make forward-looking statements in this Annual Report on Form 10-K (“Form 10-K”) within the
meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and Section 21E of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”) that are subject to risks and uncertainties.
For these statements, we claim the protections of the safe harbor for forward-looking statements contained in
such Sections. These forward-looking statements include information about possible or assumed future results of
our business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations, plans and objectives. When we use the words
“believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “plan,” “continue,” “intend,” “should,” “may” or similar
expressions, we intend to identify forward-looking statements.
Forward-looking statements are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. Investors are cautioned against
placing undue reliance on such statements. Actual results may differ materially from those set forth in the
forward-looking statements. Statements regarding the following subjects, among others, may be forward-looking:
•
•
our expected returns and performance of our investments;
the state of government legislation, regulation and policies that support or enhance the economic
feasibility of sustainable infrastructure projects, including energy efficiency and renewable energy
projects and the general market demands for such projects;
• market trends in our industry, energy markets, commodity prices, interest rates, the debt and lending
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
markets or the general economy;
our business and investment strategy;
availability of opportunities to invest in projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions or mitigate the
impact of climate change including energy efficiency and renewable energy projects and our ability to
complete potential new opportunities in our pipeline;
our relationships with originators, investors, market intermediaries and professional advisers;
competition from other providers of capital;
our or any other companies’ projected operating results;
actions and initiatives of the federal, state and local governments and changes to federal, state and local
government policies, regulations, tax laws and rates and the execution and impact of these actions,
initiatives and policies;
the state of the U.S. economy generally or in specific geographic regions, states or municipalities,
economic trends and economic recoveries;
our ability to obtain and maintain financing arrangements on favorable terms, including securitizations;
general volatility of the securities markets in which we participate;
changes in the value of our assets, our portfolio of assets and our investment and underwriting process;
the impact of weather conditions, natural disasters, accidents or equipment failures or other events that
disrupt the operation of our investments or negatively impact on the value our assets;
rates of default or decreased recovery rates on our assets;
interest rate and maturity mismatches between our assets and any borrowings used to fund such assets;
changes in interest rates, including the flattening of the yield curve, and the market value of our assets
and target assets;
changes in commodity prices, including continued low natural gas prices;
effects of hedging instruments on our assets or liabilities;
- 3 -
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
the degree to which our hedging strategies may or may not protect us from risks, such as interest rate
volatility;
impact of and changes in accounting guidance and similar matters;
our ability to maintain our qualification as a real estate investment trust for U.S. federal income tax
purposes (a “REIT”);
our ability to maintain our exemption from registration under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as
amended (the “1940 Act”);
availability of and our ability to attract and retain qualified personnel;
estimates relating to our ability to generate sufficient cash in the future to operate our business and to
make distributions to our stockholders; and
our understanding of our competition.
Forward-looking statements are based on beliefs, assumptions and expectations as of the date of this
Form 10-K. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made. New risks and
uncertainties arise over time, and it is not possible for us to predict those events or how they may affect us.
Except as required by law, we are not obligated to, and do not intend to, update or revise any forward-looking
statements after the date of this Form 10-K, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
The risks included here are not exhaustive. Other sections of this Form 10-K may include additional factors
that could adversely affect our business and financial performance. Moreover, we operate in a very competitive
and rapidly changing environment. New risk factors emerge from time to time and it is not possible for
management to predict all such risk factors, nor can it assess the impact of all such risk factors on our business or
the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those
contained in any forward-looking statements. Given these risks and uncertainties, investors should not place
undue reliance on forward-looking statements as a prediction of actual results.
- 4 -
PART I
In this Form 10-K, unless specifically stated otherwise or the context otherwise indicates, references to
“we,” “our,” “us” and “our company” refer to Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure Capital, Inc., a
Maryland corporation, Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure, L.P., Hannon Armstrong Capital, LLC
and any of our other subsidiaries. Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure, L.P. is a Delaware limited
partnership of which we are the sole general partner and to which we refer in this Form 10-K as our “Operating
Partnership.” Hannon Armstrong Capital, LLC, a Maryland limited liability company, is the entity that operated
our historical business prior to the consummation of our initial public offering on April 23, 2013 (our “IPO”)
and which we refer to as the “Predecessor,” became our subsidiary upon consummation of our IPO.
Item 1.
Business
GENERAL
We provide capital and services focused on reducing climate changing greenhouse gas emissions (“GHG”
or carbon emissions) as well as mitigating the impact of, or increasing resiliency to, climate change. We focus
primarily on the energy efficiency, renewable energy and other sustainable infrastructure markets. Our goal is to
generate attractive returns for our stockholders by investing capital in assets or projects that generate long-term,
recurring and predictable cash flows or cost savings from proven technologies. We also provide services to the
various partners and counterparties in the markets where we invest.
Our investments take various forms including equity, joint ventures, lending or other financing transactions,
as well as land ownership and typically benefit from contractually committed high credit quality obligors. We
also generate on-going fees through gain-on-sale securitization transactions, advisory services and asset
management.
We are internally managed, and our management team has extensive relevant industry knowledge and
experience, dating back more than 30 years. We have long-standing relationships with the leading energy service
companies (“ESCOs”), manufacturers, project developers, utilities, owners and operators. Our origination
strategy is to use these relationships to generate recurring, programmatic investment and fee generating
opportunities. Additionally, we have relationships with the leading banks, investment banks, and institutional
investors from which we receive additional investment and fee generating opportunities.
We completed approximately $1.0 billion of transactions during 2017, compared to approximately
$1.1 billion during 2016. As of December 31, 2017, we held approximately $2.0 billion of transactions on our
balance sheet, which we refer to as our “Portfolio.” For those transactions that we choose not to hold on our
balance sheet, we transfer all or a portion of the economics of the transaction, typically using securitization trusts,
to institutional investors in exchange for upfront revenues and in some cases, ongoing fees for managing the
assets. As of December 31, 2017, we managed approximately $2.7 billion in these trusts or vehicles that are not
consolidated on our balance sheet. When combined with our Portfolio, as of December 31, 2017, we manage
approximately $4.7 billion of assets, which we refer to as our managed assets.
We use borrowings as part of our strategy to increase potential returns to our stockholders and have
available to us a broad range of financing sources including non-recourse or recourse debt, equity and off-balance
sheet securitization structures. A further description of our financing activities can be found below.
We have a large and active pipeline of potential new opportunities that are in various stages of our
underwriting process. We refer to potential opportunities as being part of our pipeline if we have determined that
the project fits within our investment strategy and exhibits the appropriate risk and reward characteristics through
an initial credit analysis, including a quantitative and qualitative assessment of the opportunity, as well as
- 5 -
research on the market and sponsor. Our pipeline of transactions that could potentially close in the next
12 months consists of opportunities in which we will be the lead originator as well as investments in which we
may participate with other institutional investors. As of December 31, 2017, our pipeline consisted of more than
$2.5 billion in new equity, debt and real estate opportunities. There can, however, be no assurance with regard to
any specific terms of such pipeline transactions or that any or all of the transactions in our pipeline will be
completed.
We elected to be taxed as a REIT for U.S. federal income tax purposes, commencing with our taxable year
ended December 31, 2013 and operate our business in a manner that will permit us to maintain our exemption
from registration as an investment company under the 1940 Act.
INVESTMENT STRATEGY
With scientific consensus that climate warming trends are linked to human activities and resulting in various
extreme weather events, we believe our firm is well positioned to generate attractive risk-adjusted returns by
investing in the assets, and providing services to the firms, that reduce carbon emissions. Further, with increasing
weather related events affecting certain areas of our markets, we see similar investment and services
opportunities in infrastructure assets that mitigate the impact of, and increase the resiliency to, these weather
events and climate change.
Our investment thesis is based on the following beliefs:
• More efficient technologies are more productive and thus should lead to higher economic returns;
• Decentralization and digitalization of energy technologies will result in many smaller assets in which to
invest, compared to the large legacy energy systems of centralized fossil fuel power plants, and thus
provide lower portfolio risk due to increased diversity of investments across obligors, technology and
geographies;
•
Investing in assets aligned with scientific consensus and society’s general beliefs will reduce potential
regulatory and social costs; and
• Assets that reduce GHG emissions represent an embedded option that may increase in value if carbon
regulations were to set a price on carbon emissions.
We believe combining this investment thesis with our multi-decade experience in investing in our markets
through multiple interest rate and business cycles, intermittent governmental support for reducing carbon
emissions and several ‘boom and bust’ cycles of business expansions in renewable and other sustainable
infrastructure markets, will allow us to earn attractive risk adjusted returns on the assets we invest in. We also
believe there is potentially a multi trillion-dollar market opportunity as the legacy technology for generating and
using energy with systems that produce carbon emissions are converted to low-to-no carbon emission systems
and mitigation and resiliency investments continue to increase in an effort to address weather events and climate
change.
We make our investments utilizing a variety structures including:
• Equity investments in either preferred or common structures in unconsolidated entities;
• Government and commercial receivables or securities, such as loans for renewable energy and energy
efficiency projects; and
• Real estate, such as land or other assets leased for use by sustainable infrastructure projects typically
under long term leases.
- 6 -
Our investments are focused on three markets:
• Energy Efficiency: projects, which reduce a building’s or facility’s energy usage or cost by improving
or installing various building components, including heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems
(“HVAC”), lighting, energy controls, roofs, windows, building shells, and/or combined heat and power
systems;
• Renewable Energy: projects that deploy cleaner energy sources, such as solar and wind to generate
power production; and
• Other Sustainable infrastructure: upgraded transmission or distribution systems, water and storm water
infrastructure, seismic retrofits and other projects, that improve water or energy efficiency, increase
energy system resiliency, positively impact the environment or more efficiently use natural resources.
We prefer investments where the assets have a long-term, investment grade rated off-taker or counterparties.
The off-taker or counterparty may be part of the wholesale electric power grid (“Grid Connected” or “GC”) such
as a utility or electric user who has entered into a contractually committed agreement, such as a power purchase
agreement (“PPA”), to purchase some, or all of, the power produced by a renewable energy project at a minimum
price with potential price escalators for a portion of the project’s estimated life. In the case of distributed
(building or facility specific) projects, which we refer to as ‘behind-the-meter’ (“Behind-the-Meter” or “BTM”),
the off-taker or counterparty may be the building owner or occupant, and we may be secured by the installed
improvements or other real estate rights.
As of December 31, 2017, our Portfolio consisted of over 175 investments and we seek to manage the
diversity of our Portfolio by, among other factors, project type, project operator, type of investment, type of
technology, transaction size, geography, obligor and maturity. The mix of our Portfolio is expected to vary over
time and approximately 22% of our Portfolio was invested in energy efficiency; approximately 27% was invested
in wind; approximately 46% was invested in solar and approximately 5% was invested in other sustainable
infrastructure. Included in the wind and solar portfolios are our investments in approximately 23,000 acres of
land, that are leased under long-term agreements where our rental income is typically senior to most project
costs, debt and equity.
While we prefer investments in which we hold a senior or preferred position in a project, as our markets
evolve and grow, we are seeing increasing opportunities to invest in mezzanine debt or common equity in
projects where we are subordinated to project debt and, or, preferred forms of equity. We will not invest more
than 15% of our assets in any individual project without the consent of a majority of our independent directors.
We will adjust the mix and duration of our assets over time in order to allow us to manage various aspects of our
portfolio, including expected risk-adjusted returns, macroeconomic conditions, liquidity, availability of adequate
financing for our assets, and to maintain our REIT qualification and our exemption from registration as an
investment company under the 1940 Act.
As part of our investment process, we calculate the estimated metric tons of CO2 equivalent emissions, or
carbon emissions avoided by our investments. In this calculation which we refer to as CarbonCount®, we apply
emissions factor data from the U.S. Government or the International Energy Administration to an estimate of a
project’s energy production or savings to compute an estimate of metric tons of carbon emissions avoided. We
estimate that our investments originated in 2017 will reduce annual carbon emissions by approximately 530,000
metric tons. In addition to carbon emissions, investments are also screened for other environmental benefits, such
as water use reduction.
We believe that our long history of energy efficiency and renewable energy investing, the experience,
expertise and relationships of our management team, the anticipated credit strength of the investees of our
investments and the size and growth potential of our market, position us well to capitalize on our strategy.
Refer to Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—
Results of Operations, for additional discussion on the performance of our investment portfolio.
- 7 -
FINANCING STRATEGY
We believe we have available to us a broad range of financing sources that allow us to use borrowings as
part of our financing strategy to increase potential returns to our stockholders. We may finance our investments
through the use of non-recourse or recourse debt, equity and may also decide to finance such transactions through
the use of off-balance sheet securitization structures.
We have worked to expand our liquidity and access to the debt and bank loan markets and have entered into
transactions with a number of new lenders and insurance companies in the last year. We often provide, and our
sources of financing are increasingly interested in, the estimated carbon emission savings or environmental
ratings associated with our financings, which is sometimes referred to as green bonds.
We plan to raise additional equity capital and continue to use other fixed and floating rate borrowings which
may be in the form of additional bank credit facilities, including term loans and revolving facilities, warehouse
facilities, repurchase agreements and public and private equity and debt issuances, including convertible debt and
match funded arrangements, as a means of financing our business. We also expect to use both on-balance sheet
and non-consolidated securitizations and also believe we will be able to customize securitized tranches to meet
investment preferences of different investors. We may also consider the use of separately funded special purpose
entities or funds to allow us to expand the investments that we make.
The decision on how we finance specific assets or groups of assets is largely driven by capital allocations
and risk and portfolio management considerations, as well as the overall interest rate environment, prevailing
credit spreads and the terms of available financing and market conditions. Over time, as market conditions
change, we may use other forms of leverage in addition to these financing arrangements. Although we are not
restricted by any regulatory requirements as to the type or amount of leverage we may utilize, we do have certain
targets we seek to, but are not required to, operate within; including maintaining a leverage ratio at or below 2.5
to 1 and the percentage of fixed rate debt to total debt between 60% to 85%.
For those transactions that we choose not to hold on our balance sheet, we transfer all or a portion of the
economics of the transaction, typically using securitization trusts, to institutional investors in exchange for
upfront revenues and in some cases, ongoing fees for managing the assets. The market for the assets we finance
has remained active throughout various market cycles due to investor demand for high credit quality, long-term
investments. We may arrange such securitizations of loans or other assets prior to originating the transaction and
thus avoid exposure to credit spread, interest rate and funding risks that are normally associated with traditional
capital markets conduit transactions. We also typically manage and service these assets in exchange for fees and
other payments. We may also use other funds or structures where institutional investors purchase all or a portion
of the economics of the transaction and where we may receive upfront revenues or ongoing fees for managing the
assets. We periodically provide other services, including arranging financings that are held on the balance sheet
of other investors and advising various companies with respect to structuring investments.
Refer to Item 7, Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Conditions and Results of
Operations—Liquidity and Capital Resources, for additional discussion on our financings and our ratios and Item
8, Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, notes 5, 7 and 8 to our financial statements for further
information on the types and amounts of our financings.
ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
We own and invest in a diversified group of sustainable infrastructure projects focused on reducing the
impacts of climate change through the allocation of our capital across the energy efficiency, renewable energy
and other sustainability focused markets. Under the direction of our Chief Executive Officer and the board of
directors, we are focused on achieving a high level of environmental and social responsibility and strong
- 8 -
corporate governance. In February 2018, we changed the name of our Nominating and Corporate Governance
Committee of our board of directors to our Nominating, Governance and Corporate Responsibility Committee
and amended their charter to further emphasize the board responsibility for environmental, social and governance
(“ESG”) oversight, including for our policies and communications.
Our business and business strategy are focused on addressing climate change, including through the
reduction of carbon emissions. As described in the Investment Strategy section above, we estimate the carbon
impact of each of our investments. In addition, we operate our business in manner intended to reduce the
environmental impact, including by purchasing carbon free electricity for our office and by encouraging
recycling. We also participate in a number of climate focused initiatives including Climate Action 100+, We Are
Still In and the Climate Disclosure Standards Board (“CDSB”). In 2017, we joined the CDSB’s initiative to
pledge to implement the recommendations of the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures
(“TCFD”).
We are also focused on our social responsibility within our workforce and our community. Our culture is
focused on hiring and retaining diverse and highly talented employees and empowering them to create value for
our stockholders. In our employee selection process and operation of our business we adhere to equal
employment opportunity policies and encourage the participation of our employees in training programs that will
enhance their effectiveness in the performance of their duties. Our Chief Executive Officer leads employee
meetings intended to encourage employees to understand why sustainability matters and regularly meets with
small groups of employees to receive their feedback on the business.
We provide competitive benefits that help our employees and their families be healthy and design
compelling job opportunities, aligned with our mission, in an energizing work environment. We also encourage
our employees to continue to develop in their careers, including by obtaining advanced degrees or professional
certifications. We compensate our employees according to our fair remuneration policies and believe deeply in
paying for performance. Therefore, employees generally receive a portion of their compensation in the form of
stock grants tied to performance. We encourage our employees to contribute their time to support various
community and charitable activities and sponsor several local community organizations with a primary focus on
environmental organizations.
We have structured our corporate governance in a manner we believe closely aligns our interests with those
of our stockholders. Notable features of our corporate governance structure include the following:
•
•
•
•
•
our board of directors is not staggered, with each of our directors subject to re-election annually;
our board of directors has determined that six of our seven directors are independent for purposes of the
New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) corporate governance listing standards and Rule 10A-3 under
the Exchange Act;
two of our directors each qualify as an “audit committee financial expert” as defined by the Securities
and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”);
two of our directors are women in furtherance of our board diversity policy;
our Corporate Governance Guidelines (the “Corporate Governance Guidelines”) provide for a majority
vote policy for the election of directors pursuant to which any nominee who receives a greater number
of votes “withheld” from his or her election than votes “for” such election shall promptly tender his or
her resignation to our board of directors, which shall consider whether or not to accept such
resignation;
• we have established a target retirement age of 75 for our directors;
• we have an active stockholder outreach program, including providing stockholders the right to vote on
the fairness of the remuneration of executives;
- 9 -
• we have opted out of the control share acquisition statute in the Maryland General Corporations Law
(the “MGCL”) and have exempted, from the business combinations statute in the MGCL, transactions
that are approved by our board of directors;
• we do not have a stockholder rights plan; and
• we have expanded the role of our Nominating, Governance and Corporate Responsibility Committee to
also focus on directing the strategy and oversight of our ESG strategies, activities, policies and
communications.
In order to foster the highest standards of ethics and conduct in all business relationships, we have adopted a
Code of Business Conduct and Ethics policy (the “Code of Conduct”). This policy, which covers a wide range of
business practices and procedures, applies to our officers, directors and employees. In addition, we have
implemented Whistleblowing Procedures related to accounting and auditing matters as well as Code of Conduct
matters (the “Whistleblower Policy”) that sets forth procedures by which any Covered Persons (as defined in the
Whistleblower Policy) may raise, on a confidential basis, concerns regarding, among other things, any
questionable or unethical accounting, internal accounting controls or auditing matters with our Audit Committee
as well as any potential code of conduct or ethics violations with our Nominating, Governance and Corporate
Responsibility Committee or our General Counsel.
We have adopted a Statement of Corporate Policy Regarding Equity Transactions that governs the process
to be followed in the purchase or sale of our securities by any of our directors, officers, employees and
consultants and prohibits any such persons from buying or selling our securities on the basis of material
nonpublic information. We amended and restated our Statement of Corporate Policy Regarding Equity
Transactions in 2017 to prohibit our directors and officers from hedging equity securities of the Company,
holding such securities in a margin account or pledging such securities as collateral for a loan. We also adopted
in 2017 a “clawback” policy which provides for the possible recoupment of performance or incentive-based
compensation in the event of an accounting restatement due to material noncompliance by the Company with any
financial reporting requirements under the securities laws (other than due to a change in applicable accounting
methods, rules or interpretations). We review all of these policies on a periodic basis with our employees.
Our business is managed by our senior management team, subject to the supervision and oversight of our
board of directors. Our directors stay informed about our business by attending meetings of our board of directors
and its committees and through supplemental reports and communications. Our independent directors, led by the
lead independent director, meet regularly in executive sessions without the presence of our officers.
COMPETITION
We compete against a number of parties, including banks, private equity, hedge or infrastructure investment
funds, insurance companies, mutual funds, institutional investors, investment banking firms, financial
institutions, specialty finance companies, utilities, independent power producers, project developers, pension
funds, governmental bodies, public entities established to own infrastructure assets and other entities.
We compete primarily on the basis of service, price, structure and flexibility as well as the breadth and
depth of our expertise. We may at times compete, and at other times partner or work as a participant, with
alternative financing sources. The continued low interest rate environment and increasing investor acceptance of
the sustainable infrastructure market has increased the level of competition we experience. The increase in the
number and/or the size of our competitors in this market has resulted, and could continue to result, in less
attractive terms on our investments or the need to accept a higher level of risks associated with our investments.
We also encounter competition in the form of potential customers or our origination partners electing to use
their own capital rather than engaging an outside capital provider. In addition, we may also face competition
- 10 -
based on technological developments that reduce demand for electricity, increase power supplies through
existing infrastructure or that otherwise compete with our sustainable infrastructure projects.
Some of our competitors are significantly larger, have greater access to capital and other resources or enjoy
other advantages in comparison to us. In addition, some of our competitors may have higher risk tolerances or
different risk assessments, which could allow them to consider a wider variety of opportunities and establish
more relationships than we can. These competitors may not be subject to the same regulatory constraints (such as
REIT compliance or the need to maintain an exemption from registration as an investment company under the
1940 Act) that we face.
We believe that a significant part of our competitive advantage is our management team’s experience and
industry expertise. However, we may not be able to achieve our business goals or expectations due to the
competitive risks that we face, including increasing competition as a result of the increasing interest by various
investors in our assets classes, including renewable energy, to enhance their investment returns. This, or other
increases, in competition among competing providers of capital could adversely affect the returns we generate on
our investments, and thereby adversely affect the market price of our common stock. For additional information
concerning these competitive risks, see Item 1A. Risk Factors—We operate in a competitive market and future
competition may impact the terms of our investments.
EMPLOYEES; STAFFING
As of December 31, 2017, we employed 47 people. We intend to hire additional business professionals as
needed to assist in the implementation of our business strategy.
OUR EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND OTHER SIGNIFICANT EMPLOYEES
Our executive officers and other significant employees and their ages are as follows:
Jeffrey W. Eckel, 59, has served as our president, chief executive officer, and chairman of our board of
directors since 2013 and was with the Predecessor as president and chief executive officer since 2000 and prior to
that from 1985 to 1989 as a senior vice president. Mr. Eckel is a member of the board of directors of the Alliance
To Save Energy and is a member of the President’s Council of Ceres, Inc., the Cornell University Program in
Infrastructure Policy advisory board and on the Board of Trustees of The Nature Conservancy of Maryland and
DC. He was appointed by the governor of Maryland to the board of the Maryland Clean Energy Center in 2011
where he served until 2016 while also serving as its chairman from 2012 to 2014. Mr. Eckel has over 35 years of
experience in financing, owning and operating infrastructure and energy assets. Mr. Eckel received a Bachelor of
Arts degree from Miami University in 1980 and a Master of Public Administration degree from Syracuse
University, Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, in 1981. He holds Series 24, 63 and 79 securities
licenses. We believe Mr. Eckel’s extensive experience in managing companies operating in the energy sector and
expertise in energy investments make him qualified to serve as our president and chief executive officer and as
chairman of our board of directors.
J. Brendan Herron, 57, has served as an executive vice president and our chief financial officer since 2013
and served in a variety of roles at the Predecessor and its affiliates from 1994 to 2005, and from 2011 to 2013.
Mr. Herron has over 20 years of experience in structuring, executing and operating infrastructure and technology
investments. He formerly served on the U.S. Commerce Secretary’s Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency
Advisory Committee and is presently a member of the Board of Trustees of Calvert Hall College High School
(Baltimore, MD). Mr. Herron received a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting and computer science from
Loyola University Maryland in 1982 and a Master of Business Administration degree from Loyola University
Maryland in 1987 and has passed the CPA and CMA examinations.
- 11 -
Steven L. Chuslo, 60, has served as an executive vice president and our general counsel since 2013 and
with our Predecessor as general counsel since 2008. Mr. Chuslo is responsible for internal governance matters
and is actively involved in structuring, developing, negotiating and closing transactions. He has more than
25 years of experience in the fields of securities, commercial finance and energy development, U.S. federal
regulation and project finance. Mr. Chuslo received a Bachelor of Arts degree in History from the University of
Massachusetts/Amherst in 1982 and a Juris Doctorate from the Georgetown University Law Center in 1990.
Daniel K. McMahon, CFA, 46, has served us as an executive vice president since 2015 and is the head of
our portfolio management group. He has been with the Company and its Predecessor since 2000 in a variety of
roles, including as a senior vice president from 2007 to 2015. He has played a role in analyzing, negotiating and
structuring several billion dollars of transactions. Mr. McMahon received his Bachelor of Arts degree from the
University of California, San Diego in 1993, and is a CFA charter holder. He holds Series 24, 63 and 79
securities licenses.
Charles W. Melko, CPA, 37, has served as our senior vice president and chief accounting officer of the
Company since 2017. He joined the Company in 2016 as a senior vice president and controller. Prior to this role,
he served in a number of roles at PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (PwC) since 2005, including as a Senior Manager
in the National Professional Services Group where he focused on complex financial instruments accounting
issues for energy clients. Mr. Melko received a Bachelor of Science degree in Accountancy in 2002, a Master of
Business Administration degree in 2005 and a Master of Science degree in Accountancy from Wheeling Jesuit
University in 2005. He holds a CPA license in West Virginia and Maryland.
Susan D. Nickey, 57, has served as a managing director of the Company since 2014. Prior to that, she
founded and served as CEO of Threshold Power. Ms. Nickey currently serves on the Board of Directors of the
American Wind Energy Association and its Finance Committee and the Board of Directors of the American
Council of Renewable Energy and its Executive Committee. Ms. Nickey received a Bachelor in Business
Administration from the University of Notre Dame in 1983 and a Master’s of Science in Foreign Service from
Georgetown University in 1986.
Nathaniel J. Rose, CFA, 40, has been an executive vice president since 2015 and our chief investment
officer since 2017. He served as our chief operating officer from 2015 to 2017, our chief investment officer from
2013 to 2015 and has been with the Company and its Predecessor since 2000. He has been involved with a vast
majority of our transactions since 2000. He earned a joint Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts degree from
the University of Richmond in 2000, a Master of Business Administration degree from the Darden School of
Business Administration at the University of Virginia in 2009, is a CFA charter holder and has passed the CPA
examination. He holds a Series 63 and 79 securities licenses.
Dana M. Smith, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, 46, has served as our Chief Human Resources Officer since 2017.
Prior to that, she was Chief Human Resources Officer for American Capital, Ltd. and its publicly-traded affiliates
as well as Senior Vice President of Human Resources and Corporate Marketing for CapitalSource Inc. She
received a Bachelor of Science in Economics from The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania in
1993 and a Master of Science in Organizational Counseling from The Johns Hopkins University in 2006.
M. Rhem Wooten Jr., 58, has served us as an executive vice president since 2013 and was a managing
director with our Predecessor since 2010. Mr. Wooten has worked in the energy industry for more than 30 years,
and has extensive experience in project development, commodity trading/risk management and project finance.
Mr. Wooten received a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from the University of North
Carolina-Chapel Hill in 1981. He holds Series 63 and 79 securities licenses.
- 12 -
AVAILABLE INFORMATION
We maintain a website at www.hannonarmstrong.com. Information on our website is not incorporated by
reference in this Form 10-K. We will make available, free of charge, on our website (a) our Form 10-K, quarterly
reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K (including any amendments thereto), proxy statements
and other information (collectively, “Company Documents”) filed with, or furnished to, the Securities and
Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), as soon as reasonably practicable after such documents are so filed or
furnished, (b) Corporate Governance Guidelines, (c) Director Independence Standards, (d) Code of Business
Conduct and Ethics policy and (e) written charters of the Audit Committee, Compensation Committee,
Nominating, Governance and Corporate Responsibility Committee and Finance and Risk Committee of our
board of directors. Company Documents filed with, or furnished to, the SEC are also available for review and
copying by the public at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, NE., Washington, DC 20549 and at
the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Information regarding the operation of the Public Reference Room may be
obtained by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. We provide copies of our Corporate Governance Guidelines and
Code of Business Conduct and Ethics policy, free of charge, to stockholders who request such documents.
Requests should be directed to Investor Relations, 1906 Towne Centre Blvd, Suite 370, Annapolis,
Maryland 21401, (410) 571-9860.
Item 1A. Risk Factors
Our business and operations are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, the occurrence of which
could adversely affect our business, financial condition, consolidated results of operations and ability to make
distributions to stockholders and could cause the value of our capital stock to decline. We may refer to the
energy efficiency, renewable energy and the other sustainable infrastructure projects or market collectively as
sustainable infrastructure projects or the industry. Please also refer to the section entitled “Forward-Looking
Statements.”
Risks Related to Our Business and Our Industry
Our business depends in part on U.S. federal, state and local government policies and a decline in the level
of government support could harm our business.
The projects in which we invest typically depend in part on various U.S. federal, state or local governmental
policies and incentives that support or enhance project economic feasibility. Such policies may include
governmental initiatives, laws and regulations designed to reduce energy usage and impact the use of renewable
energy or the investment in and the use of sustainable infrastructure.
Policies and incentives provided by the U.S. federal government may include tax credits (with some of these
tax credits that are related to renewable energy scheduled to be reduced in the future), tax deductions, bonus
depreciation, federal grants and loan guarantees and energy market regulations. The value of tax credits,
deductions and incentives may be impacted by changes in tax laws, rates or regulations. For example, the
recently enacted Public law no. 115-97, commonly referred to as the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (“TCJA”)
contains various provisions which may reduce the value of, and the availability of financing based upon, these
incentives.
Incentives provided by state and local governments may include renewable portfolio standards (“RPS”),
which specify the portion of the power utilized by local utilities that must be derived from renewable energy
sources such as renewable energy as well as the state or local government sponsored programs where the
financing of energy efficiency or renewable energy projects is repaid through an assessment in the property tax
bill in a program commonly referred to as property assessed clean energy (“PACE”). Additionally, certain states
have implemented feed-in tariffs, pursuant to which electricity generated from renewable energy sources is
purchased at a higher rate than prevailing wholesale rates. Other incentives include tariffs, tax incentives and
other cash and non-cash payments.
- 13 -
Governmental agencies, commercial entities and developers of sustainable infrastructure projects frequently
depend on these policies and incentives to help defray the costs associated with, and to finance, various projects.
Government regulations also impact the terms of third party financing provided to support these projects. If any
of these government policies, incentives or regulations are adversely amended, delayed, eliminated, reduced,
retroactively changed or not extended beyond their current expiration dates, or there is a negative impact from
the recent federal law changes or proposals, the operating results of the projects we finance and the demand for,
and the returns available from, the investments we make may decline, which could harm our business.
U.S. federal, state and local government entities are major participants in the sustainable infrastructure
industry and their actions could be adverse to our projects or our company.
The projects where we invest are, and will continue to be, subject to substantial regulation by U.S. federal,
state and local governmental agencies. For example, many projects require government permits, licenses,
concessions, leases or contracts. Government entities, due to the wide-ranging scope of their authority, have
significant leverage in setting their contractual and regulatory relationships with third parties. In addition,
government permits, licenses, concessions, leases and contracts are generally very complex, which may result in
periods of non-compliance, or disputes over interpretation or enforceability. If the projects where we invest fail
to obtain or comply with applicable regulations, permits or contractual obligations, they could be prevented from
being constructed or subjected to monetary penalties or loss of operational rights, which could negatively impact
project operating results and the returns on our assets.
Contracts with government counterparties that support the projects where we invest may be more favorable
to the government counterparties compared to commercial contracts with private parties. For example, a lease,
concession or general service contract may enable the government to modify or terminate the contract without
requiring the payment of adequate compensation. Typically, our contracts with government counterparties
contain termination provisions including prepayment amounts. In most cases, the prepayment amounts provide
us with amounts sufficient to repay the financing we have provided but may be less than amounts that would be
payable under “make whole” provisions customarily found in commercial lending arrangements.
In addition, government counterparties also may have the discretion to change or increase regulation of
project operations, or implement laws or regulations affecting project operations, separate from any contractual
rights they may have. These actions could adversely impact the efficient and profitable operation of the projects
in which we invest.
Government entities may also suspend or debar contractors from doing business with the government or
pursue various criminal or civil remedies under various government contract regulations. They may also issue
new government contracts or fail to extend existing government contracts. Our ability to originate new assets
could be adversely affected if one or more of the ESCOs or other origination sources with whom we have
relationships with are so suspended or debarred or fail to win new, or renew existing, contracts.
Changes in the terms of energy savings performance contracts could have a material and adverse impact
on our business.
We derive a portion of our income from the assignment to us of payment streams under energy savings
performance contracts with property owners, including government customers, in which the scope and cost of
improvements and services are specified. While U.S. federal, state and local government rules governing such
contracts vary, such rules may, for example, permit the funding of such contracts through long-term financing
arrangements, permit long-term payback periods from the savings realized through such contracts, allow units of
government to exclude debt related to such contracts from the calculation of their statutory debt limitation, allow for
award of contracts on a “best value” instead of “lowest cost” basis and allow for the use of sole source providers. To
the extent these rules become more restrictive in the future, our ability to provide financing to support these projects
could be adversely impacted, which could harm our business. Changes in these rules, including retroactive changes,
could also negatively impact the operating results of the projects we finance and the returns on our assets.
- 14 -
A change in the fiscal health, level of appropriations or budgets of U.S. federal, state and local
governments could reduce demand for our investments.
Although our energy efficiency assets do not normally require direct governmental appropriations and
instead the resulting cash flow is generally paid for out of operations and maintenance appropriations based on
the energy and operating savings derived from the improved facility, a significant decline in the fiscal health,
level of appropriations or budgets of government customers may make it difficult or undesirable for them to
make existing payments or to enter into new energy efficiency improvement projects. Alternatively, the
government may choose to provide financing or other credit support for sustainable infrastructure projects, which
would negatively impact the use of private capital such as ours. This could have a material and adverse effect on
the return of and return on our investments for existing projects and on our ability to originate new assets.
Moreover, other changes in resources available to governments may also impact their willingness to undertake
energy efficiency projects. For example, an increase in money set aside for government expenditures for energy
efficiency projects may reduce demand for our investments.
In addition, to the extent we make investments that involve direct appropriations funding, we will depend on
approval of the necessary spending for the projects. The repayment of the investment, or the return on our asset,
could be adversely affected if appropriations for any such projects are delayed or terminated.
Because our business depends to a significant extent upon relationships with key industry players, our
inability to maintain or develop these relationships, or the failure of these relationships to generate
business opportunities, could adversely affect our business.
We rely to a significant extent on our relationships with key industry players in the markets we target. We
originate transactions through programmatic finance relationships with various parties, including global ESCOs.
We also originate transactions with renewable energy manufacturers, developers and operators who own and
operate renewable energy projects, including a number of U.S. utility companies. In addition to the net proceeds
from past and future offerings, we have traditionally financed our business by accessing the securitization,
syndication or other debt markets, primarily utilizing our relationships with insurance companies and commercial
banks. We also rely on relationships with a variety of key financial participants, including institutional investors,
senior lenders, and investment and commercial banks, as well as leading intermediaries, to complement our
origination and financing activities. Our inability to maintain or develop these relationships, or the failure of these
relationships to generate business opportunities, could adversely affect our business. In addition, individuals and
entities with whom we have relationships are not obligated to provide us with business opportunities, and,
therefore, there is no assurance that such relationships will generate business opportunities for us.
If the cost of energy generated by traditional sources of energy continues to stay at present levels or
declines, demand for the projects in which we invest may decline.
Many traditional sources of energy such as coal, petroleum based fuels and natural gas can be influenced by
the price of underlying or substitute commodities. While we believe the potential for rising or increasingly
volatile commodity prices and inflation will spur investment in our industry, there have been, and may continue
to be, decreases in such prices, which may reduce the demand for energy efficiency projects or other projects,
including renewable energy facilities, that do not rely on traditional energy sources. For example, we believe low
natural gas prices may reduce the demand for projects like renewable energy that can substitute for natural gas.
Additionally, low natural gas prices can adversely affect both the price available to renewable energy projects
under future power sale agreements and the price of the electricity the projects sell on either a forward or a spot-
market basis. Technological progress in electricity generation, storage or in the production of traditional fuels or
the discovery of large new deposits of traditional fuels could reduce the cost of energy generated from those
sources and consequently reduce the demand for the types of projects in which we invest, which could harm our
new business origination prospects as well as the value of our existing portfolio. In addition, volatility in
commodity prices, including energy prices, may cause building owners and other parties to be reluctant to
- 15 -
commit to projects for which repayment is based upon a fixed monetary value for energy savings that would not
decline if the price of energy declines. Any resulting decline in demand for our investments or the price that
industry participants receive for the sale of their products could adversely impact our operating results.
If the market for various types of sustainable infrastructure projects or the investment techniques related
to such projects do not develop as we anticipate, new business generation in this target area would be
adversely impacted.
The market for various types of sustainable infrastructure projects such as renewable energy projects,
commercial office building energy efficiency projects and electricity storage are emerging and rapidly evolving,
leaving their future success uncertain. Similarly, various investing techniques, such as leasing land for renewable
energy projects, purchasing interests in existing renewable energy projects, the use of PACE financing and the
use of taxable debt for state and local energy efficiency financings are emerging and the future success of these
investing techniques is also uncertain. If some or all of these market segments or investing techniques prove
unsuitable for widespread commercial deployment or if demand for such projects or techniques fail to grow
sufficiently, the demand for our capital may decline or develop more slowly than we anticipate. Many factors
will influence the widespread adoption and demand for such projects and investing techniques, including general
and local economic conditions, commodity prices of traditional energy sources, the cost and availability of
energy storage, the cost-effectiveness of various projects and techniques, performance and reliability of such
technologies compared to conventional power sources and technologies, the extent of government subsidies to
support sustainable infrastructure and regulatory developments in the power and natural resource industries. Any
changes in the markets, products, technologies or financing techniques could adversely impact the demand or
financial performance for such projects and our investments.
In addition, renewable energy projects rely on electric and other types of transmission lines, pipelines and
facilities owned and operated by third parties to obtain their inputs or distribute their output. Any substantial
access barriers to these lines and facilities could make projects that depend on them more expensive, which could
adversely impact the demand or financial performance for such projects and our investments.
Existing electric utility industry regulations, and changes to regulations, may present technical, regulatory
and economic barriers to the purchase and use of renewable energy and energy efficiency systems that
may significantly reduce demand for systems in which we can invest.
Federal, state and local government regulations and policies concerning the electric utility industry, and
internal policies and regulations promulgated by electric utilities, heavily influence the market for electricity
products and services. These regulations and policies often relate to electricity pricing and the interconnection of
customer-owned electricity generation. In the United States, governments and utilities continuously modify these
regulations and policies. These regulations and policies could deter customers from purchasing energy efficiency
and renewable energy systems. For example, the Department of Energy (“DOE”) has requested the Federal
Energy Regulatory Commission (“FERC”) to change various policies and regulations related to the functioning
of the electric markets which, if enacted, may negatively impact the use of renewable energy or encourage the
use of fossil fuel energy over renewable energy. This could result in a significant reduction in the potential
demand for such systems. Utilities commonly charge fees to larger, industrial customers for disconnecting from
the electric grid or for having the capacity to use power from the electric grid for back-up purposes. In addition,
there is an increasing trend towards initiating or increasing fixed fees for users to have electricity service from a
utility. These fees could increase our customers’ cost to use energy efficiency and renewable energy systems not
supplied by the utility and make them less desirable, thereby harming our business, prospects, financial condition
and results of operations. In addition, any changes to government or internal utility regulations and policies that
favor electric utilities could reduce competitiveness and cause a significant reduction in demand for systems in
which we invest.
- 16 -
Some projects in which we invest rely on net metering and related policies to improve project economics
which if reduced could impact repayment of our investments or the return on our assets.
Many states have a regulatory policy known as net energy metering, or net metering. Net metering typically
allows some project customers to interconnect their on-site solar or other renewable energy systems to the utility
grid and offset their utility electricity purchases by receiving a bill credit at the utility’s retail rate for the amount
of energy in excess of their electric usage that is generated by their renewable energy system and is exported to
the grid. At the end of the billing period, the customer simply pays for the net energy used or receives a credit at
the retail rate if more energy is produced than consumed. Net metering policies are under review or have been
limited or amended in a number of states. The ability and willingness of customers to pay for renewable energy
systems which benefit from net metering rules may be reduced if net metering rules are eliminated or their
benefits reduced, which may also impact our returns on such systems.
Sustainable infrastructure projects that involve the generation, transmission or sale of electricity such as
renewable energy projects may be subject to regulation by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
under the Federal Power Act or other regulations that regulate the sale of electricity, which may adversely
affect the profitability of such projects.
Sustainable infrastructure projects that involve the generation, transmission or sale of electricity such as
renewable energy projects may be “qualifying facilities” that are exempt from regulation as public utilities by the
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, (the “FERC”) under the Federal Power Act, (the “FPA”) while certain
other such projects may be subject to rate regulation by the FERC under the FPA. FERC regulations under the
FPA confer upon these qualifying facilities key rights to interconnection with local utilities, and can entitle such
facilities to enter into PPAs with local utilities, from which the qualifying facilities benefit. Changes to these U.S.
federal laws and regulations could increase the regulatory burdens and costs, and could reduce the revenue of the
project. In addition, modifications to the pricing policies of utilities could require sustainable infrastructure
projects to achieve lower prices in order to compete with the price of electricity from the electric grid and may
reduce the economic attractiveness of certain energy efficiency measures. To the extent that the projects in which
we invest are subject to rate regulation, the project owners will be required to obtain FERC acceptance of their
rate schedules for wholesale sales of energy, capacity and ancillary services. Any changes in the rates project
owners are permitted to charge could impact the repayment of our investments, or the return on our assets.
In addition, the operation of, and electrical interconnection for, our sustainable infrastructure projects may
be subject to U.S. federal, state or local interconnection and federal reliability standards, some of which are set
forth in utility tariffs. These standards and tariffs specify rules, business practices and economic terms to which
the projects where we invest are subject and which may impact a project’s ability to deliver the electricity it
produces or transports to its end customer. The tariffs are drafted by the utilities and approved by the utilities’
state and U.S. federal regulatory commissions. These standards and tariffs change frequently and it is possible
that future changes will increase our administrative burden or adversely affect the terms and conditions under
which the projects render services to their customers.
In addition, under certain circumstances, we may also be subject to the reliability standards of the North
American Electric Reliability Corporation. If project owners fail to comply with the mandatory reliability
standards, they could be subject to sanctions, including substantial monetary penalties, which could also raise
credit risks for, or lower the returns available from, the projects in which we invest.
These various regulations may also limit the transferability or sale of renewable energy projects and any
such limits could negatively impact our returns from such projects.
- 17 -
Unfavorable publicity or public perception of the industries in which we operate could adversely impact
our operating results and our reputation.
The sustainable infrastructure industry, including various forms of renewable energy and PACE financings
receives significant media coverage that, whether or not directly related to our business or our projects, can
adversely impact our reputation and the demand for our investments. Similarly, negative publicity or public
perception of the broader energy-related industries in which we operate could reduce demand for our investments
and our projects’ services. Any reduction in demand for sustainable infrastructure projects or for our investments
could damage our reputation or could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and business
prospects.
Future litigation or administrative proceedings could have a material and adverse effect on our business,
financial condition and results of operations.
We may become involved in legal proceedings, administrative proceedings, claims and other litigation that
arise in the ordinary course of business. In addition, we may be subject to legal proceedings or claims arising out
of the projects in which we invest. Adverse outcomes or developments relating to these proceedings, such as
judgments for monetary damages, injunctions or denial or revocation of permits, could have a material adverse
effect on the projects in which we invest, which could adversely impact the repayment of or the returns available
for our assets.
We operate in a competitive market and future competition may impact the terms of our investments.
We compete against a number of parties who may provide alternatives to our investments including
specialty finance companies, savings and loan associations, banks, private equity, hedge or infrastructure
investment funds, insurance companies, mutual funds, institutional investors, investment banking firms, financial
institutions, utilities, independent power producers, project developers, pension funds, governmental bodies,
public entities established to own infrastructure assets and other entities. The continued low interest rate
environment and increasing investor acceptance of the sustainable infrastructure market have increased the level
of competition we experience. We also encounter competition in the form of potential customers or our
origination partners electing to use their own capital rather than engaging an outside provider such as us. In
addition, we may also face competition based on technological developments that reduce demand for electricity,
increase power supplies through existing infrastructure or that otherwise compete with our sustainable
infrastructure projects. Some of our competitors are significantly larger than we are, have access to greater
capital and other resources than we do and may have other advantages over us. In addition, some of our
competitors may have higher risk tolerances or different risk assessments, which could allow them to consider a
wider variety of investments and establish more relationships than we can. In addition, many of our competitors
are not subject to the operating constraints associated with REIT tax compliance or maintenance of an exemption
from the 1940 Act. These characteristics could allow our competitors to consider a wider variety of opportunities,
establish more relationships and offer better pricing and more flexible structuring than we can offer. We may lose
business opportunities if we do not match our competitors’ pricing, terms and structure. If we match our
competitors’ pricing, terms and structure, we may not be able to achieve acceptable risk-adjusted returns on our
assets or we may be forced to bear greater risks of loss. The increase in the number and/or the size of our
competitors in this market has resulted, and could continue to result, in less attractive terms on our investments or
the need to accept a higher level of risks associated with our investments. As a result, competitive pressures we
face could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Our business is affected by seasonal trends and construction cycles, and these trends and cycles could have
an adverse effect on our operating results.
