Atlas Renewable Energy’s D&I program recognized with LAVCA’s 2021 Gender Diversity Award

Miami, FL, June 8, 2021 – The Association for Private Capital Investment in Latin America (LAVCA), dedicated to supporting the growth of private capital in the region, recognized Atlas Renewable Energy with the 2021 Gender and Diversity Award for their Female Workforce Program during the Seventh Annual Latin American Private Capital ESG Deal Awards on June 2nd.

The program was submitted by Actis, Atlas Renewable Energy’s sponsor and active member of LAVCA, which was recognized for supporting social and gender diversity through one of Atlas’ initiatives. The winners were determined by a distinguished panel of institutional investors from development finance institutions, insurance companies and pension funds.

Atlas Renewable Energy’s female workforce program “We are all part of the same energy” stood out because of its goals to improve local women’s access to employment, entrepreneurial opportunities and leadership positions across the corporate value chain. The program established an ambitious target to increase female representation in the construction workforce of the company’s solar projects from a 2% to a 10-15%.

The program has become Atlas’ ESG flagship initiative in the communities where the company is building new renewable energy projects in Brazil, Mexico and Chile. With this Atlas aims to address the existing gender gap in the renewable energy sector. Furthermore, the program is directly aligned with five of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals: #5 – Gender Equality, #8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth, #10 – Reduce Inequalities and #12 – Responsible Consumption and Production.

“We are all part of the same energy” was created with the intention to develop technical skills in the local female workforce such as electricity, mechanics, quality control, carpentry and environmental management which will grant women access to better job opportunities within the construction of Atlas’ own projects under execution or others being developed in their communities. At the same time, Atlas mobilized its contractors to prioritize women who participated in the trainings during their hiring process.

“To this day, the program has trained close to 700 women in three countries and plans to reach 1,000 in the coming months. As the projects advance and others are added, we expect an increase in these results and at the same time a change in paradigm within our industry and the communities we touch,” said María José Cortés, Head of ESG at Atlas Renewable Energy. “It is an honor that Actis and Atlas are both being recognized for their shared vision toward gender diversity. The female workforce program is proof that good corporate social responsibility inspires and promotes best practices beyond the office and that it can positively impact our society.” 

About Actis

Actis is a leading investor in growth markets across Africa, Asia and Latin America. Actis delivers consistent, competitive returns, responsibly, through insights gained from trusted relationships, local knowledge and deep sector expertise.

Founded in 2004, Actis has an unparalleled heritage in growth markets, set within a culture of active ownership. Actis has raised US$19bn since inception and employs c.300 people, including a team of c.120 investment professionals, working across 17 offices globally.  Actis’ investors’ capital is at work in c.100 companies around the world, employing over 120,000 people.

To learn more about Actis, visit: https://www.act.is/

About Atlas Renewable Energy

Atlas Renewable Energy is a renewable energy generation company that develops, builds and operates renewable energy projects with long-term contracts across the Americas. The current company portfolio is 2.2GW of contracted projects in development, construction or operational stages, and aims to expand by an additional 4GW in the next years.

Launched in early 2017, Atlas Renewable Energy includes an experienced team with the longest track record in the solar energy industry in Latin America. The company is recognized for its high standards in the development, construction and operation of large-scale projects.

Atlas Renewable Energy is part of the Energy Fund IV, founded by Actis, a leading private equity investor in the energy sector. Atlas Renewable Energy’s growth is focused on the leading emerging markets and economies, using its proven development, commercialization and structuring know-how to accelerate the transformation toward clean energy. By actively engaging with the community and stakeholders at the center of its project strategy, the company works every day to provide a cleaner future.

To know more about Atlas Renewable Energy, visit: www.atlasrenewableenergy.com

/by

Atlas Renewable Energy executes its 2nd USD Finance Project in Brazil’s Renewable Sector with IDB Invest and DNB Bank

São Paulo, May 6, 2021 – Atlas Renewable Energy, a leading renewable energy company in the Americas, announced today that it has obtained a USD 150 million loan from IDB Invest, a member of IDB Group, and from DNB Bank ASA (the largest financial services group in Norway) to finance the construction of its Lar do Sol – Casablanca project, a 359MWp solar project to be developed in Brazil that will provide clean energy to Anglo American’s operations in Minas Gerais.

The loan was secured from IDB Invest, including the Clean Technology Fund and the Canadian Climate Fund for the Private Sector in the Americas – Phase II, both administered by IDB Invest, together with a participation from DNB Bank ASA.

The plant will generate 805 GWh per year and the Power Purchase Agreement is, to date, the largest contract with a solar project for the supply of clean energy to a private offtaker in Brazil and indexed to the United States dollar. Lar do Sol – Casablanca’s generation will be the equivalent of supplying energy to 390,000 houses per year according to the average consumption of a Brazilian family and will avoid approximately 50,000 tons of CO2 emissions per year, which could be compared to removing 19,867 vehicles from the streets of São Paulo in the same period.

The Casablanca solar plant is part of Anglo American’s strategy to use 100% renewable energy for its operations in Brazil as of 2022 and is integrated into its Sustainable Mining Plan which has a goal of reducing 30% of its global CO2 emission by 2030.

This transaction was structured following a similar format used by Atlas Renewable Energy in a recently announced financing for its Jacaranda solar plant, which was also financed by IDB Invest and DNB Bank ASA. It also falls under Atlas’ Green Finance Framework – a testament to the company’s commitment to developing projects that protect and preserve the environment while adhering to the highest standards of social and environmental engagement. 100% of the photovoltaic solar modules that will be installed in Lar do Sol- Casablanca will use bifacial technology, increasing project performance with the aim of making electricity production more efficient through solar energy.

Furthermore, in line with Atlas Renewable Energy’s commitment to an ambitious social engagement agenda, the company will be implementing social programs in the local community that actively promote diversity and inclusion. To achieve this, the company will expand its program “we are all part of the same energy” to Lar do Sol – Casablanca’s construction site, an initiative created to train and develop technical skills and knowhow of over 200 women who live in the neighboring communities.

The program also entails promoting women who participate in trainings to have the opportunity to opt for skilled jobs within Lar do Sol – Casablanca’s construction program. The company established a goal to integrate at least 15% of female representation within the total workforce, which aims to quadruplicate the number of women performing technical jobs in solar projects within the region. To that end, actions have been taken to ensure that women are not deterred from working at the project site due to family responsibilities. Among other things, the company will grant working mothers with children between the ages of 0-12 years old a financial incentive to cover childcare expenses. In addition to involving women in the construction process, Atlas has mobilized all contractors in the project to prioritize local minorities in the hiring process, looking to include at least 30% of afro-descendants within the number of women hired and at least 40% within the number of men hired. These goals are part of the company’s approach to ensuring diversity and inclusion within the energy industry and promote equalitarian practices by empowering minorities across all its operations.

