US$100 Million Transformative, Project Financing Announced by SolarBank and CIM Group to Fund 97 MW of Renewable Energy Assets in the United States

Core Viewpoint - SolarBank Corporation has secured up to US$100 million in project-based financing from CIM Group to accelerate its growth as an independent power producer, focusing on a portfolio of 97 MW of solar power projects in the U.S. [1][2] Group 1: Financing Details - The financing will be structured as a preferred equity investment into a new joint venture entity called New HoldCo, formed between CIM and SolarBank's subsidiary, Abundant Solar Power Inc. [1][2] - SolarBank will retain a majority ownership interest in 21 solar energy projects with a total capacity of 97 MW, assuming full funding is achieved [2]. - CIM will acquire non-convertible preferred equity interests in New HoldCo and will receive a semi-annual coupon of 3% on the aggregate investment [4]. Group 2: Project Structure and Operations - New HoldCo will purchase membership interests of project companies that own the 97 MW capacity from ASP, with a payment structure of 20% at mechanical completion and 80% at substantial completion of each project [2][4]. - Each project is expected to sell investment tax credits (ITCs) to creditworthy third-party buyers under tax credit transfer agreements [3]. Group 3: Company Background - SolarBank Corporation focuses on developing renewable and clean energy projects, including solar, Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), and EV Charging projects, with a development pipeline exceeding one gigawatt [8]. - CIM Group has a history of delivering over $60 billion in essential real estate and infrastructure projects, emphasizing community impact and environmental sustainability [7].