ReNew Energy plc(RNW) - 2026 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Adjusted EBITDA increased by 31% to INR 74.8 billion for the nine months ending December 31, 2026, with a more than sixfold increase in profit after tax [8][9] - Revenue increased by 48% for the first nine months of the fiscal year compared to the previous year, driven by an increase in megawatts and contributions from the manufacturing business [17] - Headline leverage decreased from 8.2x in December 2024 to 7x debt to EBITDA currently, and is expected to reach 6.7x excluding contributions from joint venture partners [18] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Operating capacity increased from 10.7 GW to 11.8 GW, a 19% increase after adjusting for the sale of 900 MW of assets [5][17] - The manufacturing business contributed INR 10.8 billion to adjusted EBITDA for the first nine months [9][15] - The company sold 300 MW of solar assets this quarter, bringing total asset sales for the year to 600 MW [19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The financing environment remains favorable, with interest rates on a downward trend, benefiting the company's capital structure [4] - Electricity demand has shown signs of recovery, with expectations for power demand to return to normal levels in fiscal 2027 [5] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is shifting focus from wind projects to more battery energy storage systems (BESS) and solar capacity to reduce capital expenditure and execution risk [7][13] - The strategic pivot aims to optimize cash flows and reduce volatility in revenues due to weather patterns [7][13] - The company plans to construct between 1.8 GW and 2.4 GW in the fiscal year ending March 31, 2026, up from previous guidance [27] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about macroeconomic conditions, citing a recent trade deal between India and the U.S. that is expected to benefit the economy [4] - The company is focused on improving balance sheet strength and reducing leverage further, with a target leverage ratio of 5.5x by 2028-2030 [73] Other Important Information - The company received an A grade rating from LSEG and a score of 90.41 out of 100, placing it in the top quartile globally for ESG performance [10][24] - The company has achieved water positive certification for two sites, marking significant progress in sustainability initiatives [10][25] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you elaborate on the revised strategy towards more solar and BESS projects? - The decision to decrease wind capacity was driven by lower costs of BESS and solar, improved ability to firm up power, and execution challenges associated with wind projects [30][32] Question: What is the update on the take-private strategy? - The company cannot comment on specifics regarding privatization discussions, stating that any necessary disclosures will be made at the appropriate time [36] Question: Are there improvements in transmission project delays and curtailment? - There is increased visibility and discussion within government ministries to address these issues, with recognition that curtailment losses should be shared among stakeholders [40][42] Question: What is the current status of TGNA capacity and associated curtailment? - Approximately 400 MW to 500 MW is currently under TGNA, with some degree of curtailment expected, but compensation is received for projects with permanent GNA [63][65] Question: How is the manufacturing business performing in terms of margins? - Margins have held up well, with a temporary lull during monsoons, but demand appears to be stable currently [44]