“We are pleased to achieve another successful financial close alongside IDB Invest and DNB Bank ASA, two institutions that have become important allies in structuring innovative financing solutions to help consumers transition to renewable energy. Moreover, we are extremely proud of our partnership with IDB Invest in creating a unique and ambitious social responsibility program that directly addresses diversity and inclusion within our value chain. We believe that clean energy should be responsibly sourced, therefore we are committed to tackling social inequalities and cultural biases from our line of work,” said Carlos Barrera, Atlas Renewable Energy’s CEO. “We look forward to continue accelerating the Brazilian market’s renewable energy potential in a sustainable manner, while providing the best-in-class solutions to large energy consumers.”

“This financing demonstrates IDB Invest’s commitment to investing in clean energy and for helping companies dedicated to implementing decarbonization programs in their businesses,” said Gian Franco Carassale, Head of Infrastructure and Energy Division at IDB Invest. “In addition, our institution is proud to work together with Atlas Renewable Energy to support programs where the inclusion of women and minorities is a priority. We hope to have more opportunities like this in the future.”

“We are very proud to once again support Atlas Renewable Energy with this new financing in Brazil through IDB Invest,” said Emilio Fabbrizzi, Managing Director and Head of renewables and infrastructure for the Americas at DNB Markets, Inc. “Apart from implementing a long-term and innovative structure for Brazil, we highlight that it is also aligned with Atlas Renewable Energy’s Green Finance Framework, which was executed through DNB Markets, Inc. in 2019.”

About Atlas Renewable Energy

Atlas Renewable Energy is a renewable energy generation company that develops, builds, and operates renewable energy projects with long-term contracts across the Americas. The current company portfolio is 2.2GW of contracted projects in development, construction, or operational stages, and aims to expand by an additional 4GW in the next years.

Launched in early 2017, Atlas Renewable Energy includes an experienced team with the longest track record in the solar energy industry in Latin America. The company is recognized for its high standards in the development, construction, and operation of large-scale projects.

Atlas Renewable Energy is part of the Energy Fund IV, founded by Actis, a leading private equity investor in the energy sector. Atlas Renewable Energy’s growth is focused on the leading emerging markets and economies, using its proven development, commercialization, and structuring know-how to accelerate the transformation toward clean energy. By actively engaging with the community and stakeholders at the center of its project strategy, the company works every day to provide a cleaner future.

To know more about Atlas Renewable Energy, visit: www.atlasrenewableenergy.com

About IDB Invest

IDB Invest, A member of the IDB Group, it is a multilateral development bank committed to promoting the economic development of its member countries in Latin America and the Caribbean through the private sector. IDB Invest finances sustainable companies and projects to achieve financial results and maximize economic, social and environmental development in the region. With a portfolio of US $ 13.1 billion in assets under management and 385 clients in 25 countries, IDB Invest provides innovative financial solutions and advisory services that respond to the needs of its clients in a variety of sectors.

About DNB Bank ASA and DNB Markets, Inc.

DNB is Norway’s largest financial services group and one of the largest among the Nordic countries in market capitalization. DNB Markets, Inc. is a subsidiary of DNB Bank ASA, and is a registered a U.S. broker-dealer and a member of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”) and the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (“SIPC”).The Group is among the world’s leading banks in transportation, energy and seafood. The bank has a selective global focus on renewable energy, with a special emphasis on hydroelectric, wind and solar technologies and is committed to supporting sustainable initiatives with green solutions.

/by

Atlas Renewable Energy partners with Hitachi ABB Power Grids to integrate Battery Energy Storage Systems in Renewable Projects

Miami, FL, April 21, 2021 – Atlas Renewable Energy, a leading renewable energy company in the Americas, announced today that it has signed a Collaboration Agreement with Hitachi ABB Power Grids, to jointly develop and execute Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) at a utility scale level for Atlas’ renewable projects.

This agreement will allow Hitachi ABB Power Grids to assist with the development of the best technical solutions regarding BESS and their interconnection during the development of a new project. Hitachi ABB Power Grids will be invited to participate in the tenders launched by Atlas Renewable Energy for the Engineering Package of the projects.

The main objective behind this agreement is to ensure that these energy storage systems can be successfully integrated into the design of new projects during the early development stage as an add-on to the plant depending on the needs it will serve. To do this, Atlas Renewable Energy has taken a more holistic approach by partnering with a company such as Hitachi ABB Power Grids, known for its capabilities in developing technical solutions regarding BESS and its expertise in rendering assistance for the integration of such technology in utility scale energy projects.

“We are very proud to count on Hitachi ABB Power Grids’ team of engineers once again, but this time during the development process of our pipeline. In the past, we worked together on introducing the first digital substation installed for a solar plant in Latin America. Now, we are going a step further into ensuring that all our new projects’ design will have the added value of being conceived with the best BESS and interconnection solution,” said Fabian Gonzalez, Director of Innovation and Operational Efficiency at Atlas Renewable Energy.

“Through this collaboration, Atlas Renewable Energy guarantees that the most optimal storage system is chosen and adopted into our renewable projects. Usually, choosing and installing the most appropriate BESS solution is an intricate and highly technical process, but if it is formulated from the start with proper planning and led by experts in integrated solutions, we will be able to ensure a more flexible, reliable and efficient battery implementation for our projects fleet,” added Gonzalez.

“At Atlas, we strive to be at the forefront of innovation, always looking to explore new ways to achieve the best results. Introducing batteries is an important step in further elevating our projects’ technological edge, but our main priority is to have a successful integration. That is why we decided to find an all-encompassing approach with Hitachi ABB Power Grids,” said Juan Jose Bonilla, Head of Business Development and O&M at Atlas Renewable Energy.

“We aim to provide an even more tailored solution for our large energy consumer clients, whose energy needs may differ and intermittency of renewables can still be a major concern. Offering clean energy with a unique storage solution for each one of our projects provides a differentiated value that gives significant reliability and efficiency to our clients,” added Bonilla.

“We look forward to collaborating on projects together with Atlas Renewable Energy that build on their deep experience with utility-scale renewable projects in Latin America and our own global Grid Edge Solutions footprint of more than 500 megawatts (MW) and 200 references,” said Maxine Ghavi, Head of Grid Edge Solutions at Hitachi ABB Power Grids. “Our proven technologies have enabled customers to create economic, social and environmental value by unlocking new revenue streams, maximizing renewable integration and lowering carbon emissions. As we look toward the future, we anticipate more need for more systems that support renewable smoothing and ancillary grid services.”

This is not the first time that Atlas Renewable Energy has partnered with a major supplier or technology provider to enhance the quality and efficiency in its projects. Just two years ago, the company announced that it would be the first generator in Latin America to roll-out the TrueCapture system developed by Nextracker throughout most of the company’s operating fleet. With the use of TrueCapture, the company’s solar plants tracking system has been optimized to the modular level resulting in an increase of the plants’ overall performance and efficiency.

