Scatec closes $102 million capital financing round

AFRICAN STOCKS AND FINANCENovember 2, 2023 at 9:19 PM UTC

Scatec has successfully completed the previously announced transaction worth $102 million with Climate Fund Managers (CFM). These funds are earmarked for accelerating its growth objectives as a distinct platform, Release, established in 2019. It specializes in offering flexible and mobile leasing solutions for pre-assembled and modular solar and battery equipment designed for the mining and utilities market.

CFM, a prominent finance manager with a focus on climate-related initiatives, has the backing of FMO, the Dutch Development Bank, and Sanlam Infraworks, a division of the South African Sanlam Group. CFM invested in Release through its Climate Investor One (CIO) fund, which is dedicated to supporting renewable energy infrastructure in emerging markets.

In line with previous announcements, CFM's equity investment in Release amounts to $55 million, securing them a 32% stake, while Scatec will maintain the majority shareholding at 68%. Furthermore, CFM will extend shareholder loans totaling $47 million, including a portion with concessional terms.

Key Takeaways

Release is gaining strong traction in the market, especially within African utilities. The company currently has operational and under-construction projects in several countries, including Cameroon, South Africa, Mexico, and South Sudan, boasting a combined capacity of 47 MW for solar PV and 20 MWh for battery storage. Additionally, Release has secured contracts for an extra 35 MW of solar PV and 20 MWh of storage in Chad, with plans to further develop its advanced project pipeline. Release aims to replicate its swift deployment model to address power supply shortages in local grids across the region. It's worth noting that Release will now be treated as a joint venture investment in Scatec's group accounts. This strategic move is expected to result in an accounting gain of approximately $40 million, which will be reflected in the consolidated financial statements upon completion of the transaction.

Source:ABC

Scatec

Climate Fund Managers

Sanlam Infraworks

Sanlam Group

FMO

Climate finance