Renewable energy subsidies

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中国可再生能源_补贴结算,似曾相识的感觉-China renewables_ Subsidies settlement, a sense of déjà vu_
2025-09-18 13:09
Summary of Key Points from the Conference Call Industry Overview - The conference call focuses on the renewable energy (RE) sector in China, particularly the developments regarding subsidies for wind, solar, and biomass utilities [2][3]. Core Insights and Arguments 1. **Subsidy Collection Progress**: Recent developments indicate positive progress in the collection of overdue renewable energy subsidies from the Ministry of Finance (MoF). Several utilities, including Everbright Greentech and Longyuan, reported significant cash collections in July and August, with Longyuan collecting RMB1.9 billion in July compared to RMB250 million in the first half of 2025 [2][3]. 2. **Historical Context of Subsidy Deficits**: The RE Fund has been operating at a budget deficit since the 2010s, with subsidy commitments rising significantly due to the expansion of wind and solar energy. In 2022, the MoF allocated over RMB300 billion to settle outstanding subsidies, primarily benefiting state-owned utilities [3]. 3. **Future Expectations**: The expectation is that if the government intensifies its commitment to renewable energy investments, utilities may see increased cash settlements. The recent rise in bond issuance by the State Grid Corporation of China could facilitate this process [3][4]. 4. **Sector Implications**: The immediate de-gearing of utilities is viewed positively, although additional cash collections are likely to be reinvested into new RE capacity, which may limit dividend growth. This trend supports solar and wind installations projected for 2026, benefiting the supply chain amid ongoing supply consolidation [4]. 5. **Investment Recommendations**: The report recommends a "Buy" rating for Longyuan and Everbright, citing their high outstanding subsidies receivables as a percentage of equity value, making them attractive leveraged plays. GCL and Xinyi Solar are also highlighted as favorable investments due to expected corrections in upstream solar equipment overcapacity [5][8]. Additional Important Content 1. **Financial Estimates**: Longyuan's revenue for 2025 is estimated at RMB31.166 billion, with a projected net profit of RMB6.270 billion. The estimates reflect a slight decrease from previous projections due to lower expected tariffs and power generation [18][27]. 2. **Valuation Metrics**: The target prices for Longyuan have been adjusted to HKD8.80 and RMB21.60, reflecting a potential upside of approximately 9.7% and 22.7%, respectively. The report maintains a "Buy" rating despite near-term earnings risks [19][25]. 3. **Risks Identified**: Potential risks include lower-than-expected tariffs, weaker utilization rates, and possible impairments on renewable energy subsidies receivables. These factors could impact revenue generation and overall financial performance [25]. 4. **Longyuan's Transition**: Longyuan has significantly reduced its coal power capacity, with coal-related revenue dropping to approximately 19% in 2023, indicating a strategic shift towards renewable energy development [23]. 5. **Market Dynamics**: The report notes that the renewable energy sector is experiencing a consolidation phase due to existing policies aimed at reducing overcapacity, which could influence future market dynamics and investment opportunities [4]. This summary encapsulates the key points discussed in the conference call, providing insights into the current state and future outlook of the renewable energy sector in China, along with specific investment recommendations and associated risks.