The volume and timing of our originations are subject to seasonal fluctuations and construction cycles,
particularly in climates that experience colder weather during the winter months, such as the northern
- 18 -
United States, or at educational institutions, where large projects are typically carried out during summer months
when their facilities are unoccupied. In addition, government customers, many of which have fiscal years that do
not coincide with ours, typically follow annual procurement cycles. Further, government contracting cycles can
be affected by the timing of, and delays in, the legislative process related to government programs and incentives
that help drive demand for sustainable infrastructure projects. As a result of such fluctuations, we may
occasionally experience fluctuations in the timing of new asset opportunities or declines in revenue or earnings as
compared to the immediately preceding quarter, and comparisons of our operating results on a period-to-period
basis may not be meaningful.
Risks Related to Our Assets and Projects in Which We Invest
Interest rate fluctuations and increases in interest rates could adversely affect the value of our assets,
which could result in reduced earnings or losses and negatively affect our profitability.
Interest rates are highly sensitive to many factors, including governmental monetary and tax policies,
domestic and international economic and political considerations and other factors beyond our control. Many of
our assets pay a fixed rate of interest or provide a fixed preferential return.
With respect to our business operations, increases in interest rates, in general, may over time cause:
(1) project owners to be less interested in borrowing or raising equity and thus reduce the demand for our
investments; (2) the interest expense associated with our borrowings to increase; (3) the market value of our
fixed rate or fixed return assets to decline; and (4) the market value of our interest rate swap agreements to
increase. Conversely, decreases in interest rates, in general, may over time cause: (1) project owners to be more
interested in borrowing or raising equity and thus increase the demand for our assets; (2) prepayments on our
assets, to the extent allowed, to increase; (3) the interest expense associated with our borrowings to decrease;
(4) the market value of our fixed rate or fixed return assets to increase; and (5) the market value of our interest
rate swap agreements to decrease. Adverse developments resulting from changes in interest rates could have a
material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
The lack of liquidity of our assets may adversely affect our business, including our ability to value and sell
our assets.
Volatile market conditions could significantly and negatively impact the liquidity of our assets. Illiquid
assets typically experience greater price volatility, as a ready market does not exist, and can be more difficult to
value. In addition, validating third-party pricing for illiquid assets may be more subjective than more liquid
assets. The illiquidity of our assets may make it difficult for us to sell such assets if the need or desire arises. In
addition, if we are required to liquidate all or a portion of our Portfolio quickly, we may realize significantly less
than the value at which we have previously recorded our assets. To the extent that we utilize leverage to finance
our investments that are or become illiquid, the negative impact on us related to trying to sell assets in a short
period of time for cash could be greatly exacerbated. As a result, our ability to vary our portfolio in response to
changes in economic and other conditions may be relatively limited, which could adversely affect our results of
operations and financial condition.
We may experience a decline in the fair value of our assets.
A decline in the fair market value of available for sale securities, our receivables held-for-sale, our interest
rate hedges, if any, or any other assets which we may carry at fair value in the future, may require us to reduce
the value of such assets under generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (“GAAP”). In
addition, all of our other financial assets are subject to an impairment assessment that could result in adjustments
to their carrying values. Upon the subsequent disposition or sale of such assets, we could incur future losses or
gains based on the difference between the sale price received and adjusted value of such assets as reflected on our
balance sheet at the time of sale.
- 19 -
Some of the assets in our portfolio may be recorded at fair value and, as a result, there could be
uncertainty as to the value of these assets.
Our investments are not publicly traded. The fair value of assets that are not publicly traded may not be
readily determinable. As required in accordance with GAAP, we record certain of our assets at fair value, which
may include unobservable inputs. Because such valuations are subjective, the fair value of these assets may
fluctuate over short periods of time and our determinations of fair value may differ materially from the values
that would have been used if a ready market for these assets existed. The value of our common stock could be
adversely affected if our determinations regarding the fair value of these assets were materially higher than the
values that we ultimately realize upon their disposal. Additionally, our results of operations for a given period
could be adversely affected if our determinations regarding the fair value of these assets were materially higher
than the values that we ultimately realize upon their disposal. The valuation process can be particularly
challenging during periods when market events make valuations of certain assets more difficult, unpredictable
and volatile.
We may not realize income or gains from our assets, which could cause the value of our common stock to
decline.
We seek to provide attractive risk-adjusted returns to our stockholders. However, our assets may not
appreciate in value and, in fact, may decline in value, and the assets we originate or acquire may default or not
perform in accordance with our expectations. Accordingly, we may not be able to realize gains or income from
our assets. Any gains that we do realize may not be sufficient to offset any other losses we experience. Any
income that we realize may not be sufficient to offset our expenses.
Many of our investments are not rated by a rating agency, which may result in an amount of risk,
volatility or potential loss of principal that is greater than that of alternative asset opportunities.
Many of our investments are not rated by any rating agency and we expect that some of the assets we
originate and acquire in the future will not be rated by any rating agency. Although we focus on sustainable
infrastructure projects with high credit quality obligors, we believe that some of the projects or obligors in which
we invest, if rated, would be rated below investment grade, due to speculative characteristics of the project or the
obligor’s capacity to pay interest and repay principal or pay dividends. Some of our assets may result in an
amount of risk, volatility or potential loss of principal that is greater than that of alternative asset opportunities.
Any credit ratings assigned to our assets or obligors are subject to ongoing evaluations and revisions and
we cannot assure you that those ratings will not be downgraded.
To the extent the assets we hold or their underlying obligors are rated by credit rating agencies or by our
internal rating process, such assets will be subject to ongoing evaluation by credit rating agencies and our internal
rating process, and we cannot assure you that any ratings will not be changed or withdrawn in the future. If rating
agencies assign a lower-than-expected rating or if a rating is reduced or withdrawn by a rating agency or us, or if
there are indications of a potential reduction or withdrawal of the ratings of our assets or the underlying obligors
in the future, the value of these assets could significantly decline and could result in losses upon disposition or
the failure of obligors to satisfy their obligations to us.
Our investments are subject to delinquency, foreclosure and loss, any or all of which could result in losses
to us.
Our investments are subject to risks of delinquency, foreclosure and loss. In many cases, the ability of a
borrower to return our invested capital and our expected return is dependent primarily upon the successful
development, construction and operation of the underlying project. If the cash flow of the project is reduced, the
borrower’s ability to return our capital and our expected return may be impaired. We make certain estimates
- 20 -
regarding project cash flows or savings during the underwriting of our investment. These estimates may not
prove accurate, as actual results may vary from estimates. The cash flows or cost savings of a project can be
affected by, among other things: the terms of the power purchase or other use agreements used in such project;
the creditworthiness of the power off-taker or project user; power prices now and in the future; the technology
deployed; unanticipated expenses in the development or operation of the project and changes in national,
regional, state or local economic conditions, laws and regulations; and acts of God, terrorism, social unrest and
civil disturbances.
In the event of any default or shortfall of an investment, we will bear a risk of loss of principal or equity to
the extent of any deficiency between the value of the collateral, if any, and the amount of our investment, which
could have a material adverse effect on our cash flow from operations and may impact the cash available for
distribution to our stockholders. Many of the projects are structured as special purpose limited liability
companies which limits our ability to realize any recovery to the collateral or value of the project itself. In the
event of the bankruptcy of a project owner or other borrower, our investment will be deemed to be subject to the
avoidance powers of the bankruptcy trustee or debtor-in-possession and our contractual rights may be
unenforceable under state law. Foreclosure proceedings against a project can be an expensive and lengthy
process, which could have a substantial negative effect on our anticipated return on the foreclosed investment.
Our sustainable infrastructure projects may incur liabilities that rank equally with, or senior to, our
investments in such projects.
We provide a range of investment structures, including various types of debt and equity securities, senior
and subordinated loans, real property leases, mezzanine debt, preferred equity and common equity. Our projects
may have, or may be permitted to incur, other liabilities or equity preferences that rank equally with, or senior to,
our positions or investments in such projects or businesses, as the case may be, including with respect to grants
of collateral. By their terms, such instruments may entitle the holders to receive payment of interest, principal
payments or other distributions on or before the dates on which we are entitled to receive payments with respect
to the instruments in which we invest. Also, in the event of insolvency, liquidation, dissolution, reorganization or
bankruptcy of an entity in which we have invested, holders of instruments ranking senior to our investment in
that project or business would typically be entitled to receive payment in full before we receive any distribution.
After repaying such senior stakeholders, such project may not have any remaining assets to use for repaying its
obligation to us. In the case of securities ranking equally with instruments we hold, we would have to share on an
equal basis any distributions with other stakeholders holding such instruments in the event of an insolvency,
liquidation, dissolution, reorganization or bankruptcy of the relevant project.
Our mezzanine or subordinated loans are less protected against losses than senior debt.
We make or acquire mezzanine or subordinated loans, which are loans made to project owners for
sustainable infrastructure projects that are subordinate to other more senior interest or are secured by pledges of
the borrower’s ownership interests in the project and/or the project owner. These mezzanine or subordinated
loans may be subordinate to senior secured loans on the project or to the returns required by the investors focused
on the tax attributes in a project, known as tax equity investors, but senior to the project owner’s equity. In the
event a borrower defaults on a loan and lacks sufficient assets to satisfy our mezzanine or subordinated financing,
we may suffer a loss of principal or interest. In the event a borrower declares bankruptcy, we may not have full
recourse to the assets of the borrower, or the assets of the borrower may not be sufficient to satisfy our
mezzanine or subordinated loan. In addition, mezzanine or subordinated loans are by their nature structurally
subordinated to more senior project level investments, and in some cases, to tax equity investors. If a borrower
defaults on our mezzanine or subordinated loan, on its obligations to the tax equity investor or on debt or other
obligations senior to our loan, or if a borrower declares bankruptcy, our mezzanine or subordinated loan will be
satisfied only after the project level debt or other obligations or tax equity and other senior debt is paid in full.
Significant losses related to our mezzanine or subordinated loans would result in operating losses for us and may
limit our ability to make distributions to our stockholders.
- 21 -
Our subordinated and mezzanine debt and equity investments, many of which are illiquid with no readily
available market, involve a substantial degree of risk.
We make subordinated and mezzanine debt and equity investments which may fail to be repaid or
appreciate and may decline in value or become worthless and our ability to recover our investment will depend
on the success of the project in which we make such investments. Subordinated and mezzanine debt and equity
investments involve a number of significant risks, including:
•
•
•
subordinated and mezzanine debt and any equity investment we make in a project could be subject to
further dilution as a result of the issuance of additional debt or equity interests and to serious risks
because subordinated and mezzanine debt are subordinate to other indebtedness and in some cases,
project tax equity, and equity interests are subordinate to all indebtedness (including trade creditors)
and any senior securities in the event that the issuer is unable to meet its obligations or becomes subject
to a bankruptcy process;
to the extent that a project in which we invest requires additional capital and is unable to obtain it, we
may not recover our investment; and
in some cases, subordinated and mezzanine debt will not pay current interest or principal or equity
investments will not pay current dividends, and our ability to realize a return on our investment, as well
as to recover our investment, will be dependent on the success of the project in which we invest. The
project may face unanticipated costs or delays or may not generate projected cash flows which could
lead to the project generating lower rates of return than we expected when we decided to fund the
project. Further, many projects in which we make subordinated and mezzanine debt or equity
investments will be subject to competitive risks and to volatility in commodity prices including the
price of energy. Even if the project is successful, our ability to realize the value of our investment may
be dependent on our ability to renew commercial contracts for a project or on the occurrence of a
liquidity or other event.
We generally do not control the projects in which we invest.
Although the covenants in our financing or investment documentation generally restrict certain actions that
may be taken by project owners, we generally do not control the projects in which we invest. As a result, we are
subject to the risk that the project owner may make business decisions with which we disagree or take risks or
otherwise act in ways that do not serve our interests.
We invest in joint ventures or other similar arrangements that subject us to additional risks.
Some of our projects are structured as joint ventures, partnerships and securitization, syndication and
consortium arrangements. Part of our strategy is to participate with other institutional investors or the project’s
management in consortiums and in partnerships on various sustainable infrastructure transactions. These
arrangements are driven by the magnitude of capital required to complete acquisitions and the development of
sustainable infrastructure projects and other industry-wide trends that we believe will continue. Such
arrangements involve risks not present where a third party is not involved, including the possibility that partners
or co-venturers might become bankrupt or otherwise fail to fund their share of required capital contributions.
Additionally, partners or co-venturers might at any time have economic or other business interests or goals
different from us. Joint ventures, partnerships and securitization, syndication and consortium investments
generally provide for a reduced level of control over an acquired project because governance rights are shared
with others. Accordingly, decisions relating to the underlying operations, including decisions relating to the
management, operation and the timing and nature of any exit, are often made by a majority vote of the investors
or by separate agreements that are reached with respect to individual decisions. In addition, such operations may
be subject to the risk that the project owners may make business, financial or management decisions with which
we do not agree or the management of the project may take risks or otherwise act in a manner that does not serve
our interests. Because we may not have the ability to exercise control over such operations, we may not be able
to realize some or all of the benefits that we believe will be created from our involvement. If any of the foregoing
were to occur, our business, financial condition and results of operations could suffer as a result.
- 22 -
In addition, some of our joint ventures, partnerships, securitization or syndication or consortium
arrangements, including some of our equity investments, subject the sale or transfer of our interests in these
projects to rights of first refusal or first offer, tag along rights or drag along rights and buy-sell, call-put or other
similar arrangements. Such rights may be triggered at a time when we may not want them to be exercised and
such rights may inhibit our ability to sell our interest in an entity within our desired time frame or on any other
desired terms.
Energy efficiency, renewable energy and other sustainable infrastructure projects are subject to
performance risks that could impact the repayment of and the return on our assets.
Energy efficiency, renewable energy and other sustainable infrastructure projects are subject to various
construction and operating delays and risks that may cause them to incur higher than expected costs or generate
less than expected amounts of output such as electricity in the case of a renewable energy project. These risks
include construction delays, a failure or degradation of our, our customers’ or the utilities’ equipment; an
inability to find suitable equipment or parts; labor shortages; less than expected supply of a project’s source of
renewable energy, such as solar insolation and wind; or a faster than expected diminishment of such supply.
Further, many projects in which we invest will be subject to competitive risks and to volatility in commodity
prices including the price of energy. Any extended interruption in the project’s construction or operation, any
cost overrun or failure of the project for any reason to generate the expected amount of output or cash flow, could
have a material adverse effect on the repayment of and the return on our assets.
Many of our assets depend on revenues from third-party contractual arrangements.
Many of the projects in which we invest rely on revenue or repayment from contractual commitments of
end-customers, including federal, state or local governments for energy efficiency projects or utilities or other
customers under PPAs. There is a risk that these customers will default under their contracts. Furthermore, the
bankruptcy, insolvency or other liquidity constraints of one or more customers may reduce the likelihood of
collecting defaulted obligations. Some projects rely on one customer for their revenue and thus the project could
be materially and adversely affected by any material change in the financial condition of that customer. While
there may be alternative customers for such a project, there can be no assurance that a new contract on the same
terms will be able to be negotiated for the project.
Certain of our projects with contractually committed revenues or other sources of repayment under long
term contracts will be subject to re-contracting risk in the future. We cannot provide assurance that these
contracts can be re-negotiated once their terms expire on equally favorable terms or at all. If it is not possible to
renegotiate these contracts on favorable terms, our business, financial condition, results of operations and
prospects could be materially and adversely affected.
Revenues at some of the projects in which we invest depend on reliable and efficient metering, or other
revenue collection systems, which are often specified in the contract. There is a risk that, if one or more of such
projects are not able to operate and maintain the metering or other revenue collection systems in the manner
expected, if the operation and maintenance costs, are greater than expected, or if the customer disputes the output
of the revenue collection system, the ability of the project to repay our investments or provide a return to us on
our asset could be materially and adversely affected.
We are exposed to the credit risk of ESCOs and others.
While we do not anticipate facing significant credit risk in our assets related to government energy
efficiency projects, we are subject to varying degrees of credit risk in these projects in relation to guarantees
provided by ESCOs where payments under energy savings performance contracts are contingent upon energy
savings. We are also exposed to credit risk in projects in which we invest that do not depend on funding from
governments. We seek to mitigate this credit risk by employing a comprehensive review and asset selection
- 23 -
process and careful ongoing monitoring of acquired assets. Nevertheless, unanticipated credit losses could occur
which could adversely impact our operating results. During periods of economic downturn in the global
economy, our exposure to credit risks from obligors increases, and our efforts to monitor and mitigate the
associated risks may not be effective in reducing our credit risks. Certain participants in the sustainable energy
industry have experienced significant declines in the value of their equity and difficulty in raising or refinancing
debt, which increases the credit risk to these companies and there can be no assurance they will be able to fulfill
their obligations which could adversely impact our operating results.
Some of the projects in which we invest have sold their output under PPAs which expose the projects to
various risks.
Some of our projects enter into PPAs when they contract to sell all or a fixed proportion of the electricity
generated by the project, sometimes bundled with renewable energy credits and capacity or other environmental
attributes, to a power purchaser, often a utility. PPAs are used to stabilize our revenues from that project. We are
exposed to the risk that the power purchaser, who we consider an obligor, will fail to perform under a PPA or the
PPA will be terminated or expire, which will lead to that project needing to sell its electricity at the then market
price, which could be substantially lower than the price provided in the applicable PPA. In most instances, the
project also commits to sell minimum levels of generation. If the project generates less than the committed
volumes, it may be required to buy the shortfall of electricity on the open market or make payments of liquidated
damages or be in default under a PPA, which could result in its termination. In the event that any of these events
were to occur, our business, financial condition and results of operations could suffer as a result.
Portions of the electricity our assets generate is sold on the open market at spot-market prices. A
prolonged environment of low prices for natural gas, or other conventional fuel sources, could have a
material adverse effect on our long-term business prospects, financial condition and results of operations.
Historically low prices for traditional fossil fuels, particularly natural gas, could cause demand for
renewable energy to decrease or adversely affect both the price available to our projects under PPAs that the
projects may enter into in the future and the price of the electricity the projects generate for sale on a spot-market
basis. Low spot market power prices, if combined with other factors, could have a material adverse effect on the
projects and its value and our expected returns, results of operations and cash available for distribution.
Additionally, cheaper conventional fuel sources could also have a negative impact on the power prices the
projects are able to negotiate upon the expiration of current PPAs. As a result, the price our projects realize in the
open market could be materially and adversely affected, which could, in turn, have a material adverse effect on
the project’s current and expected results of operations and cash available for distribution. In the event that any
of these events were to occur, our business, financial condition and results of operations could suffer as a result.
The ability of our assets to generate revenue from certain projects depends on having interconnection
arrangements and services.
The future success of our assets will depend, in part, on their ability to maintain satisfactory interconnection
agreements. If the interconnection or transmission agreement of a project is terminated for any reason, they may not
be able to replace it with an interconnection and transmission arrangement on terms as favorable as the existing
arrangement, or at all, or they may experience significant delays or costs in connection with securing a replacement.
If a network to which one or more of the projects is connected experiences equipment or operational problems or
other forms of “down time,” the affected project may lose revenue and be exposed to non-performance penalties
and claims from its customers. These may include claims for damages incurred by customers, such as the additional
cost of acquiring alternative electricity supply at then-current spot market rates. The owners of the network will not
usually compensate electricity generators for lost income due to down time. In addition, our projects may be
exposed to a locational basis risk resulting from a difference between where the power is generated and the
contracted delivery point. These factors could materially affect the ability to forecast operations on these projects,
which could negatively affect our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flow.
- 24 -
The generation of electric energy from renewable energy sources depends heavily on suitable
meteorological conditions. If renewable conditions are unfavorable, the electricity generation, and
therefore revenue from our renewable generation assets, may be substantially below our expectations.
The electricity produced and revenues generated by a renewable electric generation facility are highly
dependent on suitable weather conditions, which are beyond our control. Components of renewable energy
systems, such as turbines, solar panels and inverters, could be damaged by natural disasters or severe weather,
including wildfires, hurricanes, hailstorms or tornadoes. Furthermore, the potential physical impacts of climate
change may impact our projects, including the result of changes in weather patterns (including floods, tsunamis,
drought, and rainfall levels), wind speeds, water availability, storm patterns and intensities, and temperature
levels. The projects in which we invest will be obligated to bear the expense of repairing the damaged renewable
energy systems, and replacing spare parts for key components and insurance may not cover the costs or the lost
revenue. Natural disasters or unfavorable weather and atmospheric conditions could impair the effectiveness of
the renewable energy assets, reduce their output beneath their rated capacity, require shutdown of key equipment
or impede operation of the renewable energy assets, which could adversely affect our business, financial
condition and results of operations and cash flows. Sustained unfavorable weather could also unexpectedly delay
the installation of renewable energy systems, which could result in a delay in our investing in new projects or
increase the cost of such projects.
We typically base our investment decisions with respect to each renewable energy facility on the findings of
studies conducted on-site prior to construction or based on historical conditions at existing facilities. However,
actual climatic conditions at a facility site may not conform to the findings of these studies. Even if an operating
project’s historical renewable energy resources are consistent with the long-term estimates, the unpredictable
nature of weather conditions often results in daily, monthly and yearly material deviations from the average
renewable resources anticipated during a particular period. Therefore, renewable energy facilities in which we
invest may not meet anticipated production levels or the rated capacity of the generation assets, which could
adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations and cash flows.
The amount of electricity renewable energy generation assets produce is also dependent in part on the time
of year. For example, because shorter daylight hours in winter months results in less solar irradiation, the
generation of particular assets will vary depending on the season. Further, time-of-day pricing factors vary
seasonally which contributes to variability of revenues. As a result, we expect the revenue and cash flow from
certain of our assets to vary based on the time of year.
Operation of the projects in which we invest involves significant risks and hazards customary to our
investees that could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of
operations and cash flows.
The ongoing operation of the projects in which we invest involves risks that include the breakdown or
failure of equipment or processes or performance below expected levels of output or efficiency due to wear and
tear, latent defect, design error or operator error or force majeure events, among other things. In addition to
natural risks such as earthquake, flood, drought, lightning, wildfire, hurricane and wind, other hazards, such as
fire, explosion, structural collapse and machinery failure, acts of terrorism or related acts of war, hostile cyber
intrusions or other catastrophic events are inherent risks in the operation of a project. These and other hazards
can cause significant personal injury or loss of life, severe damage to and destruction of property, plant and
equipment and contamination of, or damage to, the environment and suspension of operations. Operation of a
project also involves risks that the operator will be unable to transport its product to its customers in an efficient
manner due to a lack of transmission capacity. Unplanned outages of projects, including extensions of scheduled
outages due to mechanical failures or other problems, occur from time to time and are an inherent risk of the
business. Unplanned outages typically increase operation and maintenance expenses and may reduce revenues as
a result of selling fewer megawatt hours or require the project to incur significant costs as a result of obtaining
replacement power from third parties in the open market to satisfy forward power sales obligations. The project’s
- 25 -
inability to operate its assets efficiently, manage capital expenditures and costs and generate earnings and cash
flow could have a material adverse effect on our investment and our business, financial condition, results of
operations and cash flows. While the projects maintain insurance, obtain warranties from vendors and obligate
contractors to meet certain performance levels, the proceeds of such insurance, warranties or performance
guarantees may not cover the lost revenues, increased expenses or liquidated damages payments should the
project experience equipment breakdown or non-performance by contractors or vendors.
Some of the projects in which we invest may require substantial operating or capital expenditures in the
future.
Many of the projects in which we invest are capital intensive and require substantial ongoing expenditures
for, among other things, additions and improvements, and maintenance and repair of plant and equipment related
to project operations. While we do not typically bear the responsibility for these expenditures, any failure by the
equity owner to make necessary operating or capital expenditures could adversely impact project performance. In
addition, some of these expenditures may not be recoverable from current or future contractual arrangements.
The use of real property rights that we acquire or are used for our sustainable infrastructure projects may
be adversely affected by the rights of lienholders and leaseholders that are superior to those of the
grantors of those real property rights to us.
The projects in which we invest often require large areas of land for construction and operation or other
easements or access to the underlying land. In addition, we may acquire rights to land or other real property. The
rights to use the land can be obtained through freehold title, leases and other rights of use. Although we believe
that the real property rights we acquire, or our projects in which we invest, have valid rights to all material
easements, licenses and rights of way, not all of such easements, licenses and rights of way are registered against
the lands to which they relate and may not bind subsequent owners. Some of our real property rights and projects
generally are, and are likely to continue to be, located on land occupied pursuant to long-term easements and
leases. The ownership interests in the land subject to these easements and leases may be subject to mortgages
securing loans or other liens (such as tax liens) and other easement and lease rights of third parties (such as leases
of water, oil or mineral rights) that were created prior to, or are superior to, our or our projects’ easements and
leases. As a result, our rights may be subject, and subordinate, to the rights of those third parties. We typically
obtain representations or perform title searches or obtain title insurance to protect our real property interest or our
investments in our projects against these risks. Such measures may, however, be inadequate to protect against all
risk of loss of rights to use the land rights we have acquired or the land on which these projects are located,
which could have a material and adverse effect on our land rights, our projects and their financial condition and
operating results.
We own land or leasehold interests that are used by renewable energy projects. Negative market
conditions or adverse events affecting tenants, or the industries in which they operate, could have an
adverse impact on our underwritten returns. Moreover, many of our assets are concentrated in similar
geographic locations, which subjects us to an increased risk of significant loss if any property declines in
value or if we are unable to lease a property.
We own land or leasehold interests used by renewable energy projects that are concentrated in a limited
number of geographic locations. One consequence of this is that the aggregate returns we realize may be
substantially adversely affected by the unfavorable performance of a small number of leases or a significant
decline in the market value of any single property. Our cash flow depends in part on the ability to lease the real
estate to projects or other tenants on economically favorable terms. We could be adversely affected by various
facts and events over which we have limited or no control, such as:
•
•
lack of demand in areas where our properties are located;
inability to retain existing tenants and attract new tenants;
- 26 -
•
•
•
•
•
oversupply of space and changes in market rental rates;
our tenants’ creditworthiness and ability to pay rent, which may be affected by their operations, the
current economic situation and competition within their industries from other operators;
defaults by and bankruptcies of tenants, failure of tenants to pay rent on a timely basis, or failure of
tenants to comply with their contractual obligations;
economic or physical decline of the areas where the properties are located; and
destruction from natural disasters.
At any time, any tenant may experience a downturn in its business, including increased operating costs,
termination of a PPA or low spot-market prices of products, that may weaken its operating results or overall
financial condition, a tenant may delay lease commencement, fail to make rental payments when due, decline to
extend a lease upon its expiration, become insolvent or declare bankruptcy. Any tenant bankruptcy or insolvency,
leasing delay or failure to make rental payments when due could result in the termination of the tenant’s lease
and material losses to us.
If a tenant elects to terminate its lease prior to or upon its expiration or does not renew its lease as it expires, we
may not be able to rent or sell the properties or realize our expected value. Furthermore, leases that are renewed and
some new leases for properties that are re-leased, may have terms that are less economically favorable than expiring
lease terms, or may require us to incur significant costs, such as lease transaction costs. In addition, negative market
conditions or adverse events affecting tenants, or the industries in which they operate, may force us to sell vacant
properties for less than their carrying value, which could result in impairments. Any of these events could adversely
affect the value of our asset, the cash flow from operations and our ability to make distributions to stockholders and
service indebtedness. A significant portion of the costs of owning property, such as real estate taxes, insurance and
maintenance, are not necessarily reduced when circumstances cause a decrease in rental revenue from the
properties. In a weakened financial condition, tenants may not be able to pay these costs of ownership and we may
be unable to recover these operating expenses from them.
Further, the occurrence of a tenant bankruptcy or insolvency could diminish the income we receive from the
tenant’s lease or leases. For instance, a bankruptcy court might authorize the tenant to terminate its leases with
us. If that happens, our claim against the bankrupt tenant for unpaid future rent would be subject to statutory
limitations that most likely would be substantially less than the remaining rent we are owed under the leases. In
addition, any claim we have for unpaid past rent, if any, may not be paid in full. As a result, tenant bankruptcies
may have a material adverse effect on our results of operations.
In addition, since renewable energy projects are often concentrated in certain states, we would also be
subject to any adverse change in the political or regulatory climate in those states or specific counties where such
properties are located that could adversely affect our properties and our ability to lease such properties.
Performance of projects where we invest may be harmed by future labor disruptions and economically
unfavorable collective bargaining agreements.
A number of the projects where we invest could have workforces that are unionized or that in the future may
become unionized and, as a result, are required to negotiate the wages, benefits and other terms with many of
their employees collectively. If these projects were unable to negotiate acceptable contracts with any of their
unions as existing agreements expire, they could experience a significant disruption of their operations, higher
ongoing labor costs and restrictions on their ability to maximize the efficiency of their operations, which could
have a material and adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition, in
some jurisdictions where our projects have operations, labor forces have a legal right to strike which may have a
negative impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations, either directly or indirectly, for
example if a critical upstream or downstream counterparty was itself subject to a labor disruption which impacted
the ability of our projects to operate.
- 27 -
We invest in projects that rely on third parties to manufacture quality products or provide reliable
services in a timely manner and the failure of these third parties could cause project performance to be
adversely affected.
We invest in projects that typically rely on third parties to select, manage or provide equipment or services.
Third parties may be responsible for choosing vendors, including equipment suppliers and subcontractors.
Project success often depends on third parties who are capable of installing and managing projects and
structuring contracts that provide appropriate protection against construction and operational risks. In many
cases, in addition to contractual protections and remedies, project owners may seek guaranties, warranties and
construction bonding to provide additional protection.
The warranties provided by the third parties and, in some cases, their subcontractors, typically limit any
direct harm that results from relying on their products and services. However, there can be no assurance that a
supplier or subcontractor will be willing or able to fulfill its contractual obligations and make necessary repairs
or replace equipment. In addition, these warranties generally expire within one to five years or may be of limited
scope or provide limited remedies. If projects are unable to avail themselves of warranty protection or receive the
expected protection under the terms of the guaranties or bonding, we may need to incur additional costs,
including replacement and installation costs, which could adversely impact our investment.
Liability relating to environmental matters may impact the value of properties that we may acquire or the
properties underlying our assets.
Under various U.S. federal, state and local laws, an owner or operator of real estate or a project may become
liable for the costs of removal of certain hazardous substances released from the project or any underlying real
property. These laws often impose liability without regard to whether the owner or operator knew of, or was
responsible for, the release of such hazardous substances.
The presence of hazardous substances may adversely affect our, or another owner’s, ability to sell a
contaminated project or borrow using the project as collateral. To the extent that we, or another project owner,
become liable for removal costs, our investment, or the ability of the owner to make payments to us, may be
negatively impacted.
We acquire real property rights, make investments in projects that own real property, have collateral
consisting of real property and in the course of our business, we may take title to a project or its underlying real
estate assets relating to one of our debt financings. In these cases, we could be subject to environmental liabilities
with respect to these assets. To the extent that we become liable for the removal costs, our results of operation
and financial condition may be adversely affected. The presence of hazardous substances, if any, may adversely
affect our ability to sell the affected real property or the project and we may incur substantial remediation costs,
thus harming our financial condition.
Our insurance and contractual protections may not always cover lost revenue, increased expenses or
liquidated damages payments.
Although our assets or projects generally have insurance, supplier warranties, subcontractors performance
assurances such as bonding and other risk mitigation measures, the proceeds of such insurance, warranties,
bonding or other measures may not be adequate to cover lost revenue, increased expenses or liquidated damages
payments that may be required in the future.
- 28 -
Risks Related to Our Company
We may change our operational policies (including our investment guidelines, strategies and policies) with
the approval of our board of directors but without stockholder consent at any time, which may adversely
affect the market value of our common stock and our ability to make distributions to our stockholders.
Our board of directors determines our operational policies and may amend or revise our policies, including
our policies with respect to acquisitions, dispositions, growth, operations, compensation, indebtedness,
capitalization and dividends, or approve transactions that deviate from these policies, without a vote of, or notice
to, our stockholders at any time. We may change our investment guidelines, underwriting process and our
strategy at any time with the approval of our board of directors, but without the consent of our stockholders,
which could result in originating assets that are different in type from, and possibly riskier than, the assets
initially contemplated. In addition, our charter provides that our board of directors may authorize us to revoke or
otherwise terminate our REIT election, without the approval of our stockholders, if it determines that it is no
longer in our best interests to qualify as a REIT. These changes could adversely affect our business, financial
condition, results of operations and our ability to make distributions to our stockholders.
Our management and employees depend on information systems and system failures could significantly
disrupt our business, which may, in turn, negatively affect the market price of our common stock and our
ability to make distributions to our stockholders.
Our underwriting process and our asset and financial management and reporting are dependent on our
present and future communications and information systems. Any failure or interruption of these systems could
cause delays or other problems in our originating, financing, investing, asset and financial management and
reporting activities, which could have a material adverse effect on our operating results.
We contract with information technology service providers where, in part, we rely upon their systems and
controls for the quality of the data provided. The inappropriate establishment and maintenance of these
systems and controls could cause information that we use to operate our business to be unavailable or
inaccurate and could negatively impact our financial results.
Our information technology architecture is partially outsourced. These systems and processes may be either
internet based or through traditional outsourced functions and certain of these arrangements are new or emerging.
When we contract with these service providers we attempt to evaluate the quality of their systems and controls
before we execute the arrangement and may rely on third party reviews and audits of these service providers and
attempt to implement certain processes to ensure the quality of the data received from these service providers.
Because of the nature and maturity of the technology such efforts may be unsuccessful or incomplete and the
unavailability of these systems or the inaccurate data provided from these service providers could negatively
impact our financial results.
Cybersecurity risk and cyber incidents may adversely affect our business by causing a disruption to our
operations, a compromise or corruption of our confidential information and/or damage to our business
relationships, all of which could negatively impact our financial results.
A cyber incident is considered to be any adverse event that threatens the confidentiality, integrity or
availability of our information resources. These incidents may be an intentional attack or an unintentional event
and could involve gaining unauthorized access to our information systems for purposes of misappropriating
assets, stealing confidential information, corrupting data or causing operational disruption. The result of these
incidents may include disrupted operations, misstated or unreliable financial data, liability for stolen assets or
information, increased cybersecurity protection and insurance cost, litigation and damage to our relationships. As
our reliance on technology has increased, so have the risks posed to both our information systems and those
provided by third-party service providers. We have implemented processes, procedures and internal controls to
help mitigate cybersecurity risks and cyber intrusions, but these measures, as well as our increased awareness of
- 29 -
the nature and extent of a risk of a cyber incident, do not guarantee that our financial results, operations or
confidential information will not be negatively impacted by such an incident.
We may seek to expand our business internationally, which will expose us to additional risks that we do
not face in the United States, which could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and
operating results.
We generate substantially all of our revenue from operations in the United States, and currently derive only
a small amount of revenue from outside of the United States. We may seek to expand our revenue and projects
outside of the United States in the future. These operations will be subject to a variety of risks that we do not face
in the United States, including risk from changes in foreign country regulations, infrastructure, legal systems and
markets. Other risks include possible difficulty in repatriating overseas earnings and fluctuations in foreign
currencies.
Our overall success in international markets will depend, in part, on our ability to succeed in different legal,
regulatory, economic, social and political conditions. We may not be successful in developing and implementing
policies and strategies that will be effective in managing these risks in each country where we decide to do
business. Our failure to manage these risks successfully could harm our international projects, reduce our
international income or increase our costs, thus adversely affecting our business, financial condition and
operating results.
We will continue to seek to expand our business in part through future acquisitions or other similar
investments.
As we grow our business, we have used, and will continue to use, acquisitions of, or other types of
transactions such as equity or convertible debt investments in, companies or assets to invest in new or different
projects, expand our project skill-sets and capabilities, expand our geographic markets, add experienced
management and increase our product and service offerings. There are a number of risks associated with these
transactions and we may not achieve our goals in the transaction. Such transaction could disrupt our business,
cause dilution to our stockholders and harm our business, financial condition or operating results. In addition, the
time and effort involved to identify candidates and consummate such transactions may divert members of our
management from the operations of our company.
Risks Relating to Regulation
We cannot predict the unintended consequences and market distortions that may stem from far-ranging
governmental intervention in the economic and financial system or from regulatory reform of the
oversight of financial markets.
The U.S. federal government, the Federal Reserve Board of Governors, the U.S. Treasury, the SEC, U.S.
Congress and other governmental and regulatory bodies have taken, are taking or may in the future take, various
actions to address the financial crisis or other areas of regulatory concern, such as the Dodd—Frank Wall Street
Reform and Consumer Protection Act (the “Dodd-Frank Act”). Such actions could have a dramatic impact on our
business, results of operations and financial condition, and the cost of complying with any additional laws and
regulations or the elimination or reduction in scope of various existing laws and regulations could have a material
adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. The far-ranging government intervention in
the economic and financial system may carry unintended consequences and cause market distortions. We are
unable to predict at this time the extent and nature of such unintended consequences and market distortions, if
any. The inability to evaluate the potential impacts could have a material adverse effect on the operations of our
business.
- 30 -
Loss of our 1940 Act exemption would adversely affect us, the market price of shares of our common stock
and our ability to distribute dividends.
We conduct our operations so that we are not required to register as an investment company under the 1940
Act. Section 3(a)(1)(A) of the 1940 Act defines an investment company as any issuer that is or holds itself out as
being engaged primarily in the business of investing, reinvesting or trading in securities. Section 3(a)(1)(C) of the
1940 Act defines an investment company as any issuer that is engaged or proposes to engage in the business of
investing, reinvesting, owning, holding or trading in securities and owns or proposes to acquire investment
securities having a value exceeding 40% of the value of the issuer’s total assets (exclusive of U.S. Government
securities and cash items) on a non-consolidated basis, which we refer to as the 40% test. Excluded from the term
“investment securities,” among other things, are U.S. Government securities and securities issued by majority-
owned subsidiaries that are not themselves investment companies and are not relying on the exemption from the
definition of investment company set forth in Section 3(c)(1) or Section 3(c)(7) of the 1940 Act.
We conduct our businesses primarily through our subsidiaries and our operations so that we comply with the
40% test. The securities issued by any wholly-owned or majority-owned subsidiaries that we hold or may form in
the future that are excepted from the definition of “investment company” based on Section 3(c)(1) or 3(c)(7) of
the 1940 Act, together with any other investment securities we may own, may not have a value in excess of 40%
of the value of our total assets on a non-consolidated basis. Certain of our subsidiaries rely on or will rely on an
exemption from registration as an investment company under the 1940 Act pursuant to Section 3(c)(5)(C) of the
1940 Act, which is available for entities which are not primarily engaged in issuing redeemable securities, face-
amount certificates of the installment type or periodic payment plan certificates and which are primarily engaged
in the business of purchasing or otherwise acquiring mortgages and other liens on and interests in real estate.
This exemption generally requires that at least 55% of such subsidiaries’ portfolios must be comprised of
qualifying assets and at least 80% of each of their portfolios must be comprised of qualifying assets and real
estate-related assets under the 1940 Act. Consistent with guidance published by the SEC staff, we intend to treat
as qualifying assets for this purpose loans secured by projects for which the original principal amount of the loan
did not exceed 100% of the value of the underlying real property portion of the collateral when the loan was
made. We intend to treat as real estate-related assets non-controlling equity interests in joint ventures that own
projects whose assets are primarily real property. In general, with regard to our subsidiaries relying on
Section 3(c)(5)(C), we rely on other guidance published by the SEC or its staff or on our analyses of guidance
published with respect to other types of assets to determine which assets are qualifying real estate assets and real
estate-related assets.
In addition, one or more of our subsidiaries qualifies for an exemption from registration as an investment
company under the 1940 Act pursuant to either Section 3(c)(5)(A) of the 1940 Act, which is available for entities
which are not engaged in the business of issuing redeemable securities, face-amount certificates of the
installment type or periodic payment plan certificates, and which are primarily engaged in the business of
purchasing or otherwise acquiring notes, drafts, acceptances, open accounts receivable, and other obligations
representing part or all of the sales price of merchandise, insurance, and services, or Section 3(c)(5)(B) of the
1940 Act, which is available for entities primarily engaged in the business of making loans to manufacturers,
wholesalers, and retailers of, and to prospective purchasers of, specified merchandise, insurance, and services.
These exemptions generally require that at least 55% of such subsidiaries’ portfolios must be comprised of
qualifying assets that meet the requirements of the exemption. We intend to treat energy efficiency loans where
the loan proceeds are specifically provided to finance equipment, services and structural improvements to
properties and other facilities and renewable energy and other sustainable infrastructure projects or
improvements as qualifying assets for purposes of these exemptions. In general, we also expect, with regard to
our subsidiaries relying on Section 3(c)(5)(A) or (B), to rely on guidance published by the SEC or its staff,
including reliance on a no-action letter obtained in connection with Sections 3(c)(5)(A) and 3(c)(5)(B) of the
1940 Act, or on our analyses of guidance published with respect to other types of assets to determine which
assets are qualifying assets under the exemptions.
- 31 -
Although we monitor the portfolios of our subsidiaries relying on the Section 3(c)(5)(A), (B) or
(C) exemptions periodically and prior to each acquisition, there can be no assurance that such subsidiaries will be
able to maintain their exemptions. Qualification for exemptions from registration under the 1940 Act will limit
our ability to make certain investments. For example, these restrictions will limit the ability of these subsidiaries
to make loans that are not secured by real property or that do not represent part or all of the sales price of
merchandise, insurance, and services.
There can be no assurance that the laws and regulations governing the 1940 Act, including the Division of
Investment Management of the SEC providing more specific or different guidance regarding these exemptions,
will not change in a manner that adversely affects our operations. For example, on August 31, 2011, the SEC
issued a concept release (No. IC-29778; File No. SW7-34-11, Companies Engaged in the Business of Acquiring
Mortgages and Mortgage-Related Instruments) pursuant to which it is reviewing the scope of the exemption from
registration under Section 3(c)(5)(C) of the 1940 Act. Any additional guidance from the SEC or its staff from this
process or in other circumstances could provide additional flexibility to us, or it could further inhibit our ability
to pursue the strategies we have chosen. If we or our subsidiaries fail to maintain an exemption from the 1940
Act, we could, among other things, be required either to (1) change the manner in which we conduct our
operations to avoid being required to register as an investment company, (2) effect sales of our assets in a manner
that, or at a time when, we would not otherwise choose to do so or (3) register as an investment company, any of
which could negatively affect our business, our ability to make distributions, our financing strategy and the
market price for our shares of common stock.
We have not requested the SEC or its staff to approve our treatment of any company as a majority-owned
subsidiary and neither the SEC nor its staff has done so. If the SEC or its staff were to disagree with our
treatment of one or more companies as majority-owned subsidiaries, we would need to adjust our strategy and
our assets in order to continue to pass the 40% test. Any such adjustment in our strategy could have a material
adverse effect on us.
Rapid changes in the values of our assets may make it more difficult for us to maintain our qualification as
a REIT or our exemption from the 1940 Act.
If the market value or income potential of our assets changes as a result of changes in interest rates, general
market conditions, government actions or other factors, we may need to adjust the portfolio mix of our real estate
assets and income or liquidate our non-qualifying assets to maintain our REIT qualification or our exemption
from the 1940 Act. If changes in asset values or income occur quickly, this may be especially difficult to
accomplish. This difficulty may be exacerbated by the illiquid nature of the assets we may own. We may have to
make decisions that we otherwise would not make absent the REIT and 1940 Act considerations.
Because we expect to distribute substantially all of our REIT taxable income to our stockholders, we will
need additional capital to finance our growth and such capital may not be available on favorable terms or
at all.
We may need additional capital to fund our growth. U.S. federal income tax law generally requires that a
REIT distribute annually at least 90% of its REIT taxable income, without regard to the deduction for dividends
paid and excluding net capital gains, and that it pay tax at regular corporate rates to the extent that it annually
distributes greater than 90% but less than 100% of such REIT taxable income. Because we intend to grow our
business, this limitation may require us to incur additional debt or raise additional equity at a time when it may
be disadvantageous to do so. We cannot make any assurance that debt and equity financing will be available to us
on favorable terms, or at all, and debt financings may be restricted by the terms of any of our outstanding
borrowings. If additional funds are not available to us, we could be forced to curtail or cease new asset
originations and acquisitions, which could have a material adverse effect on our business and financial condition.
- 32 -
The preparation of our financial statements involves use of estimates, judgments and assumptions, and our
financial statements may be materially affected if our estimates prove to be inaccurate.
Financial statements prepared in accordance with GAAP require the use of estimates, judgments and
assumptions that affect the reported amounts. Different estimates, judgments and assumptions reasonably could
be used that would have a material effect on the financial statements, and changes in these estimates, judgments
and assumptions are likely to occur from period to period in the future. Significant areas of accounting requiring
the application of management’s judgment include, but are not limited to determining the fair value of our assets.
These estimates, judgments and assumptions are inherently uncertain, and, if they prove to be wrong, then
we face the risk that charges to income will be required. Any charges could significantly harm our business,
financial condition, results of operations and the price of our securities. See Management’s Discussion and
Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Critical Accounting Policies and Use of Estimates
for a discussion of the accounting estimates, judgments and assumptions that we believe are the most critical to
an understanding of our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Risks Related to Borrowings
We use leverage in executing our business strategy, which may adversely affect the return on our assets
and may reduce cash available for distribution to our stockholders, as well as increase losses when
economic conditions are unfavorable.
We use leverage to finance our assets, including a credit facility or facilities, recourse and non-recourse debt
as well as securitizations. In the future, our financing sources may also include other fixed and floating rate
borrowings in the form of new bank credit facilities (including term loans and revolving facilities), warehouse
facilities, repurchase agreements, securitizations and public and private debt issuances.