Atlas Renewable Energy has also helped advance the region’s solar innovation by being one of the first developers to test bifacial modules and to introduce this technology on large scale withing its current projects under construction, which account for almost 1GW of capacity being generated with this cutting-edge panel technology.

These, among other technologies will enable Atlas Renewable Energy to build state-of-the-art renewable energy plants across the Americas and continue elevating the efficiency of solar energy, making this source of energy an even more reliable option to serve large energy consumers throughout the region.

About Atlas Renewable Energy

Atlas Renewable Energy is a renewable energy generation company that develops, builds and operates renewable energy projects with long-term contracts across the Americas. The current company portfolio is 2.2GW of contracted projects in development, construction or operational stages, and aims to expand by an additional 4GW in the next years.

Launched in early 2017, Atlas Renewable Energy includes an experienced team with the longest track record in the solar energy industry in Latin America. The company is recognized for its high standards in the development, construction and operation of large-scale projects.

Atlas Renewable Energy is part of the Energy Fund IV, founded by Actis, a leading private equity investor in the energy sector. Atlas Renewable Energy’s growth is focused on the leading emerging markets and economies, using its proven development, commercialization and structuring know-how to accelerate the transformation toward clean energy. By actively engaging with the community and stakeholders at the center of its project strategy, the company works every day to provide a cleaner future.

To know more about Atlas Renewable Energy, visit: www.atlasrenewableenergy.com

/by

Atlas Renewable Energy Awarded LatAm Solar Deal of the Year and Sponsor of the Year by Proximo Awards

Miami, FL, March 31, 2021 – Atlas Renewable Energy, an international renewable energy developer with operations across the Americas, was awarded Latin America Sponsor of the Year by Proximo Awards on March 30, 2021, for its overall performance and commitment to accelerate the region’s transformation toward 100% clean energy. The company also took home the Latin America Solar Deal of the Year Award for its New Juazeiro Financial Deal, an innovative financing solution that comprises the construction of the Jacaranda solar plant in Brazil.

These two awards reiterate Atlas Renewable Energy’s great achievements and fast growth in the region. Recently, the company was also ranked as the top clean energy developer for Corporate PPAs in Latin America according to Bloomberg NEF’s 1H 2021 Corporate Energy Market Outlook, as well as occupying the sixth place globally with over a half of gigawatt contracted for private offtakers in the region.

Latin American Deal of the Year

Atlas Renewable Energy’s New Juazeiro Deal has been awarded Latin America Solar Deal of the Year for its unique pioneering financial structure marking the first time a Brazilian solar project has been fully financed in US dollars. This forward-thinking deal was possible through the collaboration with IDB Invest and DNB Markets, two great allies who have helped transform Latin America’s energy industry into a cleaner and more sustainable business. The deal also counted on the expert advice from White & Case and Machado Meyer Law Firms.

“We are very honored and proud to be awarded Solar Deal of the Year,” said Michael Shea Head of Structured Finance at Atlas Renewable Energy. “We’d like to thank IDB and DNB Markets for their support in creating such an innovative financial structure that will certainly prompt other international investors to see the opportunities that are not only offered in the Brazilian market, but in Latin America in general.”

“With this, we hope to continue exploring unique, tailor-made solutions to make clean energy attainable for large energy consumers in the Americas and continue building a more sustainable future for the region in alliance with reputable financial institutions that see Atlas Renewable Energy as a trusted and capable partner,” Michael added.

The New Juazeiro deal will finance the construction of Atlas Renewable Energy’s Jacaranda solar plant located in the municipality of Juazeiro, State of Bahia, Brazil. The project has been contracted under a Corporate PPA with the Brazilian subsidiary of Dow Chemical to provide clean energy to one of Dow’s largest production sites in the country. The plant has a capacity of 187 MWp and will generate about 400 GWh per year, which is enough to supply power to a city of over 75,000 inhabitants and will avoid approximately 35,000 metric tons of CO2 emissions.

Sponsor of the Year

Atlas Renewable Energy was also recognized as Sponsor of the Year due to the company’s notable growth in the region, accelerating the adoption of cleaner sources of energy and the relevance of the agreements signed during the year with major corporations in the mining and chemical sectors. These collaborations allowed Atlas to grow and double its capacity of contracted projects to 2.2 GW, of which a large portion have been enabled through corporate PPAs with private offtakers.

Furthermore, during 2020, Atlas Renewable Energy secured important financial deals in partnership with reputable institutions such as IDB Invest and DNB Markets to finance projects in Brazil, Mexico and Chile.  Most of them fell under the company’s Green Finance Framework sponsored by DNB Markets – a testament to Atlas’ commitment to developing projects that protect and preserve the environment while adhering to the highest standards of social engagement.

In collaboration with IDB Invest, Atlas developed one of its most ambitious social initiative: the female workforce program “We are all part of the same energy” in which the company is committed to train almost 700 women in the communities close to the company’s sites under construction and has established the target to hire 4 times more female labor during the execution of these projects.

“Apart from thanking Proximo for such recognitions, I would like to congratulate our team for their motivation to always strive for excellence; and recognize the financial institutions that have worked with us for not only partnering with Atlas in finding innovative financial solutions for our projects, but for also becoming our allies to earnestly address social issues and promote high standards and sustainable practices,” said Javier Barajas CFO of Atlas Renewable Energy. “It is a great honor for us to receive this award and hope it serves as evidence of Latin America’s thriving renewable energy market.”

###

About Atlas Renewable Energy

Atlas Renewable Energy is a renewable energy generation company that develops, builds, and operates renewable energy projects with long-term contracts across the Americas. The current company portfolio is 2.2GW of contracted projects in development, construction, or operational stages, and aims to expand by an additional 4GW in the next years.

Launched in early 2017, Atlas Renewable Energy includes an experienced team with the longest track record in the solar energy industry in Latin America. The company is recognized for its high standards in the development, construction, and operation of large-scale projects.

Atlas Renewable Energy is part of the Energy Fund IV, founded by Actis, a leading private equity investor in the energy sector. Atlas Renewable Energy’s growth is focused on the leading emerging markets and economies, using its proven development, commercialization, and structuring know-how to accelerate the transformation toward clean energy. By actively engaging with the community and stakeholders at the center of its project strategy, the company works every day to provide a cleaner future.

To know more about Atlas Renewable Energy, visit: www.atlasrenewableenergy.com 

/by

Atlas Renewable Energy continues to tackle gender inclusion in the renewable energy sector

  • To mark International Women’s Day, Atlas Renewable Energy announces that in just four years the company has increased its corporate female representation from 11% to 40%, thanks to innovative recruiting processes and inclusive culture. Committed to a more gender diverse approach, the company is looking ahead and setting a comprehensible pathway to promote women within its offices.
  • Atlas has also extended its diversity and inclusion vision to the communities where it operates. Today, the company reveals the early results of its most ambitious social program to date, called “We are all part of the same energy” that addresses gender inequalities within the energy sector. 700 women are being trained in technical skills, across all the locations where Atlas is building new projects.
  • As part of the same program, the company has also mobilized its contractors to prioritize women in their hiring processes within the construction of Atlas’ solar projects – early results show an increase of female representation from a traditional 2% to 15% of the total workforce in these projects.
  • Renewable energy remains overly male-represented as an industry and we must do better, urges CEO on International Women’s Day.

