Avaada Group Completed USD 535 million Refinancing for Renewable Projects in Rajasthan, India
On
19th April 2024,
Implemented within a Restricted Group (RG) framework, this transaction received
an 'AA (Stable)' rating from CareEdge Ratings. Its objective was to bolster
Avaada's sustainable energy endeavors, guaranteeing consistent, enduring cash
flows, and bolstering financial stability. Additionally, the initiative played
a pivotal role in mitigating the global carbon footprint, aligning with
Avaada's commitment to environmental responsibility and fostering sustainable
practices within the industry.
Avaada
Energy, a subsidiary specializing in renewable energy under the Avaada Group,
has announced the successful conclusion of a substantial refinancing deal. This
transaction secured approximately USD 535 million (INR 4,471 crore) from the
state-owned National Bank for Financing Infrastructure and Development
(NaBFID). The refinancing covered four solar projects situated in Rajasthan,
linked to the Interstate Transmission System (ISTS), boasting a combined
capacity of around 1700 MWp. Structured within a Restricted Group (RG)
framework, this initiative received an 'AA (Stable)' rating from CareEdge
Ratings. Its primary objective was to bolster Avaada's sustainable energy
endeavors, ensuring steady, prolonged cash flows, and enhancing financial
robustness, all while making a significant contribution to global carbon
footprint reduction.
The
proceeds obtained from NaBFID were deployed to repay existing loans,
facilitating a successful exit for multiple lenders. The 20-year Rupee Term
Loan (RTL) facility brought significant commercial enhancements compared to the
previous facilities that were prepaid. In reflection of this financial
achievement, Vineet Mittal, Chairman of Avaada Group, highlighted, "We
reached a significant milestone by refinancing four of our largest operational
assets in Rajasthan, which had been in operation for approximately two years.
This transaction marked one of the largest in India’s renewable energy market,
allowing us to settle existing lenders and welcome NaBFID as the new sole
lender. It underscored financial institutions' keen interest in supporting
renewable energy projects with stable, long-term cash flows. Securing better
interest rates for operational assets further bolstered our financial
performance while delivering value to all stakeholders.