Changes in the financial markets and the economy generally could adversely affect one or more of our
lenders or potential lenders and could cause one or more of our lenders, potential lenders or institutional investors
to be unwilling or unable to provide us with financing or participate in securitizations or could increase the costs
of that financing or securitization. The return on our assets and cash available for distribution to our stockholders
may be reduced to the extent that market conditions prevent us from leveraging our assets or increase the cost of
our financing relative to the income that can be derived from the assets acquired. Increases in our financing costs
will reduce cash available for distributions to stockholders. We may not be able to meet our financing obligations
and, to the extent that we cannot, we risk the loss of some or all of our assets to liquidation or sale to satisfy the
obligations.
An increase in our borrowing costs relative to the interest we receive on our leveraged assets may
adversely affect our profitability and our cash available for distribution to our stockholders. Our
borrowings may have a shorter duration than our assets.
Borrowing rates have begun to rise above historically low levels. As any borrowing agreements we enter
into mature, we may be required either to enter into new borrowings at higher rates or to sell certain of our assets.
In addition, the Federal Reserve Board of Governors has indicated they intend to raise the rate at which banks
lend to each other known as the federal funds rate. Any such increase is likely to increase shorter term interest
rates and may lower the difference between shorter term interest rates and longer-term interest rates which would
result in a flattening of the yield curve. Our credit facility has rates that adjust on a frequent basis based on
prevailing short term interest rates. An increase in interest rates, or the flattening of the yield curve, would reduce
the spread between the returns on our assets which are typically priced using longer-term interest rates and the
cost of any new borrowings or borrowings where the interest rate adjusts to market rates or is based on shorter
term rates. This change in interest rates would adversely affect the returns on our assets, which might reduce our
earnings and, in turn, cash available for distribution to our stockholders. In addition, as we may use short-term
borrowings including repurchase agreements and warehouse facilities that are generally short-term commitments
- 33 -
of capital, lenders may respond to market conditions making it more difficult for us to secure continued
financing. If we are not able to renew our then existing facilities or arrange for new financing on terms
acceptable to us, or if we default on our covenants or are otherwise unable to access funds under any of these
facilities, we may have to curtail entering into new transactions and/or dispose of assets. We will face these risks
given that a number of our borrowings have a shorter duration than the assets they finance.
We do not have a formal policy limiting the amount of debt we may incur. Our board of directors may
change our leverage policy without stockholder approval.
Although we are not restricted by any regulatory requirements to maintain our leverage ratio at or below any
particular level, the amount of leverage we may deploy for particular assets will depend upon the availability of
particular types of financing and our assessment of the credit, liquidity, price volatility and other risks of those
assets and the credit quality of our financing counterparties. We have established leverage targets which are
discussed in Item 7, Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Conditions and Results of Operations—
Liquidity and Capital Resources. However, our charter and bylaws do not limit the amount or type of indebtedness
we can incur, and our board of directors has changed, and has the discretion to deviate from or change at any time
in the future, our leverage policy, which could result in an investment portfolio with a different risk profile. We
utilize non-recourse facilities on certain types of assets that have significantly higher leverage. On these facilities,
the lenders’ primary recourse is to the pledged assets and if the value of the pledged assets is below the value of
the debt or if we default on the facility, the lender would be able to foreclose on all the pledged assets, which
would result in losses and reduce our assets and the cash available for distributions to stockholders. Moreover, we
have more limited experience dealing with certain types of debt financings for our assets and we may apply too
much leverage to our assets or may employ an inefficient financing strategy to our assets.
We will require additional borrowings and equity raises in the future to achieve our targets.
To achieve our leverage target and to grow our business, we will require new sources of debt and equity
which may be difficult to arrange or which may have significantly higher costs. Certain participants in the
sustainable energy industry have experienced significant declines in the value of their equity and may face
difficulty in raising new equity or in raising or refinancing debt. If we were to experience such declines or
difficulties, we may be forced to limit our growth, liquidate assets or incur higher costs which may significantly
harm our business, financial condition, results of operations, and our ability to make or grow our distributions,
which could cause the value of our common stock to decline.
The use of securitizations and special purpose entities would expose us to additional risks.
We presently hold, and to the extent that we securitize loans in the future, we anticipate that we will often
hold the most junior certificates or the residual value associated with a securitization. We may also establish
other funds or special purpose entities, where we would hold only a partial or subordinate interest or a residual
value after taking into account our non-recourse debt facilities or a right to participate in the profits of such entity
once it achieves a predefined threshold. As a holder of the residual value or other such interests, we are more
exposed to losses on the underlying collateral because the interest we retain in the securitization vehicle or other
entity would be subordinate to the more senior notes or interests issued to investors and we would, therefore,
absorb all of the losses, up to the value of our interests, sustained with respect to the underlying assets before the
owners of the notes or other interests experience any losses. In addition, the inability to securitize our portfolio or
assets within our portfolio could hurt our performance and our ability to grow our business.
We also use various special purpose entities to own and finance our assets. These subsidiaries incur various
types of debt, which can be used to finance one or more of our assets. This debt is typically structured as
non-recourse debt, which means it is repayable solely from the revenue from the investment financed by the debt
and is secured by the related physical assets, major contracts, cash accounts and in some cases, a pledge of our
ownership interests in the subsidiaries involved in the projects. Although this subsidiary debt is typically
- 34 -
non-recourse to us, we make certain representations and warranties or enter into certain guaranties of our
subsidiary’s obligations or covenants to the non-recourse debt holder, the breach of which may require us to
make payments to the lender. We may also from time to time determine to provide financial support to the
subsidiary in order to maintain rights to the project or otherwise avoid the adverse consequences of a default. In
the event a subsidiary defaults on its indebtedness, its creditors may foreclose on the collateral securing the
indebtedness, which may result in us losing our ownership interest in some or all of the subsidiary’s assets. The
loss of our ownership interest in a subsidiary or some or all of a subsidiary’s assets could have a material adverse
effect on our business, financial condition and operating results.
Our existing credit facility and debt contain, and any future financing facilities may contain, covenants
that restrict our operations and may inhibit our ability to grow our business and increase revenues.
Our existing credit facility and debt contains, and any future financing facilities may contain, various
affirmative and negative covenants, including maintenance of an interest coverage ratio and limitations on the
incurrence of liens and indebtedness, investments, fundamental organizational changes, dispositions, changes in
the nature of business, transactions with affiliates, use of proceeds and stock repurchases. In addition, the terms
of our non-recourse debt include restrictions and covenants, including limitations on our ability to transfer or
incur liens on the assets that secure the debt. For further information see Item 7. Management’s Discussion and
Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Liquidity and Capital Resources.
The covenants and restrictions included in our existing financings do, and the covenants and restrictions to
be included in any future financings may, restrict our ability to, among other things:
•
incur or guarantee additional debt;
• make certain investments, originations or acquisitions;
• make distributions on or repurchase or redeem capital stock;
•
•
•
•
•
•
engage in mergers or consolidations;
reduce liquidity below certain levels;
grant liens;
have a tangible net worth below a defined threshold;
incur operating losses for more than a specified period; and
enter into transactions with affiliates.
Our non-recourse debt limits our ability to take action with regard to the assets pledged as security for the
debt. These restrictions, as well as any other covenants contained in any future financings, may interfere with our
ability to obtain financing, or to engage in other business activities, which may significantly limit or harm our
business, financial condition, liquidity and results of operations. Our financing agreements may contain cross-
default provisions, so that if a default occurs under any one agreement, the lenders under our other agreements
could also declare a default. A default and resulting repayment acceleration could significantly reduce our
liquidity, which could require us to sell our assets to repay amounts due and outstanding. This could also
significantly harm our business, financial condition, results of operations, and our ability to make distributions,
which could cause the value of our common stock to decline and adversely affect our ability to qualify, or remain
qualified, as a REIT. A default will also significantly limit our financing alternatives such that we will be unable
to pursue our leverage strategy, which could curtail the returns on our assets.
In addition, certain of our financing arrangements contain provisions that provide for a preference in cash
flow allocations to the lender from our assets or an acceleration of principal payments owed when certain
conditions are present related to the underlying assets that serve as collateral for the financing. These provisions
may limit our ability to obtain distributions from the underlying assets and could impact our cash flow and
expected returns.
- 35 -
We will have to pay off the remaining balance or refinance our borrowings when they become due. The
failure to be able to pay off the remaining balance or refinance such borrowings or an increase in interest
rates of such refinancing could have a material impact on our business.
Some of our borrowings will have a remaining balance when they become due. If our subsidiary is unable to
repay or refinance the remaining balance of this debt, or if the terms of any available refinancing are not
favorable, we may be forced to liquidate assets or incur higher costs which may significantly harm our business,
financial condition, results of operations, and our ability to make distributions, which could cause the value of
our common stock to decline.
If a counterparty to repurchase transactions defaults on its obligation to resell the underlying security
back to us at the end of the transaction term, or if the value of the underlying security has declined as of
the end of that term, or if we default on obligations under the repurchase agreement, we will lose money
on repurchase transactions.
In repurchase transactions, we will generally sell certain of our assets to lenders (i.e., repurchase agreement
counterparties) and receive cash from the lenders. The lenders will be obligated to resell the same assets back to
us at the end of the term of the transaction. Because the cash we will receive from the lender when we initially
sell the assets to the lender is less than its value, if the lender defaults on its obligation to resell the same asset
back to us we would incur a loss on the transaction equal to the differential in value at which the lender
purchased the asset (assuming there was no other change in value). We would also lose money on a repurchase
transaction if the value of the underlying asset has declined as of the end of the transaction term, as we would
have to repurchase the assets for their initial value but would receive loans worth less than that amount. We may
also be forced to sell assets at significantly depressed prices to meet margin calls, post additional collateral and
maintain adequate liquidity, which could cause us to incur losses. Moreover, to the extent we are forced to sell
assets at such time, given market conditions, we may be selling at the same time as others facing similar
pressures, which could exacerbate a difficult market environment and which could result in our incurring
significantly greater losses on our sale of such assets. In an extreme case of market duress, a market may not
even be present for certain of our assets at any price. Such a situation would likely result in a rapid deterioration
of our financial condition and possibly necessitate a filing for protection under the United States Bankruptcy
Code (the “Bankruptcy Code”). Further, if we default on one of our obligations under a repurchase transaction,
the lender will be able to terminate the transaction and cease entering into any other repurchase transactions with
us. Our repurchase agreements may contain cross-default provisions, so that if a default occurs under any one
agreement, the lenders under any other of our agreements could also declare a default. If a default occurs under
any of our repurchase agreements and the lenders terminate one or more of our repurchase agreements, we may
need to enter into replacement repurchase agreements with different lenders. There can be no assurance that we
will be successful in entering into such replacement repurchase agreements on the same terms as the repurchase
agreements that were terminated or at all. Any losses we incur on our repurchase transactions could adversely
affect our earnings and thus our cash available for distribution to our stockholders. In the event of our insolvency
or bankruptcy, certain repurchase agreements may qualify for special treatment under the Bankruptcy Code, the
effect of which, among other things, would be to allow the lender under the applicable repurchase agreement to
avoid the automatic stay provisions of the Bankruptcy Code and to foreclose on the collateral agreement without
delay, which could ultimately reduce the amounts we could otherwise recover.
Risks Related to Hedging
We, or the projects in which we invest, enter into hedging transactions that could expose us to contingent
liabilities in the future and adversely impact our financial condition.
Subject to maintaining our qualification as a REIT, part of our strategy, or the strategy of the projects in
which we invest, involves entering into hedging transactions that could require us to fund cash payments in
certain circumstances (e.g., the early termination of the hedging instrument caused by an event of default or other
early termination event, or the decision by a counterparty to request margin it is contractually owed under the
- 36 -
terms of the hedging instrument). The amount due would be equal to the unrealized loss of the open swap
positions with the respective counterparty and could also include other fees and charges. These economic losses
will be reflected in our, or the project’s, financial statements, and our, or the project’s, ability to fund these
obligations will depend on the liquidity of our, or the project’s, assets and access to capital at the time, and the
need to fund these obligations could adversely impact our financial condition.
We have limited experience hedging the interest rate, credit or commodity risk of our assets and liabilities
and such hedging, if any, may adversely affect our results of operations.
We have limited experience hedging the interest rate, credit or commodity risk of our assets and liabilities.
However, we have entered into interest rate hedges for certain of our liabilities and as part of our strategy, we
may pursue various hedging strategies to seek to reduce our exposure to adverse changes in interest rates, credit
or commodity prices. Our hedging activity will vary in scope based on the level and volatility of interest rates,
credit risk of our counterparties or the underlying commodity, our types of assets and liabilities and other
changing market conditions. Interest rate, credit, or commodity hedging may fail to protect or could adversely
affect us because, among other things:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
our hedging strategies may be poorly designed or improperly executed as a result of from our limited
experience hedging the interest rate, credit or commodity risk;
interest rate, credit or commodity hedging can be expensive, particularly during periods of rising and
volatile interest rates, market conditions or commodity prices;
available interest rate, credit or commodity hedges may not correspond directly with the interest rate,
credit or commodity risk for which protection is sought;
the duration of the hedge may not match the duration of the related liability or exposure;
the amount of income that a REIT may earn from certain hedging transactions (other than through
taxable REIT subsidiaries, or “TRSs”), to offset interest rate losses is limited by U.S. federal tax
provisions governing REITs;
the credit quality of the hedging counterparty owing money on the hedge may be downgraded to such
an extent that it impairs our ability to sell or assign our side of the hedging transaction;
the hedging counterparty owing money in the hedging transaction may default on its obligation to pay;
and
our hedging transactions, which are intended to limit losses, may actually adversely affect our earnings,
which could reduce our cash available for distribution to our stockholders.
In addition, over-the-counter hedges entered into to hedge interest rates, credit risk or commodity prices
involve risk since they often are not traded on regulated exchanges or cleared through a central counterparty. We
would remain exposed to our counterparty’s ability to perform on its obligations under each hedge and cannot
look to the creditworthiness of a central counterparty for performance. As a result, if a hedging counterparty
cannot perform under the terms of the hedge, we would not receive payments due under that hedge, we may lose
any unrealized gain associated with the hedge and the hedged liability would cease to be hedged. While we
would seek to terminate the relevant hedge transaction and may have a claim against the defaulting counterparty
for any losses, including unrealized gains, there is no assurance that we would be able to recover such amounts or
to replace the relevant hedge on economically viable terms or at all. In such case, we could be forced to cover our
unhedged liabilities at the then current market price. We may also be at risk for any collateral we have pledged to
secure our obligations under the hedge if the counterparty becomes insolvent or files for bankruptcy.
Furthermore, our interest rate swaps and other hedge transactions are subject to increasing statutory and
other regulatory requirements and, depending on the identity of the counterparty, applicable international
requirements. Recently, new regulations have been promulgated by U.S. and foreign regulators to strengthen the
- 37 -
oversight of swaps, and any further actions taken by such regulators could constrain our strategy or increase our
costs, either of which could materially and adversely impact our results of operations.
In addition, the Dodd-Frank Act requires certain derivatives, including certain interest rate swaps, to be
executed on a regulated market and cleared through a central counterparty. Unlike over-the-counter swaps, the
counterparty for the cleared swaps is the clearing house, which reduces counterparty risk. However, cleared
swaps require us to appoint clearing brokers and to post margin in accordance with the clearing house’s rules,
which has resulted in increased costs for cleared swaps compared to over-the-counter swaps. Our
over-the-counter hedges with swap dealers became subject to margin regulations promulgated by U.S. regulators
on March 1, 2017, which regulations increased the required margin, and the cost to us of over-the-counter swaps.
The margin requirements for both cleared and uncleared swaps also limit eligible margin to cash and specified
types of securities, which may further increase the costs of hedging and induce us to change or reduce the use of
hedging transactions. The margin regulations generally do not apply to any over-the-counter swaps that were
entered into prior to the effective date of such regulations.
In addition, the projects in which we invest, may enter into various forms of hedging including interest rate
and power price hedging. To the extent they enter into such hedges, the financial results of the project will be
exposed to similar risks as described above which could adversely impact our results of operations.
If we choose not to pursue, or fail to qualify for, hedge accounting treatment, our operating results may be
impacted because losses on the derivatives that we enter into may not be offset by a change in the fair
value of the related hedged transaction.
We may choose not to pursue, or fail to qualify for, hedge accounting treatment relating to derivative and
hedging transactions. We may fail to qualify for hedge accounting treatment for a number of reasons, including if
we use instruments that do not meet the Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 815 definition of a
derivative (such as short sales), we fail to satisfy ASC Topic 815 hedge documentation and hedge effectiveness
assessment requirements or the hedge relationship is not highly effective. If we fail to qualify for, or choose not
to pursue, hedge accounting treatment, our operating results may be impacted because losses on the derivatives
that we enter into may not be offset by a change in the fair value of the related hedged transaction.
Risks Related to Our Common Stock
There can be no assurance that an active trading market for our common stock will continue, which could
cause our common stock to trade at a discount and make it difficult for holders of our common stock to
sell their shares.
Our common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”). However, there can be no
assurance that an active trading market for our common stock will continue, which could cause our common
stock to trade at a discount. Accordingly, no assurance can be given as to the ability of our stockholders to sell
their common stock or the price that our stockholders may obtain for their common stock. Some of the factors
that could negatively affect the market price of our common stock include:
•
•
•
•
•
our actual or projected operating results, financial condition, cash flows and liquidity or changes in
business strategy or prospects;
changes in the mix of our investment products and services, including the level of securitizations or fee
income in any quarter;
actual or perceived conflicts of interest with individuals, including our executives;
our ability to arrange financing for projects;
equity issuances by us, or share resales by our stockholders, or the perception that such issuances or
resales may occur;
- 38 -
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
seasonality in construction and demand for our investments;
actual or anticipated accounting problems;
publication of research reports about us or the sustainable infrastructure industry;
changes in market valuations of similar companies;
adverse market reaction to any increased indebtedness we may incur in the future;
commodity price changes;
interest rate changes;
additions to or departures of our key personnel;
speculation or negative publicity in the press or investment community;
our failure to meet, or the lowering of, our earnings estimates or those of any securities analysts;
increases in market interest rates, which may lead investors to demand a higher distribution yield for
our common stock, and would result in increased interest expenses on our debt;
changes in governmental policies, regulations or laws;
failure to qualify, or maintain our qualification, as a REIT or failure to maintain our exemption from
registration as an investment company under the 1940 Act;
price and volume fluctuations in the stock market generally; and
general market and economic conditions, including the current state of the credit and capital markets.
Market factors unrelated to our performance could also negatively impact the market price of our common
stock. One of the factors that investors may consider in deciding whether to buy or sell our common stock is our
distribution rate as a percentage of our stock price relative to market interest rates. If market interest rates
increase, prospective investors may demand a higher distribution rate or seek alternative investments paying
higher dividends or interest. As a result, interest rate fluctuations and conditions in capital markets can affect the
market value of our common stock.
Common stock and preferred stock eligible for future sale may have adverse effects on our share price.
Subject to applicable law, our board of directors, without stockholder approval, may authorize us to issue
additional authorized and unissued shares of common stock and preferred stock on the terms and for the
consideration it deems appropriate.
We cannot predict the effect, if any, of future sales of our common stock or the availability of shares for
future sales, on the market price of our common stock. Sales of substantial amounts of common stock or the
perception that such sales could occur may adversely affect the prevailing market price for our common stock.
We cannot assure you of our ability to make distributions in the future. If our portfolio of assets fails to
generate sufficient income and cash flow, we could be required to sell assets, borrow funds, raise
additional equity or make a portion of our distributions in the form of a taxable stock distribution or
distribution of debt securities.
We are generally required to distribute to our stockholders at least 90% of our REIT taxable income
(without regard to the deduction for dividends paid and excluding net capital gains) each year for us to qualify,
and maintain our qualification, as a REIT under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Internal
Revenue Code”). Our current policy is to pay quarterly distributions, which on an annual basis will equal or
exceed substantially all of our taxable income. In the event that our board of directors authorizes distributions in
- 39 -
excess of the income or cash flow generated from our assets, we may make such distributions from the proceeds
of future offerings of equity or debt securities or other forms of debt financing or the sale of assets.
Our ability to make distributions may be adversely affected by a number of factors. Therefore, although we
anticipate making quarterly distributions to our stockholders, our board of directors has the sole discretion to
determine the timing, form and amount of any distributions to our stockholders. If our portfolio of assets fails to
generate sufficient income and cash flow, we could be required to sell assets, borrow funds, raise additional
equity or make a portion of our distributions in the form of a taxable stock distribution or distribution of debt
securities. To the extent that we are required to sell assets in adverse market conditions or borrow funds at
unfavorable rates, our results of operations could be materially and adversely affected. If we raise additional
equity, our stock price could be materially and adversely affected. Our board of directors will make
determinations regarding distributions based upon various factors, including our earnings, our financial
condition, our liquidity, our debt covenants, maintenance of our REIT qualification, applicable provisions of the
MGCL and other factors as our board of directors may deem relevant from time to time. We believe that a
change in any one of the following factors could adversely affect our results of operations and impair our ability
to make distributions to our stockholders:
•
our ability to make profitable investments;
• margin calls or other expenses that reduce our cash flow;
•
•
•
defaults in our asset portfolio or decreases in the value of our portfolio;
the cash flow we receive from our assets, including those subject to non-recourse debt; and
the fact that anticipated operating expense levels may not prove accurate, as actual results may vary
from estimates.
As a result, no assurance can be given that we will be able to make distributions to our stockholders at any
time in the future or that the level of any distributions we do make to our stockholders will achieve a market
yield or increase or even be maintained over time, any of which could materially and adversely affect us.
In addition, distributions that we make to our stockholders will generally be taxable to our stockholders as
ordinary income, subject to a deduction equal to 20% of the amount of such dividends for taxable years
beginning in 2018 and ending in 2025, which generally reduces the effective U.S. federal income tax rate
applicable to such dividends. However, a portion of our distributions may be designated by us as long-term
capital gains to the extent that they are attributable to capital gain income recognized by us or may constitute a
return of capital to the extent that they exceed our earnings and profits as determined for tax purposes. A return
of capital is not taxable income, but has the effect of reducing the basis of a stockholder’s investment in shares of
our common stock.
Future offerings of debt or equity securities, which may rank senior to our common stock, may adversely
affect the market price of our common stock.
Our present debt ranks, and any future debt would rank, senior to our common stock. Such debt is, and
likely will be, governed by a loan agreement, an indenture or other instrument containing covenants restricting
our operating flexibility. Additionally, any equity securities or convertible or exchangeable securities that we
issue in the future may have rights, preferences and privileges more favorable than those of our common stock
and may result in dilution to owners of our common stock. We and, indirectly, our stockholders will bear the cost
of issuing and servicing such debt or securities. Because our decision to issue debt or equity securities in any
future offering will depend on market conditions and other factors beyond our control, we cannot predict or
estimate the amount, timing or nature of our future offerings. Thus, holders of our common stock will bear the
risk of our future offerings reducing the market price of our common stock and diluting the value of their stock
holdings in us.
- 40 -
Risks Related to Our Organization and Structure
Our business could be harmed if key personnel terminate their employment with us.
Our success depends, to a significant extent, on the continued services of our senior management team. We
have entered into employment agreements with certain members of our senior management team that provide for
a fixed term of employment. Notwithstanding these agreements, there can be no assurance that any or all of these
members of our senior management team will remain employed by us. We do not maintain key person life
insurance on any of our officers other than two policies we maintain for Mr. Eckel under which we are a named
beneficiary in the amount of approximately $3 million. The loss of services of one or more members of our
senior management team could harm our business and our prospects.
Conflicts of interest could arise as a result of our structure.
Conflicts of interest could arise in the future as a result of the relationships between us and our affiliates, on
the one hand, and our Operating Partnership or any partner thereof, on the other. Our directors and officers have
duties to our company under applicable Maryland law in connection with our management. Our duties, as the
general partner, to our Operating Partnership and our partners may come into conflict with the duties of our
directors and officers to us.
Under Delaware law, a general partner of a Delaware limited partnership owes its limited partners the duties
of good faith and fair dealing. Other duties, including fiduciary duties, may be modified or eliminated in the
partnership’s partnership agreement, except that conflict of interest transactions may still run afoul of implied
contractual standards under Delaware law. The partnership agreement of our Operating Partnership provides that,
for so long as we own a controlling interest in our Operating Partnership, any conflict that cannot be resolved in a
manner not adverse to either our stockholders or the limited partners will be resolved in favor of our
stockholders. We have not obtained an opinion of counsel covering the provisions set forth in the partnership
agreement of our Operating Partnership that purport to waive or restrict our fiduciary duties that would be in
effect under common law were it not for the partnership agreement of our Operating Partnership.
Additionally, the partnership agreement of our Operating Partnership expressly limits our liability by
providing that neither we, as the general partner of the Operating Partnership, nor any of our directors or officers,
will be liable or accountable in damages to our Operating Partnership, its limited partners or their assignees for
errors in judgment, mistakes of fact or law or for any act or omission if the general partner, director or officer,
acted in good faith. In addition, our Operating Partnership is required to indemnify us, our affiliates and each of
our and their respective officers, directors, employees and agents to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law
against any and all losses, claims, damages, liabilities (whether joint or several), expenses (including, without
limitation, attorneys’ fees and other legal fees and expenses), judgments, fines, settlements and other amounts
arising from any and all claims, demands, actions, suits or proceedings, civil, criminal, administrative or
investigative, that relate to the operations of the Operating Partnership, provided that our Operating Partnership
will not indemnify any such person for (1) willful misconduct or a knowing violation of the law, (2) any
transaction for which such person received an improper personal benefit in violation or breach of any provision
of the partnership agreement of our Operating Partnership, or (3) in the case of a criminal proceeding, the person
had reasonable cause to believe the act or omission was unlawful.
Certain provisions of Maryland law could inhibit changes in control.
Certain provisions of the MGCL may have the effect of deterring a third party from making a proposal to
acquire us or of impeding a change in control under circumstances that otherwise could provide the holders of
our common stock with the opportunity to realize a premium over the then-prevailing market price of our
common stock. We are subject to the “business combination” provisions of the MGCL that, subject to
limitations, prohibit certain business combinations (including a merger, consolidation, statutory share exchange,
or, in circumstances specified in the statute, an asset transfer or issuance or reclassification of equity securities)
- 41 -
between us and an “interested stockholder” (defined generally as any person who beneficially owns 10% or more
of our then outstanding voting stock or an affiliate or associate of ours who, at any time within the two-year
period prior to the date in question, was the beneficial owner of 10% or more of our then outstanding voting
stock) or an affiliate thereof for five years after the most recent date on which the stockholder becomes an
interested stockholder. After the five-year prohibition, any business combination between us and an interested
stockholder generally must be recommended by our board of directors and approved by the affirmative vote of at
least (1) 80% of the votes entitled to be cast by holders of outstanding shares of our voting stock and (2) two
thirds of the votes entitled to be cast by holders of our voting stock other than shares held by the interested
stockholder with whom or with whose affiliate the business combination is to be effected or held by an affiliate
or associate of the interested stockholder. These super-majority vote requirements do not apply if, among other
conditions, our common stockholders receive a minimum price, as defined under the MGCL, for their shares in
the form of cash or other consideration in the same form as previously paid by the interested stockholder for its
shares. These provisions of the MGCL do not apply, however, to business combinations that are approved or
exempted by a board of directors prior to the time that the interested stockholder becomes an interested
stockholder. Our board of directors has by resolution exempted business combinations between us and (1) any
other person, provided, that such business combination is first approved by our board of directors (including a
majority of our directors who are not affiliates or associates of such person), (2) the Predecessor and its affiliates
and associates as part of our formation transactions and (3) persons acting in concert with any of the foregoing.
As a result, any person described in the preceding sentence may be able to enter into business combinations with
us that may not be in the best interests of our stockholders, without compliance by our company with the
supermajority vote requirements and other provisions of the statute. There can be no assurance that our board of
directors will not amend or revoke the exemption at any time.
The “control share” provisions of the MGCL provide that, subject to certain exemptions, a holder of “control
shares” of a Maryland corporation (defined as shares which, when aggregated with all other shares controlled by the
stockholder (except solely by virtue of a revocable proxy), entitle the stockholder to exercise one of three increasing
ranges of voting power in electing directors) acquired in a “control share acquisition” (defined as the direct or
indirect acquisition of ownership or control of issued and outstanding “control shares”) has no voting rights with
respect to such shares except to the extent approved by our stockholders by the affirmative vote of at least two thirds
of all the votes entitled to be cast on the matter, excluding votes entitled to be cast by the acquirer of control shares,
our officers and our directors who are also our employees. Our bylaws contain a provision exempting from the
control share acquisition statute any and all acquisitions by any person of shares of our stock. There can be no
assurance that this provision will not be amended or eliminated at any time in the future.
The “unsolicited takeover” provisions of Title 3, Subtitle 8 of the MGCL permit our board of directors, without
stockholder approval and regardless of what is currently provided in our charter or bylaws, to implement certain
takeover defenses, some of which (for example, a classified board) we do not yet have. Our charter contains a
provision whereby we have elected to be subject to the provisions of Title 3, Subtitle 8 of the MGCL, pursuant to
which our board of directors has the exclusive power to fill vacancies on our board of directors. These provisions
may have the effect of inhibiting a third party from making an acquisition proposal for us or of delaying, deferring
or preventing a change in control of us under the circumstances that otherwise could provide the holders of shares of
common stock with the opportunity to realize a premium over the then current market price.
Our authorized but unissued shares of common and preferred stock may prevent a change in our control.
Our charter permits our board of directors to authorize us to issue additional shares of our authorized but
unissued common or preferred stock. In addition, our board of directors may, without common stockholder
approval, amend our charter to increase the aggregate number of our shares of stock or the number of shares of
stock of any class or series that we have the authority to issue and classify or reclassify any unissued shares of
common or preferred stock and set the terms of the classified or reclassified shares. As a result, our board of
directors may establish a series of common or preferred stock that could delay or prevent a transaction or a
change in control that might involve a premium price for shares of our common stock or otherwise be in the best
interest of our stockholders.
- 42 -
Our rights and the rights of our stockholders to take action against our directors and officers are limited,
which could limit stockholder recourse in the event of actions not in our stockholders’ best interests.
Our charter eliminates the liability of our present and former directors and officers to us and our
stockholders for money damages to the maximum extent permitted under Maryland law. Under Maryland law,
our present and former directors and officers will not have any liability to us or our stockholders for money
damages other than liability resulting from:
•
•
actual receipt of an improper benefit or profit in money, property or services; or
active and deliberate dishonesty by the director or officer that was established by a final judgment and
was material to the cause of action adjudicated.
Our charter authorizes us to indemnify our directors and officers for actions taken by them in those and
other capacities to the maximum extent permitted by Maryland law. Our bylaws require us to indemnify each
present and former director or officer, and each person who served any predecessor of our company in a similar
capacity, to the maximum extent permitted by Maryland law, in connection with the defense of any proceeding to
which he or she is made, or threatened to be made, a party or a witness by reason of his or her service to us or
any predecessor. In addition, we may be obligated to pay or reimburse the expenses incurred by such persons in
connection with any such proceedings without requiring a preliminary determination of their ultimate entitlement
to indemnification.
Our charter contains provisions that make removal of our directors difficult, which could make it difficult
for our stockholders to effect changes to our management.
Our charter provides that, subject to the rights of holders of any series of preferred stock, a director may be
removed with or without cause upon the affirmative vote of holders of at least two thirds of the votes entitled to
be cast generally in the election of directors. Vacancies may be filled only by a majority of the remaining
directors in office, even if less than a quorum. These requirements make it more difficult to change our
management by removing and replacing directors and may prevent a change in control of our company that is in
the best interests of our stockholders.
Ownership limitations may restrict change of control or business combination opportunities in which our
stockholders might receive a premium for their shares.
In order for us to qualify as a REIT for each taxable year after 2013, no more than 50% in value of our
outstanding capital stock may be owned, directly or constructively, by five or fewer individuals during the last
half of any calendar year, and at least 100 persons must beneficially own our stock during at least 335 days of a
taxable year of 12 months, or during a proportionate portion of a shorter taxable year. “Individuals” for this
purpose include natural persons, private foundations, some employee benefit plans and trusts, and some
charitable trusts. To assist us in preserving our REIT qualification, among other purposes, our charter generally
prohibits any person from directly or indirectly owning more than 9.8% in value or in number of shares,
whichever is more restrictive, of the aggregate outstanding shares of our capital stock, the outstanding shares of
any class or series of our preferred stock or the outstanding shares of our common stock. These ownership limits
could have the effect of discouraging a takeover or other transaction in which holders of our common stock
might receive a premium for their shares over the then prevailing market price or which holders might believe to
be otherwise in their best interests. Our board of directors has established exemptions from these ownership
limits that permit certain institutional investors and their clients to hold shares of our common stock in excess of
these ownership limits.
- 43 -
We are subject to financial reporting and other requirements for our accounting, internal audit and other
management systems and resources and the failure to comply with such requirements may adversely effect
our business, operating results and stock price.
We are subject to reporting and other obligations under the Exchange Act, including the requirements of
Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (the “Sarbanes-Oxley Act”). Section 404 requires annual
management assessments of the effectiveness of our internal controls over financial reporting and, our
independent registered public accounting firm to express an opinion on the effectiveness of our internal controls
over financial reporting. These reporting and other obligations place significant demands on our management,
administrative, operational, internal audit and accounting resources and may cause us to incur significant
expenses. We may need to continue to upgrade our systems or create new systems; implement additional
financial and management controls, reporting systems and procedures; expand or outsource our internal audit
function; and hire additional accounting, internal audit and finance staff. If we are unable to accomplish these
objectives in a timely and effective fashion, our ability to comply with the financial reporting requirements and
other rules that apply to reporting companies could be impaired. We believe that we currently have in place
accounting, internal audit and other management systems and resources that will allow us to maintain compliance
with the requirements of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. Any failure to maintain effective internal controls could have a
material adverse effect on our business, operating results and stock price.
Risks Related to Our Taxation as a REIT
Qualifying as a REIT involves highly technical and complex provisions of the Internal Revenue Code, and
our failure to qualify or remain qualified as a REIT would subject us to U.S. federal income tax and
applicable state and local tax, which would negatively impact the results of our operations and reduce the
amount of cash available for distribution to our stockholders.
We elected and qualified as a REIT for U.S. federal income tax purposes commencing with our taxable year
ended December 31, 2013. The U.S. federal income tax laws governing REITs are complex, and judicial and
administrative interpretations of the U.S. federal income tax laws governing REIT qualification are limited. To
qualify as a REIT and remain so qualified, we must meet, on an ongoing basis through actual operating results,
various tests regarding the nature and diversification of our assets and our income, the ownership of our
outstanding shares, and the amount of our distributions. Even a technical or inadvertent violation could
jeopardize our REIT qualification. Our ability to satisfy the asset tests depends upon our analysis of the
characterization and fair market values of our assets, some of which are not susceptible to a precise
determination, and for which we will not obtain independent appraisals.
We received a private letter ruling from the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”), which we refer to as the
Ruling, relating to our ability to treat certain of our assets as qualifying REIT assets. We are entitled to rely on
this Ruling for those assets which fit within the scope of the Ruling only to the extent that we have the legal and
contractual rights described therein, we continue to operate in accordance with the relevant facts described in the
ruling request we submitted, that such facts were accurately presented and to the extent such ruling is not
inconsistent with the Real Property Regulations (as discussed in more detail below). As a result, no assurance can
be given that we will always be able to rely on this Ruling.
In August of 2016, the Treasury Department and the IRS published regulations which we refer to as the Real
Property Regulations relating to the definition of “real property” for purposes of the REIT income and asset tests
which apply to us with respect to our taxable years beginning after December 31, 2016. Among other things, the
Real Property Regulations provide that an obligation secured by a structural component of a building or other
inherently permanent structure qualifies as a real estate asset for REIT qualification purposes only if such obligation
is also secured by a real property interest in the inherently permanent structure served by such structural component.
This aspect of the Real Property Regulations has important implications for our qualification as a REIT since a
significant portion of our REIT qualifying assets consists of receivables that are secured by liens on installed
structural improvements designed to improve the energy efficiency of buildings and a significant portion of our
REIT qualifying gross income is interest income earned with respect to such receivables.
- 44 -
The structural improvements securing our receivables generally qualify as “fixtures” under local real
property law, as well as under the Uniform Commercial Code, or the UCC, which governs rights and obligations
of parties in secured transactions. Although not controlling for REIT purposes, the general rule in the United
States is that once improvements are permanently installed in real properties, such improvements become
fixtures and thus take on the character of and are considered to be real property for certain state and local law
purposes. In general, in the United States, laws governing fixtures, including the UCC and real property law,
afford lenders who have secured their financings with security interests in fixtures with rights that extend not just
to the fixtures that secure their financings, but also to the real properties in which such fixtures have been
installed. By way of example only, Section 9-604(b) of the UCC, which has been adopted in all but two states in
the United States, permits a lender secured by fixtures, upon a default, to enforce its rights under the UCC or
under applicable real property laws. Although there is limited authority directly on point, given the nature of, and
the extent to which, the structural improvements securing our receivables are integrated into and serve the related
buildings, we believe that the better view is that the nature and scope of our rights in such buildings that inure to
us as a result of our receivables are sufficient to satisfy the requirements of the Real Property Regulations
described above. In addition to the limited authority directly on point, two other important caveats apply in this
regard. First, the Real Property Regulations do not define what is required for an obligation secured by a lien on a
structural component to also be secured by a real property interest in the building served by such structural
component. However, the initial proposed version of the Real Property Regulations, which never became
effective, included a requirement that the interest in the real property held by a REIT be “equivalent” to the
interest in a structural component held by the REIT in order for the structural component to be treated as a real
estate asset. This requirement was ultimately not included in the final Real Property Regulations, in part in
response to comments that such requirement may negatively affect investment in energy efficient and renewable
energy assets. We believe the deletion of this requirement implies that under the final Real Property Regulations,
our rights in the building need not be equivalent to our rights in the structural components serving the building.
Second, real property law is typically relegated to the states and the specific rights available to any lien or
mortgage holder, including our rights as a fixture lien holder described above, may vary between jurisdictions as
a result of a range of factors, including the specific local real property law requirements and judicial and
regulatory interpretations of such laws, and the competing rights of mortgage and other lenders. While a number
of cases have addressed the rights of fixture lien holders generally, there are limited judicial interpretations in
only a few jurisdictions that directly address the rights and remedies available to a fixture lien holder in the real
property in which the fixtures have been installed. Such rights have been addressed in some cases which support
our position and, in factual circumstances distinguishable from our own, in some cases where the courts have
found these rights to be more limited. The resolution of these issues in many jurisdictions therefore remains
uncertain. As a result of the foregoing, no assurance can be given that the IRS will not challenge our position that
our receivables meet the requirements of the Real Property Regulations or that, if challenged, such position
would be sustained.
The preamble to the Real Property Regulations provides that, to the extent a private letter ruling issued prior
to the issuance of the Real Property Regulations is inconsistent with the Real Property Regulations, the private
letter ruling is revoked prospectively from the applicability date of the Real Property Regulations. We do not
believe that the Ruling is inconsistent with the Real Property Regulations because we believe the analysis in the
Ruling was based on similar principles as the relevant portions of the Real Property Regulations, and accordingly
we do not believe that the Real Property Regulations impact our ability to rely on the Ruling. However, no
assurance can be given that the IRS would not successfully assert that we are not permitted to rely on the Ruling
because the Ruling has been revoked by the Real Property Regulations.
If the IRS were to assert that a significant portion of our receivables do not qualify as real estate assets and
do not generate income treated as interest income from mortgages on real property, we would fail to satisfy both
the gross income requirements and asset requirements applicable to REITs. If this were to occur, we would be
required to restructure the manner in which we receive such income and we may realize significant income that
does not qualify for the REIT 75% gross income test, which could cause us to fail to qualify as a REIT.
- 45 -
In addition, our compliance with the REIT income and quarterly asset requirements also depends upon our
ability to successfully manage the composition of our income and assets on an ongoing basis in accordance with
existing REIT regulations and rules and interpretations thereof. Moreover, the IRS, new legislation, court
decisions or other administrative guidance, in each case possibly with retroactive effect, may make it more
difficult or impossible for us to qualify as a REIT. Our ability to satisfy the requirements to qualify as a REIT
also depends in part on the actions of third parties over which we have no control or only limited influence,
including in cases where we own an equity interest in an entity that is classified as a partnership for U.S. federal
income tax purposes. Thus, given the highly complex nature of the rules governing REITs, the ongoing
importance of factual determinations, and the possibility of future changes in our circumstances, no assurance
can be given that we will so qualify for any particular year.
If we fail to qualify as a REIT in any taxable year, and we do not qualify for certain statutory relief
provisions, we would be required to pay U.S. federal income tax on our net taxable income, and distributions to
our stockholders would not be deductible by us in determining our taxable income. In such a case, we might need
to borrow money or sell assets in order to pay our taxes. Our payment of income tax would negatively impact the
results of our operations and decrease the amount of our income available for distribution to our stockholders.
Furthermore, if we fail to maintain our qualification as a REIT, we no longer would be required to distribute
substantially all of our taxable income to our stockholders, which would leave our board of directors with more
discretion over our future distribution levels. In addition, unless we were eligible for certain statutory relief
provisions, we could not re-elect to qualify as a REIT for the subsequent four taxable years following the year in
which we failed to qualify.
Complying with REIT requirements may force us to liquidate or forego otherwise attractive investments.
To qualify as a REIT, we must ensure that we meet the REIT gross income tests annually and that, at the
end of each calendar quarter, at least 75% of the value of our total assets consists of cash, cash items, government
securities, shares in REITs and other qualifying real estate assets. The remainder of our investment in securities
(other than government securities and REIT qualified real estate assets) generally cannot include more than 10%
of the outstanding voting securities of any one issuer or more than 10% of the total value of the outstanding
securities of any one issuer. In addition, in general, no more than 5% of the value of our total assets (other than
government securities, securities of a TRS and securities that are qualifying real estate assets) can consist of the
securities of any one issuer, no more than 20% of the value of our total assets can be represented by securities of
one or more TRSs, and no more than 25% of the value of our assets can consist of debt instruments issued by
publicly offered REITs that are not otherwise secured by real property. If we fail to comply with these
requirements at the end of any calendar quarter, we must correct the failure within 30 days after the end of the
calendar quarter or qualify for certain statutory relief provisions to avoid losing our REIT qualification and
suffering adverse tax consequences. As a result, we may be required to liquidate from our portfolio, or contribute
to a TRS, otherwise attractive investments, and may be unable to pursue investments that would be otherwise
advantageous to us in order to satisfy the source of income or asset diversification requirements for qualifying as
a REIT. These actions could have the effect of reducing our income and amounts available for distribution to our
stockholders.
REIT distribution requirements could adversely affect our ability to execute our business plan and may
require us to incur debt or sell assets to make such distributions.
In order to qualify as a REIT, we must distribute to our stockholders, each calendar year, at least 90% of our
REIT taxable income (including certain items of non-cash income), determined without regard to the deduction
for dividends paid and excluding net capital gain. To the extent that we satisfy the 90% distribution requirement,
but distribute less than 100% of our taxable income, we will be subject to U.S. federal corporate income tax on
our undistributed income. In addition, we will incur a 4% non-deductible excise tax on the amount, if any, by
which our distributions in any calendar year are less than a minimum amount specified under U.S. federal
income tax laws. We intend to distribute our taxable income to our stockholders in a manner intended to satisfy
the REIT 90% distribution requirement and to avoid the 4% non-deductible excise tax.
- 46 -
In addition, differences in timing between the recognition of taxable income, our GAAP income and the
actual receipt of cash may occur. For example, we may be required to accrue interest and discount income on
debt securities or interests in debt securities before we receive any payments of interest or principal on such
assets, and there may be timing differences in the accrual of such interest and discount income for tax purposes
and for GAAP purposes.
As a result of the foregoing, we may generate less cash flow than taxable income in a particular year and
find it difficult or impossible to meet the REIT distribution requirements in certain circumstances. In such
circumstances, we may be required to: (i) sell assets in adverse market conditions, (ii) raise debt or equity on
unfavorable terms, (iii) distribute amounts that would otherwise be invested in future acquisitions, capital
expenditures or repayment of debt, (iv) make a taxable distribution of our shares as part of a distribution in which
stockholders may elect to receive shares or (subject to a limit measured as a percentage of the total distribution)
cash or (v) use cash reserves, in order to comply with the REIT distribution requirements and to avoid U.S.
federal corporate income tax and the 4% non-deductible excise tax. Thus, compliance with the REIT distribution
requirements may hinder our ability to grow, which could adversely affect the value of our common stock.
Even though we qualify as a REIT, we may face tax liabilities that reduce our cash flow.
Even though we qualify for taxation as a REIT, we may be subject to certain U.S. federal, state and local
taxes on our income and assets, including taxes on any undistributed income, tax on income from some activities
conducted as a result of a foreclosure, and state or local income, franchise, property and transfer taxes, including
mortgage recording taxes. In addition, any TRSs we own will be subject to U.S. federal, state and local corporate
income or franchise taxes. In order to meet the REIT qualification requirements, or to avoid the imposition of a
100% tax that applies to certain gains derived by a REIT from sales of inventory or property held primarily for
sale to customers in the ordinary course of business, we may hold some of our assets through TRSs. Any taxes
paid by such TRSs would decrease the cash available for distribution to our stockholders.
The failure of assets subject to a repurchase agreement to be considered owned by us or a mezzanine loan
to qualify as a real estate asset may adversely affect our ability to qualify as a REIT.