Although progress has been made at improving gender balance in the energy sector, there is still a long way to go, according to Atlas Renewable Energy which develops, builds and operates renewable energy projects across the Americas. A study conducted by the International Renewable Energy Agency highlighted this issue in 2019, when it found that women still only represent 32% of full-time employees in the industry.

Today, Atlas has made public its achievements so far tackling gender imbalance. As of March 2021, 40% of the company’s employees at the corporate level are women, an increase from just 11% when the company was founded in 2017. Reasons for this success include innovative recruiting practices to avoid biases, a strong commitment to an inclusive culture, and designing employee benefits that go above and beyond local regulations to ensure that family responsibilities do not represent a structural barrier to employees.

Atlas is now enhancing their female employees’ careers by developing leadership skills in women inside the company. To do this, the company is putting in place a talent and mentoring program for them to support women personal and professional growth.

“Creating an inclusive and diversified culture that embraces richness and diversity of opinions and experience is extremely valuable. We believe it can take us further as a company and as individuals,” said Marcela Pizzi Head of People at Atlas Renewable Energy. “There are many social issues still to be addressed, but the fact that women are still underrepresented in the energy sector needs to be tackled urgently. That’s why we’ve been focusing on creating safe, nurturing environments for women to grow professionally. The aim is for this growth to be balanced with their family life.”

Increasing female representation across the broader renewable energy industry

Female workforce training in Chile

Following the company’s commitment for a more inclusive approach to business, Atlas has expanded its vision to the communities across all its projects under construction and it has launched a program called “We are all part of the same energy”.

This is an initiative created to promote the local female workforce within these communities and offer them training and technical skills development. The main goal of the program is to give these women better access to more technical jobs within Atlas’ solar plants construction sites or other projects developed in their local area.

At the same time, Atlas has mobilized its local contractors to prioritize women in the hiring process of the projects it develops. The company has set an initial target of 10-15% of the total workforce to be women at each construction site. This compares to an average level of only about 2%.

To mark International Women’s Day, under the motto ‘powering a more inclusive energy,’ Atlas has made public the first results of the “We are all part of the same energy” program. So far, it has focused on communities where the company has solar projects under construction in Brazil, Chile, and Mexico.

To date, Atlas has already sponsored the training of almost 600 women out of a targeted 700. The training programs are developed based on the needs and capabilities required at the solar construction sites under construction, including civil works, carpentry, module mounting, and electricity.

As of today, the Sol del Desierto solar plant under construction in Chile has hired 95 women, which represents 14% of the total workforce. Meanwhile, the Jacaranda solar plant in Brazil has hired 56 women, which represents 15% of the total workforce.

Woman in the construction of Jacaranda Solar Plant - Brazil

In both cases, forecasts for the number of female employees are expected to rise as construction activities reach their peak in the next three months. In addition to Brazil and Chile, almost 300 women have been trained at Atlas’ site under development in Mexico, while the training program will be extended to Minas Gerais in Brazil shortly, where the company is developing the Casablanca solar plant. 

“’We are all part of the same energy’ is our way of materializing our company’s diversity and its inclusive vision, not only from a corporate standpoint but from the roots of the communities where we are building our solar plants,” said María José Córtes, Head of ESG at Atlas Renewable Energy “By addressing female representation and creating the space to train and hire more women from local communities, we are not only promoting equal opportunities for men and women, but generating profound change in the Latin American renewable energy sector. We hope this program inspires other companies in our industry and becomes a vehicle to transform society”.

“We are very proud of the work we’ve done and the commitment our team has taken to promote a real change in every aspect of our business,” said Carlos Barreras CEO of Atlas Renewable Energy. “It is imperative that companies worldwide see themselves as a force to challenge the status quo and shift paradigms, no matter how big or small they are. This will not only speak louder of the company’s culture, but it actually helps us build the world we want to live in.”

Carlos also mentioned that “there is still much to do in terms of gender diversity in our industry. Renewables are going to be one of the most important growth industries of the next decade, but it’s still largely represented by men. Collectively, we must do better. This will remain a big focus for us as we set ourselves to provide a more sustainably and responsibly sourced clean energy across the Americas.”

– Ends –

About Atlas Renewable Energy

Atlas Renewable Energy is a renewable energy generation company that develops, builds, and operates renewable enerzgy projects with long-term contracts across the Americas. The current company portfolio is 2.2GW of contracted projects in development, construction, or operational stages, and aims to expand by an additional 4GW in the next years.

Launched in early 2017, Atlas Renewable Energy includes an experienced team with the longest track record in the solar energy industry in Latin America. The company is recognized for its high standards in the development, construction, and operation of large-scale projects.

Atlas Renewable Energy is part of the Energy Fund IV, founded by Actis, a leading private equity investor in the energy sector. Atlas Renewable Energy’s growth is focused on the leading emerging markets and economies, using its proven development, commercialization, and structuring know-how to accelerate the transformation toward clean energy. By actively engaging with the community and stakeholders at the center of its project strategy, the company works every day to provide a cleaner future.

To know more about Atlas Renewable Energy, visit: www.atlasrenewableenergy.com

/by

Atlas Renewable Energy ranks top clean energy developer for corporate PPAs in Latin America, and in top ten globally

Miami, FL, Feb.  22, 2021 – As presented by Bloomberg NEF’s 1H 2021 Corporate Energy Market Outlook published on Jan. 26, 2020, Atlas Renewable Energy ranked as the number one clean energy developer selling renewable energy to corporate buyers in Latin America during 2020 and occupied 6th place globally with over half a gigawatt contracted for private offtakers in the region.

This success includes a landmark long-term Power Purchase Agreements (PPA) that Atlas Renewable Energy contracted with Anglo-American, a natural resources multinational, which will procure clean energy to its operations in Brazil from the Casablanca project, Atlas Renewable Energy’s 349MW solar plant in Minas Gerais. Casablanca is the largest bilateral solar PPA signed in Latin America to this date.

Similarly, Atlas Renewable Energy signed another groundbreaking project with the Brazilian subsidiary of one of the largest petrochemical multinationals, Dow Chemical. The energy for that project will be sourced from Atlas Renewable Energy’s Jacaranda solar plant and will provide clean energy to Dow’s operations in the state of Bahía under a novel deal structure that addresses solar intermittency and provides a 24h energy offering by swapping the excess solar energy during the day with other clean energy sources that can produce at nighttime, thereby serving a continuous energy load.

Both projects fall under these companies’ strategy to attain ambitious sustainability goals, aiming to reduce a considerable amount of their CO2 emissions and clean their energy matrix, a trend that is rapidly being adopted and implemented in Latin America by large energy consumers in the natural resources and chemical sectors. And, importantly, both projects are uniquely characterized by equally pioneering and ambitious social community engagement programs promoting diversity and inclusion.

“We are extremely proud of the growth that Atlas Renewable Energy has consistently been able to sustain over recent years, repeatedly offering tailor-made energy solutions to our clients. Going forward, we see ourselves continuing to innovate in this space to reduce the carbon footprint of companies and institutions, while also reducing their energy bill.” said Carlos Barrera, Atlas Renewable Energy’s CEO. “The private sector is becoming more conscious about the need to operate sustainably. As such, procuring clean energy has become essential for large energy consumers, and Atlas can support them to find creative and smarter solutions to accelerate their adoption of cleaner sources of energy.”

According to Bloomberg NEF’s report, which tracks corporate clean energy trends, Corporate PPA activity in Latin America in 2020 totaled 1.5GW, of which 1,047MW was procured in Brazil, the region’s largest economy and clean energy market. Brazil PPA volumes nearly doubled from 2019 and

solar contracts accounted for nearly 80% of this growth, driving a strong trend towards solar energy at the regional level.

With these deals, large mining and chemical companies in Brazil dominated Latin America’s corporate procurement landscape in 2020. Global miner Anglo American was the largest corporate offtaker, based on Bloomberg’s report, followed by the Brazilian subsidiary of US-based multinational Dow Chemical.

With this major achievement, Atlas Renewable Energy looks to the future to continue supplying clean energy to big energy consumers across the Americas, accelerating the region’s transition toward clean energy, while promoting best practices and elevating the industry standards.

About Atlas Renewable Energy

Atlas Renewable Energy is a renewable energy generation company that develops, builds, and operates renewable energy projects with long-term contracts across the Americas. The current company portfolio is 2.2GW of contracted projects in development, construction, or operational stages, and aims to expand by an additional 4GW in the next years.

Launched in early 2017, Atlas Renewable Energy includes an experienced team with the longest track record in the solar energy industry in Latin America. The company is recognized for its high standards in the development, construction, and operation of large-scale projects.

Atlas Renewable Energy is part of the Energy Fund IV, founded by Actis, a leading private equity investor in the energy sector. Atlas Renewable Energy’s growth is focused on the leading emerging markets and economies, using its proven development, commercialization, and structuring know-how to accelerate the transformation toward clean energy. By actively engaging with the community and stakeholders at the center of its project strategy, the company works every day to provide a cleaner future.

To know more about Atlas Renewable Energy, visit: www.atlasrenewableenergy.com

/by

Atlas Renewable Energy executes first USD Project Financing in Brazil’s Renewable Sector with IDB Invest and DNB Bank.

São Paulo, October 26, 2020 –Atlas Renewable Energy, a leading renewable energy company in Latin America, announced today that it has obtained a USD 67 million loan from IDB Invest, member of IDB Group, and from DNB Bank ASA (Norway) to finance the construction of Jacaranda, a 187MWp solar project being developed by Atlas Renewable Energy in Brazil, marking the first time that a Brazilian solar project has been fully financed in US dollars.

The loan was secured from IDB Invest, including the Clean Technology Fund and the Canadian Climate Fund for the Private Sector in the Americas – Phase II, both administered by IDB Invest which provided a portion of the loan, together with a participation from DNB Bank ASA. This loan will finance the construction of the Jacaranda solar project, located in the municipality of Juazeiro, State of Bahia. The plant will generate 440GWh per year, which is enough to supply power to a city of over 750,000 inhabitants and avoid approximately 35,000 metric tons of CO2 emissions per year based on the GHG (Green House Gases) Protocol, and is also the equivalent of removing 36,800 vehicles from the streets of São Paulo in the same period of time.

Jacaranda has a 15-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with a Brazilian subsidiary of the American material science giant Dow Inc. This PPA will provide clean energy to Aratu, one of the largest production sites Dow has in Brazil. The agreement between Dow and Atlas Renewable Energy is an innovative solution which will provide 24-hour clean energy to a private offtaker. It achieves this by swapping energy from Jacaranda with other renewable energy providers, guaranteeing a full cycle supply.

Alongside this unique solution that addresses the main concern of solar intermittency, Atlas Renewable Energy has created a financing structure aimed at providing even more price certainty to its client by securing a US dollar financing. This deal also falls under Atlas Renewable Energy’s Green Finance Framework – a testament to the company’s commitment to developing projects that protect and preserve the environment while adhering to the highest standards of social and environmental engagement.

The innovative approach is present in every aspect of the project and goes from using bifacial modules technology, enhancing the plant’s efficiency and reducing land use, to connecting the project to the first digital substation in Brazil already installed within the company’s Eng. Manoel de Andrade solar plant, adjacent to Jacaranda.

Furthermore, in line with Atlas Renewable Energy’s commitment to an ambitious social engagement agenda, the company has declared plans to offer opportunities to the local community that promote diversity and inclusion within the construction’s hiring process. In order to achieve this, the company has engaged NGOs and local authorities to provide training in specialized fields to local women, aiming to quadruplicate the female workforce in solar projects and provide them access to more technical jobs. Likewise, the company is mobilizing its local contractors to prioritize afro descendants and minorities in the hiring process.

“It is an honor to partner with such high-caliber financial institutions and to work once again with IDB Invest and DNB Bank”, said Carlos Barrera, Atlas Renewable Energy’s CEO, who continued: “this financing is an industry first and is a great example of Atlas working with our partners to find innovative solutions for our clients that add significant value to their business while providing clean energy. We are also extremely proud of the unique diversity program that we have designed with IDB Invest to push the envelope in promoting gender and racial diversity. We look forward to continuing to raise the bar and to structuring unique solutions that provide large-energy consumers with a competitive edge while accelerating the energy transition towards clean energy in Latin America.”

Gian Franco Carassale, Chief of Infrastructure and Energy Division for IDB Invest commented, “Atlas Renewable Energy is a strategic client of IDB Invest. We share many core values including the need to reverse climate change through renewable energy investments and through such investments create better opportunities for women and communities such as afro descendants. The Jacaranda Solar Power Project is another example of Atlas Renewable Energy’s commitment to these values and IDB Invest’s and DNB Market’s capacity to deliver innovative financing solutions in the region.”

“DNB Bank and DNB Markets are very proud of supporting Atlas Renewable Energy in this milestone transaction in Brazil with both USD and BRL participations together with IDB Invest, a financing that falls under the Green Finance Framework implemented by Atlas Renewable Energy and advised on the structure by DNB Markets” said Emilio Fabbrizzi, Managing Director at DNB Markets in New York.  