We may enter into repurchase agreements under which we will nominally sell certain of our assets to a
counterparty and simultaneously enter into an agreement to repurchase the sold assets. We believe that we will be
treated for U.S. federal income tax purposes as the owner of the assets that are the subject of any such
agreements and that the repurchase agreements will be treated as secured lending transactions notwithstanding
that such agreements may transfer record ownership of the assets to the counterparty during the term of the
agreement. It is possible, however, that the IRS could assert that we did not own the assets during the term of the
repurchase agreement, in which case we could fail to qualify as a REIT.
In addition, we may acquire mezzanine loans, which are loans secured by equity interests in a partnership or
limited liability company that directly or indirectly owns real property. In IRS Revenue Procedure 2003-65, the
IRS provided a safe harbor pursuant to which a mezzanine loan, if it meets each of the requirements contained in
the Revenue Procedure, will be treated by the IRS as a real estate asset for purposes of the REIT asset tests, and
interest derived from the mezzanine loan will be treated as qualifying mortgage interest for purposes of the REIT
75% gross income test. Although IRS Revenue Procedure 2003-65 provides a safe harbor on which taxpayers
may rely, it does not prescribe rules of substantive tax law. We may acquire mezzanine loans that may not meet
all of the requirements for reliance on this safe harbor. In the event we own a mezzanine loan that does not meet
the safe harbor, the IRS could challenge such loan’s treatment as a real estate asset for purposes of the REIT
asset and income tests, and if such a challenge were sustained, we could fail to qualify as a REIT.
- 47 -
We may be required to report taxable income for certain investments in excess of the economic income we
ultimately realize from them.
To the extent we acquire debt investments in the secondary market for less than their face amount, the
amount of such discount will generally be treated as “market discount” for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
Market discount is generally accrued on the basis of a constant yield to maturity of a debt investment. Accrued
market discount is reported as income when, and to the extent that, any payment of principal of the debt
instrument is made, unless we elect to include accrued market discount in income as it accrues. Principal
payments on certain loans are made monthly, and consequently accrued market discount may have to be included
in income each month as if the debt investment was assured of ultimately being collected in full. If we collect
less on the debt investment than our purchase price plus the market discount we had previously reported as
income, we may not be able to benefit from any offsetting loss deductions.
Similarly, some of the debt investments that we acquire may have been issued with an original issue
discount. We will generally be required to report such original issue discount based on a constant yield method
and will be taxed based on the assumption that all future projected payments due on such debt investments will
be made. If such debt investments turn out not to be fully collectible, an offsetting loss deduction will become
available only in the later year that uncollectability is provable. In addition, in the event that any debt investments
acquired by us are delinquent as to mandatory principal and interest payments, or in the event payments with
respect to a particular debt investment are not made when due, we may nonetheless be required to continue to
recognize the unpaid interest as taxable income as it accrues, despite doubt as to its ultimate collectability. While
we would in general ultimately have an offsetting loss deduction available to us when such interest was
determined to be uncollectible, the utility of that deduction could depend on our having taxable income in that
later year or thereafter. Although we do not presently intend to, we may, in the future, acquire debt investments
that are subsequently modified by agreement with the borrower. If such amendments are “significant
modifications” under the applicable Treasury Regulations, we may be required to recognize taxable income as a
result of such amendments. Finally, we may be required under the terms of indebtedness that we incur with
private lenders to use cash received from interest payments to make principal payments on that indebtedness,
with the effect of recognizing income but not having a corresponding amount of cash available for distribution to
our stockholders.
The newly enacted TCJA implements various changes to the U.S. federal income tax laws that will impact
the taxation of us and our shareholders. Among these changes, the TCJA generally accelerates our accrual for
U.S. federal income tax purposes of certain items of income to the extent that we would otherwise recognize such
items of income for U.S. federal income tax purposes later than we would report such items on our financial
statements. This provision of the TCJA could increase our taxable income in certain taxable years, which could
impact our ability to satisfy the REIT distribution requirements. In addition, this provision of the TCJA may
override many of the U.S. federal income tax rules relating to the timing of income inclusions, including such
rules that are discussed elsewhere herein.
The interest apportionment rules under Treasury Regulation Section 1.856-5(c) provide that, if a loan is
secured by both real property and other property, a REIT is required to apportion its annual interest income to the
real property securing the loan based on a fraction, the numerator of which is the value of such real property,
determined when the REIT commits to acquire the loan, and the denominator of which is the highest “principal
amount” of the loan during the year. If a mortgage loan is secured by both real property and personal property
and the value of the personal property does not exceed 15% of the aggregate value of the property securing the
mortgage loan, the mortgage loan is treated as secured solely by real property for this purpose. IRS Revenue
Procedure 2014-51 interprets the “principal amount” of the loan to be the face amount of the loan, despite the
Internal Revenue Code requiring taxpayers to treat any market discount, that is the difference between the
purchase price of the loan and its face amount, for all purposes (other than certain withholding and information
reporting purposes) as interest rather than principal. The interest apportionment regulations apply only if the loan
in question is secured by both real property and other property and the value of personal property securing the
mortgage exceeds 15% of the aggregate value of the property securing the mortgage.
- 48 -
If the IRS were to assert successfully that our loans were secured by property other than real estate, the
interest apportionment rules applied for purposes of our REIT testing, and that the position taken in IRS Revenue
Procedure 2014-51 should be applied to certain loans in our portfolio, then depending upon the value of the real
property securing our loans and their face amount, and the sources of our gross income generally, we may fail to
meet the 75% REIT gross income test. If we do not meet this test, we could potentially lose our REIT
qualification or be required to pay a penalty to the IRS.
The “taxable mortgage pool” rules may increase the taxes that we or our stockholders may incur, and may
limit the manner in which we effect future securitizations.
Securitizations by us or our subsidiaries could result in the creation of taxable mortgage pools for U.S.
federal income tax purposes. As a result, we could have “excess inclusion income.” Certain categories of
stockholders, such as non-U.S. stockholders eligible for treaty or other benefits, U.S. stockholders with net
operating losses, and certain U.S. tax-exempt stockholders that are subject to unrelated business income tax,
could be subject to increased taxes on a portion of their dividend income from us that is attributable to any such
excess inclusion income. In the case of a stockholder that is a REIT, a regulated investment company (a “RIC”)
common trust fund or other pass-through entity, our allocable share of our excess inclusion income could be
considered excess inclusion income of such entity. In addition, to the extent that our common stock is owned by
U.S. tax-exempt “disqualified organizations,” such as certain government-related entities and charitable
remainder trusts that are not subject to tax on unrelated business income, we may incur a corporate level tax on a
portion of any excess inclusion income. Because this tax generally would be imposed on us, all of our
stockholders, including stockholders that are not disqualified organizations, generally will bear a portion of the
tax cost associated with the classification of us or a portion of our assets as a taxable mortgage pool. A RIC, or
other pass-through entity owning our common stock in record name will be subject to tax at the highest U.S.
federal corporate tax rate on any excess inclusion income allocated to their owners that are disqualified
organizations. Moreover, we could face limitations in selling equity interests in these securitizations to outside
investors, or selling any debt securities issued in connection with these securitizations that might be considered to
be equity interests for tax purposes. Finally, if we were to fail to qualify as a REIT, any taxable mortgage pool
securitizations would be treated as separate taxable corporations for U.S. federal income tax purposes that could
not be included in any consolidated U.S. federal corporate income tax return. These limitations may prevent us
from using certain techniques to maximize our returns from securitization transactions.
Although our use of TRSs may be able to partially mitigate the impact of meeting the requirements
necessary to maintain our qualification as a REIT, our ownership of and relationship with our TRSs is
limited and a failure to comply with the limits would jeopardize our REIT qualification and may result in
the application of a 100% excise tax.
A REIT may own up to 100% of the stock of one or more TRSs. Subject to certain exemptions, a TRS may
hold assets and earn income that would not be qualifying assets or income if held or earned directly by a REIT.
Both the subsidiary and the REIT must jointly elect to treat the subsidiary as a TRS. A corporation of which a
TRS directly or indirectly owns more than 35% of the voting power or value of the stock will automatically be
treated as a TRS. Overall, no more than 20% of the value of a REIT’s total assets may consist of stock or
securities of one or more TRSs. In addition, the TRS rules limit the deductibility of interest paid or accrued by a
TRS to its parent REIT to assure that the TRS is subject to an appropriate level of corporate taxation. The rules
also impose a 100% excise tax on certain transactions between a TRS and its parent REIT that are not conducted
on an arm’s-length basis. Our TRSs will pay U.S. federal, state and local income or franchise tax on their taxable
income, and their after-tax net income will be available for distribution to us but will not be required to be
distributed to us, unless necessary to maintain our REIT qualification. While we will be monitoring the aggregate
value of the securities of our TRSs and intend to conduct our affairs so that such securities will represent less
than 20% of the value of our total assets, there can be no assurance that we will be able to comply with the TRS
limitation in all market conditions.
- 49 -
Dividends payable by REITs generally do not qualify for the reduced tax rates on dividend income from
regular corporations, which could adversely affect the value of our shares.
The maximum U.S. federal income tax rate for certain qualified dividends payable to U.S. stockholders that
are individuals, trusts and estates is 20%. Dividends payable by REITs are generally not eligible for the reduced
rates and therefore may be subject to a 37% maximum U.S. federal income tax rate (for taxable years beginning
in 2018 through taxable years ending in 2025) on ordinary income. Beginning in 2018 (and through taxable years
ending in 2025), the TCJA permits a deduction for certain pass-through business income, including “qualified
REIT dividends” (generally, dividends received by a REIT shareholder that are not designated as capital gain
dividends or qualified dividend income), allows U.S. individuals, trusts, and estates to deduct up to 20% of such
amounts, subject to certain limitations, resulting in an effective maximum U.S. federal income tax rate of 29.6%
on such qualified REIT dividends. Although the reduced U.S. federal income tax rate applicable to dividend
income from regular corporate dividends does not adversely affect the taxation of REITs or dividends paid by
REITs, the more favorable rates applicable to regular corporate dividends could cause investors who are
individuals, trusts and estates to perceive investments in REITs to be relatively less attractive than investments in
the stocks of non-REIT corporations that pay dividends, which could adversely affect the value of the shares of
REITs, including shares of our common stock.
The tax on prohibited transactions limits our ability to engage in certain types of transactions, including
certain methods of securitizing loans, which would be treated as sales for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
A REIT’s net income from prohibited transactions is subject to a 100% tax. In general, prohibited
transactions are sales or other dispositions of property, other than foreclosure property, but including loans, held
as inventory or primarily for sale to customers in the ordinary course of business. We might be subject to this tax
if we were to sell or securitize loans in a manner that was treated as a sale of the loans as inventory for U.S.
federal income tax purposes. Therefore, in order to avoid the prohibited transactions tax, we may choose not to
engage in certain sales of loans, other than through a TRS, and we may be required to limit the structures we use
for our securitization transactions, even though such sales or structures might otherwise be beneficial for us.
Complying with REIT requirements may limit our ability to hedge effectively.
The REIT provisions of the Internal Revenue Code may limit our ability to hedge our assets and operations.
Under these provisions, any income that we generate from transactions intended to hedge our interest rate
exposure will be excluded from gross income for purposes of the REIT 75% and 95% gross income tests if (i) the
instrument (A) hedges interest rate risk on liabilities used to carry or acquire real estate assets or certain other
specified types of risk, or (B) hedges an instrument described in clause (A) for a period following the
extinguishment of the liability or the disposition of the asset that was previously hedged by the hedged
instrument, and (ii) such instrument is properly identified under applicable Treasury Regulations. Income from
hedging transactions that do not meet these requirements will generally constitute non-qualifying income for
purposes of both the REIT 75% and 95% gross income tests. As a result of these rules, we may have to limit our
use of hedging techniques that might otherwise be advantageous or implement those hedges through a TRS. This
could increase the cost of our hedging activities because our TRS would be subject to tax on gains or the limits
on our use of hedging techniques could expose us to greater risks associated with changes in interest rates than
we would otherwise want to bear. In addition, losses in our TRS will generally not provide any tax benefit to us,
although subject to limitation, such losses may be carried forward to offset future taxable income of the TRS.
Legislative, regulatory or administrative changes could adversely affect us.
The U.S. federal income tax laws and regulations governing REITs and their stockholders, as well as the
administrative interpretations of those laws and regulations, are constantly under review and may be changed at any
time, possibly with retroactive effect. No assurance can be given as to whether, when, or in what form, the U.S.
federal income tax laws applicable to us and our stockholders may be enacted. Changes to the U.S. federal income
tax laws and interpretations of U.S. federal tax laws could adversely affect an investment in our common stock.
- 50 -
The newly enacted TCJA, which was signed into law on December 22, 2017, significantly changes U.S.
federal income tax laws applicable to businesses and their owners, including REITs and their stockholders, and
may lessen the relative competitive advantage of operating as a REIT rather than as a C corporation. For
additional discussion, see Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations, “U.S. Federal Income Tax Legislation.”
Liquidation of our assets may jeopardize our REIT qualification.
To qualify as a REIT, we must comply with requirements regarding our assets and our sources of income. If
we are compelled to liquidate our assets to repay obligations to our lenders, we may be unable to comply with
these requirements, thereby jeopardizing our qualification as a REIT, or we may be subject to a 100% tax on any
resultant gain if we sell assets that are treated as inventory or property held primarily for sale to customers in the
ordinary course of business.
Your investment has various U.S. federal income tax risks.
We urge you to consult your tax advisor concerning the effects of U.S. federal, state, local and foreign tax
laws to you with regard to an investment in shares of our common stock.
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments
None.
Item 2.
Properties
Our principal executive offices are located at 1906 Towne Centre Blvd, Suite 370, Annapolis, Maryland
21401. Our telephone number is (410) 571-9860.
Item 3.
Legal Proceedings
From time to time, we may be involved in various claims and legal actions in the ordinary course of
business. As of December 31, 2017, we are not currently subject to any legal proceedings that are likely to have a
material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures
Not applicable.
- 51 -
PART II
Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of
Equity Securities
Market Information
Our common stock is traded on the NYSE under the symbol “HASI.” On February 20, 2018, the last sales
price for our common stock on the NYSE was $20.99 per share. The following table presents the high and low
sales prices per share of our common stock during each calendar quarter for the years indicated:
2017
October 1, 2017 through December 31, 2017
July 1, 2017 through September 30, 2017
April 1, 2017 through June 30, 2017
January 1, 2017 through March 31, 2017
2016
October 1, 2016 through December 31, 2016
July 1, 2016 through September 30, 2016
April 1, 2016 through June 30, 2016
January 1, 2016 through March 31, 2016
High
Low
Dividends
$25.28
24.60
24.66
20.78
$22.30
22.28
19.52
18.02
$0.33
0.33
0.33
0.33
High
Low
Dividends
$23.36
25.21
21.60
19.34
$18.38
20.56
18.25
15.69
$0.33
0.30
0.30
0.30
Holders
As of February 20, 2018, we had 139 registered holders of our common stock. The 139 holders of record do
not include the beneficial owners of our common stock whose shares are held by a broker or bank. Such
information was obtained from The Depository Trust Company.
Dividends
We intend to make regular quarterly distributions to holders of our common stock. U.S. federal income tax
law generally requires that a REIT distribute annually at least 90% of its REIT taxable income, without regard to
the deduction for dividends paid and excluding net capital gains, and that it pay tax at regular corporate rates to
the extent that it annually distributes less than 100% of its REIT taxable income. Our current policy is to pay
quarterly distributions, which on an annual basis will equal or exceed substantially all of our taxable income.
Any distributions we make will be at the discretion of our board of directors and will depend upon, among other
things, our actual results of operations. These results and our ability to pay distributions will be affected by
various factors, including the net interest and other income from our portfolio, our operating expenses and any
other expenditures. See Item 1A, Risk Factors, and Item 7, Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations, of this Form 10-K, for information regarding the sources of funds used for
dividends and for a discussion of factors, if any, which may adversely affect our ability to pay dividends. See
Note 11 of the audited financial statements in this Form 10-K for details of our dividends declared in 2017 and
2016.
Stockholder Return Performance
The stock performance graph and table below shall not be deemed, under the Securities Act or the Exchange
Act, to be (i) “soliciting material” or “filed” or (ii) incorporated by reference by any general statement into any
filing made by us with the SEC, except to the extent that we specifically incorporate such stock performance
graph and table by reference.
The following graph is a comparison of the cumulative total stockholder return on our shares of common
stock, the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index (the “S&P 500 Index”), the SNL Finance REIT Index, and the Dow
- 52 -
Jones Utility Average which are peer group indexes from April 18, 2013 (our first day of trading on the NYSE)
to December 31, 2017. The graph assumes that $100 was invested at closing on April 18, 2013, in our shares of
common stock, the S&P 500 Index, and the peer group indexes and that all dividends were reinvested without the
payment of any commissions. There can be no assurance that the performance of our common stock will
continue in line with the same or similar trends depicted in the graph below.
Comparison of Cumulative Total Return
(HASI, S&P 500 Index, SNL Finance REIT and Dow Jones Utility Average)
$300
$280
$260
$240
$220
$200
$180
$160
$140
$120
$100
$80
4/18/2013
12/31/2013
12/31/2014
12/31/2015
12/31/2016
12/31/2017
HASI
S&P 500
SNL Finance REIT
Dow Jones Utility Average
Company or Index
04/18/13
12/31/13
12/31/14
12/31/15
12/31/16
12/31/17
Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure
Capital, Inc.
S&P 500 Index
SNL Finance REIT Index (1)
Dow Jones Utility Average
$100.00
100.00
100.00
100.00
$126.51
121.73
84.25
96.99
$137.59
138.39
96.48
126.71
$193.74
140.31
88.47
122.83
$206.61
157.09
108.98
145.16
$277.51
191.38
127.16
164.54
Source: S&P Global Market Intelligence, a division of S&P Global
(1) As of January 2, 2018, the SNL Finance REIT Index comprised of the following companies: AG Mortgage
Investment Trust, Inc.; AGNC Corp.; American Church Mortgage Company; Annaly Capital Management,
Inc.; Anworth Mortgage Asset Corporation; Apollo Commercial Real Estate Finance, Inc.; Arbor Realty
Trust, Inc.; Ares Commercial Real Estate Corporation; ARMOUR Residential REIT, Inc.; Blackstone
Mortgage Trust, Inc.; Capstead Mortgage Corporation; Cherry Hill Mortgage Investment Corporation;
Chimera Investment Corporation; CV Holdings, Inc.; CYS Investments, Inc.; Dynex Capital, Inc.; Ellington
Residential Mortgage REIT; Five Oaks Investment Corp.; Granite Point Mortgage Trust, Inc.; Great Ajax
Corp.; Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure Capital, Inc.; Invesco Mortgage Capital Inc.; JER
Investors Trust Inc.; Jernigan Capital Inc.; KKR Real Estate Finance Trust, Inc.; Ladder Capital Corp.;
MFA Financial, Inc.; MTGE Investment Corp.; New Residential Investment Corp.; New York Mortgage
Trust, Inc.; Orchid Island Capital, Inc.; Owens Realty Mortgage, Inc.; PennyMac Mortgage Investment
Trust; RAIT Financial Trust; Redwood Trust, Inc.; Resource Capital Corp.; Sachem Capital Corp.;
Starwood Property Trust, Inc.; Sutherland Asset Management Corporation; TPG RE Finance Trust, Inc.;
Two Harbors Investment Corp.; and Western Asset Mortgage Capital Corporation.
- 53 -
Securities Authorized For Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans
In 2013, we adopted the 2013 Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure Capital, Inc. Equity Incentive
Plan (the “2013 Plan”) to provide equity based incentive compensation to members of our senior management
team, our independent directors, advisers, consultants and other personnel. The 2013 Plan authorizes our
compensation committee to grant stock options, shares of restricted common stock, restricted stock units,
phantom shares, dividend equivalent rights, long term incentive plan (“LTIP”) units and other restricted limited
partnership units issued by our Operating Partnership and other equity-based awards up to an aggregate of 7.5%
of the shares of common stock issued and outstanding from time to time on a fully diluted basis (assuming, if
applicable, the exercise of all outstanding options and the conversion of all warrants and convertible securities,
including OP units and long-term incentive-plan units (“LTIP units”), into shares of common stock).
On October 31, 2017, the compensation committee of our board of directors approved a modification to the
terms of the performance based restricted stock units granted under our 2013 Plan. Restricted stock units
represent the right to receive shares of our common stock at vesting. Actual performance results at the end of the
performance period determines the number of shares that will ultimately be awarded. The award earned is
generally between 0% and 200% of the initial target, depending on the extent to which the performance target is
met. Upon the occurrence of a change of control, all unvested restricted stock units will vest as of the date of the
change of control, with this change to the vesting terms applying to grants made in 2017 and future grants.
As of December 31, 2017, we have approximately 1.9 million shares of our restricted common stock and
restricted common stock units outstanding (assuming that the restricted stock units vest at 200%), which are
subject to vesting and, in some cases, performance requirements, to our directors, officers and other employees.
The following table presents certain information about our equity compensation plan as of December 31, 2017:
Award
Equity compensation plans approved by
stockholders
Equity compensation plans not approved by
stockholders
Total
Number of securities
remaining available for
future issuance under equity
compensation plans (1)
1,635,094
—
1,635,094
(1) The 2013 Plan provides for grants of equity awards up to, in the aggregate, the equivalent of 7.5% of the
issued and outstanding shares of our common stock from time to time (on a fully diluted basis (assuming, if
applicable, the exercise of all outstanding options and the conversion of all warrants and convertible
securities into shares of common stock and assuming restricted stock units vest at 200%)) at the time of the
award. As of December 31, 2017, we did not have outstanding under our equity compensation plan, any
options, warrants or rights to purchase shares of our common stock.
- 54 -
Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers
During the year ended December 31, 2017, certain of our employees surrendered common stock owned by
them to satisfy their tax and other compensation related withholdings associated with the vesting of restricted
stock and restricted stock units. No OP units were exchanged for shares of common stock during the year ended
December 31, 2017. The price paid per share is based on the price of our common stock as of the date of the
withholding. The table below summarizes all of our repurchases of common stock during 2017.
Period
January 2017
February 2017
March 2017
April 2017
August 2017
November 2017
December 2017
Total number
of shares
purchased
Average price
per share
Total number of
shares purchased
as part of publicly
announced plans
or programs
Maximum number
of shares that may
yet be purchased
under the plans or
programs
2,332
351
22,701
52,185
734
2,970
396
$18.28
19.92
19.82
21.35
23.25
23.56
23.95
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
- 55 -
Item 6.
Selected Financial Data
The following table sets forth selected financial and operating data on a historical basis for the Company for
the last five calendar years. To the extent any of the financial data included in this Form 10-K is from a period
prior to the consummation of our IPO, such financial data is that of the Predecessor. The financial data for the
Predecessor for such periods do not reflect the material changes to the business as a result of the capital raised in
the IPO including the broadened types of projects undertaken, the enhanced financial structuring flexibility and
the ability to retain a larger share of the economics from the origination activities. Accordingly, the financial data
for the Predecessor is not necessarily indicative of our company’s results of operations, cash flows or financial
position following the completion of the IPO. The following financial information should be read in conjunction
with Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and the
financial statements and related notes thereto. Certain amounts in the prior years have been reclassified to
conform to the current year presentation.
Year Ended
December 31,
2017
2016
2015
2014
2013
(dollars in millions, except share and per share data)
45 $
(35)
81 $
(72)
59 $
(51)
106 $
(96)
Total revenue, net of provision
Total expenses
Income (loss) from equity method
investments
Income tax (expense) benefit
Net income (loss)
Net income (loss) attributable to controlling
stockholders
Balance sheet data (at period end):
Equity method investments
Government receivables
Commercial receivables
Receivables held-for-sale
Real estate (1)
Investments (2)
Total assets
Non-recourse debt
Convertible notes
Credit facility
Total liabilities
Total equity
Per share data:
Basic and diluted earnings per share
Dividends declared
Weighted average shares outstanding—basic
$
$
$
$
$
$
22
(1)
31 $
6
—
15 $
31 $
15 $
523 $
519
473
19
341
151
2,250
1,211
148
70
1,607
643
0.57 $
1.32 $
363 $
526
516
—
172
58
1,746
692
—
283
1,172
574
0.32 $
1.23 $
—
—
8 $
8 $
319 $
401
383
60
156
29
1,470
664
—
247
1,038
432
0.21 $
1.08 $
13
(26)
—
—
(13)
—
—
10 $
10 $
(10)
144 $
284
269
62
114
27
1,009
319
—
316
735
274
—
303
45
25
—
95
571
260
—
77
420
151
0.43 $
0.92 $
(0.68)
0.42
and diluted
Managed assets (3)
50,361,672
40,290,717
30,761,151
20,656,826
$
4,736 $
3,933 $
3,188 $
2,609 $
15,716,250
2,086
Includes real estate intangible assets.
(1)
(2) The December 31, 2013 balance includes investments held-to-maturity.
(3) See Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—
Non-GAAP Financial Measures—Managed Assets for information on managed assets.
- 56 -
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
The following discussion should be read in conjunction with our financial statements and
accompanying notes included in Item 8, Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, of this Form 10-K.
Overview
We provide capital and services focused on reducing climate changing greenhouse gas emissions (“GHG”
or carbon emissions) as well as mitigating the impact of, or increasing resiliency to, climate change. We focus
primarily on the energy efficiency, renewable energy and other sustainable infrastructure markets. Our goal is to
generate attractive returns for our stockholders by investing capital in assets or projects that generate long-term,
recurring and predictable cash flows or cost savings from proven technologies. We also provide services to the
various partners and counterparties in the markets where we invest.
Our investments take various forms including preferred and common equity, joint ventures, lending or other
financing transactions, as well as land ownership and typically benefit from contractually committed high credit
quality obligors. We also generate on-going fees through gain-on-sale securitization transactions, advisory
services and asset management.
We are internally managed, and our management team has extensive relevant industry knowledge and
experience, dating back more than 30 years. We have long-standing relationships with the leading ESCOs,
manufacturers, project developers, utilities, owners and operators. Our origination strategy is to use these
relationships to generate recurring, programmatic investment and fee generating opportunities. Additionally, we
have relationships with the leading banks, investment banks, and institutional investors from which we receive
additional investment and fee generating opportunities.
We completed approximately $1.0 billion of transactions during 2017, compared to approximately
$1.1 billion during 2016. As of December 31, 2017, we held approximately $2.0 billion of transactions on our
balance sheet, which we refer to as our “Portfolio.” For those transactions that we choose not to hold on our
balance sheet, we transfer all or a portion of the economics of the transaction, typically using securitization trusts,
to institutional investors in exchange for upfront revenues and in some cases, ongoing fees for managing the
assets. As of December 31, 2017, we managed approximately $2.7 billion in these trusts or vehicles that are not
consolidated on our balance sheet. When combined with our Portfolio, as of December 31, 2017, we manage
approximately $4.7 billion of assets, which we refer to as our managed assets.
We use borrowings as part of our strategy to increase potential returns to our stockholders and have
available to us a broad range of financing sources including non-recourse or recourse debt, equity and off-balance
sheet securitization structures.
See Item 1, Business for a further discussion of our business, investing strategy, and financing strategy.
Market Conditions
We believe that the sustainable infrastructure markets in which we invest, and overall investment in climate
change solutions, will continue to develop despite the recent national policies focused on reducing or eliminating
various environment and greenhouse gas (“GHG”) or carbon emissions regulations. Despite these national level
policy changes, there continues to be interest by state and local governments to investing in, and implement
policies to encourage private sector funded investment in, sustainable infrastructure focused on climate change.
For example, in the renewable energy markets, much of the U.S. energy policy is implemented at the state level
where we continue to see support for the use of renewable energy in many states to address concerns on the long-
term environmental impact to our society, to develop a sustainable environment and, in many cases, to encourage
jobs creation and economic growth. Along with these policies, there has been an increase in corporate
- 57 -
commitments to utilizing renewable energy and other forms of sustainable infrastructure. As discussed below, we
believe that the development of projects in our markets help to achieve these goals and thus may benefit from
these policies.
In addition to a focus on reducing the amount of carbon emissions, we are seeing an increasing focus on
adaptation to weather events, including those as a result of climate change. For example, an increasing amount of
our energy efficiency projects include a focus on energy resiliency or assuring a reliable source of energy despite
weather or other events which disrupt traditional sources.
Longer term, we believe that the sustainable infrastructure markets we serve are in the midst of a prolonged
expansion fueled principally by the following macro-economic and geopolitical trends:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
global climate change caused by man-made GHG emissions;
governmental policies that seek to address global climate change and other environmental issues;
the environmental and social policies of large corporations and companies;
the demand for domestic investment in infrastructure and job creation;
volatile commodity prices;
national security risks associated with energy procurement that threaten energy supply; and
fiscal challenges and budgetary constraints facing U.S. federal, state and local governments.
According to the U.S. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), there is a decades-long
warming trend around the globe with 17 of the 18 warmest years since 1880 having now occurred since 2001 and
a scientific consensus among 97% of publishing climate scientists that climate-warming trends over the past
century are very likely due to human activities. A 2018 American Meteorological Society report links various
extreme weather events to climate change. According to U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration,
there have been 58 disaster events in the United States from 2013 to 2017 with an estimated individual cost of
greater than $1 billion and an aggregate estimated cost of over $400 billion.
Additionally, a joint study was prepared by the International Renewable Energy Agency (“IRENA”) and the
International Energy Agency (“IEA”) titled Perspectives for the Energy Transition: Investment Needs for a
Low-Carbon Energy Transition, estimated that 76% of total worldwide estimated carbon emission reduction by
2050 would be achieved from energy efficiency and renewable energy investments. The study estimated that
over $100 trillion dollars could be spent globally on energy efficiency and renewable energy over the next 35
years while increasing overall GDP growth.
Both state and local governmental agencies and other organizations are responding to the ability of
renewable energy and energy efficiency to address climate change. State governmental agencies are responding
to the potential risks of climate change through the implementation of renewable portfolio standards (“RPS”) as
well as energy reduction targets such as energy efficiency resource standards (“EERS”). According to the
National Conference of State Legislatures, as of August, 2017, there were 29 states that have RPS policies and
according to the Energy Information Administration (“EIA”), as of July 2017, 24 states have EERS policies with
many states recently increasing their targets in both of these programs. Corporate organizations are also
addressing the concern of climate change through their own corporate policies, including increased commitments
to the use of energy from renewable sources.
Renewable energy solutions continue to benefit from reduced costs which will further increase the appeal.
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has projected that the levelized cost of wind and solar entering service in
2022 will be equal to or lower than the cost of a new gas plant. This represents a decline in the estimated cost of
wind and solar of over 40% from a similar 2014 estimate.
- 58 -
The energy efficiency markets in which we participate are based upon the building owner obtaining an
appropriate return from realized energy savings above the cost of the energy efficiency investment. Energy
efficiency technology continues to improve resulting in increased savings that is expected to increase energy
efficiency investments. The EIA estimates that residential and commercial buildings use approximately 40% of
U.S. energy usage. Lighting represents approximately 10% of energy consumption in commercial buildings and
cost-effective solutions like light emitting diode (“LED”) lighting utilize approximately 75% less energy than
traditional incandescent bulbs according to a 2017 DOE Report. Similarly, a May 2017 DOE report prepared by
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Impacts of Commercial Building Controls on Energy Savings and Peak
Load Reduction, estimated that a package of energy efficiency measures could reduce energy usage by
approximately 29% or the equivalent of the power used by approximately 12 to 15 million people.
The Federal Energy Savings Performance Contracts (ESPCs) are an example of a public private partnership
that eliminate the need for a federal agency to find appropriated funds to replace, operate, and maintain energy-
using equipment while providing multiple benefits, including saving taxpayer dollars from energy savings,
improving conditions for federal workers and service men and women and creating private sector jobs. In total,
according to the DOE website, the federal government has identified, as of February 2018, approximately
$8.5 billion of energy conservation measures that could be implemented at existing U.S. federal buildings. In
addition, federal agencies, including the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) are focused on increased adoption of
energy efficiency improvements and on-site renewable energy generation to improve energy resiliency.
Despite these positive trends, there have been certain national governmental actions that could have
downward pressure on the renewable energy market, such as the potential repeal of the clean power plan
(“CPP”), a proposed rule introduced by the EPA under the prior presidential administration and intended to
establish GHG emissions guidelines for existing U.S. power plants, the tariff on solar imports in the Section 201
solar trade case (“201”), the withdrawal of the U.S. from the Paris Climate Accords (the “Accords”), and changes
to certain provisions of the tax code through the TCJA.
In October 2017, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) announced a proposal to repeal the
CPP. The proposal to repeal the CPP is subject to an ongoing review and comment period, and any repeal of the
proposed rule will likely be subject to further litigation. In regards to 201, the International Trade Commission
(“ITC”) was petitioned in May 2017 regarding a trade case for relief on certain types of solar panel imports and
was asked to remedy the issue through a tariff and minimum import price. In January 2018, the presidential
administration approved a 30% tariff (which will phase out over a four year period) on certain solar cells and
modules. Solar developers have been planning for the potential implementation of a tariff and have taken various
measures to mitigate the economic impact on the solar industry. Additionally, in June 2017, President Trump
announced that the U.S. would withdraw from the Accords, an agreement among approximately 200 foreign
countries to commit to focus on climate change mitigation, adaptation and finance.
There were changes to certain provisions of the tax code in the TCJA. The changes that could impact the
renewable energy market include the reduction in the corporate tax rate as well as a minimum tax on
organizations with foreign operations referred to as the base erosion anti-abuse tax (“BEAT”). This minimum tax
may limit the value of renewable energy tax credits for organizations. The results of CPP, 201, withdrawal from
the Accords, and the TCJA could cause a short-term reduction in growth in the U.S. renewable energy markets,
however, we believe that the growth will continue given the strength in the other factors that are increasing
demand.
While we believe that the long-term growth prospects for our business remain positive, there is the potential
for financial market and commodity price volatility and interest rate movements that may impact the markets we
serve. The President and the Republican led Congress has indicated a desire to reduce or eliminate many of the
regulations such as the Dodd Frank Act that were put in place after the financial crisis. The continued low
interest rate environment and increasing investor acceptance of the sustainable infrastructure market has
increased the level of competition we experience. In addition, the Federal Reserve Board of Governors has
- 59 -
indicated they intend to continue to raise the rate at which banks lend to each other known as the federal funds
rate and have implemented four rate increases equal to 1.0% since December 2016.
As described in “— Factors Impacting our Operating Results—Changes in Market Interest Rates and
Liquidity,” on the asset side, rising rates and any widening of spreads will increase the returns from new
investments we make, which we believe will have a positive impact on our overall Portfolio yield. On the
liability side, any such increase is likely to increase shorter term interest rates and may lower the difference
between shorter term interest rates and longer-term interest rates which would result in a flattening of the yield
curve. In response to concerns over rising interest rates, we have increased our level of fixed rate debt and plan to
continue to broaden our sources of debt over the next one to three years.
According to DOE data, the average annual Henry Hub natural gas prices decreased by approximately 30%
from 2014 to 2017. Wholesale electricity prices are closely tied to wholesale natural gas prices in many parts of
the country and thus lower natural gas prices have negatively impacted, and are expected to continue to
negatively impact, renewable energy projects that sell wholesale power on a “merchant” basis at spot prices. As
described in more detail in “—Factors Impacting our Operating Results—Commodity Prices” below, we attempt
to mitigate our exposure to commodity price volatility by focusing on projects with contracted revenues and by
negotiating certain structural protections such as preferred return as well as our on-going active asset
management and portfolio monitoring. We also seek to manage credit risk that might arise from commodity price
declines thorough due diligence and underwriting processes, strong structural protections in our transaction
agreements with customers and on-going active asset management and portfolio monitoring. In addition, we do
not generally lend to individual companies but instead focus on projects or portfolios of assets which are
typically held in special purpose entities.
Notwithstanding the near-term concerns that current market conditions have raised for our business, we
believe significant opportunities exist for us to grow our business in the face of these conditions. Historically,
attractive risk-adjusted returns were available in a higher interest rate environment rather than lower. As a long-
term participant committed to providing capital for sustainable infrastructure, we plan to continue to fund
projects that meet our underwriting standards and look for opportunities to expand our business.
Factors Impacting our Operating Results
We expect that our results of operations will be affected by a number of factors and will primarily depend
on the size of our Portfolio, including the mix of transactions which we hold in our Portfolio, the income we
receive from securitizations, syndications and other services, our Portfolio’s credit risk profile, changes in market
interest rates, commodity prices, federal, state and/or municipal governmental policies, general market conditions
in local, regional and national economies and our ability to qualify as a REIT and maintain our exemption from
registration as an investment company under the 1940 Act.
Portfolio Size
The size of our Portfolio will be a key revenue driver. Generally, as the size of our Portfolio on our balance
sheet grows the amount of our investment revenue will increase. Our Portfolio may grow at an uneven pace as
opportunities to originate new assets may be irregularly timed, and the timing and extent of our success in such
originations cannot be predicted. To the extent the size of our Portfolio changes due to equity method investment
activity, the income or loss from such investments will not be included in revenue but are reflected on a separate
line in our income statement and will vary over time. In addition, we may decide for any particular asset that we
should securitize or otherwise sell a portion, or all, of the asset, which would result in gain on sale of receivables
and investments or fee income as described below. The level of portfolio activity will fluctuate from period to
period based upon the market demand for the capital we provide, our view of economic fundamentals including
interest rates, the present mix of our Portfolio, our ability to identify new opportunities that meet our investment
criteria, the volume of projects that have advanced to stages where we believe a transaction is appropriate,
- 60 -
seasonality in our activities and in the various projects where we may provide debt or equity and our ability to
consummate the identified opportunities, including as a result of our available capital. The level of our new
origination activity, the percentage of the originations that we choose to retain on our balance sheet and the
related income, will directly impact our investment revenue.
Income from Securitization, Syndication and Other Services
We will also earn gain on sale of receivables and investments or fee income by securitizing or selling all or
a portion of our transactions and by servicing the securitization financings we arrange. For transactions that we
securitize to a non-consolidated trust, we recognize a gain on securitization of the receivables. The gain may be
comprised of both cash received and a retained interest in securitization assets. We may also recognize additional
income such as servicing fees from these securitization assets over the life of the asset.
In many cases, we arrange the securitization of the loan or other asset prior to originating the transaction and thus
have avoided exposure to credit spread and interest rate risks that are typically associated with traditional capital
markets conduit transactions. In these cases, we avoid funding risks for these financings or other assets given that our
securitization partners contractually agree to fund such assets before the origination transaction is completed.
We also generate fee income for syndications where we arrange financings that are held directly on the
balance sheet of other investors or if we sell existing transactions to other investors. In these transactions, unless
we decide to hold a portion of the economic interest of the transaction on our balance sheet, we have no exposure
to risks related to ownership of those financings. We may charge advisory, retainer or other fees, including
through our broker dealer subsidiary. As a large portion of these fees are earned upon the closing of a financing
transaction, the timing of these fees will vary from quarter to quarter.
The gain on sale income and our other sources of fee income will also vary depending on the level of our
new origination activity and the portion of our originated assets we decide to transfer to other investors. We view
this revenue from such activities as a valuable component of our earnings and an important source of franchise
value. The total amount of fee income will vary on a quarter to quarter basis depending on various factors,
including the level of our originations, the duration, credit quality and types of assets we originate, current and
anticipated future interest rates, the impact on our leverage, the potential income from a securitization or
syndication, the mix of our Portfolio and our need to tailor our mix of assets in order to allow us to qualify as a
REIT for U.S. federal income tax purposes and maintain our exemption from registration under the 1940 Act.
Credit Risks
We source and identify quality opportunities within our broad areas of expertise and apply our rigorous
underwriting processes to our transactions, which, we believe, will generally enable us to minimize our credit losses
and keep financing costs low. While we do not anticipate facing significant credit risk in our assets related to
government energy efficiency projects, we are subject to varying degrees of credit risk in these projects in relation to
guarantees provided by ESCOs where payments under energy savings performance contracts are contingent upon
achieving pre-determined levels of energy savings. We are also exposed to credit risk in our other projects that do not
benefit from governments as obligor such as on balance sheet financing of projects undertaken by universities,
schools and hospitals, as well as privately owned commercial projects. In the case of various renewable energy and
other sustainable infrastructure projects, we will also be exposed to the credit risk of the obligor of the project’s PPA
or other long-term contractual revenue commitments, as well as to the credit risk of certain suppliers and project
operators. Our level of credit risk has increased, and is expected to continue to increase, as our strategy increasingly
includes mezzanine debt, real estate and equity investments. We seek to manage credit risk thorough due diligence
and underwriting processes, strong structural protections in our transaction agreements with customers and continual,
active asset management and portfolio monitoring. Nevertheless, unanticipated credit losses could occur and during
periods of economic downturn in the global economy, our exposure to credit risks from obligors increases, and our
efforts to monitor and mitigate the associated risks may not be effective in reducing our credit risks.
- 61 -
We utilize a risk rating system to evaluate projects that we target. We first evaluate the credit rating of the
obligors involved in the project using an average of the external credit ratings for an obligor, if available, or an
estimated internal rating based on a third party credit scoring system. We then evaluate the probability of default
and estimated recovery rate based on the obligors’ credit ratings and the terms of the contract. We also review the
performance of each investment, including through, as appropriate, a review of project performance, monthly
payment activity and active compliance monitoring, regular communications with project management and, as
applicable, its obligors, sponsors and owners, monitoring the financial performance of the collateral, periodic
property visits and monitoring cash management and reserve accounts. The results of our reviews are used to
update the project’s risk rating as necessary.
Changes in Market Interest Rates and Liquidity
Interest rates and prepayment speeds vary according to the type of asset, conditions in the financial markets,
competition and other factors, none of which can be predicted with any certainty. With respect to our business
operations, increases in interest rates, in general, may over time cause: (1) an increase in the returns we receive
from new investments we make, but will also likely cause project owners to be less interested in borrowing or
raising equity and thus reduce the demand for our investments and services; (2) the interest expense associated
with our borrowings to increase; (3) the market value of our fixed rate or fixed return investments to decline; and
(4) the market value of interest rate swap agreements to increase, to the extent we, or the projects to which we
provide capital, enter into such agreements as part of a hedging strategy. Conversely, decreases in interest rates,
in general, may over time cause: (1) a decrease in the returns we receive from new investments we make , but
will also likely cause project owners to be more interested in borrowing or raising equity and thus increase the
demand for investments and services; (2) prepayments on our investments, to the extent allowed, to increase;
(3) the interest expense associated with our borrowings to decrease; (4) the market value of our fixed rate or
fixed return investments to increase; and (5) the market value of interest rate swap agreements to decrease, to the
extent we, or the projects to which we provide capital, enter into such agreements as part of our hedging strategy.
We are, and will, in the future, be subject to changes in market interest rates for any new floating rate assets and
credit facilities, including our existing credit facility, master repurchase agreement and the refinancing of our
fixed rated debt. Because short-term borrowings are generally short-term commitments of capital, lenders may
respond to market conditions, making it more difficult for us to secure continued financing. If we are not able to
renew our then existing borrowings or arrange for new financing on terms acceptable to us, or if we default on
our covenants or are otherwise unable to access funds under any of these borrowings, we may have to curtail our
origination of new assets and/or dispose of assets. We face particular risk in this regard given that we expect
many of our borrowings will have a shorter duration than the assets they finance. In addition, our ability to
receive protection against prepayments, which occur in a declining interest rate environment, including through
the use of make-whole payments, will vary according to type of investment and obligor. Subject to maintaining
our qualification as a REIT for U.S. federal income tax purposes and our exemption from registration under the
1940 Act, we may, from time to time, utilize derivative financial instruments to hedge interest rate risk. In
addition to the use of traditional derivative instruments, we also seek to mitigate interest rate risk by using
securitizations, syndications and other techniques to construct a portfolio with a staggered maturity profile.
We continue to work to expand our liquidity and access to the debt and securitization markets. As a result,
we entered into a number of debt or securitization transactions with new lenders or institutional investors in 2016
and 2017, and completed our first unsecured debt transaction in 2017 through a convertible debt issuance.
Commodity Prices
When we make investments in a project that act as a substitute for an underlying commodity, we may be exposed
to volatility in prices for that commodity. For example, the performance of renewable energy projects that produce
electricity can be impacted by volatility in the market prices of various forms of energy, including electricity, coal and
natural gas. This is especially true for utility scale projects that sell power on a wholesale basis such as many of our wind
projects as opposed to distributed renewable projects or energy efficiency projects which compete against the retail or
delivered costs of electricity which includes the cost of transmitting and distributing the electricity to the end user.
- 62 -
Although we generally focus on renewable energy projects that have the majority of their operating cash
flow supported by long-term PPAs, to the extent that the projects have shorter term contracts (which may have
the potential of producing higher current returns) or sell their power in the open market on a merchant basis, the
cash flows of such projects, and thus the repayment of, or the returns available for, our assets, are subject to risk
if energy prices change. We also attempt to mitigate our exposure through structural protections. These structural
protections, which are typically in the form of a preferred return mechanism, are designed to allow recovery of
our capital and an acceptable return over time. When structuring and underwriting these transactions, we evaluate
these transactions using a variety of scenarios, including natural gas prices remaining low for an extended period
of time. Despite these protections, as low natural gas prices continue or PPAs expire, the cash flows from certain
of our projects are exposed to these market conditions and we work with the projects sponsors to minimize any
impact as part of our on-going active asset management and portfolio monitoring. In the case of utility scale solar
projects, we focus on owning the land under the project where our rent is paid out of project operational costs
before the debt or equity in the project receives any payments.
We believe the current low prices in natural gas will increase demand for some types of our projects, such as
combined heat and power, but may reduce the demand for other projects such as renewable energy that may be a
substitute for natural gas. We seek to structure our energy efficiency investments so that we typically avoid
exposure to commodity price risk. However, volatility in energy prices may cause building owners and other
parties to be reluctant to commit to projects for which repayment is based upon a fixed monetary value for
energy savings that would not decline if the price of energy declines.
Government Policies
We make investments in renewable energy projects that typically depend in part on various federal, state or
local governmental policies that support or enhance the project’s economic feasibility. Such policies may include
governmental initiatives, laws and regulations designed to reduce energy usage and impact the use of renewable
energy or the investment in, and the use of, sustainable infrastructure. Policies and incentives provided by the
U.S. federal government may include tax credits (with some of these tax credits that are related to renewable
energy scheduled to be reduced in the future), tax deductions, bonus depreciation, federal grants and loan
guarantees, and energy market regulations. The value of tax credits, deductions and incentives may be impacted
by changes in tax laws rates or regulations, including as a result of the TCJA.
Incentives provided by state and local governments may include a RPS, which specify the portion of the
power utilized by local utilities that must be derived from renewable energy sources as well as the state or local
government sponsored programs where the financing of energy efficiency or renewable energy projects is repaid
through an assessment in the property tax bill in a program commonly referred to as PACE. Additionally, certain
states have implemented feed-in tariffs, pursuant to which electricity generated from renewable energy sources is
purchased at a higher rate than prevailing wholesale rates. Other incentives include tariffs, tax incentives and
other cash and non-cash payments.
Governmental agencies, commercial entities and developers of sustainable infrastructure projects frequently
depend on these policies and incentives to help defray the costs associated with, and to finance, various projects.
Government regulations also impact the terms of third party financing provided to support these projects. If any
of these government policies, incentives or regulations are adversely amended, delayed, eliminated, reduced,
retroactively changed or not extended beyond their current expiration dates or there is a negative impact from the
recent federal law changes or proposals, the operating results of the projects we finance and the demand for, and
the returns available from our investments may decline, which could harm our business.
- 63 -
U.S. Federal Income Tax Legislation
The TCJA, which was signed into law on December 22, 2017, made significant changes to the U.S. federal
income tax laws applicable to businesses and their owners, including REITs and their stockholders. Certain key
provisions of the TCJA could impact us and our stockholders, beginning in 2018, including the following:
• Reduced tax rates - the highest individual U.S. federal income tax rate on ordinary income is reduced
from 39.6% to 37% (through taxable years ending in 2025), and the maximum corporate income tax
rate is reduced from 35% to 21%. In addition, individuals, trust, and estates that own our stock are
permitted to deduct up to 20% of dividends received from us (other than dividends that are designated
as capital gain dividends or qualified dividend income), generally resulting in an effective maximum
U.S. federal income tax rate of 29.6% on such dividends (through taxable years ending in 2025).
Further, the amount that we are required to withhold on distributions to non-U.S. stockholders that are
treated as attributable to gains from our sale or exchange of U.S. real property interests is reduced from
35% to 21%.
• Net operating losses - we and our TRSs may not use net operating losses generated beginning in 2018
to offset more than 80% of our or our TRSs’ taxable income (prior to the application of the dividends
paid deduction). Net operating losses generated beginning in 2018 can be carried forward indefinitely
but can no longer be carried back.
•
Limitation on interest deductions - the amount of net interest expense that certain taxpayers, including
us and our TRSs, may deduct for a taxable year is limited to the sum of (i) the taxpayer’s business
interest income for the taxable year, and (ii) 30% of the taxpayer’s “adjusted taxable income” for the
taxable year. For taxable years beginning before January 1, 2022, adjusted taxable income means
earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (“EBITDA”); for taxable years
beginning on or after January 1, 2022, adjusted taxable income is limited to earnings before interest
and taxes (“EBIT”).
• Alternative Minimum Tax - the corporate alternative minimum tax is eliminated.
•
•
Income accrual - we and our TRSs are required to recognize certain items of income for U.S. federal income
tax purposes no later than we would report such items on our financial statements. As discussed above,
earlier recognition of income for U.S. federal income tax purposes could impact our ability to satisfy the
REIT distribution requirements. This provision generally applies to taxable years beginning after
December 31, 2017, but will apply with respect to income from a debt instrument having “original issue
discount” for U.S. federal income tax purposes only for taxable years beginning after December 31, 2018.
Tax credits - the TCJA modifies the availability and the use by certain taxpayers of certain tax credits
for investments in certain wind, solar, and other renewable energy assets.
Prospective investors are urged to consult with their tax advisors regarding the effects of the TCJA or other
legislative, regulatory or administrative developments on an investment in our common stock.
Critical Accounting Policies and Use of Estimates
Our financial statements are prepared in accordance with GAAP, which requires the use of estimates and
assumptions that involve the exercise of judgment and use of assumptions as to future uncertainties. The
following discussion addresses the accounting policies that we use including areas that involve the use of
significant estimates. Our most critical accounting policies involve decisions and assessments that could affect
our reported assets and liabilities, as well as our reported revenues and expenses. We believe that all of the
decisions and assessments upon which our financial statements are based are reasonable at the time made and
based upon information available to us at that time. Our critical accounting policies and accounting estimates
may be expanded over time. Those material accounting policies and estimates that we expect to be most critical
to an investor’s understanding of our financial results and condition and require complex management judgment
are discussed below. See Note 2 of the audited financial statements in this Form 10-K for further details on our
accounting policies.
- 64 -
We evaluate our critical accounting estimates and judgments on an ongoing basis and update them, as
necessary, based on changing conditions. Additionally, there were certain newly issued accounting
pronouncements that may be relevant to our business. See Note 2 of the audited financial statements in this
Form 10-K for further details on these newly issued accounting pronouncements.
We have identified the following accounting policies as critical because they require significant judgments
and assumptions about highly complex and inherently uncertain matters and the use of reasonably different
estimates and assumptions could have a material impact on our reported results of operations or financial
condition. These critical accounting policies govern:
Consolidation and Equity Method Investments
We account for our investment in entities that are considered voting or variable interest entities under ASC
810, Consolidation. We perform an ongoing assessment and make judgments to determine the primary
beneficiary of each entity as required by ASC 810, which includes an assessment of the type of control we have
over the entity. If we would conclude that certain of these entities should be consolidated, we would include the
entities assets, liabilities and related activity in our financial statements. Refer to discussion below relating to
consolidation considerations for the securitization of receivables. We further discuss our process for evaluating
these judgments in Note 2 of the audited financial statements of this Form 10-K.
For those transactions not consolidated, we determine our income allocations under the equity method of
accounting based on the change in our claim on net assets of the investee entity using a method commonly
referred to as the hypothetical liquidation at book value method or (“HLBV”). This method uses a hypothetical
liquidation scenario that may require judgment in its application and could have a material impact on our
reported financial results. Any changes in this method of application or in certain assumptions could either
increase or decrease our net income. We further discuss our process for applying this method of income
allocations in Note 2 of the audited financial statements of this Form 10-K.
Government and Commercial Receivables
Government and commercial receivables (“receivables”) include sustainable infrastructure project loans and
receivables that have not been securitized. These receivables are separately presented in our balance sheet given
the differing nature of the credit risk related to these assets. In evaluating the accounting for our receivables we
make certain judgments related to whether each transaction should be classified as a receivable that is
held-to-maturity or held-for-sale. As our strategy includes holding a large portion of our transactions on our
balance sheet, most of our receivables will be classified as held-to-maturity. If we have decided to sell a
receivable or have agreed upon the terms with an investor to purchase one of our receivables, we would classify
the receivable as held-for-sale. If any of our receivables are classified as held-for-sale, the asset would be
reported at the lower of our amortized cost or fair value with any changes in value below our costs recorded in
the income statement. We evaluate our receivables on at least a quarterly basis, and more frequently when
economic or other conditions warrant such an evaluation, for potential delinquencies or other events that may
indicate a potential impairment of the receivable. If an asset is determined to be impaired, any impairment
charges would be recorded in the income statement and reduce our net income. We further discuss our process
for evaluating these judgments in Note 2 of the audited financial statements in this Form 10-K.
Real Estate
We acquire real estate which may include both the real estate and in-place leases. We record our real estate
purchases as asset acquisitions that are recorded at cost, including acquisition and closing costs unless each
transaction meets the definition of a business combination in accordance with ASC 805, Business Combinations.
In an asset acquisition of both real estate and in-place leases, the purchase price and acquisition related costs are
allocated and recorded between the real estate and the in-place lease based on their relative fair values. In a
- 65 -
business combination, the real estate and in-place leases are recorded at their individual fair values with
acquisition costs expensed in the current period. There is judgment in determining the fair value of the real estate
and in-place leases which we discuss in further detail in Note 2 of the audited financial statements in this
Form 10-K. If it was determined that the allocation of the purchase price should have been different than we had
recorded in our financial statements, there could be an increase or decrease to amounts that we have amortized in
our income statement related to the in-place leases.
Investments
Our investments are comprised of debt securities in sustainable infrastructure projects. We evaluate our loan
or other debt transactions to determine if they have been issued in the form of a debt security, in which case, we
classify the transaction as an investment instead of a loan. Because we periodically have sold some of these
investments, we treat them as available-for-sale debt securities that are carried at fair value based on current
interest rates and spreads and with any change in value recorded as a component of accumulated other
comprehensive income (“AOCI”). We evaluate these investments for other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”)
on at least a quarterly basis, and more frequently when economic or market conditions warrant such an
evaluation. Our OTTI assessment is a subjective process requiring the use of judgments and assumptions. If we
would conclude that any of our investments had an OTTI, we would record an impairment charge in the income
statement and reduce our net income. We further discuss our process for evaluating this judgment in Note 2 of
the audited financial statements in this Form 10-K.
Securitization of Receivables
We have established various special purpose entities or securitization trusts for the purpose of securitizing
certain receivables or other debt investments. We make judgments, based in part, on supporting legal opinions,
on whether these entities should be consolidated as a variable interest entity, as defined in ASC 810,
Consolidation, and whether the transfers to these entities are accounted for as a sale of a financial asset or a
secured borrowing under ASC 860, Transfers and Servicing. If we would conclude that certain of these special
purpose entities or securitization trusts should be consolidated, we would include the assets and liabilities of the
entity and their related activity in our financial statements. If sale accounting is not met in these transactions it
would be treated as a secured borrowing rather than a sale in our financial statements. We further discuss our
process for evaluating these judgments in Note 2 of the audited financial statements of this Form 10-K.
Results of Operations
We provide capital and services focused on reducing climate changing greenhouse gas emissions (“GHG”
or carbon emissions) as well as mitigating the impact of, or increasing resiliency to, climate change. We focus
primarily on the energy efficiency, renewable energy and other sustainable infrastructure markets. Our goal is to
generate attractive returns for our stockholders by investing capital in assets or projects that generate long-term,
recurring and predictable cash flows or cost savings from proven technologies. We also provide services to the
various partners and counterparties in the markets where we invest. We manage our business as a single portfolio
and report all of our activities as one business segment. We completed approximately $972 million of
transactions during 2017, compared to approximately $1,064 million during 2016. Our strategy includes holding
a large portion of these transactions on our balance sheet. We refer to the transactions we hold on our balance
sheet as of a given date as our “Portfolio.” As of December 31, 2017, our Portfolio was approximately
$2.0 billion as compared to approximately $1.6 billion as of December 31, 2016.
Portfolio
Our Portfolio totaled approximately $2.0 billion as of December 31, 2017, and included approximately
$0.5 billion of energy efficiency, approximately $1.4 billion of renewable energy (wind and solar) and
approximately $0.1 billion of other sustainable infrastructure investments. Approximately 25% of our Portfolio
- 66 -
are equity investments in renewable energy related projects and approximately 18% of our Portfolio was real
estate used in renewable energy projects. The remainder consisted of fixed rate government and commercial
receivables and debt securities which we generally refer to as debt investments. Our Portfolio consisted of over
175 transactions with an average size of $11 million and the weighted average remaining life of our Portfolio
(excluding match-funded transactions) of approximately 12 years as of December 31, 2017.
Our Portfolio included the following as of December 31, 2017:
• Equity investments in either preferred or common structures in unconsolidated entities;
• Government and commercial receivables, such as loans for renewable energy and energy efficiency
projects;
• Real estate, such as land or other assets leased for use by sustainable infrastructure projects typically
under long term leases; and
•
Investments in debt securities of renewable energy or energy efficiency projects.
The table below provides details on the interest rate and maturity of our debt investments as of
December 31, 2017:
Fixed-rate receivables, interest rates of less than
5.00% per annum
$ 427
2018 to 2046
Balance
(in millions)
Maturity
Fixed-rate receivables, interest rates from 5.01% to
6.50% per annum
Fixed-rate receivables, interest rates greater than
6.50% per annum
Total receivables
Allowance for credit losses
Total receivables, net of allowance
Fixed-rate receivables held-for-sale, interest rates
from 5.19% to 5.90%
Fixed-rate investments, interest rates of less than
5.00% per annum
Fixed-rate investments, interest rates from 5.01% to
6.50% per annum
Total debt investments
389
2018 to 2046
2018 to 2069
177
993
—
993
19
2018 to 2043
138
2019 to 2040
13
2031 to 2048
$1,163
- 67 -
The table below presents, for each major category of our Portfolio and the related interest-bearing liabilities,
the average outstanding balances, investment income earned, the interest expense incurred, and average yield or
cost. Our earnings from our equity method investments are not included in total revenue and thus we have
excluded our equity method investments and the related earnings and interest expense from these calculations.
Our net investment margin represents the difference between the interest and rental income generated by our
Portfolio and the interest expense, divided by our average Portfolio balance.
Interest income, receivables
Average monthly balance of receivables
Average interest rate from receivables
Interest income, investments
Average monthly balance of investments
Average interest rate from investments
Rental income
Average monthly balance of real estate
Average yield on real estate
Average monthly balance of Portfolio
Average yield from Portfolio
Investment interest expense (1)
Average monthly balance of debt (1)
Average interest rate from debt (1)
Average interest spread (1)
Net investment margin (1)
Years Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
(dollars in millions)
$
57
$1,062
5.3%
5
$
$ 122
4.2%
$
20
$ 284
7.0%
$1,468
5.6%
49
$
$1,079
4.6%
1.0%
2.2%
$
48
$ 858
$
$
5.6%
2
44
4.1%
$
12
$ 163
7.3%
$1,064
5.8%
31
$
$ 719
4.3%
1.5%
2.9%
$ 37
$703
5.3%
2
$
$ 28
5.3%
$
9
$140
6.5%
$871
5.5%
$ 20
$571
3.4%
2.1%
3.3%
(1) Excludes the non-recourse debt used to finance the equity method investments in the renewable energy
projects because our earnings from these equity investments are not included in total revenue.
The following table provides a summary of our anticipated principal repayments for our receivables and
investments as of December 31, 2017:
Receivables (1)
Investments
(1) Does not include receivables held-for-sale of $19 million.
Payment due by Period
Total
$993
151
Less than
1 year
$29
5
1-5 years
5-10 years
(in millions)
$145
78
$275
18
More than
10 years
$544
50
See Note 6 of our audited financial statements in this Form 10-K for information as of December 31, 2017
on:
•
•
•
•
the anticipated maturity dates of our receivables and investments and the weighted average yield for
each range of maturities,
the term of our leases and a schedule of our future minimum rental income under our land lease
agreements,
the credit quality of our Portfolio, and
the receivables on non-accrual status.
- 68 -
For information on our residual assets relating to our securitization trusts, see Note 5 of our audited financial
statements in this Form 10-K. The residual assets do not have a contractual maturity date and the underlying
securitized assets have contractual maturity dates until 2046.
Comparison of the Year Ended December 31, 2017 to the Year Ended December 31, 2016
Revenue
Interest income, receivables
Interest income, investments
Rental income
Gain on sale of receivables and investments
Fee income
Total revenue
Expenses
Interest expense
Compensation and benefits
General and administrative
Total expenses
Income before equity method investments
Income (loss) from equity method investments
Income (loss) before income taxes
Income tax (expense) benefit
Net income (loss)
NM—Percentage change is not meaningful.
Years ended
December 31,
2017
2016
$ Change % Change
(dollars in millions)
$ 57
5
20
21
3
106
65
20
11
96
10
22
$ 48
2
12
17
2
81
45
19
8
72
9
6
15
32
(1) —
$ 9
3
8
4
1
25
20
1
3
24
1
16
17
(1)
$ 31
$ 15
$16
19%
150%
67%
24%
50%
31%
44%
5%
38%
33%
11%
267%
113%
NM
107%
• Net income increased by approximately $16 million as a result of a $25 million increase in total
revenue and $16 million increase in income from equity method investments, partially offset by a
$24 million increase in total expenses, including a $20 million increase in interest expense, and a
$1 million income tax expense. These results do not include the Non-GAAP core earnings adjustment
related to equity method investments, which is discussed in the Non-GAAP Financial Measures section
below.
•
Interest income, receivables increased by $9 million due to an approximately $200 million increase in
the average receivables balance in our Portfolio as compared to 2016, offsetting a slight decrease in the
average yield from 5.6% to 5.3%. Rental income grew by $8 million due to an approximately
$120 million increase in the average real estate balance in our Portfolio as compared to 2016. Gain on
sale of receivables and investments grew by $4 million due primarily to an increase in securitization
margins and related fees.
• The increase in revenue was offset by $20 million of higher interest expense due to an increase in the
average outstanding balance of our debt and higher fixed rate debt amounts outstanding during the year
ended December 31, 2017, when compared to the same period in 2016.
• Compensation and benefits increased by $1 million due to higher staffing costs and general and
administrative costs increased by approximately $3 million primarily due to additional transaction
specific costs, professional services fees, and other administrative costs.
- 69 -
• The $16 million increase in income from equity method investments is primarily driven by new equity
investments in 2017 as well as increased income from existing investments as a result of tax attributes
realized primarily by our co-investors. Income tax expense increased by $1 million due to this higher
income from our equity method investments held in our TRSs. See the Non-GAAP Financial Measures
section below for more information.
Comparison of the Year Ended December 31, 2016 to the Year Ended December 31, 2015
Revenue
Interest income, receivables
Interest income, investments
Rental income
Gain on sale of receivables and investments
Fee income
Total revenue
Expenses
Interest expense
Compensation and benefits
General and administrative
Total expenses
Income before equity method investments
Income (loss) from equity method investments
Income (loss) before income taxes
Income tax (expense) benefit
Net income (loss)
NM—Percentage change is not meaningful.
Years ended
December 31
2016
2015
$ Change % Change
(dollars in millions)
$ 48
2
12
17
2
81
45
19
8
72
9
6
15
—
$ 37
2
9
9
2
59
27
17
7
51
8
—
8
—
$ 11
—
3
8
—
22
18
2
1
21
1
6
7
—
$ 15
$
8
$
7
30%
— %
33%
89%
— %
37%
67%
12%
14%
41%
13%
NM
88%
NM
88%
• Net income increased by approximately $7 million as a result of a $22 million increase in total revenue
and $6 million increase in income from equity method investments, partially offset by a $21 million
increase in total expenses, including an $18 million increase in interest expense. These results do not
include the Non-GAAP core earnings adjustment related to our equity method investments, which is
discussed in the Non-GAAP Financial Measures section below.
•
Interest income, receivables increased by $11 million due to an approximately $155 million increase in
the average receivables balance in our Portfolio as compared to 2015 and an increase in the average
yield to 5.6% from 5.3%. Rental income grew by $3 million due to an approximately $23 million
increase in the average real estate balance in our Portfolio as compared to 2015. Gain on sale of
receivables and investments grew by $8 million due primarily to an increase in securitization activity.
• The increase in revenue was offset by $18 million of higher interest expense due to an increase in the
average outstanding balance of our debt and higher fixed rate debt amounts outstanding during the year
ended December 31, 2016, when compared to the same period in 2015.
• Compensation and benefits increased by $2 million due to higher staffing costs and general and
administrative costs increased by approximately $1 million primarily due to higher public company
related costs.
- 70 -
• The $6 million increase in income from equity method investments is primarily driven by certain
equity investments being outstanding for a full year 2016 as opposed to 2015. See the Non-GAAP
Financial Measures section below for more information.
Non-GAAP Financial Measures
We consider the following non-GAAP financial measures useful to investors as key supplemental measures
of our performance: (1) core earnings and (2) managed assets. These non-GAAP financial measures should be
considered along with, but not as alternatives to, net income or loss as measures of our operating performance.
These non-GAAP financial measures, as calculated by us, may not be comparable to similarly named financial
measures as reported by other companies that do not define such terms exactly as we define such terms.
Core Earnings
We calculate core earnings as GAAP net income excluding non-cash equity compensation expense,
non-cash provision for credit losses, amortization of intangibles, any one-time acquisition related costs or
non-cash tax charges and the earnings attributable to our non-controlling interest of our Operating Partnership.
We also make an adjustment to account for our equity method investments in the renewable energy projects as
described below. In the future, core earnings may also exclude one-time events pursuant to changes in GAAP and
certain other non-cash charges as approved by a majority of our independent directors.
Certain of our equity method investments in renewable energy projects are structured using typical
partnership “flip” structures where we, along with any other institutional investors, if any, receive a
pre-negotiated preferred return consisting of priority distributions from the project cash flows, in many cases,
along with tax attributes. Once this preferred return is achieved, the partnership “flips” and the renewable energy
company, which operates the project, receives more of the cash flows through its equity interests while we, and
any other institutional investors, retain an ongoing residual interest. We typically negotiate the purchase prices of
our equity investments, which have a finite expected life, based on our assessment of the expected cash flows we
will receive from these projects discounted back to the net present value, based on a target investment rate, with
the expected cash flows to be received in the future reflecting both a return on the capital (at the investment rate)
and a return of the capital we have committed to the project. We use a similar approach in the underwriting of
our receivables.
Under GAAP, we account for these investments utilizing the HLBV method. Under this method, we
recognize income or loss based on the change in the amount each partner would receive, typically based on the
negotiated profit and loss allocation, if the assets were liquidated at book value, after adjusting for any
distributions or contributions made during such quarter. The HLBV allocations of income or loss are also
impacted by the receipt of tax attributes, as tax equity investors are allocated losses in proportion to the tax
benefits received, while the sponsors of the project are allocated gains of a similar amount. In addition, the
agreed upon allocations of the project’s cash flows may differ materially from the profit and loss allocation used
for the HLBV calculations.
The cash distributions for our equity method investments are segregated into a return on and return of
capital on our cash flow statement based on the cumulative income that has been allocated using the HLBV
method. However, as a result of the application of the HLBV method, including the impact of tax allocations, the
high levels of depreciation and other non-cash expenses that are common to renewable energy projects and the
differences between the agreed upon profit and loss and the cash flow allocations, the distributions and thus the
economic returns (i.e. return on capital) achieved from the investment are often significantly different from the
income or loss that is allocated to us under the HLBV method. Thus, in calculating core earnings, we further
adjust GAAP net income to take into account our calculation of the return on capital (based upon the investment
rate) from our renewable energy equity method investments, as adjusted to reflect the performance of the project
and the cash distributed. We believe this adjustment to our GAAP net income in calculating our core earnings
- 71 -
measure is an important supplement to the HLBV income allocations determined under GAAP for an investor to
understand the economic performance of these investments.
For the year ended December 31, 2017, we recognized $22.3 million in income under GAAP for our equity
investments in renewable energy projects. We reversed the GAAP income and recorded $42.7 million for core
earnings as discussed above to reflect our return on capital from these investments for the year ended
December 31, 2017. This compares to the collected cash distributions from these equity method investments of
approximately $89.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, with the difference between core earnings
and cash collected representing a return of capital.
For the year ended December 31, 2016, we recognized $6.1 million in income under GAAP for our equity
investments in renewable energy projects. We reversed the GAAP income and recorded $30.5 million for core
earnings as discussed above to reflect our return on capital from these investments for the year ended
December 31, 2016. This compares to the collected cash distributions from these equity method investments of
approximately $55.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, with the difference between core earnings
and cash collected representing a return of capital.
For the year ended December 31, 2015, we recognized a $0.1 million loss under GAAP for our equity
investments in renewable energy projects. We reversed the GAAP income and recorded $13.3 million for core
earnings as discussed above to reflect our return on capital from these investments for the year ended
December 31, 2015. This compares to the collected cash distributions from these equity method investments of
approximately $25.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, with the difference between core earnings
and cash collected representing a return of capital.
We believe that core earnings provides an additional measure of our core operating performance by
eliminating the impact of certain non-cash expenses and facilitating a comparison of our financial results to those
of other comparable REITs with fewer or no non-cash charges and comparison of our own operating results from
period to period. Our management uses core earnings in this way. We believe that our investors also use core
earnings, or a comparable supplemental performance measure, to evaluate and compare our performance to that
of our peers, and as such, we believe that the disclosure of core earnings is useful to our investors.
However, core earnings does not represent cash generated from operating activities in accordance with
GAAP and should not be considered as an alternative to net income (determined in accordance with GAAP), or
an indication of our cash flow from operating activities (determined in accordance with GAAP), or a measure of
our liquidity, or an indication of funds available to fund our cash needs, including our ability to make cash
distributions. In addition, our methodology for calculating core earnings may differ from the methodologies
employed by other REITs to calculate the same or similar supplemental performance measures, and accordingly,
our reported core earnings may not be comparable to similar metrics reported by other REITs.
- 72 -
We have calculated our core earnings for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015. The table
below provides a reconciliation of our GAAP net income to core earnings:
Net income attributable to controlling
stockholders
Core earnings adjustments
Reverse GAAP income from equity
method investments
Add back core equity method investments
earnings
Non-cash equity-based compensation
charges
Amortization of intangibles
Non-cash provision (benefit) for taxes
Current year earnings attributable to
non-controlling interest
For the Years Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
$
Per Share
$
Per Share
$
Per Share
(dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)
$ 30,856
$0.57
$14,652
$0.32
$ 7,958
$0.21
(22,289)
(6,110)
42,707
11,304
2,622
756
179
30,491
10,054
1,338
—
104
98
13,307
10,641
1,382
46
76
Core earnings (1)
$ 66,135
$1.27
$50,529
$1.20
$33,508
$1.04
(1) Core earnings per share is based on 52,231,030 shares, 41,940,480 shares and 32,310,395 shares for the
years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively, which represents the weighted average
number of fully-diluted shares outstanding including our restricted stock awards and restricted stock units
and the non-controlling interest in our Operating Partnership. We include any potential common stock
issuance in this calculation related to our convertible notes using the treasury stock method.
Managed Assets
As we both consolidate assets on our balance sheet and securitize investments, certain of our receivables and
other assets are not reflected on our balance sheet where we may have a residual interest in the performance of
the investment, such as servicing rights or a retained interest in cash flows. Thus, we present our investments on
a non-GAAP “managed” basis, which assumes that securitized receivables are not sold. We believe that our
managed asset information is useful to investors because it portrays the amount of both on- and off-balance sheet
receivables that we manage, which enables investors to understand and evaluate the credit performance
associated with the portfolio of receivables and investments reported on our consolidated balance sheet and our
residual assets in securitized receivables. Our non-GAAP managed assets measure may not be comparable to
similarly titled measures used by other companies.
- 73 -
The following is a reconciliation of our GAAP Portfolio to our managed assets as of December 31, 2017,
2016, and 2015:
As of December 31,
Equity method investments
Government receivables (1)
Commercial receivables (2)
Real estate
Investments
Assets held in securitization trusts
Managed assets
Credit losses as a percentage of assets under management
2015
2017
2016
(dollars in millions)
$ 363
526
516
172
58
2,298
$ 319
461
383
156
29
1,840
$ 523
535
477
341
151
2,709
$4,736
$3,933
$3,188
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
(1)
(2)
Includes receivables held-for-sale of $16 million and $60 million in 2017 and 2015, respectively.
Includes receivables held-for-sale of $3 million in 2017.
Other Financial Measures
The following are certain financial measures for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015.
Return on assets
Return on equity
Average equity to average total assets ratio
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Years Ended
December 31,
2017
2016
2015
1.5% 0.9% 0.6%
5.1% 2.9% 2.3%
30.5% 31.3% 28.5%
Liquidity is a measure of our ability to meet potential short term (within one year) and long term cash
requirements, including ongoing commitments to repay borrowings, fund and maintain our current and future
assets, make distributions to our stockholders and other general business needs. We will use significant cash to
make investments in sustainable infrastructure, repay principal and interest on our borrowings, make
distributions to our stockholders and fund our operations. We use borrowings as part of our financing strategy to
increase potential returns to our stockholders and have available to us a broad range of financing sources. We
finance our investments through the use of non-recourse or recourse debt, equity and may finance transactions
through the use of off-balance sheet securitization structures.
In July 2013, we entered into a $350 million senior secured revolving credit facility with maximum
cumulative advances of $700 million. Since that time, we have entered into a number of amendments, including
in June 2017, intended to increase the flexibility and borrowing capability under the credit facility and to extend
the maturity date for an additional year to July 2019. As of December 31, 2017, we have used $70 million of the
$500 million of borrowing capacity and have utilized approximately $1.2 billion of the maximum cumulative
advances of $1.5 billion.
As of December 31, 2017, we had approximately $1.2 billion of non-recourse borrowings. We repaid in
October 2017 the remaining balance of a borrowing with an initial principal of $102 million (“Term Loan”),
which was re-financed with new non-recourse debt (“HASI SYB Trust 2017-1”). HASI SYB Trust 2017-1 had
gross proceeds of approximately $164 million, with an anticipated maturity in 2042 and has an interest rate of
3.86%. Additionally we re-financed $71 million of non-recourse debt (“HASI SYB Loan Agreement 2015-1”)
- 74 -
with a floating interest rate at the time of refinancing of 4.65% with new non-recourse debt (“2017 Credit
Agreement”) of $196 million with an anticipated maturity date of 2023 and a fixed interest rate of 4.12%. We
also had new non-recourse borrowings of $134 million (“HASI ECON 101 Trust”) with an anticipated maturity
in 2041 and an interest rate of 3.57%, as well as a borrowing (“HASI SYB Trust 2016-2”) of $84 million with an
anticipated maturity in 2037 and an interest rate of 4.35%.
In August 2017, we issued $150 million aggregate principal amount ($145 million net of issuance costs) of
4.125% convertible senior notes due September 1, 2022. See Note 8 for further discussion on the issuance of the
convertible notes.
We also continue to utilize off-balance sheet securitization transactions, where we transfer the loans or other
assets we originate to securitization trusts or other bankruptcy remote special purpose funding vehicles that are
not consolidated on our balance sheet. As of December 31, 2017, the outstanding principal balance of our assets
financed through the use of these off-balance sheet transactions was approximately $2.7 billion.
Large institutional investors, primarily insurance companies and commercial banks, have provided the
financing for these non-recourse and off-balance sheet financings. We have worked to expand our liquidity and
access to the debt and bank loan markets and have entered into transactions with a number of new lenders and
insurance companies in the last year. For further information on the credit facility, asset backed non-recourse
debt, convertible notes, and securitizations, see Notes 5, 7 and 8 to our financial statements of this Form 10-K.
During the year ended December 31, 2017, we issued approximately 1.6 million shares and raised
approximately $35 million under our “at-the-market” equity distribution programs, or our ATM programs. In
August 2017, we established a new ATM program, pursuant to which we can offer to sell, from time to time, up
to an aggregate amount of $150 million of our common stock. In addition, in March 2017, we raised $64 million
of common equity through a public offering. For additional information related to our equity raises see Note 11
to our financial statements of this Form 10-K.
We plan to raise additional equity capital and continue to use fixed and floating rate borrowings which may
be in the form of additional bank credit facilities (including term loans and revolving facilities), warehouse
facilities, repurchase agreements and public and private equity and debt issuances, including match funded
arrangements, as a means of financing our business. We also expect to use both on-balance sheet and
non-consolidated securitizations and also believe we will be able to customize securitized tranches to meet
investment preferences of different investors. We may also consider the use of separately funded special purpose
entities or funds to allow us to expand the investments that we make. We also expect to continue to raise funds
through public and private offerings of equity.
The decision on how we finance specific assets or groups of assets is largely driven by capital allocations
and risk and portfolio and financial management considerations, including the potential for gain on sale or fee
income, as well as the overall interest rate environment, prevailing credit spreads and the terms of available
financing and market conditions. Over time, as market conditions change, we may use other forms of debt and
equity in addition to these financings arrangements.
The amount of leverage we may deploy for particular assets will depend upon the availability of particular
types of financing and our assessment of the credit, liquidity, price volatility and other risks of those assets, the
interest rate environment and the credit quality of our financing counterparties. As shown in the table below, our
debt to equity ratio was approximately 2.2 to 1 as of December 31, 2017, which is below our leverage target of
2.5 to 1. We will continue to evaluate the appropriate level of debt and may, over time, add additional debt which
would allow us to achieve our targeted levels. Our percentage of fixed rate debt was approximately 92% as of
December 31, 2017, which is above the high end our targeted fixed rate debt percentage range of approximately
60% to 85%, in anticipation of a trend to higher interest rates.
- 75 -
The calculation of our fixed-rate debt and leverage as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 is shown in the chart
below:
Floating-rate borrowings
Fixed-rate debt
Total debt (1)
Equity
Leverage
December 31, 2017 % of Total
December 31, 2016 % of Total
(dollars in millions)
(dollars in millions)
$
110
1,318
$ 1,428
643
$
2.2 to 1
8%
92%
100%
$
$
320
655
975
574
$
1.7 to 1
33%
67%
100%
(1) Floating-rate borrowings include borrowings under our floating-rate credit facility and approximately
$40 million and approximately $37 million of non-recourse debt with floating rate exposure as of
December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively. Approximately $32 million of the 2017 floating
rate exposure is hedged beginning in 2019. Fixed-rate debt includes the present notional value of
non-recourse debt that is hedged using interest rate swaps. Debt excludes securitizations that are not
consolidated on our balance sheet (where the collateral is typically borrowings with U.S. government
obligors).
We intend to use leverage for the primary purpose of financing our Portfolio and business activities and not
for the purpose of speculating on changes in interest rates. While we may temporarily exceed the leverage or
fixed rate debt targets, if our board of directors approves a material change to these targets, we anticipate
advising our stockholders of this change through disclosure in our periodic reports and other filings under the
Exchange Act.
While we generally intend to hold our target assets that we do not securitize upon acquisition as long term
investments, certain of our investments may be sold in order to manage our interest rate risk and liquidity needs,
to meet other operating objectives and to adapt to market conditions. The timing and impact of future sales of
receivables and investments, if any, cannot be predicted with any certainty. Since we expect that our assets will
generally be financed, we expect that a significant portion of the proceeds from sales of our assets (if any),
prepayments and scheduled amortization will be used to repay balances under our financing sources.
We believe these identified sources of liquidity in addition to our cash on hand will be adequate for
purposes of meeting our short term and long-term liquidity needs, which include funding future investments,
operating costs and distributions to our stockholders. To qualify as a REIT, we must distribute annually at least
90% of our REIT’s taxable income without regard to the deduction for dividends paid and excluding net capital
gains. These dividend requirements limit our ability to retain earnings and thereby replenish or increase capital
for growth and our operations.
Sources and Uses of Cash
We had approximately $118 million, $59 million and $79 million of unrestricted cash, cash equivalents, and
restricted cash as of December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively.
Cash Flows Relating to Operating Activities
Net cash provided by operating activities was approximately $12 million for the year ended December 31,
2017, driven primarily by net income of $31 million and adjustments for noncash items of $24 million,
consisting primarily of equity-based compensation and depreciation and amortization. This was offset by
$29 million in non-cash items related to the sale of receivables (including the change in receivables
held-for-sale), a net adjustment related to our equity method investments of $8 million and other operating cash
net outflows of $6 million.
- 76 -
Net cash provided by operating activities was approximately $57 million for the year ended December 31,
2016, driven primarily by net income of $15 million, impact from the sale of receivables (including the change in
receivables held-for-sale) and investments of $33 million, and adjustments for noncash items of $19 million,
consisting primarily of equity-based compensation and depreciation and amortization. This was offset by net
changes in accounts payable and accrued expenses and other of $10 million.
Net cash provided by operating activities was approximately $19 million for the year ended December 31,
2015, driven primarily by net income of $8 million, impact from the sale of receivables (including the change in
receivables held-for-sale) and investments of $4 million, and adjustments for noncash items of $15 million,
consisting primarily of equity-based compensation and depreciation and amortization. This was offset by changes
in accounts payable and accrued expenses and other of $8 million.
Cash Flows Relating to Investing Activities
Net cash used in investing activities was approximately $298 million for the year ended December 31, 2017.
We used $133 million to purchase receivables and investments, $171 million to purchase real estate, cash of
$233 million for additional equity investments in renewable energy projects, and $23 million for other cash
outflows. We collected cash from principal payments on our receivables and investments of $102 million. In
addition, we received $85 million from the sale of receivables and investments and cash distributions not
reflected in operating activities from our investment in our renewable energy projects of $75 million.
Net cash used in investing activities was approximately $191 million for the year ended December 31, 2016.
We used $332 million to purchase receivables and investments, $18 million to purchase real estate, and net cash
of $61 million for additional renewable energy projects, and $1 million for other cash outflows. We collected
cash from principal payments on our receivables and investments of $118 million. In addition, we received
$54 million from the sale of receivables and investments and cash distributions not reflected in operating
activities from our investment in our renewable energy projects of $49 million.
Net cash used in investing activities was approximately $349 million for the year ended December 31, 2015.
We used $324 million to purchase receivables and investments, $43 million to purchase real estate, and net cash
of $200 million for additional renewable energy projects. We collected cash from principal payments on our
receivables and investments of $79 million. In addition, we received $114 million from the sale of receivables
and investments and cash distributions from our investment in our renewable energy projects of $25 million.
Cash Flows Relating to Financing Activities
Net cash provided by financing activities was approximately $345 million for the year ended December 31,
2017. This includes credit facility and non-recourse debt borrowings of $912 million, convertible debt proceeds
of $150 million, and net proceeds of $97 million from the sale of our common stock. These cash inflows were
partially offset by payments to reduce our borrowings under the credit facility, deferred funding obligations, and
non-recourse debts totaling $720 million, the payment of dividends and distributions to our stockholders and OP
unit holders of $68 million, and other cash outflows of $26 million.
Net cash provided by financing activities was approximately $114 million for the year ended December 31,
2016. This includes credit facility and non-recourse debt borrowings of $406 million and net proceeds of
$177 million from the sale of our common stock. These cash inflows were partially offset by payments to reduce
our borrowings under the credit facility, deferred funding obligations, and non-recourse debts totaling
$407 million, the payment of dividends and distributions to our stockholders and OP unit holders of $49 million,
and a change in other cash outflows of $13 million.
Net cash provided by financing activities was approximately $340 million for the year ended December 31,
2015. This includes credit facility and non-recourse debt borrowings of $714 million and net proceeds of
- 77 -
$180 million from the sale of our common stock. These cash inflows were partially offset by payments to reduce
our borrowings under the credit facility, deferred funding obligations, and non-recourse debts totaling
$506 million, the payment of dividends and distributions to our stockholders and OP unit holders of $32 million,
a change in other cash outflows of $17 million.
Contractual Obligations and Commitments
The following table provides a summary of our contractual obligations as of December 31, 2017:
Contractual Obligations
Non-recourse debt (1)
Interest on non-recourse debt (1)
Credit facility
Interest on credit facility (2)
Convertible notes (3)
Interest on convertible notes
Deferred funding obligations
Deferred funding obligations interest
Operating lease obligations
Total
Payment due by Period
Total
Less than
1 year
1 - 3 Years
3 - 5 Years
More than
5 years
$1,238
387
70
3
150
31
153
2
6
$2,040
$ 66
50
—
2
—
6
97
1
1
(in millions)
$328
96
70
1
—
12
51
1
1
$223
$560
$180
64
—
—
150
13
5
—
1
$413
$664
177
—
—
—
—
—
—
3
$844
(1) Our non-recourse debt is secured by the assets that were financed with no recourse to our general assets and
excludes the $27 million of unamortized debt issuance costs. Debt service, in the majority of the cases, is
equal to or less than the value of the assets. Interest is calculated based on the interest rate in effect at
December 31, 2017 including the effect of interest rate hedges as applicable. Interest paid on these
obligations was $38 million and $30 million for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
Interest is calculated based on the interest rate in effect at December 31, 2017, and includes all interest
expense incurred and expected to be incurred in the future based on the current principal balance through the
contractual maturity of the credit facility. Interest paid on credit facilities was $9 million and $8 million for
the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 respectively.
(2)
(3) Excludes $5 million of unamortized debt issuance costs. No interest payments were made on convertible
notes in 2017.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
We have relationships with non-consolidated entities or financial partnerships, such as entities often referred
to as structured investment vehicles, or special purpose or variable interest entities, established to facilitate the
sale of securitized assets. Other than our securitization assets (including any outstanding servicer advances) of
approximately $45 million as of December 31, 2017, that may be at risk in the event of defaults in our
securitization trusts and breaches of limited representations, warranties and covenants regarding our activities
with regard to certain of our interests, we have not guaranteed any obligations of nonconsolidated entities or
entered into any commitment or intent to provide additional funding to any such entities. A more detailed
description of our relations with non-consolidated entities can be found in Note 2 of our audited financial
statements included in this Form 10-K.
Dividends
U.S. federal income tax law generally requires that a REIT distribute annually at least 90% of its REIT
taxable income, without regard to the deduction for dividends paid and excluding net capital gains, and that it pay
- 78 -
tax at regular corporate rates (21% for taxable years beginning in 2018) to the extent that it annually distributes
less than 100% of its REIT taxable income. Our current policy is to pay quarterly distributions, which on an
annual basis will equal or exceed substantially all of our REIT taxable income. Any distributions we make will
be at the discretion of our board of directors and will depend upon, among other things, our actual results of
operations. These results and our ability to pay distributions will be affected by various factors, including the net
interest and other income from our portfolio, our operating expenses and any other expenditures. In the event that
our board of directors determines to make distributions in excess of the income or cash flow generated from our
assets, we may make such distributions from the proceeds of future offerings of equity or debt securities or other
forms of debt financing or the sale of assets. To the extent that in respect of any calendar year, cash available for
distribution is less than our taxable income, or our declared distribution we could be required to sell assets,
borrow funds, or raise additional capital to make cash distributions or make a portion of the required distribution
in the form of a taxable stock distribution or distribution of debt securities. We will generally not be required to
make distributions with respect to activities conducted through our domestic TRSs.
To the extent that we generate taxable income, distributions to our stockholders generally will be taxable as
ordinary income, although all or a portion of such distributions may be designated by us as a qualified dividend
or capital gain. Beginning in 2018 (and through taxable years ending in 2025), the TCJA permits a deduction for
certain pass-through business income, including “qualified REIT dividends” (generally, dividends received by a
REIT shareholder that are not designated as capital gain dividends or qualified dividend income), which will
allow U.S. individuals, trusts, and estates to deduct up to 20% of such amounts, subject to certain limitations,
resulting in an effective maximum U.S. federal income tax rate of 29.6% on such qualified REIT dividends. In
the event we make distributions to our stockholders in excess of our taxable income, the excess will constitute a
return of capital. In addition, a portion of such distributions may be taxable stock dividends payable in our
shares. We will furnish annually to each of our stockholders a statement setting forth distributions paid during the
preceding year and their characterization as ordinary income, return of capital, qualified dividend income or
capital gain.
The dividends declared in 2017 and 2016 are described under Note 11 of the audited financial statements in
this Form 10-K.
Book Value Considerations
As of December 31, 2017, we carried only our investments, interest rate swaps and residual assets in
securitized receivables (included in other assets) at fair value on our balance sheet. As a result, in reviewing our
book value, there are a number of important factors and limitations to consider. Other than our investments,
interest rate swaps and the residual assets in securitized receivables that are carried on our balance sheet at fair
value as of December 31, 2017, the carrying value of our remaining assets and liabilities are calculated as of a
particular point in time, which is largely determined at the time such assets and liabilities were added to our
balance sheet using a cost basis in accordance with GAAP. As such, our remaining assets and liabilities do not
incorporate other factors that may have a significant impact on their value, most notably any impact of business
activities, changes in estimates, or changes in general economic conditions, interest rates or commodity prices
since the dates the assets or liabilities were initially recorded. Accordingly, our book value does not necessarily
represent an estimate of our net realizable value, liquidation value or our market value as a whole.
Inflation
We do not anticipate that inflation will have a significant effect on our results of operations. However, in the
event of a significant increase in inflation, interest rates could rise and our projects and investments may be
materially adversely affected.
- 79 -
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
We anticipate that our primary market risks will be related to, the credit quality of our counterparties and
project companies, market interest rates, the liquidity of our assets, and commodity prices. We will seek to
manage these risks while, at the same time, seeking to provide an opportunity to stockholders to realize attractive
returns through ownership of our common stock.
Credit Risks
We source and identify quality opportunities within our broad areas of expertise and apply our rigorous
underwriting processes to our transactions, which, we believe, will generally enable us to minimize our credit
losses and keep financing costs low. While we do not anticipate facing significant credit risk in our assets related
to government energy efficiency projects, we are subject to varying degrees of credit risk in these projects in
relation to guarantees provided by ESCOs where payments under energy savings performance contracts are
contingent upon achieving pre-determined levels of energy savings. We are also exposed to credit risk in our
other projects that do not benefit from governments as obligor such as on balance sheet financing of projects
undertaken by universities, schools and hospitals, as well as privately owned commercial projects. In the case of
various renewable energy and other sustainable infrastructure projects, we will also be exposed to the credit risk
of the obligor of the project’s PPA or other long-term contractual revenue commitments, as well as to the credit
risk of certain suppliers and project operators. Our level of credit risk has increased, and is expected to increase,
as our strategy increasingly includes mezzanine debt, real estate or equity investments. We seek to manage credit
risk thorough due diligence and underwriting processes, strong structural protections in our transaction
agreements with customers and continual, active asset management and portfolio monitoring. Nevertheless,
unanticipated credit losses could occur and during periods of economic downturn in the global economy, our
exposure to credit risks from obligors increases, and our efforts to monitor and mitigate the associated risks may
not be effective in reducing our credit risks. Additional detail of the credit risks surrounding our Portfolio can be
found in Note 6 of our financial statements included in this Form 10-K.