About Atlas Renewable Energy

Atlas Renewable Energy is a renewable energy generation company that develops, builds, and operates renewable energy projects with long-term contracts across Latin America. The current company portfolio is 2.2GW of contracted projects in development, construction, or operational stages, and aims to expand by an additional 4GW in the next years.

Launched in early 2017, Atlas Renewable Energy includes an experienced team with the longest track record in the solar energy industry in Latin America. The company is recognized for its high standards in the development, construction, and operation of large-scale projects.

Atlas Renewable Energy is part of the Energy Fund IV, founded by Actis, a leading private equity investor in the energy sector of emerging markets. Atlas Renewable Energy’s growth is focused on the leading emerging markets and economies of Latin America, using its proven development, commercialization, and structuring know-how to bring clean energy to the region. By actively engaging with the community and stakeholders at the center of its project strategy, the company works every day to provide Latin America with a cleaner future.

To know more about Atlas Renewable Energy, visit: www.atlasrenewableenergy.com

About IDB Invest

IDB Invest, a member of the IDB Group, is a multilateral development bank committed to promoting the economic development of its member countries in Latin America and the Caribbean through the private sector. IDB Invest finances sustainable companies and projects to achieve financial results and maximize economic, social, and environmental development in the region. With a portfolio of $13.1 billion in asset management and 385 clients in 25 countries, IDB Invest provides innovative financial solutions and advisory services that meet the needs of its clients in a variety of industries.

About DNB Bank ASA and DNB Markets, Inc.

DNB is Norway’s largest financial services group and one of the largest in the Nordic region in market capitalization.  DNB Markets, Inc. is a register broker dealer in the United States and an affiliate of DNB Markets, the Investment banking division of DNB Bank ASA in Norway.

The Group is among the world’s leading banks within shipping, energy, and seafood. The bank has a selective global focus on renewable energy, with main emphasis on hydro, wind and solar technologies and is committed to support sustainable initiatives with green solutions.

Media Contacts

JEFFREYGROUP

Samy Charanek: scharanek@jeffreygroup.com
Vinicius Araújo: varaujo@jeffreygroup.com
Eduardo Gaggini: egaggini@jeffreygroup.com

/by

Atlas Renewable Energy and Dow announce the signing of a Solar Energy PPA in Brazil.

Atlas Renewable Energy’s – Jacarandá Solar Plant will have an installed capacity of 187MWp and will provide clean, renewable energy to Dow’s Aratu Site in the State of Bahía

São Paulo, Brazil, June 30th, 2020 –Atlas Renewable Energy, a leading renewable energy company in Latin America along with the American material science multinational company Dow (NYSE: DOW) announced today the signing of a large-scale solar energy contract in Brazil. The clean energy supply will be through the Jacaranda photovoltaic solar plant, located in Juazeiro, the State of Bahía, and is expected to supply over 440GWh per year that will mostly be used to serve Dow under a 15-year duration contract, with offtake starting in the first half of 2021.

The Jacaranda solar plant will have an installed capacity of 187MWp with more than 450,000 modules. The plant will generate enough energy to supply a sizable part of Dow’s Aratu Site’s energy needs. According to the average consumption of a Brazilian family, the amount of energy generated will be equivalent to supply enough power to a city of +750,000 inhabitants. Furthermore, the plant will avoid an approximate of 35,000 metric tons of CO2 emissions per year based on the GHG (Green House Gases) Protocol, methodology developed by the World Resources Institute which follows the methods used by the IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change) and it is aligned with Dow’s Global Emissions Inventory. This amount of avoided CO2 emission could be compared to removing 36,800 vehicles from the streets of São Paulo.

This contract to secure renewable power capacity contributes to achieving one of Dow’s 2025 Sustainability Goals, a commitment to obtain 750 MW of its power demand from renewable sources by 2025. Dow also recently announced additional Carbon Reduction Goals, which aim to reduce Dow’s net annual emissions by 15% from 2020 to 2030, representing a reduction of 5 million tons of CO2 in the next ten years and another significant step toward reaching carbon neutrality by 2050. Currently, Dow is the number one user of clean energy in the chemical industry and among the top 25 global corporations for renewable power use (BNEF ranking), with contracts for wind, solar, hydro, biomass and landfill gas.

The Jacarandá solar plant will be developed, built and operated by Atlas Renewable Energy, whose track record and expertise in Latin America has positioned the company as an essential player in the renewable energy sector in the region. The company also keeps expanding its footprint in the Brazilian market, where it has established itself with three more operating plants in the State of Bahia and another plant in the State of Ceará: São Pedro (67MW), Sertão Solar Barreiras (117 MW), Eng. Manoel de Andrade, previously known as Juazeiro (167MW) and Sol do Futuro (81 MW).

The Jacarandá project will be neighboring the Eng. Manoel de Andrade solar plant and will make use of its digital substation, a breakthrough innovation, first-of-its-kind in the Brazilian solar industry, introduced by Atlas Renewable Energy in 2019. Furthermore, the Jacarandá project will host bi-facial module technology, a major cutting-edge technology in solar energy. These innovative solar panels use the reflection of the sun’s rays from their front and back sides, increasing the efficiency of the photoelectric conversion, therefore enhancing the overall efficiency of the plant.

As part of Atlas Renewable Energy’s commitment to the State of Bahía, the Jacarandá plant’s construction will develop programs to bolster local communities’ overall wellbeing. The project will provide training and employment focused on creating new skills for locals. It will also advocate for gender equality by implementing the program: “We are all part of the same energy” developed by Atlas Renewable Energy. This program focuses on the promotion of inclusive practices by empowering the local female workforce through training that will enhance or create new skills. This will allow local women to have access to new job opportunities within the project and uplift their skillsets and potential by integrating them into more specialized jobs. Thanks to this program the company is expecting to hire 3 to 4 times more women than the female workforce usually hired during the construction of solar projects in Brazil. In addition, the execution of the Jacarandá project is expected to have a maximum of 1,200 workers, of which a 70% is expected to be from local workforce.

“Dow is pleased to partner with leading clean power producers like Atlas Renewable Energy as we work to reduce our emission intensity and support projects that add greater renewable contribution and diversity to the grid/matrix,” said Claudia Schaeffer, Dow’s global business director for Energy & Climate Change. “In addition to our passion for a lower carbon future, our companies share a commitment to ESG (Environmental Social and Governance) principles that encourage economic growth and social development for the communities where we operate.”

Carlos Barrera, Atlas Renewable Energy CEO mentioned: “Atlas is positioning itself as the right partner for large consumers in Latin America to serve them with clean energy and help lower their carbon footprints and reduce their costs. Our aim is to create competitive clean energy solutions for our clients by developing and implementing new, world-class renewable energy projects, all while acting responsibly with local communities. We look forward to continue supporting Dow, and other energy users across Brazil and Latin America to reduce their carbon footprints while reducing their electricity bill.”