Interest Rate and Borrowing Risks
Interest rate risk is highly sensitive to many factors, including governmental monetary and tax policies,
domestic and international economic and political considerations and other factors beyond our control.
We are subject to interest rate risk in connection with new asset originations and our borrowings, including
our credit facility, and in the future, any new floating rate assets, credit facilities or other borrowings. Because
short-term borrowings are generally short-term commitments of capital, lenders may respond to market
conditions, making it more difficult for us to secure continued financing. If we are not able to renew our then
existing borrowings or arrange for new financing on terms acceptable to us, or if we default on our covenants or
are otherwise unable to access funds under any of these borrowings, we may have to curtail our origination of
new assets and/or dispose of assets. We face particular risk in this regard given that we expect many of our
borrowings will have a shorter duration than the assets they finance. Increasing interest rates may reduce the
demand for our investments while declining interest rates may increase the demand. Both our current and future
credit facilities and other borrowings may be of limited duration and are periodically refinanced at then current
market rates. We attempt to reduce interest rate risks and to minimize exposure to interest rate fluctuations
through the use of match funded or fixed rate financing structures, when appropriate, whereby we seek (1) to
match the maturities of our debt obligations with the maturities of our assets, (2) to borrow at fixed rates for a
period of time, like in our asset backed securitizations, or (3) to match the interest rates on our assets with like-
kind debt (i.e., we may finance floating rate assets with floating rate debt and fixed-rate assets with fixed-rate
debt), directly or through the use of interest rate swap agreements, interest rate cap agreements or other financial
instruments, or through a combination of these strategies. We expect these instruments will allow us to minimize,
but not eliminate, the risk that we have to refinance our liabilities before the maturities of our assets and to
reduce the impact of changing interest rates on our earnings. In addition to the use of traditional derivative
- 80 -
instruments, we also seek to mitigate interest rate risk by using securitizations, syndications and other techniques
to construct a portfolio with a staggered maturity profile. We monitor the impact of interest rate changes on the
market for new originations and often have the flexibility to negotiate the term of our investments to offset
interest rate increases.
Typically, our long-term debt is at fixed rates or we have used interest rate hedges that convert the majority
of the floating rate debt to fixed rate. If interest rates rise, and our fixed rate debt balance remains constant, we
expect the fair value of our fixed rate debt to decrease and the value of our hedges on floating rate debt to
increase. See Note 3 to our financial statements in this Form 10-K for the estimated fair value of our fixed rate
long-term debt, which is based on having the same debt service requirements that could have been borrowed at
the date presented, at prevailing current market interest rates. We carry our interest rate hedges at fair value in
our balance sheet as described in Note 8 to our financial statements in this Form 10-K.
Our credit facility contains variable rate loans with approximately $70 million outstanding as of
December 31, 2017 and we have approximately $40 million of variable rate exposure under our non-recourse
debt. Significant increases in interest rates would result in higher interest expense while decreases in interest
rates would result in lower interest expense. As described above, we may use various financing techniques
including interest rate swap agreements, interest rate cap agreements or other financial instruments, or a
combination of these strategies to mitigate the variable interest nature of this facility. A 50 basis point increase in
LIBOR would increase the quarterly interest expense related to the $110 million in variable rate borrowings by
$0.1 million. Such hypothetical impact of interest rates on our variable rate borrowings does not consider the
effect of any change in overall economic activity that could occur in a rising interest rate environment. Further, in
the event of such a change in interest rates, we may take actions to further mitigate our exposure to such a
change. However, due to the uncertainty of the specific actions that would be taken and their possible effects, the
analysis assumes no changes in our financial structure.
We record certain of our assets at fair value in our financial statements and any changes in the discount rate
would impact the value of these assets. See Note 3 of the audited financial statements in this Form 10-K.
Liquidity and Concentration Risk
The assets that comprise our asset portfolio are not and will not be publicly traded. A portion of these assets
may be subject to legal and other restrictions on resale or will otherwise be less liquid than publicly-traded
securities. The illiquidity of our assets may make it difficult for us to sell such assets if the need or desire arises,
including in response to changes in economic and other conditions. Each of our projects typically have one
obligor and thus we are subject to concentration risk and could incur significant losses if any of these projects
perform poorly or if we are required to write down the value of any of these projects. See also “—Credit Risks”
above.
Commodity Price Risk
When we make debt or equity investments for a renewable energy project that acts as a substitute for an
underlying commodity, we may be exposed to volatility in prices for that commodity. As we increase the amount
of our investment in renewable energy projects, our exposure to commodity price risk will increase as well. For
example, the performance of renewable energy projects that produce electricity can be impacted by volatility in
the market prices of various forms of energy, including electricity, coal and natural gas. This is especially true for
utility scale projects that sell power on a wholesale basis such as many of our wind projects as opposed to
distributed renewable projects or energy efficiency projects which compete against the retail or delivered costs of
electricity which includes the cost of transmitting and distributing the electricity to the end user.
Although we generally focus on renewable energy projects that have the majority of their operating cash
flow supported by long term PPAs, to the extent that the projects have shorter term contracts (which may have
- 81 -
the potential of producing higher current returns) or sell their power in the open market on a merchant basis, the
cash flows of such projects, and thus the repayment of, or the returns available for, our assets, are subject to risk
if energy prices change. We also attempt to mitigate our exposure through structural protections. These structural
protections, which are typically in the form of a preferred return mechanism, are designed to allow recovery of
our capital and an acceptable return over time. When structuring and underwriting these transactions, we evaluate
these transactions using a variety of scenarios, including natural gas prices remaining low for an extended period
of time. Despite these protections, as low natural gas prices continue or PPAs expire, the cash flows from certain
of our projects are exposed to these market conditions and we work with the projects sponsors to minimize any
impact as part of our on-going active asset management and portfolio monitoring. In the case of utility scale solar
projects, we focus on owning the land under the project where our rent is paid out of project operational costs
before the debt or equity in the project receives any payments.
We believe the current low prices in natural gas will increase demand for some types of our projects, such as
combined heat and power, but may reduce the demand for other projects such as renewable energy that may be a
substitute for natural gas. We seek to structure our energy efficiency investments so that we typically avoid
exposure to commodity price risk. However, volatility in energy prices may cause building owners and other
parties to be reluctant to commit to projects for which repayment is based upon a fixed monetary value for
energy savings that would not decline if the price of energy declines.
Risk Management
Our ongoing active asset management and portfolio monitoring processes provide investment oversight and
valuable insight into our origination, underwriting and structuring processes. These processes create value
through active monitoring of the state of our markets, enforcement of existing contracts and receivables
management. Subject to maintaining our qualification as a REIT, and as described above, we engage in a variety
of interest rate management techniques that seek to mitigate the economic effect of interest rate changes on the
values of, and returns on, some of our assets. While there has only been one credit loss, amounting to
approximately $11 million (net of recoveries) on the approximately $4 billion of transactions we originated since
2012, which represents an aggregate loss of less than approximately 0.3% on cumulative transactions originated
over this time period, there can be no assurance that we will continue to be as successful, particularly as we
invest in more credit sensitive assets or more equity positions and engage in increasing numbers of transactions
with obligors other than U.S. federal government agencies. We seek to manage credit risk using thorough due
diligence and underwriting processes, strong structural protections in our loan agreements with customers and
continual, active asset management and portfolio monitoring.
- 82 -
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure Capital, Inc., Consolidated Financial Statements,
For the Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Consolidated Balance Sheets
Consolidated Statements of Operations
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
84
85
86
87
88
89
90
91
- 83 -
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Stockholders and the Board of Directors of
Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure Capital, Inc.
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure
Capital, Inc. (the Company) as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, the related consolidated statements of
operations, comprehensive income, stockholders’ equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period
ended December 31, 2017, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “consolidated financial
statements”). In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the
financial position of the Company at December 31, 2017 and 2016, and the results of its operations and its cash
flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2017, in conformity with U.S. generally
accepted accounting principles.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board
(United States) (PCAOB), the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017,
based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring
Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework), and our report dated February 23, 2018
expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express
an opinion on the Company’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm
registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with
the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange
Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan
and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material
misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of
material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that
respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and
disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and
significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial
statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
/s/ Ernst & Young LLP
We have served as the Company’s auditor since 1983.
Tysons, Virginia
February 23, 2018
- 84 -
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Stockholders and the Board of Directors of
Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure Capital, Inc.
Opinion on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
We have audited Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure Capital, Inc.’s internal control over financial reporting
as of December 31, 2017, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the
Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework) (the COSO criteria). In our
opinion, Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure Capital, Inc. (the Company) maintained, in all material respects,
effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017, based on the COSO criteria.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board
(United States) (PCAOB), the consolidated balance sheets of the Company as of December 31, 2017 and 2016,
the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income, stockholders’ equity and cash flows for
each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2017, and the related notes and our report dated
February 23, 2018 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.
Basis for Opinion
The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for
its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying
Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the
Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered
with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal
securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan
and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial
reporting was maintained in all material respects.
Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that
a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based
on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We
believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Definition and Limitations of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance
regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting
includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail,
accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable
assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance
with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made
only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable
assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the
company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect
misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that
controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the
policies or procedures may deteriorate.
/s/ Ernst & Young LLP
Tysons, Virginia
February 23, 2018
- 85 -
HANNON ARMSTRONG SUSTAINABLE INFRASTRUCTURE CAPITAL, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
Assets
Equity method investments
Government receivables
Commercial receivables
Receivables held-for-sale
Real estate
Investments
Cash and cash equivalents
Other assets
Total Assets
Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity
Liabilities
Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other
Deferred funding obligations
Credit facility
Non-recourse debt (secured by assets of $1,545 million and $864 million,
respectively)
Convertible notes
Total Liabilities
Stockholders’ Equity
Preferred stock, par value $0.01 per share, 50,000,000 shares authorized, no
shares issued and outstanding
Common stock, par value $0.01 per share, 450,000,000 shares authorized,
51,665,449 and 46,493,155 shares issued and outstanding, respectively
Additional paid in capital
Accumulated deficit
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Non-controlling interest
Total Stockholders’ Equity
Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity
December 31,
2017
December 31,
2016
$ 522,615
519,485
473,452
19,081
340,824
151,209
57,274
166,232
$ 363,297
526,481
515,756
—
172,257
58,058
29,428
80,610
$2,250,172
$1,745,887
$
25,645
153,308
69,922
$
25,219
170,892
283,346
1,210,861
147,655
692,091
—
1,607,391
1,171,548
—
—
517
770,983
(131,251)
(1,065)
3,597
465
663,744
(92,213)
(1,388)
3,731
642,781
574,339
$2,250,172
$1,745,887
See accompanying notes.
- 86 -
HANNON ARMSTRONG SUSTAINABLE INFRASTRUCTURE CAPITAL, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
Revenue
Interest income, receivables
Interest income, investments
Rental income
Gain on sale of receivables and investments
Fee income
Total revenue
Expenses
Interest expense
Compensation and benefits
General and administrative
Total expenses
Income before equity method investments
Income (loss) from equity method investments
Income before income taxes
Income tax (expense) benefit
Net income (loss)
Net income (loss) attributable to non-controlling interest
holders
Net income (loss) attributable to controlling stockholders
Basic earnings per common share
Diluted earnings per common share
Years Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
$
$
56,734
5,079
19,831
20,956
2,973
105,573
65,472
19,708
10,762
95,942
9,631
22,289
31,920
(885)
31,035
$
48,202
1,822
11,933
17,425
1,816
81,198
45,241
18,877
8,293
72,411
8,787
6,110
14,897
(141)
14,756
179
30,856
0.57
0.57
$
$
$
104
14,652
0.32
0.32
$
$
$
$
$
$
37,404
1,493
9,107
9,224
1,451
58,679
26,385
16,788
7,256
50,429
8,250
(98)
8,152
(118)
8,034
76
7,958
0.21
0.21
Weighted average common shares outstanding—basic
Weighted average common shares outstanding—diluted
50,361,672
50,361,672
40,290,717
40,290,717
30,761,151
30,761,151
See accompanying notes.
- 87 -
HANNON ARMSTRONG SUSTAINABLE INFRASTRUCTURE CAPITAL, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
Net income (loss)
Unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities, net of tax (provision)
benefit of $0.1 million, $0.0 million and $0.2 million in 2017, 2016, and
2015 respectively
Unrealized gain (loss) on interest rate swaps, net of tax (provision) benefit of
$0.0 million in 2017, 2016, and 2015
Comprehensive income (loss)
Less: Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to non-controlling interest
holders
Years Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
$31,035
$14,756
$ 8,034
1,275
(828)
(1,712)
(1,233)
1,348
(621)
31,077
15,276
5,701
178
107
54
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to controlling stockholders
$30,899
$15,169
$ 5,647
See accompanying notes.
- 88 -
HANNON ARMSTRONG SUSTAINABLE INFRASTRUCTURE CAPITAL, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
(AMOUNTS IN THOUSANDS)
Balance at December 31, 2014
Net income
Unrealized gain (loss) on
securities
Unrealized gain (loss) on
derivatives
Issued shares of common stock 10,350
Equity-based compensation
Issuance (repurchase) of vested
equity-based compensation
shares
238
46
Redemption of OP units
Dividends and distributions
Balance at December 31, 2015
Net income
Unrealized gain (loss) on
securities
Unrealized gain (loss) on
derivatives
Issued shares of common stock
Equity-based compensation
Issuance (repurchase) of vested
equity-based compensation
shares
Dividends and distributions
Balance at December 31, 2016
Net income
Unrealized gain (loss) on
securities
Unrealized gain (loss) on
derivatives
Impact of adoption of ASU
2017-12
Issued shares of common stock
Equity-based compensation
Issuance (repurchase) of vested
equity-based compensation
shares
Dividends and distributions
Common Stock
Shares Amount
Additional
Paid-in
Capital
Accumulated
Deficit
26,377 $264 $293,635 $ (25,006)
7,958
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
$
406
Non-controlling
Interest
Total
$4,743
76
$274,042
8,034
104
181,259
8,680
(1,696)
(16)
(1,712)
(615)
(6)
83
(621)
181,363
8,763
2
(929)
(214)
(35,653)
(662)
(307)
(927)
(876)
(35,960)
37,011 $370 $482,431 $ (52,701)
14,652
$(1,905)
$3,911
104
$432,106
14,756
9,096
91
176,148
11,644
(750)
(822)
1,339
(6)
9
64
(828)
1,348
176,239
10,958
386
4
(6,479)
(53,414)
46,493 $465 $663,744 $ (92,213)
30,856
$(1,388)
(351)
$3,731
179
(6,475)
(53,765)
$574,339
31,035
1,269
(1,226)
(280)
280
6
(7)
64
1,275
(1,233)
—
97,936
11,129
5,023
50
97,886
11,065
149
2
(1,712)
(69,614)
(376)
(1,710)
(69,990)
Balance at December 31, 2017
51,665 $517 $770,983 $(131,251)
$(1,065)
$3,597
$642,781
See accompanying notes.
- 89 -
HANNON ARMSTRONG SUSTAINABLE INFRASTRUCTURE CAPITAL, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
Cash flows from operating activities
Net income (loss)
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating
activities:
Depreciation and amortization
Equity-based compensation
Equity method investments
Non-cash gain on securitization
Gain on sale of receivables and investments
Changes in receivables held-for-sale
Changes in accounts payable and accrued expenses
Other
Net cash provided by operating activities
Cash flows from investing activities
Equity method investments
Equity method distributions received
Proceeds from sales of equity method investments
Purchases of receivables
Principal collections from receivables
Proceeds from sales of receivables
Purchases of real estate
Purchases of investments
Principal collections from investments
Proceeds from sales of investments
Funding of escrow accounts
Withdrawal from escrow accounts
Other
Net cash used in investing activities
Cash flows from financing activities
Proceeds from credit facilities
Principal payments on credit facilities
Proceeds from non-recourse debt
Principal payments on non-recourse debt
Proceeds from issuance of convertible notes
Payments on deferred funding obligations
Net proceeds of common stock issuances
Payments of dividends and distributions
Other
Net cash provided by financing activities
Increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash
Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at beginning of period
Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at end of period
Interest paid
Non-cash changes in deferred funding obligations (financing activity)
Non-cash changes in non-recourse debt (financing activity)
Non-cash changes in receivables and investments (investing activity)
Non-cash changes in residual assets (investing activity)
See accompanying notes.
- 90 -
Years Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
$ 31,035 $ 14,756 $
8,034
13,171
11,304
(7,746)
(28,915)
2,137
(3,338)
(327)
(5,604)
11,717
7,658
10,054
781
(10,912)
(2,015)
46,204
3,312
(12,983)
56,855
3,950
10,641
98
(3,873)
(3,120)
11,002
(1,029)
(7,184)
18,519
(232,811)
75,114
6,044
(111,161)
98,482
78,857
(170,982)
(22,115)
3,733
—
(37,613)
15,986
(1,414)
(297,880)
(60,774)
48,870
—
(300,511)
116,432
39,978
(17,693)
(31,335)
1,768
13,914
—
—
(1,280)
(190,631)
(200,271)
25,307
—
(289,906)
70,093
92,456
(42,913)
(33,648)
8,919
21,995
—
——
(1,078)
(349,046)
302,612
(515,777)
609,332
(79,459)
150,000
(124,785)
96,899
(68,234)
(25,392)
345,196
59,033
59,144
308,086
(376,455)
405,765
(46,602)
—
(82,838)
180,486
(31,591)
(17,250)
339,601
9,074
70,142
$ 118,177 $ 59,144 $ 79,216
307,900
(271,968)
97,660
(69,097)
—
(65,741)
177,294
(49,481)
(12,863)
113,704
(20,072)
79,216
$ 48,865 $ 37,858 $ 24,111
103,049
127,630
107,283
(5,959)
(85,933)
(28,777)
—
(142,551)
(10,912)
—
(85,457)
(3,873)
HANNON ARMSTRONG SUSTAINABLE INFRASTRUCTURE CAPITAL, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2017
1. The Company
Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure Capital, Inc. (the “Company”) provides capital and services
focused on reducing climate changing greenhouse gas emissions (“GHG” or carbon emissions) as well as
mitigating the impact of, or increasing resiliency to, climate change. We focus primarily on the energy efficiency,
renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure markets. Our goal is to generate attractive returns for our
stockholders by investing capital in assets or projects that generate long-term, recurring and predictable cash
flows or cost savings from proven technologies. We also provide services to the various partners and
counterparties in the markets where we invest.
The Company and its subsidiaries are hereafter referred to as “we,” “us,” or “our.” Our investments take
various forms, including equity, joint ventures, lending or other financing transactions, as well as land ownership
and typically benefit from contractually committed high credit quality obligors. We also generate on-going fees
through gain-on-sale securitization transactions, advisory services and asset management. We refer to the income
producing assets that we hold on our balance sheet as our “Portfolio.” Our Portfolio may include:
• Equity investments in either preferred or common structures in unconsolidated entities;
• Government and commercial receivables, such as loans for renewable energy and energy efficiency
projects;
• Real estate, such as land or other assets leased for use by sustainable infrastructure projects typically
under long term leases; and
•
Investments in debt securities of renewable energy or energy efficiency projects.
We finance our business through cash on hand, borrowings under credit facilities and debt transactions,
various asset-backed securitization transactions and equity issuances. We also generate fee income through
securitizations and syndications, by providing broker/dealer services and by servicing assets owned by third
parties. Some of our subsidiaries are special purpose entities that are formed for specific operations associated
with investing in sustainable infrastructure receivables for specific long term contracts.
Our common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) under the symbol “HASI.” We
have qualified as a Real Estate Investment Trust (“REIT”) and also intend to operate our business in a manner
that will continue to permit us to maintain our exemption from registration as an investment company under the
1940 Act, as amended. We operate our business through, and serve as the sole general partner of, our operating
partnership subsidiary, Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure, L.P., (the “Operating Partnership”), which
was formed to acquire and directly or indirectly own our assets.
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Basis of Presentation
The preparation of financial statements in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles
(“GAAP”) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets
and liabilities and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results
could differ from these estimates and such differences could be material. Certain amounts in the prior years have
been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation.
- 91 -
The consolidated financial statements include our accounts and controlled subsidiaries, including the
Operating Partnership. All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in
consolidation.
Following the guidance for non-controlling interests in Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”)
Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 810, Consolidation, references in this report to our earnings per
share and our net income and stockholders’ equity attributable to common stockholders do not include amounts
attributable to non-controlling interests.
Consolidation and Equity Method Investments
We account for our investments in entities that are considered voting interest entities or variable interest
entities (“VIEs”) under ASC 810, Consolidation and assess whether we should consolidate these entities on an
ongoing basis. We have established various special purpose entities or securitization trusts for the purpose of
securitizing certain receivables or other debt investments which are not consolidated in our financial statements
as described in Securitization of Receivables below.
Substantially all of the activities of the special purpose entities that are formed for the purpose of holding
our government and commercial receivables and investments on our balance sheet are closely associated with our
activities. Based on our assessment, we determined that we have power over and receive the benefits of these
special purpose entities; hence, we are the primary beneficiary and should consolidate these entities under the
provisions of ASC 810.
We have made equity investments in various renewable energy projects. We share in the cash flows,
income, and tax attributes according to a negotiated schedule (which typically does not correspond with our
ownership percentages). Our renewable energy projects are typically owned in partnerships structures (using
limited liability companies (“LLCs”), taxed as partnerships) where we receive a stated preferred return consisting
of a priority distribution of all or a portion of the project’s cash flows, and in some cases, tax attributes. We have
typically partnered with either the operator of the project or other institutional investors. Once our preferred
return is achieved, the partnership “flips” and the company which operates the project, receives a larger portion
of the cash flows through its interest in the holding company and we, along with any other institutional investors,
will have an on-going residual interest.
These equity investments in renewable energy projects are accounted for under the equity method of
accounting. Certain of our equity method investments were determined to be VIEs in which we are not the
primary beneficiary. Our maximum exposure to loss associated with our equity method investments is limited to
our recorded value of our investments. Under the equity method of accounting, the carrying value of these equity
method investments is determined based on amounts we invested, adjusted for the equity in earnings or losses of
the investee allocated based on the LLC agreement, less distributions received. Because certain of the LLC
agreements contain preferences with regard to cash flows from operations, capital events and liquidation, we
reflect our share of profits and losses by determining the difference between our claim on the investee’s book
value at the end and the beginning of the period, which is adjusted for distributions received and contributions
made. This claim is calculated as the amount we would receive (or be obligated to pay) if the investee were to
liquidate all of its assets at recorded amounts determined in accordance with GAAP and distribute the resulting
cash to creditors and investors in accordance with their respective priorities. This method is commonly referred
to as the hypothetical liquidation at book value method or (“HLBV”). Any difference between the amount of our
investment and the amount of underlying equity in net assets is generally amortized over the life of the assets and
liabilities to which the difference relates. Intracompany gains and losses are eliminated for an amount equal to
our interest and are reflected in our share of income or loss from equity method investments in the consolidated
statements of operations. Cash distributions received from our equity method investments are classified as
operating activities to the extent of cumulative HLBV earnings in our consolidated statements of cash flows. Our
initial investment and additional cash distributions beyond that which is classified as operating activities are
- 92 -
classified as investing activities in our consolidated statements of cash flows. We have elected to recognize
earnings from these investments one quarter in arrears to allow for the receipt of financial information.
We have also made an investment in a joint venture which holds land under solar projects that we have
determined to be a voting interest entity. This investment entitles us to receive an equal percentage of both cash
distributions and profit and loss under the terms of the LLC operating agreement. The investment is accounted
for under the equity method of accounting with our portion of income being recognized in income (loss) from
equity method investments in the period in which the income is earned.
We evaluate on a quarterly basis whether our investments accounted for using the equity method have an
other than temporary impairment (“OTTI”). An OTTI occurs when the estimated fair value of an investment is
below the carrying value and the difference is determined to not be recoverable. This evaluation requires
significant judgment regarding, but not limited to, the severity and duration of the impairment; the ability and
intent to hold the securities until recovery; financial condition, liquidity, and near-term prospects of the issuer;
specific events; and other factors.
Government and Commercial Receivables
Government and commercial receivables (“receivables”), include energy efficiency and renewable energy
project loans and receivables. These receivables are separately presented in our balance sheet to illustrate the
differing nature of the credit risk related to these assets. Unless otherwise noted, we generally have the ability
and intent to hold our receivables for the foreseeable future and thus they are classified as held for investment.
Our ability and intent to hold certain receivables may change from time to time depending on a number of
factors, including economic, liquidity and capital market conditions. At inception of the arrangement, the
carrying value of receivables held for investment represents the present value of the note, lease or other
payments, net of any unearned fee income, which is recognized as income over the term of the note or lease
using the effective interest method. Receivables that are held for investment are carried, unless deemed impaired,
at amortized cost, net of any unamortized acquisition premiums or discounts and include origination and
acquisition costs, as applicable. Our initial investment and principal repayments of these receivables are
classified as investing activities and the interest collected is classified as operating activities in our consolidated
statements of cash flows. Receivables that we intend to sell in the short-term are classified as held-for-sale and
are carried at the lower of amortized cost or fair value on our balance sheet. The net purchases and proceeds from
receivables that we intend to sell at origination are classified as operating activities in our consolidated
statements of cash flows, otherwise the net purchases and proceeds are classified as investing activities. Interest
collected is classified as an operating activity in our consolidated statements of cash flows. We may secure debt
with the proceeds from our receivables.
We evaluate our receivables for potential delinquency or impairment on at least a quarterly basis and more
frequently when economic or other conditions warrant such an evaluation. When a receivable becomes 90 days
or more past due, and if we otherwise do not expect the debtor to be able to service all of its debt or other
obligations, we will generally consider the receivable delinquent or impaired and place the receivable on
non-accrual status and cease recognizing income from that receivable until the borrower has demonstrated the
ability and intent to pay contractual amounts due. If a receivable’s status significantly improves regarding the
debtor’s ability to service the debt or other obligations, we will remove it from non-accrual status.
A receivable is also considered impaired as of the date when, based on current information and events, it is
determined that it is probable that we will be unable to collect all amounts due in accordance with the original
contracted terms. Many of our receivables are secured by energy efficiency and renewable energy infrastructure
projects. Accordingly, we regularly evaluate the extent and impact of any credit deterioration associated with the
performance and value of the underlying project, as well as the financial and operating capability of the
borrower, its sponsors or the obligor as well as any guarantors. We consider a number of qualitative and
quantitative factors in our assessment, including, as appropriate, a project’s operating results, loan-to-value ratio,
- 93 -
any cash reserves, the ability of expected cash from operations to cover the cash flow requirements currently and
into the future, key terms of the transaction, the ability of the borrower to refinance the transaction, other credit
support from the sponsor or guarantor and the project’s collateral value. In addition, we consider the overall
economic environment, the sustainable infrastructure sector, the effect of local, industry, and broader economic
factors, the impact of any variation in weather and the historical and anticipated trends in interest rates, defaults
and loss severities for similar transactions.
If a receivable is considered to be impaired, we will determine if an allowance should be recorded. We will
record an allowance if the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the receivable’s contractual
effective rate is less than its carrying value. This estimate of cash flows may include the currently estimated fair
market value of the collateral less estimated selling costs if repayment is expected solely from the collateral. We
charge off receivables against the allowance, if any, when we determine the unpaid principal balance is
uncollectible, net of recovered amounts.
Real Estate
Real estate consists of land or other real estate and its related lease intangibles, net of any amortization. Our
real estate is generally leased to tenants on a triple net lease basis, whereby the tenant is responsible for all
operating expenses relating to the property, generally including property taxes, insurance, maintenance, repairs
and capital expenditures. Scheduled rental revenue typically varies during the lease term and thus rental income
is recognized on a straight-line basis, unless there is considerable risk as to collectability, so as to produce a
constant periodic rent over the term of the lease. Accrued rental income is the aggregate difference between the
scheduled rents which vary during the lease term and the income recognized on a straight-line basis and is
recorded in other assets. Expenses related to leases where we are the lessor, if any, are charged to operations as
incurred. Our initial investment is classified as investing activities and income collected for rental income is
classified as operating activities in our consolidated statements of cash flows.
We typically record our real estate purchases as asset acquisitions that are recorded at cost, including
acquisition and closing costs. When we record our real estate purchases as asset acquisitions we allocate our cost
to each tangible and intangible asset acquired on a relative fair value basis.
The fair value of the tangible assets of an acquired leased property is determined by valuing the property as
if it were vacant, and the “as-if-vacant” value is then allocated to land, building and tenant improvements, if any,
based on the determination of the fair values of these assets. The as-if-vacant fair value of a property is typically
determined by management based on appraisals by a qualified appraiser. In determining the fair value of the
identified intangibles of an acquired property, above-market and below-market in-place lease values are valued
based on the present value (using an interest rate which reflects the risks associated with the leases acquired) of
the difference between (i) the contractual amounts to be paid pursuant to the in-place leases, and
(ii) management’s estimate of fair market lease rates for the corresponding in-place leases, measured over a
period equal to the remaining term of the lease, including renewal periods likely of being exercised by the lessee.
The capitalized above-market lease values are amortized as a reduction of rental income and the capitalized
below-market lease values are amortized as an increase to rental income, both of which are amortized over the
term used to value the intangible. We also record, as appropriate, an intangible asset for in-place leases. The
value of the leases in place at the time of the transaction is equal to the potential income lost if the leases were
not in place. The amortization of this intangible occurs over the initial term unless management believes that it is
likely that the tenant would exercise the renewal option, in which case the amortization would extend through the
renewal period. If a lease were to be terminated, all unamortized amounts relating to that lease would be written
off.
- 94 -
Investments
Investments are debt securities that meet the criteria of ASC 320, Investments—Debt and Equity Securities.
We have designated our debt securities as available-for-sale and carry these securities at fair value on our balance
sheet. Unrealized gains and losses, to the extent not considered to have an OTTI, on available-for-sale debt
securities are recorded as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”) in equity on our
balance sheet. Our initial investment and principal repayments of these investments are classified as investing
activities and the interest collected is classified as operating activities in our consolidated statements of cash
flows.
We evaluate our investments for OTTI on at least a quarterly basis, and more frequently when economic or
market conditions warrant such an evaluation. Our OTTI assessment is a subjective process requiring the use of
judgments and assumptions. Accordingly, we regularly evaluate the extent and impact of any credit deterioration
associated with the financial and operating performance and value of the underlying project. We consider a
number of qualitative and quantitative factors in our assessment. We first consider the current fair value of the
security and the duration of any unrealized loss. Other factors considered include changes in the credit rating,
performance of the underlying project, key terms of the transaction, the value of any collateral and any support
provided by the sponsor or guarantor.
To the extent that we have identified an OTTI for a security and intend to hold the investment to maturity
and we do not expect that we will be required to sell the security prior to recovery of the amortized cost basis, we
recognize only the credit component of the OTTI in earnings. We determine the credit component using the
difference between the security’s amortized cost basis and the present value of its expected future cash flows,
discounted using the effective interest method or its estimated collateral value. Any remaining unrealized loss
due to factors other than credit is recorded in AOCI.
To the extent we hold investments with an OTTI and if we have made the decision to sell the security or it is
more likely than not that we will be required to sell the security prior to recovery of its amortized cost basis, we
recognize the entire portion of the impairment in earnings.
Premiums or discounts on investment securities are amortized or accreted into investment interest income
using the effective interest method.
Securitization of Receivables
We have established various special purpose entities or securitization trusts for the purpose of securitizing
certain receivables or investments. We determined that the trusts used in securitizations are VIEs, as defined in
ASC 810, Consolidation. We typically serve as primary or master servicer of these trusts; however, as the
servicer, we do not have the power to make significant decisions impacting the performance of the trusts. Based
on an analysis of the structure of the trusts, under GAAP, we have concluded that we are not the primary
beneficiary of the trusts as we do not have power over the trusts’ significant activities. Therefore, we do not
consolidate these trusts in our consolidated financial statements.
We account for transfers of receivables or investments to these securitization trusts as sales pursuant to ASC
860, Transfers and Servicing, when we have concluded the transferred receivables have been isolated from the
transferor (i.e., put presumptively beyond the reach of the transferor and its creditors, even in bankruptcy or other
receivership) and we have surrendered control over the transferred receivables. We have received true-
sale-at-law opinions for all of our securitization trust structures and non-consolidation legal opinions for all but
one legacy securitization trust structure that support our conclusion regarding the transferred receivables. When
we sell receivables in securitizations, we generally retain interests in the form of servicing rights and residual
assets, which we refer to as securitization assets.
- 95 -
Gain or loss on the sale of receivables is calculated based on the excess of the proceeds received from the
securitization (less any transaction costs) plus any retained interests obtained over the cost basis of the
receivables sold. For retained interests, we generally estimate fair value based on the present value of future
expected cash flows using our best estimates of the key assumptions of anticipated losses, prepayment rates, and
current market discount rates commensurate with the risks involved. Cash flows related to our securitizations at
origination are classified as operating activities in our consolidated statements of cash flows.
We initially account for all separately recognized servicing assets and servicing liabilities at fair value and
subsequently measure such servicing assets and liabilities using the amortization method. Servicing assets and
liabilities are amortized in proportion to, and over the period of, estimated net servicing income with servicing
income recognized as earned. We assess servicing assets for impairment at each reporting date. If the amortized
cost of servicing assets is greater than the estimated fair value, we will recognize an impairment in net income.
Our other retained interest in securitized assets, the residual assets, are accounted for as available-for-sale
securities and carried at fair value on the consolidated balance sheets in other assets. We generally do not sell our
residual assets. Our residual assets are evaluated for impairment on a quarterly basis. Interest income related to
the residual assets is recognized using the effective interest rate method. If there is a change in the expected cash
flows related to the residual assets, we calculate a new yield based on the current amortized cost of the residual
assets and the revised expected cash flows. This yield is used prospectively to recognize interest income.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents include short-term government securities, certificates of deposit and money
market funds, all of which had an original maturity of three months or less at the date of purchase. These
securities are carried at their purchase price, which approximates fair value.
Restricted Cash
Restricted cash includes cash and cash equivalents set aside with certain lenders primarily to support
deferred funding and other obligations outstanding as of the balance sheet dates. Restricted cash is reported as
part of other assets in the consolidated balance sheets. Refer to Note 3 for disclosure of the balances of restricted
cash included in other assets.
Convertible Notes
In August 2017, we issued convertible senior notes that are accounted for in accordance with ASC 470-20,
Debt with Conversion and Other Options, and ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging. Under ASC 815, issuers of
certain convertible debt instruments are generally required to separately account for the conversion option of the
convertible debt instrument as either a derivative or equity, unless it meets the scope exemption for contracts
indexed to, and settled in, an issuer’s own equity. Since this conversion option is both indexed to our equity and
can only be settled in our common stock, we have met the scope exemption, and therefore, we are not separately
accounting for the embedded conversion option. The initial issuance and any principal repayments are classified
as financing activities and interest payments are classified as operating activities in our consolidated statements
of cash flows.
Derivative Financial Instruments
We utilize derivative financial instruments, primarily interest rate swaps, to manage, or hedge, our interest
rate risk exposures associated with new debt issuances, to manage our exposure to fluctuations in interest rates on
variable rate debt, and to optimize the mix of our fixed and floating-rate debt. In addition, we use forward-
starting interest rate swap contracts to manage a portion of our interest rate exposure for anticipated financing or
refinancing of our long-term debts. Our objective is to reduce the impact of changes in interest rates on our
- 96 -
results of operations and cash flows. The fair values of our interest rate swaps designated and qualifying as
effective cash flow hedges are reflected in our consolidated balance sheets as a component of other assets (if in
an unrealized asset position) or accounts payable, accrued expenses and other (if in an unrealized liability
position) and in net unrealized gains and losses in AOCI. The cash settlements of our interest rate swaps are
classified as operating activities in our consolidated statements of cash flows.
The interest rate swaps we use are designated as cash flow hedges and are considered highly effective in
reducing our exposure to the interest rate risk that they are designated to hedge. This effectiveness is required in
order to qualify for hedge accounting. Instruments that meet the required hedging criteria are formally designated
as hedges at the inception of the derivative contract. Derivatives are recorded at fair value. If a derivative is
designated as a cash flow hedge and meets the highly effective threshold, the change in the fair value of the
derivative is recorded in AOCI, net of associated deferred income tax effects and is recognized in earnings at the
same time as the hedged item, including as a result of the accrual of interest. For any derivative instruments not
designated as hedging instruments, changes in fair value would be recognized in earnings in the period that the
change occurs. We assess, both at the inception of the hedge and on an ongoing basis, whether the derivatives
designated as cash flow hedges are highly effective in offsetting the changes in cash flows of the hedged items.
We do not hold derivatives for trading purposes.
Interest rate swap contracts contain a credit risk that counterparties may be unable to fulfill the terms of the
agreement. We attempt to minimize that risk by evaluating the creditworthiness of our counterparties, who are
limited to major banks and financial institutions, and do not anticipate nonperformance by the counterparties.
Income Taxes
We elected and qualified to be taxed as a REIT for U.S. federal income tax purposes, commencing with our
taxable year ended December 31, 2013. To qualify as a REIT, we must meet on an ongoing basis a number of
organizational and operational requirements, including a requirement that we currently distribute at least 90% of
our net taxable income, excluding capital gains, to our stockholders. As a REIT, we are not subject to U.S.
federal corporate income tax on that portion of net income that is currently distributed to our owners. However,
our taxable REIT subsidiaries (“TRSs”) will generally be subject to U.S. federal, state, and local income taxes as
well as taxes of foreign jurisdictions, if any.
We account for income taxes under ASC 740, Income Taxes for our TRSs using the asset and liability
method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the estimated future tax consequences attributable
to the differences between the consolidated financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities
and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates in effect for
the year in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax
assets and liabilities from a change in tax rates is recognized in earnings in the period when the new rate is
enacted. We evaluate any deferred tax assets for valuation allowances based on an assessment of available
evidence including sources of taxable income, prior years taxable income, any existing taxable temporary
differences and our future investment and business plans that may give rise to taxable income. We account for
changes in tax law in the period in which the law is enacted. Refer to Note 10 for discussion on our
considerations of the impacts of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (H.R. 1, the “TCJA”).
We apply ASC 740, Income Taxes with respect to how uncertain tax positions should be recognized,
measured, presented, and disclosed in the financial statements. This guidance requires the accounting and
disclosure of tax positions taken or expected to be taken in the course of preparing our tax returns to determine
whether the tax positions are “more likely than not” to be sustained by the applicable tax authority. We are
required to analyze all open tax years, as defined by the statute of limitations, for all major jurisdictions, which
includes U.S. federal and certain states.
- 97 -
Equity-Based Compensation
In 2013, we adopted our equity incentive plan (the “2013 Plan”), which provides for grants of stock options,
stock appreciation rights, restricted stock units, shares of restricted common stock, phantom shares, dividend
equivalent rights, long-term incentive-plan units (“LTIP units”) and other restricted limited partnership units
issued by our Operating Partnership and other equity-based awards. From time to time, we may make equity or
equity based awards as compensation to members of our senior management team, our independent directors,
employees, advisors, consultants and other personnel under our 2013 Plan. Certain awards earned under the plan
are based on achieving various performance targets, which are generally earned between 0% and 200% of the
initial target, depending on the extent to which the performance target is met.
We record compensation expense for grants made under the 2013 Plan in accordance with ASC 718,
Compensation—Stock Compensation. We record compensation expense for unvested grants that vest solely based
on service conditions on a straight-line basis over the vesting period of the entire award based upon the fair
market value of the grant on the date of grant. Fair market value for restricted common stock is based on our
share price on the date of grant. For awards where the vesting is contingent upon achievement of certain
performance targets, compensation expense is measured based on the fair market value on the grant date and is
recorded over the requisite service period (which includes the performance period). Actual performance results at
the end of the performance period determines the number of shares that will ultimately be awarded. We have also
issued restricted stock units where the vesting is contingent upon service being provided for a defined period and
certain market conditions being met. The fair value of these awards, as measured at the grant date, is recognized
over the requisite service period as it is provided, even if the market conditions are not met. The grant date fair
value of these awards was developed by an independent appraiser using a Monte Carlo simulation.
Earnings Per Share
We compute earnings per share of common stock in accordance with ASC 260, Earnings Per Share. Basic
earnings per share is calculated by dividing net income attributable to controlling stockholders (after
consideration of the earnings allocated to unvested grants under the 2013 Plan, if applicable) by the weighted-
average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period excluding the weighted average
number of unvested grants under the 2013 Plan, if applicable (“participating securities” as defined in Note 12).
Diluted earnings per share is calculated by dividing net income attributable to controlling stockholders (after
consideration of the earnings allocated to unvested grants under the 2013 Plan, if applicable) by the weighted-
average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period plus other potential common stock
instruments if they are dilutive. Other potentially dilutive common stock instruments include our unvested
restricted stock, restricted stock units and convertible notes. The restricted stock and restricted stock units are
included if they are dilutive using the treasury stock method. The treasury stock method assumes that theoretical
proceeds received for future service provided is used to purchase treasury stock at our stock’s average market
price, which is deducted from the amount of stock included in the calculation. When unvested grants are dilutive,
the earnings allocated to these dilutive unvested grants are not deducted from the net income attributable to
controlling stockholders when calculating diluted earnings per share. The convertible notes are included if they
are dilutive using the if-converted method. The if-converted method removes interest expense related to the
convertible notes from the net income attributable to controlling stockholders and includes the weighted average
shares over the period issuable upon conversion of the note. No adjustment is made for shares that are anti-
dilutive during a period.
Segment Reporting
We make equity and debt investments for sustainable infrastructure projects. We manage our business as a
single portfolio and report all of our activities as one business segment.
- 98 -
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
Revenue from Contracts with Customers
In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606),
requiring an entity to recognize the amount of revenue to which it expects to be entitled for the transfer of
promised goods or services to customers. The updated standard will replace most existing revenue recognition
guidance in GAAP when it becomes effective and permits the use of either the retrospective or modified
retrospective transition method. The mandatory effective date for us is on January 1, 2018. The adoption of ASU
2014-09 will not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures as the
majority of our sources of revenue, e.g., investments in receivables, debt and equity securities, land leasing, and
the securitization of receivables are not within the scope of the new standard. Upon adoption of the new standard,
we will elect the modified retrospective transition method.
Leases
In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842). Under the new guidance, lessees
will be required to recognize the following for all leases (with the exception of short-term leases) at the
commencement date: (a) a lease liability, which is a lessee’s obligation to make lease payments arising from a
lease, measured on a discounted basis; and (b) a right-of-use asset, which is an asset that represents the lessee’s
right to use, or control the use of, an identified asset for the lease term. Changes were made to align lessor
accounting with the lessee accounting model and ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers.
The ASU will be effective for us beginning January 1, 2019. Early application is permitted for all public business
entities at any time. As of the date of this filing, lessees and lessors must apply a modified retrospective transition
approach for leases existing at, or entered into after, the beginning of the earliest comparative period presented in
the financial statements, and may apply certain practical expedients to transition. If elected, these practical
expedients would allow us to continue to use our previous lease classification conclusions and continue to
classify the leases that exist at the date of adoption based on their pre-existing classification. However, there are
certain proposed changes being considered that may allow for a cumulative adjustment recorded in the year of
adoption in lieu of restating prior periods for the impact of the new guidance. The changes in guidance could
result in a different accounting treatment for certain of our operating leases as lessors of real estate. We are
currently evaluating the impact the adoption of this ASU will have on our consolidated financial statements and
related disclosures.
Credit Losses
In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-13, Financial Instruments—Credit Losses—Measurement of
Credit Losses on Financial Instruments (Topic 326). ASU 2016-13 significantly changes how entities will
measure credit losses for most financial assets and certain other instruments that are not measured at fair value
through net income. ASU 2016-13 will replace the “incurred loss” approach under existing guidance with an
“expected loss” model for instruments measured at amortized cost, and require entities to record allowances for
available-for-sale debt securities rather than reduce the amortized cost, as currently required. It also simplifies the
accounting model for purchased credit-impaired debt securities and loans. ASU 2016-13 is effective for fiscal
years beginning after December 15, 2019 and is to be adopted through a cumulative-effect adjustment to retained
earnings as of the beginning of the first reporting period in which the guidance is effective. We are currently
evaluating the impact the adoption of ASU 2016-13 will have on our consolidated financial statements and
related disclosures.
Equity Method Investments
In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-07, Simplifying the Transition to the Equity Method of
Accounting. The new standard eliminates the requirement for an investor to retroactively apply the equity method
when an increase in ownership interest in an investee triggers equity method accounting. It also simplifies, in
- 99 -
certain areas, the accounting for equity method investments. The new standard is effective for us in the current
fiscal year ending December 31, 2017 and interim periods therein. The new provisions are applied on a
prospective basis to transactions within its scope. The adoption of this standard did not have a material impact on
our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.
Derivatives and Hedging
In August 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-12, Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815), Targeted
Improvements to Accounting for Hedging Activities. The new standard requires that entities record hedge
ineffectiveness related to cash flow hedges in AOCI rather than in current period earnings. It also provides for
other simplifications of the hedge accounting guidance. ASU 2017-12 is effective for fiscal years beginning after
December 15, 2018, with early adoption permitted in any interim period after issuance of the update. The effect
of the adoption should be shown as of the beginning of the fiscal year of adoption, with the amended presentation
and disclosure guidance required only prospectively. We have adopted this standard in the year ended
December 31, 2017, and the adoption of this standard did not have a material impact on our consolidated
financial statements and related disclosures.
Other accounting standards updates issued before Feb. 23, 2018 and effective after December 31, 2017, are
not expected to have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.
3. Fair Value Measurements
Fair value is defined as the price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an
orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. The fair value accounting guidance
provides a three-level hierarchy for classifying financial instruments. The levels of inputs used to determine the
fair value of our financial assets and liabilities carried on the balance sheet at fair value and for those which only
disclosure of fair value is required are characterized in accordance with the fair value hierarchy established by
ASC 820, Fair Value Measurements. Where inputs for a financial asset or liability fall in more than one level in
the fair value hierarchy, the financial asset or liability is classified in its entirety based on the lowest level input
that is significant to the fair value measurement of that financial asset or liability. We use our judgment and
consider factors specific to the financial assets and liabilities in determining the significance of an input to the
fair value measurements. As of December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, only our residual assets, interest rate
swaps and investments, if any, were carried at fair value on the consolidated balance sheets on a recurring basis.
The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are described below:
•
•
•
Level 1—Quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date.
Level 2—Observable prices that are based on inputs not quoted on active markets, but corroborated by
market data.
Level 3—Unobservable inputs are used when little or no market data is available.
- 100 -
The tables below illustrate the estimated fair value of our financial instruments on our balance sheet. Unless
otherwise discussed below, fair value for our Level 2 and Level 3 measurements is measured using a discounted
cash flow model, contractual terms and inputs which consist of base interest rates and spreads over base rates
which are based upon market observation and recent comparable transactions. An increase in these inputs would
result in a lower fair value and a decline would result in a higher fair value. Our convertible notes are valued
using a market based approach and observable prices. The receivables held-for-sale, if any, are carried at the
lower of cost or fair value.
Assets
Government receivables
Commercial receivables
Receivables held-for-sale
Investments (1)
Securitization residual assets (2)
Liabilities
Credit facility
Non-recourse debt (3)
Convertible notes (3)
As of December 31, 2017
Fair
Value
Carrying
Value
Level
(in millions)
$ 519
464
20
151
45
$
70
1,239
156
$ 519
473
19
151
45
$
70
1,238
152
Level 3
Level 3
Level 3
Level 3
Level 3
Level 3
Level 3
Level 2
(1) The amortized cost of our investments as of December 31, 2017, was $153 million.
(2)
(3) Fair value and carrying value excludes unamortized debt issuance costs.
Included in other assets on the consolidated balance sheet.
Assets
Government receivables (1)
Commercial receivables (1)
Investments (2)
Securitization residual assets(3)
Derivative assets
Liabilities
Credit facility
Non-recourse debt (4)
As of December 31, 2016
Fair
Value
Carrying
Value
Level
(in millions)
$517
500
58
19
1
$283
718
$526
516
58
19
1
$283
709
Level 3
Level 3
Level 3
Level 3
Level 2
Level 3
Level 3
(1) There were no receivables held-for-sale as of December 31, 2016.
(2) The amortized cost of our investments as of December 31, 2016, was $61 million.
(3)
(4) Fair value and carrying value excludes unamortized debt issuance costs.
Included in other assets on the consolidated balance sheet.
- 101 -
Investments
The following table reconciles the beginning and ending balances for our Level 3 investments that are
carried at fair value on a recurring basis:
Balance, beginning of period
Purchases of investments
Payments on investments
Transfers to investments (1)
Sale of investments
Gains on investments recorded in earnings
Unrealized gains (losses) on investments recorded in
OCI (2)
Balance, end of Period
For the year ended
December 31,
2017
2016
(in millions)
$ 58
78
(3)
17
—
—
1
$151
$ 29
45
(1)
—
(14)
1
(2)
$ 58
(1)
In 2017, certain receivables on our balance sheet became securities and thus we classify them as
investments available for sale.
(2) As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, approximately $46 million and $10 million of investments that we held
for more than 12 months was in an unrealized loss position of approximately $2 million and $1 million,
respectively, due to interest rate movements. We have the intent and ability to hold these investments until a
recovery of fair value.
For investments held at fair value, we used a range of interest rate spreads of approximately 1% to 4% based
upon comparable transactions.
Interest Rate Swap Agreements
The fair values of the derivative financial instruments are determined using widely accepted valuation
techniques including discounted cash flow analysis on the expected cash flows of each derivative. We have
determined that the significant inputs, such as interest yield curves and discount rates, used to value our
derivatives fall within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy and that the credit valuation adjustments associated
with our counterparties and our own credit risk utilize Level 3 inputs, such as estimates of current credit spreads
to evaluate the likelihood of our or our counterparties default. As of December 31, 2017, we assessed the
significance of the impact of the credit valuation adjustments on the overall valuation of our derivative positions
and determined that the credit valuation adjustments were not significant to the overall valuation of our
derivatives. As a result, we determined that our derivative valuations in their entirety are classified in Level 2 of
the fair value hierarchy. The fair values of the derivative financial instruments are included in other assets (if in
an unrealized gain position) or accounts payable, accrued expenses and other (if in an unrealized loss position) in
the consolidated balance sheets.
Non-recurring Fair Value Measurements
Our financial statements may include non-recurring fair value measurements related to acquisitions and
non-monetary transactions, if any. Assets acquired in a business combination are recorded at their fair value. We
may use third party valuation firms to assist us with developing our estimates of fair value.
- 102 -
Concentration of Credit Risk
Government and commercial receivables, investments and leases consist primarily of U.S. federal
government-backed receivables, investment grade state and local government receivables and receivables from
various sustainable infrastructure projects and do not, in our view, represent a significant concentration of credit
risk. See Note 6 for an analysis by type of obligor. As described above, we do not believe we have a significant
credit exposure to our interest rate swap providers. We had cash deposits that are subject to credit risk as shown
below:
Cash deposits
Restricted cash deposits (included in other assets)
Total cash deposits
Amount of cash deposits in excess of amounts federally
insured
December 31,
2017
2016
(in millions)
$ 57
61
$118
$116
$29
30
$59
$57
4. Non-Controlling Interest
Units of limited partnership interests in the Operating Partnership (“OP units”) that are owned by limited
partners other than us are included in non-controlling interest on our consolidated balance sheets. The
outstanding OP units held by outside limited partners represents less than 1% of our outstanding OP units and are
redeemable by the limited partners for cash, or at our option, for a like number of shares of our common stock.
No OP units were exchanged for shares of common stock or redeemed for cash during the years ended
December 31, 2017 or 2016. The non-controlling interest holders are generally allocated their pro rata share of
income, other comprehensive income and equity transactions.
5. Securitization of Receivables
The following summarizes certain transactions with our securitization trusts:
Gains on securitizations
Purchase of receivables securitized
Proceeds from securitizations
Residual and servicing assets included in other assets
Cash received from residual and servicing assets
As of and for the year ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
$ 21
466
487
46
4
(in millions)
$ 17
532
549
19
2
$
8
286
294
9
2
In connection with securitization transactions, we typically retain servicing responsibilities and residual
assets. In certain instances, we receive annual servicing fees of up to 0.20% of the outstanding balance. We may
periodically make servicer advances, which are subject to credit risk. Included in other assets in our consolidated
balance sheets are our servicing assets at amortized cost, our residual assets at fair value, and our servicing
advances at cost, if any. Our residual assets are subordinate to investors’ interests, and their values are subject to
credit, prepayment and interest rate risks on the transferred financial assets. The investors and the securitization
trusts have no recourse to our other assets for failure of debtors to pay when due. In computing gains and losses
on securitizations, we use the same discount rates we use for the fair value calculation of residual assets, which
are determined based on a review of comparable market transactions including Level 3 unobservable inputs
which consist of base interest rates and spreads over base rates. Depending on the nature of the transaction risks,
the discount rate ranged from 4% to 7%.
- 103 -
As of December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, our managed assets totaled $4.7 billion and $3.9 billion,
respectively, of which $2.7 billion and $2.3 billion, respectively, were securitized assets held in unconsolidated
securitization trusts. There were no securitization credit losses in the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016, or
2015. As of December 31, 2017, there was approximately $1.1 million in payments from certain debtors to the
securitization trusts that was greater than 90 days past due. The securitized assets consist of receivables from
contracts for the installation of energy efficiency and other technologies in facilities owned by, or operated for or
by, federal, state or local government entities where the ultimate obligor is the government. The contracts may
have guarantees of energy savings from third party service providers, which typically are entities rated
investment grade by an independent rating agency. Based on the nature of the receivables and experience-to-date,
we do not currently expect to incur any credit losses of our residual interests related to the receivables sold.
6. Our Portfolio
As of December 31, 2017, our Portfolio included approximately $2.0 billion of equity method investments,
receivables, real estate and investments on our balance sheet. The equity method investments represent our
non-controlling equity investments in renewable energy projects and land. The receivables and investments are
typically collateralized by contractually committed debt obligations of government entities or private high credit
quality obligors and are often supported by additional forms of credit enhancement, including security interests
and supplier guaranties. The real estate is typically land and related lease intangibles for long-term leases to wind
and solar projects with high credit quality obligors.
The following is an analysis of our Portfolio by type of obligor and credit quality as of December 31, 2017:
Investment Grade
Government (1)
Commercial
Investment
Grade (2)
Commercial
Non-Investment
Grade (3)
Subtotal,
Debt
and Real
Estate
Equity
Method
Investments
Total
(dollars in millions)
$—
519
16
—
104
$639
$—
464
3
341
47
$855
$—
10
—
—
—
$ —
993
19
341
151
$ 10
$1,504
$502
—
—
21
—
$523
$ 502
993
19
362
151
$2,027
42%
$ 11
57%
9
$
1%
5
$
100%
10
$
N/A
$ 19
N/A
11
$
Equity investments in renewable
energy projects
Receivables (4)
Receivables held-for-sale
Real estate (5)
Investments
Total
% of Debt and real estate
portfolio
Average remaining balance (6)
(1) Transactions where the ultimate obligor is the U.S. federal government or state or local governments where
the obligors are rated investment grade (either by an independent rating agency or based upon our internal
credit analysis). This amount includes $400 million of U.S. federal government transactions and
$239 million of transactions where the ultimate obligors are state or local governments. Transactions may
have guaranties of energy savings from third party service providers, which typically are entities rated
investment grade by an independent rating agency.
(2) Transactions where the projects or the ultimate obligors are commercial entities that have been rated
investment grade (either by an independent rating agency or based on our internal credit analysis). Of this total,
$11 million of the transactions have been rated investment grade by an independent rating agency. Commercial
investment grade receivables include $314 million of internally rated residential solar loans made on a
non-recourse basis to special purpose subsidiaries of the SunPower Corporation (“SunPower”), for which we
rely on certain limited indemnities, warranties, and other obligations of SunPower or its other subsidiaries.
- 104 -
(3) Transactions where the projects or the ultimate obligors are commercial entities that have ratings below
investment grade (either by an independent rating agency or using our internal credit analysis).
(4) Total reconciles to the total of the government receivables and commercial receivables lines of the
(5)
consolidated balance sheets.
Includes the real estate and the lease intangible assets (including those held through equity method investments)
from which we receive scheduled lease payments, typically under long-term triple net lease agreements.
(6) Excludes approximately 135 transactions each with outstanding balances that are less than $1 million and
that in the aggregate total $52 million.
Equity Method Investments
We have made non-controlling equity investments in a number of renewable energy projects as well as in a
joint venture that owns land with a long-term triple net lease agreement to several solar projects that we account
for as equity method investments. As of December 31, 2017, we held the following equity method investments:
Investment Date
Various
Various
December 2015
October 2016
June 2016
Various
Various
Investee
Carrying Value
Northern Frontier, LLC
Vento I, LLC
Buckeye Wind Energy Class B Holdings, LLC
Invenergy Gunsight Mountain Holdings, LLC
MM Solar Parent, LLC
Helix Fund I, LLC
Other transactions
Total equity method investments
(in millions)
$127
119
68
37
29
25
118
$523
An underlying solar project associated with one of our equity method investments located in the U.S. Virgin
Islands was materially damaged in the recent hurricanes. Although there can be no assurance in this regard, we
believe that the project’s insurance will be sufficient to rebuild the project or to recover our investment in the project
of approximately $10 million as of December 31, 2017.
We have a $25 million investment in a wind project that was purchased as part of a portfolio at a significant
discount to the project’s book value, in part, due to the lack of a PPA and some operational issues. In February
2018, the sponsor indicated that they will be recording a material impairment on the project for their 2017 annual
financial statements, which was primarily due to current merchant pricing estimates. Although there can be no
assurance in this regard, we believe there are sufficient cash flows to recover the carrying value of our
investment as of December 31, 2017. However, as discussed in Note 2, we account for this investment one
quarter in arrears, which we expect to result in a portion of the project’s impairment being allocated to us using
HLBV in the next quarter, and such allocation could be material.
Based on an evaluation of our equity method investments, inclusive of these projects, we determined that no
OTTI had occurred as of December 31, 2017, 2016 or 2015.
Receivables and Investments
The following table provides a summary of our anticipated maturity dates of our receivables and
investments and the weighted average yield for each range of maturities as of December 31, 2017:
Receivables
Maturities by period
Weighted average yield by period
Investments
Maturities by period
Weighted average yield by period
Total
Less than 1 year
1-5 years
5-10 years
More than 10
years
(dollars in millions)
$993
5.2%
$151
4.0%
$
3
7.3%
$—
— %
$ 22
5.8%
$ 65
3.6%
$ 62
5.1%
$ 14
4.0%
$906
5.1%
$ 72
4.3%
- 105 -
Our non-investment grade assets consists of two commercial receivables with a carrying value of
approximately $10 million that became past due in the second quarter of 2017. These receivables, which we
acquired as part of our acquisition of American Wind Capital Company, LLC in 2014, are assignments of land
lease payments from two wind projects (the “Projects”). We have been informed by the owner of the Projects that
the Projects are experiencing a decline in revenue. The owner of the Projects is seeking to terminate the lease. In
July 2017, we filed a legal claim against the owners of the Projects in order to protect our interests in these
Projects and the amounts due to us under the land lease assignments. In January 2018, we received a $1.6 million
payment from the Projects and we continue to pursue our legal claims. Although there can be no assurance in this
regard, we believe that we have the ability to recover the carrying value from the Projects based on projected
cash flows, and thus have not recorded an allowance for losses as of December 31, 2017. We have determined
that the assets are impaired and placed them on non-accrual status.
Other than discussed above, we had no receivables or investments that were impaired or on non-accrual
status as of December 31, 2017 or 2016. There was no provision for credit losses or troubled debt restructurings
as of December 31, 2017 or December 31, 2016.
Real Estate
Our real estate is leased to renewable energy projects, typically under long-term triple net leases with
expiration dates that range between the years 2033 and 2057 under the initial terms and 2047 and 2080 if all
renewals are exercised. The components of our real estate portfolio as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, were as
follows:
Real estate
Land
Lease intangibles
Accumulated amortization of lease intangibles
Real estate
December 31,
2017
2016
(in millions)
$247
99
(5)
$341
$145
29
(2)
$172
In the first quarter of 2017, we purchased a portfolio of over 4,000 acres of land and related long-term triple
net leases to over 20 individual solar projects with investment grade off-takers at a cost of approximately
$145 million. Approximately $21 million (1,100 acres) of this real estate portfolio was acquired through an
equity interest in a joint venture that we account for under the equity method of accounting and approximately
$56 million of our purchase price was allocated to intangible lease assets on a relative fair value basis. This
transaction was accounted for as an asset acquisition.
As of December 31, 2017, the future amortization expense of these intangible assets and the future
minimum rental payments under our land lease agreements are as follows:
Year Ending December 31,
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
Thereafter
Total
- 106 -
Future
Amortization
Expense
Minimum
Rental
Payments
(in millions)
$ 3
3
3
3
3
79
$94
$ 20
20
20
20
20
741
$841
Deferred Funding Obligations
In accordance with the terms of certain purchase agreements relating to receivables and investments,
payments of the purchase price are scheduled to be made over time and as a result, we have recorded deferred
funding obligations of $153 million and $171 million as of December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016,
respectively. We have secured financing for, or placed in escrow, approximately $90 million of the deferred
funding obligations as of December 31, 2017. As of December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, we have
pledged approximately $29 million and $41 million of our equity method investments as collateral for a deferred
funding obligation of $20 million and $34 million, respectively. We recognized imputed interest related to
certain of our deferred funding obligations of $2 million and $1 million in the years ended December 31 2017
and 2016, respectively.
The outstanding deferred funding obligations to be paid are as follows:
Year Ending December 31,
Future Payments
2018
2019
2020
2021
Total
7. Credit Facilities
Revolver
(in millions)
$ 97
35
16
5
$153
We have a senior secured revolving credit facility which matures in July 2019. The facility provides for
maximum cumulative advances of $1.5 billion with the aggregate amount outstanding at any point in time of
$500 million and which consists of two components, the “G&I Facility” and the “PF Facility”. The G&I Facility
can be used to leverage certain qualifying government and institutional financings entered into by us and the PF
Facility can be used to leverage certain qualifying project financings entered into by us. In June 2017, we entered
into an amendment that adjusted certain of the sub-limits but did not change the overall maximum advances or
aggregate amount available at any point in time.
The following table provides additional detail on our credit facility as of December 31, 2017 and
December 31, 2016:
Outstanding balance
Value of collateral pledged to credit facility
Weighted average short-term borrowing rate
December 31,
2017
2016
(dollars in millions)
$283
$ 70
252
471
3.0% 2.3%
Loans under the G&I Facility bear interest at a rate equal to the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”)
plus 1.5% or, under certain circumstances, 1.5% plus the Base Rate. Loans under the PF Facility bear interest at a
rate equal to LIBOR plus 2.5% or, under certain circumstances, 2.5% plus the Base Rate or as mutually agreed.
The Base Rate is defined as the highest of (i) the Federal Funds Rate plus 0.5%, (ii) the rate of interest publicly
announced by Bank of America from time to time as its “prime rate,” (iii) LIBOR plus 1.0% and (iv) zero. Under
the PF Facility, we also have the option to borrow at a fixed rate of interest until the expiration of the credit
facility in July 2019. The fixed rate is determined by agreement with the administrative agent and is based on the
prevailing US SWAP rate of an equivalent term to the average-life of the fixed rate portion of the borrowing plus
an agreed upon margin. The loans are made through wholly-owned special purpose subsidiaries (the
- 107 -
“Borrowers”) and we have guaranteed the obligations of the Borrowers under the credit facility pursuant to (x) a
Continuing Guaranty, dated July 19, 2013, and (y) a Limited Guaranty, dated July 19, 2013, both as amended and
restated.
Any financing we propose to be included in the borrowing base as collateral under the facility is subject to
the approval of the administrative agent in its sole discretion and the payment of a placement fee. We may, with
the consent of the administrative agent, borrow against new projects before such projects become Approved
Financings (as defined in the PF Facility loan agreement) but after they have been pledged as collateral. The
amount eligible to be drawn under the facility for purposes of financing such investments will be based on a
discount to the value of each investment or an applicable valuation percentage. Under the G&I Facility, the
applicable valuation percentage for non-delinquent investments is 85% in the case of a U.S. federal government
obligor, 80% in the case of an institutional obligor or a state and local obligor, and with respect to other obligors
or in certain circumstances, such other percentage as the administrative agent may prescribe. Under the PF
Facility, the applicable valuation percentage is 67% or such other percentage as the administrative agent may
prescribe. The sum of approved financings after taking into account the valuation percentages and any changes in
the valuation of the financings in accordance with the loan agreements determines the borrowing capacity,
subject to the overall facility limits described above.
We have approximately $4 million of remaining unamortized costs associated with the credit facility that
have been capitalized and included in other assets on our balance sheet, and are being amortized on a straight-
line basis over the term of the credit facility. On each monthly payment date, the Borrowers shall also pay to the
administrative agent, for the benefit of the lenders, certain availability fees for each loan agreement equal to
0.50%, divided by 360, multiplied by the excess of the available borrowing capacity under each component of
the credit facility over the actual amount borrowed under such component.
The credit facility contains terms, conditions, covenants, and representations and warranties that are
customary and typical for a transaction of this nature, including various affirmative and negative covenants, and
limitations on the incurrence of liens and indebtedness, investments, fundamental organizational changes,
dispositions, changes in the nature of business, transactions with affiliates, use of proceeds and stock
repurchases. We were in compliance with our covenants as of December 31, 2017 and 2016.
The credit facility also includes customary events of default, including the existence of a default in more
than 50% of underlying financings. The occurrence of an event of default may result in termination of the credit
facility, acceleration of amounts due under the credit facility, and accrual of default interest at a rate of LIBOR
plus 2.50% in the case of the G&I Facility and at a rate of LIBOR plus 5.00% in the case of the PF Facility.
Term Loan
In February 2017, we borrowed $102 million under a recourse credit facility that was repaid in October
2017.
- 108 -
8. Long-term Debt
Non-recourse debt
We have outstanding the following asset-backed non-recourse debt and bank loans:
Outstanding
Balance as of
December 31,
2017
2016
Interest
Rate
Maturity Date
Anticipated
Balance at
Maturity
Value of
Assets Pledged
as of December 31,
2017
2016
(dollars in millions)
Description of Assets
Pledged
HASI Sustainable Yield Bond
2013-1
ABS Loan Agreement
$
67 $ 75
90
81
2.79%
5.74%
December 2019
September 2021
$ 57
17
$ 86
79
HASI Sustainable Yield Bond
94
97
4.28%
October 2034
2015-1A
HASI Sustainable Yield Bond
14 —
5.41%
October 2034
2015-1B Note
HASI SYB Loan Agreement
—(1) 74
$ —
—
2015-1
—
—
—
137
137
—
2017 Credit Agreement
180 —
4.12%
January 2023
—
226
HASI SYB Loan Agreement
36
41
5.78% (2) December 2023
—
68
2015-2
HASI SYB Loan Agreement
143
150
4.92%
December 2020
2015-3
HASI SYB Loan Agreement
121
98
4.44% (2) November 2021
2016-1
HASI SYB Trust 2016-2
2017 Master Repurchase
Agreement
HASI ECON 101 Trust
HASI SYB Trust 2017-1
81 —
35 —
4.35%
3.98% (2)
April 2037
July 2019
134 —
162 —
3.57%
3.86%
May 2041
March 2042
Other non-recourse debt (3)
90
84
2.26% -
7.45%
2018 to 2046
Debt issuance costs
(27)
(17)
Non-recourse debt (4)
$1,211 $692
127
104
—
31
—
—
5
171
143
86
38
140
209
162
$ 93
97
138
Receivables
Equity interest in Strong
Upwind Holdings I, LLC
Receivables, real estate and
real estate intangibles
— Class B Bond of HASI
Sustainable Yield Bond
2015-1
Equity interest in Strong
Upwind Holdings II and III,
LLC, related interest rate
swap
96
70
— Equity interests in Strong
Upwind Holdings I, II, III,
and IV LLC, and Northern
Frontier, LLC
Equity interest in Buckeye
Wind Energy Class B
Holdings LLC, related
interest rate swap
Residential solar receivables,
related interest rate swaps
Residential solar receivables,
related interest rate swaps
175
114
— Receivables
— Receivables and investments
— Receivables and investments
— Receivables, real estate and
real estate intangibles
Receivables
81
(1) This non-recourse debt agreement was re-financed in the second quarter of 2017 with the same lender
(2)
through the 2017 Credit Agreement.
Interest rate represents the current period’s LIBOR based rate plus the spread. Also see the interest rate
swap contracts shown in the table below, the value of which are not included in the book value of assets
pledged or the interest rate of the debt instrument.
(3) Other non-recourse debt consists of various debt agreements used to finance certain of our receivables for
their term. Debt service payment requirements, in a majority of cases, are equal to or less than the cash
flows received from the underlying receivables.
(4) The total collateral pledged against our non-recourse debt was $1,545 million and $864 million as of
December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively.
- 109 -
We have pledged the financed assets, and typically our interests in one or more parents or subsidiaries of the
borrower that are legally separate bankruptcy remote special purpose entities as security for the non-recourse
debt. There is no recourse for repayment of these obligations other than to the applicable borrower and any
collateral pledged as security for the obligations. Generally, the assets and credit of these entities are not
available to satisfy any of our other debts and obligations. The creditors can only look to the borrower, the cash
flows of the pledged assets and any other collateral pledged, to satisfy the debt and we are not otherwise liable
for nonpayment of such cash flows. The debt agreements contain terms, conditions, covenants, and
representations and warranties that are customary and typical for transactions of this nature, including limitations
on the incurrence of liens and indebtedness, investments, fundamental organizational changes, dispositions,
changes in the nature of business, transactions with affiliates, use of proceeds and stock repurchases. The
agreements also include customary events of default, the occurrence of which may result in termination of the
agreements, acceleration of amounts due, and accrual of default interest. We typically act as servicer for the debt
transactions. We are in compliance with all covenants.
We have guaranteed the performance of the representations and warranties and other obligations of certain
of our subsidiaries under certain of the debt agreements and provided an indemnity against certain losses from
“bad acts” of such subsidiaries including fraud, failure to disclose a material fact, theft, misappropriation,
voluntary bankruptcy or unauthorized transfers. In the case of the debt secured by certain of our renewable
energy equity interests, we have also guaranteed the compliance of our subsidiaries with certain tax matters and
certain obligations if our joint venture partners exercise their right to withdraw from our partnerships.
The HASI Sustainable Yield Bond (“HASI SYB”) 2015-1 consists of two instruments, (i) $101 million in
aggregate principal amount of 4.28% HASI SYB 2015-1A, Class A Bonds (the “Class A Bonds”) and
(ii) $18 million in aggregate principal amount of 5.0% HASI SYB 2015-1B, Class B Bonds (the “Class B
Bonds”), both with an anticipated repayment date in October 2034. The Class A Bonds rank senior to the Class B
Bonds in priority of payment. In January 2017, we borrowed $14 million through the HASI Sustainable Yield
Bond 2015-1B Note.
In connection with several of our non-recourse debt borrowings, we have entered into the following interest
rate swaps that are designated as cash flow hedges:
Notional Value
as of December 31,
Fair Value
as of
December 31,
Base Rate
Hedged
Rate
2017
2016
2017
2016
Term
(dollars in millions)
HASI SYB Loan Agreement
2015-1 (1)
3 month Libor
1.55% $—
$ 67
$— $—
HASI SYB Loan Agreement
2015-2
3 month Libor
1.52%
HASI SYB Loan Agreement
2015-2
3 month Libor
2.55%
31
29
37
29
0.1 —
(0.2)
(0.2)
HASI SYB Loan Agreement
2015-3
1 month Libor
2.34% 119
119
—
HASI SYB Loan Agreement
2016-1
3 month Libor
1.88% 120
72
1.1
1.0
0.2
HASI SYB Loan Agreement
2016-1
2017 Master Repurchase
Agreement
Total
3 month Libor
2.73% 107
107
(1.1) —
3 month Libor
2.42%
32
—
—
—
$438
$431
$(0.1) $ 1.0
December 2015 to
September 2021
December 2015 to
December 2018
December 2018 to
December 2024
November 2020 to
August 2028
November 2016 to
November 2021
November 2021 to
October 2032
August 2019 to
March 2033
(1) This interest rate swap was financially settled in June 2017.
- 110 -
The fair values of our interest rate swaps designated and qualifying as effective cash flow hedges are
reflected in our consolidated balance sheets as a component of other assets (if in an unrealized gain position) or
accounts payable, accrued expenses and other (if in an unrealized loss position) and in net unrealized gains and
losses in AOCI. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, all of our derivatives were designated as hedging
instruments which were deemed to be effective. The following is a presentation of the total balance of the
financial statement line item related to our hedging activities in our consolidated statements of operations and the
impact of our hedges that is included in this total balance.
Total interest expense
Impact of hedging
Year ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
$65,472
972
(in thousands)
$45,241
1,316
$26,385
(4)
The stated minimum maturities of non-recourse debt as of December 31, 2017, were as follows:
Year Ending December 31,
Future minimum maturities
(in millions)
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
Thereafter
Total minimum maturities
Deferred financing costs, net
Total non-recourse debt
$
66
146
182
154
26
664
1,238
(27)
$1,211
The stated minimum maturities of non-recourse debt above include only the mandatory minimum principal
payments. To the extent there are additional cash flows received from our investments in renewable energy
projects serving as collateral for certain of our non-recourse debt facilities, these additional cash flows are
required to be used to make additional principal payments against the respective debt. Any additional principal
payments made due to these provisions may impact the anticipated balance at maturity of these financings.
SunPower, which originated and services the residential solar leases that are the collateral for the HASI
SYB Loan Agreement 2015-3 and the HASI SYB Loan Agreement 2016-1, has provided us certain limited
indemnities and warranties and as servicer, provides various services including billing, monitoring payments by
homeowners to a third-party lockbox and customer service. The portfolios of residential solar leases are held in
bankruptcy remote special purpose entities (“SPEs”) that are performing in line with our expectations and the
SPEs, and not SunPower, are the source of repayment under our loans.
In June 2017, SunPower amended a loan agreement to remove a debt-to-EBITDA leverage covenant which
SunPower was not in compliance with. Our loan agreements included the same debt-to-EBITDA covenant to
monitor changes in SunPower’s credit, as is typical for a servicer. As a result, for HASI SYB Loan Agreement
2015-3, our lender is entitled to apply approximately $1 million of the cash flow after payment of principal and
interest each quarter to further reduce the principal balance on our loan. In October 2017, the HASI SYB Loan
Agreement 2016-1 was amended to remove this covenant. We continue to monitor the situation and anticipate
having further discussions with our lenders and with SunPower but at the present time, do not anticipate any
other impact.
- 111 -
Convertible Senior Notes
In August 2017, we issued $150 million aggregate principal amount ($145 million net of issuance costs) of
4.125% convertible senior notes due September 1, 2022. Holders may convert any of their convertible notes into
shares of our common stock at the applicable conversion rate at any time prior to the close of business on the
second scheduled trading day immediately preceding the maturity date, unless the convertible notes have been
previously redeemed or repurchased by us. The convertible notes are senior unsecured obligations of ours and
have an initial conversion rate of 36.7107 shares for each $1,000 principal amount of convertible notes which is
equal to a total of approximately 5.5 million shares with an initial conversion price of $27.24. The conversion
rate is subject to adjustment for dividends declared above $.33 per share per quarter and certain other events that
may be dilutive to the holder. As of December 31, 2017, none of these dilutive events have occurred and the
conversion rate remains at the initial rate.
Following the occurrence of a make-whole fundamental change, we will, in certain circumstances, increase
the conversion rate for a holder that converts its convertible notes in connection with such make-whole
fundamental change. There are no cash settlement provisions in the convertible notes and the conversion option
can only be settled through physical delivery of our common stock. Additionally, upon the occurrence of certain
fundamental changes involving us, holders of the convertible notes may require us to redeem all or a portion of
their convertible notes for cash at a price of 100% of the principal amount outstanding, plus accrued and unpaid
interest.
We have a redemption option to call the convertible notes prior to maturity (i) on or after March 1, 2022 and
(ii) at any time if such a redemption is deemed reasonably necessary to preserve our qualification as a REIT. The
redemption price will be equal to the principal of the notes being redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest. In
the event of redemption after March 1, 2022, there will be an additional make-whole premium paid to the holder
of the redeemed notes unless the redemption is deemed reasonably necessary to preserve our qualification as a
REIT.
The following table presents a summary of the components of the convertible notes:
Principal
Accrued interest
Less:
Unamortized financing costs
Carrying value of convertible notes
Interest expense
December 31,
2017
(in millions)
$150
3
(5)
$148
$
3
9. Commitments and Contingencies
Leases
We lease office space at our headquarters in Annapolis, Maryland under an operating lease entered into in
2011 and amended in 2013 and 2017 to add additional space. The lease provides for operating expense
reimbursements and annual escalations that are amortized over the respective lease terms on a straight-line basis.
Lease payments under this lease commenced in 2012 and incremental payments related to the amendments
commenced in 2014 and 2017. The lease expires in 2027.
- 112 -
Rent expense was less than $1 million for each of the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016, and 2015,
respectively. Future gross minimum lease payments are less than $1 million per year during the remaining term
of the lease.
Litigation
The nature of our operations exposes us to the risk of claims and litigation in the normal course of our
business. We are not currently subject to any legal proceedings that are probable of having a material adverse
effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
10. Income Tax
We recorded a tax expense of approximately $1 million, for the year ended December 31, 2017 and
$0 million for the years ended December 31 2016 and 2015, related to the activities of our TRS. The federal
income tax expense and benefits recorded were determined using a rate of 35% in each tax year. In measuring
our deferred tax assets and liabilities we used the newly enacted federal rate established through the TCJA of
21%. Below is a reconciliation between the statutory rates as of December 31, 2017 and our effective tax rates
for the years ended December 31:
Federal statutory income tax rate
Reduction in rate resulting from:
Share-based compensation
Equity method investments
Other
Valuation allowance
TCJA rate revaluation adjustment
Effective tax rate
2017
2016
2015
35%
35%
35%
(8)%
(83)%
6%
49%
1%
— %
(373)% — %
5%
(847)%
— %
9%
(41)%
1,176%
— %
— %
— %
(1)%
We recorded a deferred tax liability of $1 million and $0 million as of December 31, 2017 and 2016,
respectively, related to the activities of our TRS. Our deferred tax liability is included in accounts payable,
accrued expenses and other on our consolidated balance sheet. Deferred income taxes represent the tax effect
from continuing operations of the differences between the book and tax basis of assets and liabilities. As a result
of the enactment of the TCJA, we measured our deferred tax assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2017, using
the new federal 21% corporate rate and our applicable state rates. Deferred tax assets (liabilities) include the
following as of December 31:
Receivables basis difference
Equity method investments
Gross deferred tax liabilities
Net operating loss (NOL) carryforwards
Tax credit carryforwards
Share-based compensation
Valuation allowance
Gross deferred tax assets
Net deferred tax liabilities
- 113 -
2017
2016
(in millions)
$ (8)
(22)
(30)
27
10
3
(11)
29
$ (11)
(14)
(25)
29
—
3
(7)
25
$ (1)
$—
We have unused NOLs of $115 million and tax credits of approximately $10 million that will begin to
expire in 2034. If our TRS entities were to experience a change in control as defined in Section 382 of the
Internal Revenue Code, the TRS’s ability to utilize NOL in the years after the change in control would be limited.
Similar rules and limitation may apply for state tax purposes as well.
We have no examinations in progress, none are expected at this time, and years 2013 through 2016 are open.
As of December 2017 and 2016, we had no uncertain tax positions. Our policy is to recognize interest expense
and penalties related to income tax matters as a component of general and administrative expense. There were no
accrued interest and penalties as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, and no interest and penalties were recognized
during the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016, or 2015.
For federal income tax purposes, the cash dividends paid for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016
are characterized as follows:
Common distributions
Ordinary income
Return of capital
2017
2016
15%
85%
100%
0%
100%
100%
U.S. Federal Income Tax Legislation
The TCJA, which was signed into law on December 22, 2017, made significant changes to the U.S. federal
income tax laws applicable to businesses and their owners, including REITs and their stockholders. Certain key
provisions of the TCJA could impact us and our stockholders, beginning in 2018, including the following:
• Reduced tax rates - the highest individual U.S. federal income tax rate on ordinary income is reduced
from 39.6% to 37% (through taxable years ending in 2025), and the maximum corporate income tax rate
is reduced from 35% to 21%. In addition, individuals, trust, and estates that own our stock are permitted
to deduct up to 20% of dividends received from us (other than dividends that are designated as capital
gain dividends or qualified dividend income), generally resulting in an effective maximum U.S. federal
income tax rate of 29.6% on such dividends (through taxable years ending in 2025). Further, the amount
that we are required to withhold on distributions to non-U.S. stockholders that are treated as attributable to
gains from our sale or exchange of U.S. real property interests is reduced from 35% to 21%.
• Net operating losses - we and our TRSs may not use net operating losses generated beginning in 2018
to offset more than 80% of our or our TRSs’ taxable income (prior to the application of the dividends
paid deduction). Net operating losses generated beginning in 2018 can be carried forward indefinitely
but can no longer be carried back.
•
Limitation on interest deductions - the amount of net interest expense that certain taxpayers, including us
and our TRSs, may deduct for a taxable year is limited to the sum of (i) the taxpayer’s business interest
income for the taxable year, and (ii) 30% of the taxpayer’s “adjusted taxable income” for the taxable year.
For taxable years beginning before January 1, 2022, adjusted taxable income means earnings before
interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (“EBITDA”); for taxable years beginning on or after
January 1, 2022, adjusted taxable income is limited to earnings before interest and taxes (“EBIT”).
• Alternative Minimum Tax - the corporate alternative minimum tax is eliminated.
•
Income accrual - we and our TRSs are required to recognize certain items of income for U.S. federal income
tax purposes no later than we would report such items on our financial statements. Earlier recognition of
income for U.S. federal income tax purposes could impact our ability to satisfy the REIT distribution
requirements. This provision generally applies to taxable years beginning after December 31, 2017, but will
apply with respect to income from a debt instrument having “original issue discount” for U.S. federal
income tax purposes only for taxable years beginning after December 31, 2018.
- 114 -
•
Tax credits - the TCJA modifies the availability and the use by certain taxpayers of certain tax credits
for investments in certain wind, solar, and other renewable energy assets.
In relation to the above amendments, the income and cash allocations received from our equity method
investments in renewable energy projects are determined in part based on certain tax assumptions. As a result,
certain of our partners’ allocations in these projects may be affected by the changes that may impact our income
allocations determined under the HLBV method. Therefore, we consider allocations from these equity method
investments to be provisional. Additionally, we have included a provision in our consolidated financial
statements to estimate the impact of the TCJA, specifically including the impact of the change in rates on our
deferred tax assets and liabilities. We continue to evaluate the impact of the TCJA and will finalize our
assessment in 2018.
11. Equity
Dividends and Distributions
Our board of directors declared the following dividends in 2016 and 2017:
Announced Date
Record Date
Pay Date
Amount per share
3/15/16
6/7/16
9/15/16
12/13/16
3/15/17
6/1/17
9/12/17
12/12/17
3/30/16
7/6/16
10/5/16
12/29/16 (1)
4/5/17
7/6/17
10/5/17
12/26/17 (1)
4/7/16
7/14/16
10/13/16
1/12/17
4/13/17
7/13/17
10/16/17
1/11/18
$0.30
0.30
0.30
0.33
0.33
0.33
0.33
0.33
(1) These dividends are treated as distributions in the following year for tax purposes.
We have an effective universal shelf registration statement registering the potential offer and sale, from time
to time and in one or more offerings, of any combination of our common stock, preferred stock, depositary
shares, debt securities, warrants and rights (collectively referred to as the “securities”). We may offer the
securities directly, through agents, or to or through underwriters by means of ordinary brokers’ transactions on
the NYSE or otherwise at market prices prevailing at the time of sale or at negotiated prices and may include “at
the market” (“ATM”) offerings or sales “at the market,” to or through a market maker or into an existing trading
market on an exchange or otherwise. We completed the following public offerings and ATM offerings of our
common stock in 2016 and 2017:
Closing Date
6/21/16
5/9/16 to 6/30/16
11/9/16
12/13/16 to 12/29/16
1/20/17 to 2/2/17
3/10/17
5/17/17 to 6/22/17
Common Stock
Offerings
Shares
Issued (1)
Price
Per Share
Net
Proceeds (2)
Public Offering
ATM
Public Offering
ATM
ATM
Public Offering
ATM
(amounts in millions, except per share amounts)
$19.78(3)
20.31(4)
19.28(3)
19.47(4)
19.18(4)
18.73(3)
22.71(4)
4.600
0.065
4.025
0.407
0.197
3.450
1.376
$91
1
77
8
4
64
31
(1)
Includes shares issued in connection with the exercise of the underwriters’ option to purchase additional shares.
(2) Net proceeds from the offerings are shown after deducting underwriting discounts, commissions and other
offering costs.
(3) Represents the price per share at which the underwriters in our public offerings purchased shares from our
company.
(4) Represents the average price per share at which investors in our ATM offerings purchased shares from our
company.
- 115 -
Awards of Shares of Restricted Common Stock and Restricted Stock Units under our 2013 Plan
Our Board of Directors have authorized 4,452,597 awards for issuance under our 2013 Plan. As of
December 31, 2017, we have issued awards with service, performance and market conditions and have 1,635,094
awards remaining available for issuance. In October of 2017, we amended the terms of the performance based
restricted stock units granted under the plan to have all unvested restricted stock units vest upon a change in
control. During the year ended December 31, 2017, our board of directors awarded employees and directors
710,148 shares of restricted stock and restricted stock units that vest from 2017 to 2021. As of December 31,
2017, as it relates to previously issued restricted stock awards with performance conditions, we have concluded
that it is probable that the performance conditions will be met.
A summary of equity-based compensation expense and the fair value of shares vested on the vesting date for
the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016, and 2015 is as follows:
Equity-based compensation expense
Fair value of awards vested on vesting date
2017
2016
2015
(in millions)
$10
14
$11
6
$11
5
The total unrecognized compensation expense related to awards of shares of restricted stock and restricted
stock units was approximately $12 million as of December 31, 2017. We expect to recognize compensation
expense related to these awards over a weighted-average term of approximately two years. A summary of the
unvested shares of restricted common stock that have been issued is as follows:
Restricted Shares of
Common Stock
Weighted Average
Share Price
Ending Balance—December 31, 2014
Granted
Vested
Forfeited
Ending Balance—December 31, 2015
Granted
Vested
Forfeited
Ending Balance—December 31, 2016
Granted
Vested
Forfeited
Ending Balance—December 31, 2017
964,820
586,648
(285,289)
(18,110)
1,248,069
661,055
(716,264)
(11,188)
1,181,672
452,864
(230,424)
(4,519)
1,399,593
$13.41
17.29
13.61
15.54
$15.16
18.62
14.03
17.25
$17.76
19.06
14.41
18.72
$18.73
Value
(in millions)
$ 12.9
10.2
(3.9)
(0.3)
$ 18.9
12.3
(10.0)
(0.2)
$ 21.0
8.6
(3.3)
(0.1)
$ 26.2
A summary of the unvested shares of restricted stock units that have market based vesting conditions that
have been issued is as follows:
Restricted Stock
Units
Weighted Average
Share Price
Ending Balance—December 31, 2016
Granted
Vested
Forfeited
Ending Balance—December 31, 2017
—
257,284
(376)
(1,202)
255,706
$ —
18.99
18.99
18.99
$18.99
Value
(in millions)
$—
4.9
—
—
$ 4.9
- 116 -
12. Earnings per Share of Common Stock
Both the net income or loss attributable to the non-controlling OP units and the non-controlling limited
partners’ outstanding OP units have been excluded from the basic earnings per share and the diluted earnings per
share calculations attributable to common stockholders.
Unvested share-based payment awards that contain non-forfeitable rights to dividends or dividend
equivalents (whether paid or unpaid) are participating securities and are included in the computation of earnings
per share pursuant to the two-class method. Any shares of or rights to common stock which, if included in the
diluted earnings per share calculation, would have an anti-dilutive effect have been excluded from the diluted
earnings per share calculation. Additionally, as described in Note 2, the convertible notes have been considered
in the diluted earnings per share calculation using the if-converted method.
The computation of basic and diluted earnings per common share of common stock is as follows:
Numerator:
Net income attributable to controlling stockholders and participating
securities
Less: Dividends paid on participating securities
Undistributed earnings attributable to participating securities
Net income attributable to controlling stockholders
Year ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
(dollars in millions, except share and per share data)
$
$
$
30.9
(1.9)
—
$
14.7
(1.8)
—
29.0
$
12.9
$
8.0
(1.4)
—
6.6
Denominator:
Weighted-average number of common shares—basic
50,361,672
40,290,717
30,761,151
Weighted-average number of common shares—diluted
50,361,672
40,290,717
30,761,151
Basic earnings per common share
Diluted earnings per common share
Other Information:
$
$
0.57
0.57
$
$
0.32
0.32
$
$
0.21
0.21
Weighted-average number of OP units
284,992
284,992
294,884
Unvested restricted common stock outstanding (i.e. participating
securities)
1,399,593
1,181,672
1,248,069
13. Equity Method Investments
We have non-controlling unconsolidated equity investments in renewable energy projects. During the years
ended December 31, 2017, 2016, and 2015 we recognized income of $22.3 million, $6.1 million, and $(0.1)
million respectively, from our equity method investments. We describe our accounting for the non-controlling
equity investments in Note 2.
- 117 -
The following is a summary of the consolidated financial position and results of operations of our
investments accounted for using the equity method. As discussed in Note 2, we have elected to recognize
earnings from these investments one quarter in arrears to allow for the receipt of financial information. We have
included below the latest information that is available.
Balance Sheet
As of September 30, 2017
Current assets
Total assets
Current liabilities
Total liabilities
Members’ equity
As of December 31, 2016
Current assets
Total assets
Current liabilities
Total liabilities
Members’ equity
Income Statement
For the nine months ended September 30, 2017
Revenue
Income from continuing operations
Net income
For the year ended December 31, 2016
Revenue
Income from continuing operations
Net income
For the year ended December 31, 2015
Revenue
Income from continuing operations
Net income
Buckeye Wind
Energy Class
B Holdings,
LLC
MM
Solar
Parent,
LLC
Helix Fund
I, LLC
Other
investments (1)
Total
(in millions)
$
4
287
1
8
279
5
297
1
7
290
9
(5)
(5)
13
(6)
(6)
5
(9)
(9)
$ 4
87
5
37
50
3
88
4
39
49
9
4
4
12
5
5
13
6
6
$
1
28
—
—
28
—
11
—
—
11
2
1
1
—
—
—
—
—
—
$ 116
2,775
61
274
2,501
138
2,785
40
256
2,529
264
31
31
282
26
26
292
63
63
$ 125
3,177
67
319
2,858
146
3,181
45
302
2,879
284
31
31
307
25
25
310
60
60
(1) Represents aggregated financial statement information for investments not separately presented.