Luis Pita, General Manager of Atlas Renewable Energy for Brazil, emphasized: “We aim to continue to boost the thriving bilateral market in Brazil by implementing top-of-the-line solutions with novel technology and the highest-in-class sustainability standards in all our projects. It is an honor for us to partner with Dow, a leader in its sector that stands out for its ambitious sustainable approach in operations and culture.” He also added: “We are also breaking ground in this project by implementing our program “We´re all part of the same energy”, centered in the inclusion and promotion of qualified female labor force, through the development of training programs and the application of the learnings during the construction and operational phase of the plant. This will definitely help promote and integrate female workforce in the region.”

Luiz Ballester, Commercial Director for Atlas Renewable Energy in Brazil, also commented: “Signing a corporate or bilateral PPA is usually an intricate and detailed process where many variables come to play. Our expertise in the matter and financial capabilities have proven to be a major differentiator for sophisticated large energy consumers, like Dow, when implementing clean energy solutions from development to full operation. Our strong know-how and bankability allow us to provide an all-encompassing service – we believe in creating a personalized and tailor-made solution that can effectively maximize each client’s goals while ensuring predictability and long-term commitment.”

About Atlas Renewable Energy

Atlas Renewable Energy is a renewable energy generation company that develops, builds, and operates renewable energy projects with long-term energy contracts across Latin America. The current company portfolio is 2GW of contracted projects in development, construction, or operational stages, and aims to expand by an additional 4GW in the next years.

Launched in early 2017, Atlas Renewable Energy includes an experienced team with the longest track record in the solar energy industry in Latin America. The company is recognized for its high standards in the development, construction, and operation of large-scale projects.

Atlas Renewable Energy is part of the Energy Fund IV, founded by Actis, a leading private equity investor in the energy sector of emerging markets. Atlas Renewable Energy’s growth is focused on the leading emerging markets and economies of Latin America, using its proven development, commercialization, and structuring know-how to bring clean energy to the region. By actively engaging with the community and stakeholders at the center of its project strategy, the company works every day to provide Latin America with a cleaner future.

To know more about Atlas Renewable Energy, visit: https://es.atlasrenewableenergy.com/

About Dow

Dow (NYSE: DOW) combines global breadth, asset integration and scale, focused innovation and leading business positions to achieve profitable growth. The Company’s ambition is to become the most innovative, customer centric, inclusive and sustainable materials science company. Dow’s portfolio of plastics, industrial intermediates, coatings and silicones businesses delivers a broad range of differentiated science-based products and solutions for its customers in high-growth market segments, such as packaging, infrastructure and consumer care. Dow operates 109 manufacturing sites in 31 countries and employs approximately 36,500 people. Dow delivered sales of approximately $43 billion in 2019. References to Dow or the Company mean Dow Inc. and its subsidiaries. For more information, please visit http://www.dow.com or follow @DowNewsroom on Twitter.

Media Contacts

Atlas Renewable Energy

JeffreyGroup
Rejane Rodrigues – rrodrigues@jeffreygroup.com  – 19 99174-6256
Vinícius Araújo – varaujo@jeffreygroup.com

Dow

Oribá Comunicação
Anna Brom – anna@oribacomunicacao.com.br
Júlia Meriqui – julia@oribacomunicacao.com.br
Nayme Bizaio – nayme@oribacomunicacao.com.br
(11) 4106-5944

/by

Atlas Renewable Energy and Anglo American Announce the Largest Bilateral Solar Energy PPA in Brazil

Atlas Renewable Energy’s Atlas Casablanca Solar Plant will supply 613GWh from 2022, being the largest bilateral large-scale solar energy purchase and sale contract in Brazil to date.

São Paulo, Brazil, March 10th, 2020 –Atlas Renewable Energy, a leading renewable energy company in Latin America along with British mining company Anglo American Plc, a leading global mining company, announced today the signing of the largest solar energy purchase and sale contract in Brazil with an investment of 881 Million Brazilian Reals. The clean energy supply will be through the Atlas Casablanca photovoltaic solar plant, located in the State of Minas Gerais, and is expected to supply about 9 TWh during the life of the contract with Anglo American for 15 years and will commence in 2022.

The Atlas Casablanca solar plant has an installed capacity of 330MW with more than 800,000 modules. The plant will produce enough energy to supply a city of 1.4 million inhabitants, according to the average consumption of a Brazilian family. This contract is part of Anglo American’s strategy to use 100% renewable energy for its operations in Brazil as of 2022 and is part of Anglo American Sustainable Mining Plan which has among its goals to reduce by 30% its CO2 emissions by 2030.

Atlas Renewable Energy will use bifacial modules in the Atlas Casablanca solar plant, a cutting-edge technology in the generation of solar energy. These novel solar panels are able to use the reflection of the sun’s rays from their front and back sides, increasing the efficiency of the photoelectric conversion, and therefore increasing the energy generation and efficiency of the plant.

As part of its commitment to the State of Minas Gerais, Atlas Renewable Energy will develop, in conjunction with local communities, plans that contribute to the improvement of their living conditions. During the construction and operation of the Atlas Casablanca project, different labor training programs, especially developed for the female work force will be implemented and the hiring of local labor will be prioritized.

Wilfred Bruijn, CEO of Anglo American in Brazil, commented: “With this agreement and the contract for the construction of a wind power plant in Bahia signed in December, we will now be sourcing 90% of our energy from renewable sources, leading to a 40% reduction in CO2 emissions associated with our activities.”

Carlos Barrera, Atlas Renewable Energy CEO mentioned: “Atlas is leading in the new trend of providing clean energy directly to large energy consumers. The forms of supply are being transformed, making clean sources available to large companies, thus reducing their carbon footprint and production costs. Atlas is proud of pioneering, once again, the bilateral solar PPA in a new Latin American country. Our team was the first to implement a solar Private PPA in Chile some 8 years ago, and now we do so in Brazil. We would like to acknowledge and congratulate Anglo-American’s leadership for their commitment to become a more sustainable institution.”

Luis Pita, General Manager of Atlas Renewable Energy for Brazil, emphasized: “This contract represents a leadership position by Anglo American to demonstrate its commitment to the use of renewable energy in its operations, as well as Atlas’s ability to develop bilateral contracts for clean energy supply with top-level companies that share our interest in protecting and preserving the environment. The Atlas Casablanca project will be an important step in the development of the solar power in a state as important as Minas Gerais.”

Luiz Ballester, Commercial Director for Atlas Renewable Energy in Brazil, also commented: “This project is an example of the added value that Atlas can offer thanks to our ability to create advantageous, low-cost and tailor-made solutions for industrial partners.” Ballester, added: “The Brazilian industrial sector is not only conscious about maximizing its efficiency but also concerned about their carbon footprint, here is where a company like Atlas comes into play, we have the expertise and financial capabilities to provide a major differentiator for these companies by implementing clean energy solutions from development to the full operation.”