14. Defined Contribution Plan
We administer a 401(k) savings plan, a defined contribution plan covering substantially all of our
employees. Employees in the plan may contribute up to the maximum annual IRS limit before taxes via payroll
deduction. Under the plan, we provide a dollar for dollar match for the first 4% of the employee’s contributions
and a $0.50 per dollar match for the next 2% of employee contributions. We contributed less than $1 million
under the plan for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016, and 2015, respectively.
- 118 -
15. Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)
The following table summarizes our quarterly financial data which, in the opinion of management, reflects
all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments, necessary for a fair presentation of our results
of operations (Amounts for the individual quarters when aggregated may not agree to the full year due to
rounding):
Total revenue
Total expenses
Income before equity method investments
Income (loss) from equity method investments
Income before income taxes
Income tax (expense) benefit
Net income (loss)
Net income (loss) attributable to controlling
stockholders
Basic and diluted earnings per common share
Total revenue
Total expenses
Income before equity method investments
Income (loss) from equity method investments
Income before income taxes
Income tax (expense) benefit
Net income (loss)
Net income (loss) attributable to controlling
stockholders
Basic and diluted earnings per common share
For the Three-Months Ended
(in millions, except for per share data)
March 31, 2017
June 30, 2017
Sept. 30, 2017 Dec. 31, 2017
$23,800
20,697
$28,275
24,159
$26,402
25,298
$27,095
25,788
3,103
4,171
7,274
(32)
7,242
4,116
8,377
12,493
(83)
12,410
1,104
6,876
7,980
(5)
7,975
1,307
2,866
4,173
(766)
3,407
$ 7,199
$
0.14
$12,340
$ 7,933
$ 3,383
$
0.23
$
0.14
$
0.06
For the Three-Months Ended
(in millions, except for per share data)
March 31, 2016
June 30, 2016
Sept. 30, 2016 Dec. 31, 2016
$20,483
17,509
$21,845
19,110
$19,008
16,951
$19,862
18,840
2,974
270
3,244
(47)
3,197
2,735
1,076
3,811
(36)
3,775
2,057
1,331
3,388
(41)
3,347
1,022
3,433
4,455
(18)
4,437
$ 3,169
$
0.07
$ 3,747
$ 3,329
$ 4,408
$
0.09
$
0.07
$
0.09
- 119 -
Item 9.
Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
None.
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures
A review and evaluation was performed by our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and
Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and
procedures (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act), as of the end of
the period covered by this Form 10-K. Based on that review and evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and
Chief Financial Officer have concluded that our current disclosure controls and procedures, as designed and
implemented, were effective. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a control system, no matter how well designed and
operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that it will detect or uncover failures within our
company to disclose material information otherwise required to be set forth in our periodic reports.
Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial
reporting. Internal control over financial reporting is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) promulgated under
the Exchange Act as a process designed by, or under the supervision of, our principal executive and principal
financial officers and effected by our board of directors, management and other personnel to provide reasonable
assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external
purposes in accordance with U.S. GAAP and includes those policies and procedures that:
•
•
•
pertain to the maintenance of records that in reasonable detail accurately and fairly reflect the
transactions and dispositions of the assets of our company;
provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of
financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP, and that our receipts and expenditures are being
made only in accordance with authorizations of our management and directors; and
provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use
or disposition of our assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect
misstatements. Projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risks that
controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions or that the degree of compliance with the
policies or procedures may deteriorate.
Our management assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31,
2017. In making this assessment, our management used criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring
Organizations of the Treadway Commission in Internal Control-Integrated Framework (2013 Framework).
Based on this assessment, our management believes that, as of December 31, 2017, our internal control over
financial reporting was effective based on those criteria.
Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter
ended December 31, 2017 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal
control over financial reporting.
Our company’s independent registered public accounting firm, Ernst & Young LLP, has issued an
attestation report on the effectiveness of our company’s internal control over financial reporting. This report
appears on page 85 of this annual report on Form 10-K.
Item 9B. Other Information
None.
- 120 -
PART III
Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
The information regarding our directors, executive officers and certain other matters required by Item 401 of
Regulation S-K is incorporated herein by reference to our definitive proxy statement relating to our annual
meeting of stockholders (the “Proxy Statement”), to be filed with the SEC within 120 days after December 31,
2017.
The information regarding compliance with Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act required by Item 405 of
Regulation S-K is incorporated herein by reference to the Proxy Statement to be filed with the SEC within 120
days after December 31, 2017.
The information regarding our Code of Business Conduct and Ethics required by Item 406 of Regulation
S-K is incorporated herein by reference to the Proxy Statement to be filed with the SEC within 120 days after
December 31, 2017.
The information regarding certain matters pertaining to our corporate governance required by
Item 407(c)(3), (d)(4) and (d)(5) of Regulation S-K is incorporated by reference to the Proxy Statement to be
filed with the SEC within 120 days after December 31, 2017.
Item 11. Executive Compensation
The information regarding executive compensation and other compensation related matters required by
Items 402 and 407(e)(4) and (e)(5) of Regulation S-K is incorporated herein by reference to the Proxy Statement
to be filed with the SEC within 120 days after December 31, 2017.
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder
Matters
The tables on equity compensation plan information and beneficial ownership of our Company required by
Items 201(d) and 403 of Regulation S-K are incorporated herein by reference to the Proxy Statement to be filed
with the SEC within 120 days after December 31, 2017.
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions and Director Independence
The information regarding transactions with related persons, promoters and certain control persons and
director independence required by Items 404 and 407(a) of Regulation S-K is incorporated herein by reference to
the Proxy Statement to be filed with the SEC within 120 days after December 31, 2017.
Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services
The information concerning principal accounting fees and services and the Audit Committee’s pre-approval
policies and procedures required by Item 14 is incorporated herein by reference to the Proxy Statement to be filed
with the SEC within 120 days after December 31, 2017.
- 121 -
Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules
Documents filed as part of the report
PART IV
The following documents are filed as part of this Form 10-K in Part II, Item 8 and are incorporated by reference:
(a)(1) Financial Statements:
See index in Item 8—“Financial Statements and Supplementary Data,” filed herewith for a list of financial
statements.
(3) Exhibits Files:
Exhibit
number
Exhibit description
3.1
3.2
3.3
4.1
4.2
4.3
10.1
10.2
10.3
10.4
Articles of Amendment and Restatement of Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure Capital,
Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended
June 30, 2013 (No. 001-35877), filed on August 9, 2013)
Bylaws of Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure Capital, Inc. (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 3.2 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2013 (No. 001-35877), filed
on August 9, 2013)
Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of Hannon Armstrong Sustainable
Infrastructure, L.P. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the
quarter ended June 30, 2013 (No. 001-35877), filed on August 9, 2013)
Specimen Common Stock Certificate of Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure Capital, Inc.
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Amendment No. 3 to the Registrant’s Form S-11
(No. 333-186711), filed on April 12, 2013)
Indenture, dated as of August 22, 2017, between Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure
Capital, Inc. and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1
to the Registrant’s Form 8-K (No. 001-35877), filed on August 22, 2017)
First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of August 22, 2017, between Hannon Armstrong Sustainable
Infrastructure Capital, Inc. and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee (including the form of
4.125% Convertible Senior Note due 2022) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the
Registrant’s Form 8-K (No. 001-35877), filed on August 22, 2017)
Form of Indemnification Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to Amendment No. 3
to the Registrant’s Form S-11 (No. 333-186711), filed on April 12, 2013)
Amended and Restated 2013 Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure Capital, Inc. Equity
Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the
quarter ended March 31, 2017 (No. 001-35877), filed on May 4, 2017)
Restricted Stock Award Agreement dated April 23, 2013 between Hannon Armstrong Sustainable
Infrastructure Capital, Inc. and Jeffrey W. Eckel (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the
Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2013 (No. 001-35877), filed on
August 9, 2013)
Form of Restricted Stock Award Agreement (Executive Officers) (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.3 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2013 (No. 001-35877),
filed on August 9, 2013)
- 122 -
10.5
10.6
10.7
10.8
10.9
10.10
10.11
10.12
10.13
10.14
10.15
Form of Restricted Stock Award Agreement (Non-employee Directors) (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.4 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2013 (No. 001-35877),
filed on August 9, 2013)
Amended and Restated Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement (incorporated by reference
to Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March, 31 2017 (No. 001-35877),
filed on May 4, 2017)
Registration Rights Agreement, dated April 23, 2013, by and among Hannon Armstrong Sustainable
Infrastructure Capital, Inc. and the parties listed on Schedule I thereto (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.6 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2013 (No. 001-35877),
filed on August 9, 2013)
Employment Agreement, dated April 17, 2013, by and between Hannon Armstrong Sustainable
Infrastructure Capital, Inc. and Jeffrey Eckel (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7 to the
Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2013 (No. 001-35877), filed on August 9,
2013)
Employment Agreement, dated April 17, 2013, by and between Hannon Armstrong Sustainable
Infrastructure Capital, Inc. and J. Brendan Herron, Jr. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.8 to
the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2013 (No. 001-35877), filed on August 9,
2013)
Employment Agreement, dated April 17, 2013, by and between Hannon Armstrong Sustainable
Infrastructure Capital, Inc. and Steven L. Chuslo (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.9 to the
Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2013 (No. 001-35877), filed on August 9,
2013)
Employment Agreement, dated April 17, 2013, by and between Hannon Armstrong Sustainable
Infrastructure Capital, Inc. and Nathaniel J. Rose (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.10 to the
Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2013 (No. 001-35877), filed on August 9,
2013)
Employment Agreement, dated April 17, 2013, by and between Hannon Armstrong Sustainable
Infrastructure Capital, Inc. and Marvin R. Wooten (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.11 to the
Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2013 (No. 001-35877), filed on August 9,
2013)
Employment Agreement, dated April 17, 2013, by and between Hannon Armstrong Sustainable
Infrastructure Capital, Inc. and Daniel McMahon (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the
Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2015 (No. 001-35877), filed on August 7,
2015)
Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of April 23, 2013, by and among Hannon Armstrong
Sustainable Infrastructure Capital, Inc., HA Merger Sub I LLC, HA Merger Sub III LLC,
MissionPoint HA Parallel Fund, LLC, MissionPoint ES Parallel Fund I, L.P., MissionPoint HA
Parallel Fund I Corp. and MissionPoint HA Parallel Fund, L.P. (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.12 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2013 (No. 001-35877),
filed on August 9, 2013)
Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of April 23, 2013, by and among Hannon Armstrong
Sustainable Infrastructure Capital, Inc., HA Merger Sub II LLC, HA Merger Sub III LLC,
MissionPoint HA Parallel Fund II, LLC, MissionPoint ES Parallel Fund II, L.P. MissionPoint HA
Parallel Fund II Corp. and MissionPoint HA Parallel Fund, L.P. (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.13 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2013 (No. 001-35877),
filed on August 9, 2013)
- 123 -
10.16
10.17
10.18
10.19
10.20
10.21
10.22
10.23
10.24
10.25
10.26
Trust Agreement relating to HASI SYB 2013-1 Trust, dated as of December 20, 2013, among HASI
SYB 2013-1 Trust, HASI SYB I LLC, HAT SYB I LLC, The Bank of New York Mellon as Trustee
and Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure Capital, Inc. (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.26 to the Registrant’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013 (No. 001-35877),
filed on March 18, 2014)
Note Purchase Agreement, dated as of December 20, 2013, among HASI SYB 2013-1 Trust, HASI
SYB I LLC, HAT SYB I LLC, The Bank of New York Mellon as Trustee and the purchaser of the
notes thereunder (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.27 to the Registrant’s Form 10-K for the
year ended December 31, 2013 (No. 001-35877), filed on March 18, 2014)
Unit Purchase Agreement, dated as of May 28, 2014, by and among Hannon Armstrong Sustainable
Infrastructure Capital, Inc., American Wind Capital Company, LLC, Northwharf Nominees Limited,
DBD AWCC LLC, NGP Energy Technology Partners II, L.P. and C.C. Hinckley Company, LLC
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended
June 30, 2014 (No. 001-35877), filed on August 14, 2014)
Agreement for Professional Services, dated as of May 28, 2014, by and among Hannon Armstrong
Capital, LLC and AWCC Capital, LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant’s
Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2014 (No. 001-35877), filed on August 14, 2014)
First Amendment to the Registration Rights Agreement of Hannon Armstrong Sustainable
Infrastructure Capital, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Form 8-K
(No. 001-35877), filed on June 20, 2014)
Amendment No. 2 to PF Loan Agreement and Amendment No. 1 to Intercreditor Agreement dated as
of May 28, 2014, by and among HASI CF I Borrower LLC, and HAT CF I Borrower LLC and Bank
of America, N.A. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1.1 to the Registrant’s Form 8-K
(No. 001-35877), filed on June 3, 2014)
Amended and Restated PF Loan Agreement, dated as of August 12, 2014, by and among HASI CF I
Borrower LLC, HAT CF I Borrower LLC, HAT CF II Borrower LLC each lender from time to time
party thereto and Bank of America, N.A. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the
Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2014 (No. 001-35877), filed on
November 7, 2014)
Amended and Restated PF Continuing Guaranty, dated as of August 12, 2014, by and among Hannon
Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure Capital, Inc., Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure, LP,
and Hannon Armstrong Capital, LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant’s
Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2014 (No. 001-35877), filed on November 7, 2014)
Amended and Restated PF Limited Guaranty, dated as of August 12, 2014, by HAT Holdings I LLC
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended
September 30, 2014 (No. 001-35877), filed on November 7, 2014)
PF Limited Guaranty, dated as of August 12, 2014, by HAT Holdings II LLC (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2014
(No. 001-35877), filed on November 7, 2014)
Amended and Restated G&I Loan Agreement, dated as of August 12, 2014, by and among HASI CF
I Borrower LLC, HAT CF I Borrower LLC, HAT CF II Borrower LLC each lender from time to time
party thereto and Bank of America, N.A. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to the
Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2014 (No. 001-35877), filed on
November 7, 2014)
- 124 -
10.27
10.28
10.29
10.30
10.31
10.32
10.33
10.34
10.35
10.36
10.37
10.38
Amended and Restated G&I Continuing Guaranty, dated as of August 12, 2014, by and among
Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure Capital, Inc., Hannon Armstrong Sustainable
Infrastructure, LP, and Hannon Armstrong Capital, LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 to
the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2014 (No. 001-35877), filed on
November 7, 2014)
Amended and Restated G&I Limited Guaranty, dated as of August 12, 2014, by HAT Holdings I
LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended
September 30, 2014 (No. 001-35877), filed on November 7, 2014)
G&I Limited Guaranty, dated as of August 12, 2014, by HAT Holdings II LLC (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.8 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2014
(No. 001-35877), filed on November 7, 2014)
Form of Amended and Restated PF and G&I Security Agreement, dated as of August 12, 2014, by
and among HASI CF I Borrower LLC, HAT CF I Borrower LLC, HAT CF II Borrower LLC and
Bank of New York Mellon (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.9 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q
for the quarter ended September 30, 2014 (No. 001-35877), filed on November 7, 2014)
Form of Amended and Restated PF and G&I Pledge and Security Agreement, dated as of August 12,
2014 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.10 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended
September 30, 2014 (No. 001-35877), filed on November 7, 2014)
Amendment No. 1 to Amended and Restated PF Loan Agreement, dated as of September 22, 2014,
by and among HASI CF I Borrower LLC, HAT CF I Borrower LLC, HAT CF II Borrower LLC, each
lender from time to time party thereto and Bank of America, N.A. (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.11 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2014
(No. 001-35877), filed on November 7, 2014)
Amendment No. 1 to Amended and Restated G&I Loan Agreement, dated as of September 22, 2014,
by and among HASI CF I Borrower LLC, HAT CF I Borrower LLC, HAT CF II Borrower LLC, each
lender from time to time party thereto and Bank of America, N.A. (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.12 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2014
(No. 001-35877), filed on November 7, 2014)
Amendment No. 2 to Amended and Restated Loan Agreement (PF) and Amendment No. 1 to
Amended & Restated Intercreditor Agreement, dated December 22, 2014 (incorporated by reference
to Exhibit 1.1 to the Registrant’s Form 8-K (No. 001-35877), filed on December 24, 2014)
Amendment No. 2 to Amended and Restated Loan Agreement (G&I) and Amendment No. 1 to
Amended & Restated Intercreditor Agreement, dated December 22, 2014 (incorporated by reference
to Exhibit 1.2 to the Registrant’s Form 8-K (No. 001-35877), filed on December 24, 2014)
Amendment No. 1 and Reaffirmation of Guaranty to the Amended & Restated Continuing Guaranty
(PF), dated December 22, 2014 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1.3 to the Registrant’s
Form 8-K (No. 001-35877), filed on December 24, 2014)
Amendment No. 1 and Reaffirmation of Guaranty to the Amended & Restated Continuing Guaranty
(G&I), dated December 22, 2014 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1.4 to the Registrant’s
Form 8-K (No. 001-35877), filed on December 24, 2014)
Credit Agreement dated as of October 15, 2014, among HA WIND I LLC, as the Borrower, The
Financial Institutions and Other Persons From Time To Time Parties Hereto, as the Lenders and
Bank of America, N.A., as Administrative Agent and Collateral Agent (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.39 to the Registrant’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014 (No. 001-35877),
filed on March 9, 2015)
- 125 -
10.39
10.40
10.41
10.42
10.43
10.44
10.45
10.46
10.47
10.48
10.49
10.50
10.51
10.52
10.53
Amendment No. 3 to Amended and Restated Loan Agreement (PF) and Amendment No. 2 to
Amended & Restated Intercreditor Agreement, dated April 17, 2015 (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 1.1 to the Registrant’s Form 8-K (No. 001-35877), filed on April 21, 2015)
Amendment No. 3 to Amended and Restated Loan Agreement (G&I) and Amendment No. 2 to
Amended & Restated Intercreditor Agreement, dated April 17, 2015 (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 1.2 to the Registrant’s Form 8-K (No. 001-35877), filed on April 21, 2015)
Amendment No. 4 to Amended and Restated Loan Agreement (G&I) and Amendment No. 3 to
Amended & Restated Intercreditor Agreement, dated July 16, 2015 (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 1.1 to the Registrant’s Form 8-K (No. 001-35877), filed on July 17, 2015)
Amendment No. 4 to Amended and Restated Loan Agreement (PF), dated July 16, 2015
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1.2 to the Registrant’s Form 8-K (No. 001-35877), filed on
July 17, 2015)
Reaffirmation of Guaranty (G&I), dated July 16, 2015 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1.3 to
the Registrant’s Form 8-K (No. 001-35877), filed on July 17, 2015)
Indenture, dated as of September 30, 2015, among HASI SYB Trust 2015-1, the Bank of New York
Mellon and Hannon Armstrong Capital, LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the
Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2015 (No. 001-35877), filed on
November 5, 2015)
Bond Purchase Agreement (Class A), dated as of September 30, 2015, among HASI SYB Trust
2015-1, HA Land Lease Holdings, LLC and the purchasers named therein (incorporated by reference
to Exhibit 10.5 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2015 (No.
001-35877), filed on November 5, 2015)
Contribution and Sale Agreement, dated as of September 30, 2015, among HASI SYB Trust 2015-1,
and HA Land Lease Holdings, LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 to the Registrant’s
Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2015 (No. 001-35877), filed on November 5, 2015)
Indemnity Agreement, dated as of September 30, 2015, by Hannon Armstrong Sustainable
Infrastructure Capital, Inc. in favor of the Bank of New York Mellon (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.7 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2015
(No. 001-35877), filed on November 5, 2015)
Amendment No. 5 to Amended and Restated Loan Agreement (G&I) and Amendment No. 4 to
Amended & Restated Intercreditor Agreement, dated January 25, 2016 (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 1.1 to the Registrant’s Form 8-K (No. 001-35877), filed on January 29, 2016)
Amendment No. 5 to Amended and Restated Loan Agreement (PF), dated January 25, 2016
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1.2 to the Registrant’s Form 8-K (No. 001-35877), filed on
January 29, 2016)
Reaffirmation of Guaranty (G&I), dated January 25, 2016 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1.3
to the Registrant’s Form 8-K (No. 001-35877), filed on January 29, 2016)
Reaffirmation of Guaranty (PF), dated January 25, 2016 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1.4 to
the Registrant’s Form 8-K (No. 001-35877), filed on January 29, 2016)
Employment Agreement, dated March 15, 2017, by and between Hannon Armstrong Sustainable
Infrastructure Capital, Inc. and Charles Melko (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the
Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2017 (No. 001-35877), filed on May 4, 2017)
Amendment No. 6 to Amended & Restated Loan Agreement PF dated June 8, 2017 (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2017
(No. 001-35877), filed on August 3, 2017)
- 126 -
10.54
10.55
10.56
Reaffirmation of Guaranty (PF) dated June 8, 2017 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to
the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2017 (No. 001-35877), filed on
August 3, 2017)
Amendment No. 6 to Amended & Restated Loan Agreement G&I dated June 8, 2017 (incorporated
by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2017
(No. 001-35877), filed on August 3, 2017)
Reaffirmation of Guaranty (G&I) dated June 8, 2017 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to
the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2017 (No. 001-35877), filed on
August 3, 2017)
10.57*
Form of Amended and Restated Restricted Stock Unit Agreement
21.1*
23.1*
24.1*
31.1*
List of subsidiaries of Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure Capital, Inc.
Consent of Ernst & Young LLP for Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure Capital, Inc.
Power of Attorney (included on signature page)
Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes—Oxley Act of
2002
31.2*
Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
32.1**
32.2**
Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to section 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 as adopted
pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes—Oxley Act of 2002
Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to section 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 as adopted
pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes—Oxley Act of 2002
101.INS*
XBRL Instance Document
101.SCH*
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema
101.CAL*
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase
101.DEF*
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase
101.LAB*
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase
101 PRE*
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase
Filed herewith.
*
** Furnished with this report.
Item 16. Form 10–K Summary
None.
- 127 -
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant
has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
SIGNATURES
Date: February 23, 2018
HANNON ARMSTRONG SUSTAINABLE
INFRASTRUCTURE CAPITAL, INC.
(Registrant)
/s/ Jeffrey W. Eckel
Jeffrey W. Eckel
Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President
/s/ Charles W. Melko
Charles W. Melko
Chief Accounting Officer and Senior Vice President
- 128 -
POWER OF ATTORNEY
KNOW ALL PERSONS BY THESE PRESENTS, that each person whose signature appears below constitutes
and appoints Jeffrey W. Eckel and Charles W. Melko, and each of them, with full power to act without the other,
such person’s true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for
him or her and in his or her name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign this Form 10-K and any and
all amendments thereto, and to file the same, with exhibits and schedules thereto, and other documents in
connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and
agents, and each of them, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing necessary or
desirable to be done in and about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes as he or she might or could do
in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or any of them, or their or his
or her substitute or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, this report has been signed
below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
Signatures
Title
By:
/s/ Jeffrey W. Eckel
Jeffrey W. Eckel
By:
/s/ J. Brendan Herron
J. Brendan Herron
By:
/s/ Charles W. Melko
Charles W. Melko
By:
/s/ Rebecca B. Blalock
Rebecca B. Blalock
By:
/s/ Teresa M. Brenner
Teresa M. Brenner
By:
/s/ Mark J. Cirilli
Mark J. Cirilli
By:
/s/ Charles M. O’Neil
Charles M. O’Neil
By:
/s/ Richard J. Osborne
Richard J. Osborne
By:
/s/ Steven G. Osgood
Steven G. Osgood
Chairman of the Board, President
and Chief Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer)
February 23, 2018
Chief Financial Officer and
Executive Vice President
(Principal Financial Officer)
Chief Accounting Officer and
Senior Vice President
(Principal Accounting Officer)
February 23, 2018
February 23, 2018
February 23, 2018
February 23, 2018
February 23, 2018
February 23, 2018
February 23, 2018
February 23, 2018
- 129 -
[THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK]
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K/A
Amendment No. 1
ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE
ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017
OR
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from to
Commission File Number: 001-35877
HANNON ARMSTRONG SUSTAINABLE
INFRASTRUCTURE CAPITAL, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Maryland
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
1906 Towne Centre Blvd
Suite 370
Annapolis, MD
(Address of principal executive offices)
46-1347456
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
21401
(Zip Code)
(410) 571-9860
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of Each Class
Common Stock, $0.01 par value
Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered
New York Stock Exchange
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
None
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes
No
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Exchange
Act. Yes
No
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and
(2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes
No
1
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive
Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12
months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes
No
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§ 229.405 of this chapter) is not
contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated
by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller
reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer”, “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting
company” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer
Non-accelerated filer
Accelerated filer
Smaller reporting company
Emerging growth company
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for
complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes
No
As of June 30, 2017, the aggregate market value of the registrant’s common stock (includes unvested restricted stock) held by non-
affiliates of the registrant was $1.2 billion based on the closing sales price of the registrant’s common stock on June 30, 2017 as reported on
the New York Stock Exchange.
On March 21, 2018 the registrant had a total of 52,939,493 shares of common stock, $0.01 par value, outstanding (which includes
1,112,940 shares of unvested restricted common stock)
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Portions of the registrant’s proxy statement for the 2018 annual meeting of stockholders are incorporated by reference into Part III of this
Annual Report on Form 10-K.
2
AMENDMENT NO. 1
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure Capital, Inc. (the “Company”, “we,” “our,” or “us”) is filing this
amendment (the “Form 10-K/A”) to our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017, originally filed
with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on February 23, 2018 (the “Original Form 10-K”), solely for the
purpose of complying with Regulation S-X, Rule 3-09. Rule 3-09 requires that Form 10-K contain separate financial statements
for unconsolidated subsidiaries and investees accounted for by the equity method when such entities are individually
significant.
We have determined that our equity method investments in MM Solar Parent LLC ("MM Solar") and Helix Fund I
LLC ("Helix"), which are not consolidated in our financial statements, were significant under the income test of Rule 3-09 in
relationship to our financial results for the year ended December 31, 2017. Since MM Solar’s and Helix's 2017 financial
statements were not available until after the date of the filing of our Original Form 10-K, Rule 3-09 provides that the financial
statements may be filed as an amendment to our Original Form 10-K within 90 days after the end of our fiscal year ended
December 31, 2017.
Therefore, this Form 10-K/A amends Item 15 of our Original Form 10-K filed on February 23, 2018 to include the
following Exhibits:
• Exhibit 23.2 – Consent of EKS&H LLLP for MM Solar Parent LLC,
• Exhibit 23.3 – Consent of CohnReznick LLP for Helix Fund I LLC,
• Exhibit 99.1 – MM Solar Parent LLC and Subsidiaries, Financial Statements as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 and
for the years then ended and for the year ended December 31, 2015, and
• Exhibit 99.2 – Helix Fund I LLC, Financial Statements as of December 31, 2017 and January 1, 2017 and for the year
ended December 31, 2017 and the period from December 2, 2016 (inception) through January 1, 2017
This Form 10-K/A does not amend or otherwise update any other information in the Original Form 10-K (including
the exhibits to the Original Form 10-K, except for Exhibits 31.3, 31.4, 32.3 and 32.4). Accordingly, this Form 10-K/A should be
read in conjunction with our Original Form 10-K. In addition, in accordance with applicable rules and regulations promulgated
by the SEC, this Form 10-K/A includes updated certifications from our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer as
Exhibits 31.3, 31.4, 32.3 and 32.4.
3
Item 15.
Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules.
Documents filed as part of the report
The following documents are filed as part of this Form 10-K/A in Part II, Item 8 and are incorporated by reference:
(a)(1) Financial Statements:
See index in Item 8—“Financial Statements and Supplementary Data,” filed with the Original Form 10-K for a list of financial
statements.
(3) Exhibits Files:
Exhibit
number
Exhibit description
3.1
3.2
3.3
4.1
4.2
4.3
10.1
10.2
10.3
10.4
10.5
10.6
10.7
10.8
10.9
Articles of Amendment and Restatement of Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure Capital, Inc.
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2013 (No.
001-35877), filed on August 9, 2013)
Bylaws of Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure Capital, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to
the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2013 (No. 001-35877), filed on August 9, 2013)
Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure, L.P.
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2013 (No.
001-35877), filed on August 9, 2013)
Specimen Common Stock Certificate of Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure Capital, Inc. (incorporated
by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Amendment No. 3 to the Registrant’s Form S-11 (No. 333-186711), filed on
April 12, 2013)
Indenture, dated as of August 22, 2017, between Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure Capital, Inc. and
U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Registrant’s Form 8-K
(No. 001-35877), filed on August 22, 2017)
First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of August 22, 2017, between Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure
Capital, Inc. and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee (including the form of 4.125% Convertible Senior
Note due 2022) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the Registrant’s Form 8-K (No. 001-35877), filed on
August 22, 2017)
Form of Indemnification Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to Amendment No. 3 to the
Registrant’s Form S-11 (No. 333-186711), filed on April 12, 2013)
Amended and Restated 2013 Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure Capital, Inc. Equity Incentive Plan
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2017
(No. 001-35877), filed on May 4, 2017)
Restricted Stock Award Agreement dated April 23, 2013 between Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure
Capital, Inc. and Jeffrey W. Eckel (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the
quarter ended June 30, 2013 (No. 001-35877), filed on August 9, 2013)
Form of Restricted Stock Award Agreement (Executive Officers) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the
Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2013 (No. 001-35877), filed on August 9, 2013)
Form of Restricted Stock Award Agreement (Non-employee Directors) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4
to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2013 (No. 001-35877), filed on August 9, 2013)
Amended and Restated Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit
10.2 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March, 31 2017 (No. 001-35877), filed on May 4, 2017)
Registration Rights Agreement, dated April 23, 2013, by and among Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure
Capital, Inc. and the parties listed on Schedule I thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 to the
Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2013 (No. 001-35877), filed on August 9, 2013)
Employment Agreement, dated April 17, 2013, by and between Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure
Capital, Inc. and Jeffrey Eckel (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the
quarter ended June 30, 2013 (No. 001-35877), filed on August 9, 2013)
Employment Agreement, dated April 17, 2013, by and between Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure
Capital, Inc. and J. Brendan Herron, Jr. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.8 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q
for the quarter ended June 30, 2013 (No. 001-35877), filed on August 9, 2013)
4
10.10
10.11
10.12
10.13
10.14
10.15
10.16
10.17
10.18
10.19
10.20
10.21
10.22
10.23
10.24
10.25
10.26
Employment Agreement, dated April 17, 2013, by and between Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure
Capital, Inc. and Steven L. Chuslo (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.9 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for
the quarter ended June 30, 2013 (No. 001-35877), filed on August 9, 2013)
Employment Agreement, dated April 17, 2013, by and between Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure
Capital, Inc. and Nathaniel J. Rose (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.10 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for
the quarter ended June 30, 2013 (No. 001-35877), filed on August 9, 2013)
Employment Agreement, dated April 17, 2013, by and between Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure
Capital, Inc. and Marvin R. Wooten (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.11 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for
the quarter ended June 30, 2013 (No. 001-35877), filed on August 9, 2013)
Employment Agreement, dated April 17, 2013, by and between Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure
Capital, Inc. and Daniel McMahon (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for
the quarter ended June 30, 2015 (No. 001-35877), filed on August 7, 2015)
Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of April 23, 2013, by and among Hannon Armstrong Sustainable
Infrastructure Capital, Inc., HA Merger Sub I LLC, HA Merger Sub III LLC, MissionPoint HA Parallel Fund,
LLC, MissionPoint ES Parallel Fund I, L.P., MissionPoint HA Parallel Fund I Corp. and MissionPoint HA Parallel
Fund, L.P. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.12 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended
June 30, 2013 (No. 001-35877), filed on August 9, 2013)
Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of April 23, 2013, by and among Hannon Armstrong Sustainable
Infrastructure Capital, Inc., HA Merger Sub II LLC, HA Merger Sub III LLC, MissionPoint HA Parallel Fund II,
LLC, MissionPoint ES Parallel Fund II, L.P. MissionPoint HA Parallel Fund II Corp. and MissionPoint HA
Parallel Fund, L.P. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.13 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter
ended June 30, 2013 (No. 001-35877), filed on August 9, 2013)
Trust Agreement relating to HASI SYB 2013-1 Trust, dated as of December 20, 2013, among HASI SYB 2013-1
Trust, HASI SYB I LLC, HAT SYB I LLC, The Bank of New York Mellon as Trustee and Hannon Armstrong
Sustainable Infrastructure Capital, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.26 to the Registrant’s Form 10-K
for the year ended December 31, 2013 (No. 001-35877), filed on March 18, 2014)
Note Purchase Agreement, dated as of December 20, 2013, among HASI SYB 2013-1 Trust, HASI SYB I LLC,
HAT SYB I LLC, The Bank of New York Mellon as Trustee and the purchaser of the notes thereunder
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.27 to the Registrant’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013
(No. 001-35877), filed on March 18, 2014)
Unit Purchase Agreement, dated as of May 28, 2014, by and among Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure
Capital, Inc., American Wind Capital Company, LLC, Northwharf Nominees Limited, DBD AWCC LLC, NGP
Energy Technology Partners II, L.P. and C.C. Hinckley Company, LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1
to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2014 (No. 001-35877), filed on August 14, 2014)
Agreement for Professional Services, dated as of May 28, 2014, by and among Hannon Armstrong Capital, LLC
and AWCC Capital, LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter
ended June 30, 2014 (No. 001-35877), filed on August 14, 2014)
First Amendment to the Registration Rights Agreement of Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure Capital,
Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Form 8-K (No. 001-35877), filed on June 20,
2014)
Amendment No. 2 to PF Loan Agreement and Amendment No. 1 to Intercreditor Agreement dated as of May 28,
2014, by and among HASI CF I Borrower LLC, and HAT CF I Borrower LLC and Bank of America, N.A.
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1.1 to the Registrant’s Form 8-K (No. 001-35877), filed on June 3, 2014)
Amended and Restated PF Loan Agreement, dated as of August 12, 2014, by and among HASI CF I Borrower
LLC, HAT CF I Borrower LLC, HAT CF II Borrower LLC each lender from time to time party thereto and Bank
of America, N.A. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended
September 30, 2014 (No. 001-35877), filed on November 7, 2014)
Amended and Restated PF Continuing Guaranty, dated as of August 12, 2014, by and among Hannon Armstrong
Sustainable Infrastructure Capital, Inc., Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure, LP, and Hannon Armstrong
Capital, LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended
September 30, 2014 (No. 001-35877), filed on November 7, 2014)
Amended and Restated PF Limited Guaranty, dated as of August 12, 2014, by HAT Holdings I LLC (incorporated
by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2014 (No.
001-35877), filed on November 7, 2014)
PF Limited Guaranty, dated as of August 12, 2014, by HAT Holdings II LLC (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.4 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2014 (No. 001-35877), filed on
November 7, 2014)
Amended and Restated G&I Loan Agreement, dated as of August 12, 2014, by and among HASI CF I Borrower
LLC, HAT CF I Borrower LLC, HAT CF II Borrower LLC each lender from time to time party thereto and Bank
of America, N.A. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended
September 30, 2014 (No. 001-35877), filed on November 7, 2014)
5
10.27
10.28
10.29
10.30
10.31
10.32
10.33
10.34
10.35
10.36
10.37
10.38
10.39
10.40
10.41
10.42
10.43
10.44
10.45
Amended and Restated G&I Continuing Guaranty, dated as of August 12, 2014, by and among Hannon Armstrong
Sustainable Infrastructure Capital, Inc., Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure, LP, and Hannon Armstrong
Capital, LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended
September 30, 2014 (No. 001-35877), filed on November 7, 2014)
Amended and Restated G&I Limited Guaranty, dated as of August 12, 2014, by HAT Holdings I LLC
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30,
2014 (No. 001-35877), filed on November 7, 2014)
G&I Limited Guaranty, dated as of August 12, 2014, by HAT Holdings II LLC (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.8 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2014 (No. 001-35877), filed on
November 7, 2014)
Form of Amended and Restated PF and G&I Security Agreement, dated as of August 12, 2014, by and among
HASI CF I Borrower LLC, HAT CF I Borrower LLC, HAT CF II Borrower LLC and Bank of New York Mellon
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.9 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30,
2014 (No. 001-35877), filed on November 7, 2014)
Form of Amended and Restated PF and G&I Pledge and Security Agreement, dated as of August 12, 2014
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.10 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30,
2014 (No. 001-35877), filed on November 7, 2014)
Amendment No. 1 to Amended and Restated PF Loan Agreement, dated as of September 22, 2014, by and among
HASI CF I Borrower LLC, HAT CF I Borrower LLC, HAT CF II Borrower LLC, each lender from time to time
party thereto and Bank of America, N.A. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.11 to the Registrant’s Form 10-
Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2014 (No. 001-35877), filed on November 7, 2014)
Amendment No. 1 to Amended and Restated G&I Loan Agreement, dated as of September 22, 2014, by and
among HASI CF I Borrower LLC, HAT CF I Borrower LLC, HAT CF II Borrower LLC, each lender from time to
time party thereto and Bank of America, N.A. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.12 to the Registrant’s
Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2014 (No. 001-35877), filed on November 7, 2014)
Amendment No. 2 to Amended and Restated Loan Agreement (PF) and Amendment No. 1 to Amended &
Restated Intercreditor Agreement, dated December 22, 2014 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1.1 to the
Registrant’s Form 8-K (No. 001-35877), filed on December 24, 2014)
Amendment No. 2 to Amended and Restated Loan Agreement (G&I) and Amendment No. 1 to Amended &
Restated Intercreditor Agreement, dated December 22, 2014 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1.2 to the
Registrant’s Form 8-K (No. 001-35877), filed on December 24, 2014)
Amendment No. 1 and Reaffirmation of Guaranty to the Amended & Restated Continuing Guaranty (PF), dated
December 22, 2014 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1.3 to the Registrant’s Form 8-K (No. 001-35877), filed
on December 24, 2014)
Amendment No. 1 and Reaffirmation of Guaranty to the Amended & Restated Continuing Guaranty (G&I), dated
December 22, 2014 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1.4 to the Registrant’s Form 8-K (No. 001-35877), filed
on December 24, 2014)
Credit Agreement dated as of October 15, 2014, among HA WIND I LLC, as the Borrower, The Financial
Institutions and Other Persons From Time To Time Parties Hereto, as the Lenders and Bank of America, N.A., as
Administrative Agent and Collateral Agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.39 to the Registrant’s Form
10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014 (No. 001-35877), filed on March 9, 2015)
Amendment No. 3 to Amended and Restated Loan Agreement (PF) and Amendment No. 2 to Amended &
Restated Intercreditor Agreement, dated April 17, 2015 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1.1 to the
Registrant’s Form 8-K (No. 001-35877), filed on April 21, 2015)
Amendment No. 3 to Amended and Restated Loan Agreement (G&I) and Amendment No. 2 to Amended &
Restated Intercreditor Agreement, dated April 17, 2015 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1.2 to the
Registrant’s Form 8-K (No. 001-35877), filed on April 21, 2015)
Amendment No. 4 to Amended and Restated Loan Agreement (G&I) and Amendment No. 3 to Amended &
Restated Intercreditor Agreement, dated July 16, 2015 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1.1 to the Registrant’s
Form 8-K (No. 001-35877), filed on July 17, 2015)
Amendment No. 4 to Amended and Restated Loan Agreement (PF), dated July 16, 2015 (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 1.2 to the Registrant’s Form 8-K (No. 001-35877), filed on July 17, 2015)
Reaffirmation of Guaranty (G&I), dated July 16, 2015 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1.3 to the
Registrant’s Form 8-K (No. 001-35877), filed on July 17, 2015)
Indenture, dated as of September 30, 2015, among HASI SYB Trust 2015-1, the Bank of New York Mellon and
Hannon Armstrong Capital, LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the
quarter ended September 30, 2015 (No. 001-35877), filed on November 5, 2015)
Bond Purchase Agreement (Class A), dated as of September 30, 2015, among HASI SYB Trust 2015-1, HA Land
Lease Holdings, LLC and the purchasers named therein (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to the
Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2015 (No. 001-35877), filed on November 5, 2015)
6
10.46
10.47
10.48
10.49
10.50
10.51
10.52
10.53
10.54
10.55
10.56
10.57
21.1
23.1
23.2*
23.3*
24.1
31.1
31.2
31.3*
31.4*
32.1
32.2
32.3**
32.4**
99.1*
Contribution and Sale Agreement, dated as of September 30, 2015, among HASI SYB Trust 2015-1, and HA
Land Lease Holdings, LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the
quarter ended September 30, 2015 (No. 001-35877), filed on November 5, 2015)
Indemnity Agreement, dated as of September 30, 2015, by Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure Capital,
Inc. in favor of the Bank of New York Mellon (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7 to the Registrant’s Form
10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2015 (No. 001-35877), filed on November 5, 2015)
Amendment No. 5 to Amended and Restated Loan Agreement (G&I) and Amendment No. 4 to Amended &
Restated Intercreditor Agreement, dated January 25, 2016 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1.1 to the
Registrant’s Form 8-K (No. 001-35877), filed on January 29, 2016)
Amendment No. 5 to Amended and Restated Loan Agreement (PF), dated January 25, 2016 (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 1.2 to the Registrant’s Form 8-K (No. 001-35877), filed on January 29, 2016)
Reaffirmation of Guaranty (G&I), dated January 25, 2016 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1.3 to the
Registrant’s Form 8-K (No. 001-35877), filed on January 29, 2016)
Reaffirmation of Guaranty (PF), dated January 25, 2016 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1.4 to the
Registrant’s Form 8-K (No. 001-35877), filed on January 29, 2016)
Employment Agreement, dated March 15, 2017, by and between Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure
Capital, Inc. and Charles Melko (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the
quarter ended March 31, 2017 (No. 001-35877), filed on May 4, 2017)
Amendment No. 6 to Amended & Restated Loan Agreement PF dated June 8, 2017 (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2017 (No. 001-35877), filed on August
3, 2017)
Reaffirmation of Guaranty (PF) dated June 8, 2017 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant’s
Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2017 (No. 001-35877), filed on August 3, 2017)
Amendment No. 6 to Amended & Restated Loan Agreement G&I dated June 8, 2017 (incorporated by reference
to Exhibit 10.3 to the Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2017 (No. 001-35877), filed on
August 3, 2017)
Reaffirmation of Guaranty (G&I) dated June 8, 2017 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Registrant’s
Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2017 (No. 001-35877), filed on August 3, 2017)
Form of Amended and Restated Restricted Stock Unit Agreement
List of subsidiaries of Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure Capital, Inc. (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 21.1 to the Registrant’s Form 10-K (No. 001-35877), filed on February 23, 2018)
Consent of Ernst & Young LLP for Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure Capital, Inc. (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 23.1 to the Registrant’s Form 10-K (No. 001-35877), filed on February 23, 2018)
Consent of EKS&H LLLP for MM Solar Parent LLC and Subsidiaries
Consent of CohnReznick LLP for Helix Fund LLC
Power of Attorney (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 24.1 to the Registrant’s Form 10-K (No. 001-35877),
filed on February 23, 2018)
Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (incorporated
by reference to Exhibit 31.1 to the Registrant’s Form 10-K (No. 001-35877), filed on February 23, 2018)
Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (incorporated
by reference to Exhibit 31.2 to the Registrant’s Form 10-K (No. 001-35877), filed on February 23, 2018)
Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to section 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 as adopted pursuant to
Section 906 of the Sarbanes—Oxley Act of 2002 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 32.1 to the Registrant’s
Form 10-K (No. 001-35877), furnished on February 23, 2018)
Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to section 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 as adopted pursuant to
Section 906 of the Sarbanes—Oxley Act of 2002 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 32.1 to the Registrant’s
Form 10-K (No. 001-35877), furnished on February 23, 2018)
Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to section 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 as adopted pursuant to
Section 906 of the Sarbanes—Oxley Act of 2002
Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to section 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 as adopted pursuant to
Section 906 of the Sarbanes—Oxley Act of 2002
MM Solar Parent LLC and Subsidiaries, Financial Statements as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 and for the
years then ended and for the year ended December 31, 2015
7
99.2*
Helix Fund I LLC, Financial Statements as of December 31, 2017 and January 1, 2017 and for the year ended
December 31, 2017 and the period from December 2, 2016 (inception) through January 1, 2017
101.INS XBRL Instance Document (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 101.INS to the Registrant’s Form 10-K (No.
001-35877), filed on February 23, 2018)
101.SCH XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 101.SCH to the Registrant’s Form 10-
K (No. 001-35877), filed on February 23, 2018)
101.CAL XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 101.CAL to the
Registrant’s Form 10-K (No. 001-35877), filed on February 23, 2018)
101.DEF XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 101.DEF to the
Registrant’s Form 10-K (No. 001-35877), filed on February 23, 2018)
101.LAB XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 101.LAB to the Registrant’s
Form 10-K (No. 001-35877), filed on February 23, 2018)
101 PRE XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 101.PRE to the
Registrant’s Form 10-K (No. 001-35877), filed on February 23, 2018)
*
**
Filed herewith.
Furnished with this report.
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused
this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
Date: March 23, 2018
Date: March 23, 2018
HANNON ARMSTRONG SUSTAINABLE
INFRASTRUCTURE CAPITAL, INC.
By:
Name:
Title:
/s/ Jeffrey W. Eckel
Jeffrey W. Eckel
Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President
By:
Name:
Title:
/s/ Charles W. Melko
Charles W. Melko
Chief Accounting Officer and Senior Vice President
8
P R O D U C T I V I T Y . S U S T A I N A B I L I T Y . V I S I O N .
© 2018 Hannon Armstrong