About Atlas Renewable Energy

Atlas Renewable Energy is a renewable energy generation company that develops, builds, and operates renewable energy projects with long-term energy contracts across Latin America. The current company portfolio is 1.7GW of contracted projects in development, construction, or operational stages, and aims to expand by an additional 4GW in the next years.

Launched in early 2017, Atlas Renewable Energy includes an experienced team with the longest track record in the solar energy industry in Latin America. The company is recognized for its high standards in the development, construction, and operation of large-scale projects.

Atlas Renewable Energy is part of the Energy Fund IV, founded by Actis, a leading private equity investor in the energy sector of emerging markets. Atlas Renewable Energy’s growth is focused on the leading emerging markets and economies of Latin America, using its proven development, commercialization, and structuring know-how to bring clean energy to the region. By actively engaging with the community and stakeholders at the center of its project strategy, the company works every day to provide Latin America with a cleaner future.

To know more about Atlas Renewable Energy, visit: https://es.atlasrenewableenergy.com/

About Anglo American

Anglo American is a leading global mining company and our products are the essential ingredients in almost every aspect of modern life. Our portfolio of world-class competitive mining operations and undeveloped resources provides the metals and minerals that enable a cleaner, more electrified world and that meet the fast-growing consumer-driven demands of the world’s developed and maturing economies. With our people at the heart of our business, we use innovative practices and the latest technologies to discover new resources and mine, process, move and market our products to our customers around the world – safely, responsibly and sustainably.

As a responsible miner – of diamonds (through De Beers), copper, platinum group metals, iron ore, coal and nickel – we are the custodians of what are precious natural resources. We work together with our business partners and diverse stakeholders to unlock the sustainable value that those resources represent for our shareholders, the communities and countries in which we operate, and for society as a whole. Anglo American is re-imagining mining to improve people’s lives.

Learn more here, www.angloamerican.com

Media Contacts

Diana Castellanos, Marketing and Communications Manager, Atlas Renewable Energy
Email: dcastellanos@atlasren.com

Andressa Quadros, BCW
Email: andressa.quadros@bcw-global.com

/by

Atlas Renewable Energy And DNB Markets Issue Largest Solar PV Bond In $ Issuance In Latin America

Miami FL, New York, NY, March 3, 2020 –Atlas Renewable Energy, and DNB Markets today announced the issuance of a USD253m US private placement (“USPP”) in Green Bond format. The notes were rated investment grade (BBB-) by Fitch Rating (including the construction period of one of the projects) and were issued by subsidiaries of Atlas Renewable Energy to refinance Javiera and build Sol del Desierto, two solar PV plants located in the north of Chile. The transaction is the largest solar PV green USPP issuance in Latin America to date.

DNB Markets acted as Sole Lead Placement Agent for the notes. The bond was issued under Atlas Renewable Energy’s Green Finance Framework, which is aligned with 2018 versions of the ICMA Green Bond Principles and the LMA Green Loan Principles. This framework recognizes and attests to the company’s commitment to developing projects that protect and preserve the environment while adhering to the highest standards of environmental engagement.

The two solar PV generation assets are located in the Atacama and Antofagasta regions in the north of Chile, and together they have a total installed capacity of 314MWp. Both projects have been combined under a single financing portfolio – an innovative structure that provides the investors with key structural benefits and synergies of cross-collateralized assets and cross-guaranteed cash flows. A similar original arrangement was seen in Atlas Renewable Energy’s refinancing of its two solar plants in Uruguay in 2018, structured by DNB Markets and for which the company was awarded the 2018 Structured Bond Deal of the Year.

This time, the transaction comprises two of the company’s solar PV projects in northern Chile: Javiera is a 70MWp fully operational asset, which provides clean energy under a Corporate PPA with Minera Los Pelambres (majority owned by Antofagasta Minerals) since 2015; and Sol del Desierto, a 244MWp greenfield project being developed by Atlas Renewable Energy, currently under construction. This plant is expected to start providing clean energy to Engie Energia Chile S.A by 2022. Sol del Desierto will use bifacial technology, which collects sunlight not only on the front side but also on the rear side to maximize generation.

“We are very proud of this unique financial solution, tailor-made for these projects in order to enhance investment value” said Carlos Barrera, CEO of Atlas Renewable Energy, who also added: “This transaction demonstrates Atlas’ further consolidation in the capital markets with repeat investors across multiple projects and jurisdictions.” He continued: “It is a pleasure to work with and have the confidence of high-caliber investors as we continue to mobilize capital to expand clean, renewable energy across Latin America.”

“This represents DNB’s largest US Private Placement transaction in Latin America and the second for Atlas Renewable Energy (all with green certifications) and continues to demonstrate DNB’s strong placement capabilities and industry experience in Latin America” stated Emilio Fabbrizzi, Managing Director at DNB Markets in New York. “DNB’s Sustainable Finance team also advised Atlas in setting up a Green Finance Framework, which was validated by Sustainalytics and will allow the company to issue further green bonds and loans by its four subsidiaries in the future.”

About Atlas Renewable Energy

Atlas Renewable Energy is a renewable energy generation company that develops, builds, and operates renewable energy projects with long-term energy contracts across Latin America. The current company portfolio is 1.7GW of contracted projects in development, construction, or operational stages, and aims to expand by an additional 4GW in the next years.

Launched in early 2017, Atlas Renewable Energy includes an experienced team with the longest track record in the solar energy industry in Latin America. The company is recognized for its high standards in the development, construction, and operation of large-scale projects.

Atlas Renewable Energy is part of the Energy Fund IV, founded by Actis, a leading private equity investor in the energy sector of emerging markets. Atlas Renewable Energy’s growth is focused on the leading emerging markets and economies of Latin America, using its proven development, commercialization, and structuring know-how to bring clean energy to the region. By actively engaging with the community and stakeholders at the center of its project strategy, the company works every day to provide Latin America with a cleaner future.

To know more about Atlas Renewable Energy, visit: https://es.atlasrenewableenergy.com/

About DNB Markets, Inc.

DNB Markets, Inc. is a register broker dealer in the United States and an affiliate of DNB Markets, a division of DNB Bank ASA in Norway. DNB is Norway’s largest financial services group and one of the largest in the Nordic region in market capitalization.

The Group is among the world’s leading banks within shipping, energy and seafood. The bank has a selective global focus on renewable energy, with main emphasis on hydro, wind and solar technologies and is committed to support sustainable initiatives with green solutions.

Media Contacts

Diana Castellanos, Marketing and Communications Manager, Atlas Renewable Energy
Email: dcastellanos@atlasren.com

Andressa Quadros, BCW
Email: andressa.quadros@bcw-global.com

Emilio Fabbrizzi, Managing Director, DNB Markets
Email: Emilio.Fabbrizzi@dnb.no

/by