Citi sees renewables boost from draft IRA changes

Published 13/05/2025, 12:12
Citi sees renewables boost from draft IRA changes

On Tuesday, Citi issued commentary on the impact of the proposed changes in the draft reconciliation bill on the North American alternative energy sector. The bill, deemed a thoughtful starting position by Republicans, offered more favorable terms for renewable energy than previously anticipated. Notable adjustments include an earlier sunset of the Investment Tax Credit ( ITC (NSE:ITC)) and Production Tax Credit ( PTC (NASDAQ:PTC)) beginning in 2029, and the termination of individual-owned solar credits under Section 25D by the end of calendar year 2025.According to InvestingPro data, the alternative energy sector leader NextEra Energy, with its $7.37 billion market cap, maintains an EXCELLENT financial health score, supported by strong cash flows and solid balance sheet metrics. The company’s robust 21.46% revenue growth demonstrates the sector’s continued expansion despite regulatory changes.

The proposed legislation also outlines the end of the Advanced Manufacturing (45X) PTC in December 2031, which is one year earlier than expected, and the Hydrogen PTC (45V) for new facilities concluding in 2026, significantly sooner than the former 2033 deadline. Nuclear PTC (45U) will terminate in December 2031, and clean vehicle credits will end earlier as well. The bill also includes the repeal of credit transferability from year-end 2027 and introduces restrictions under the Foreign Entities of Concern (FEOC).

The changes are viewed positively for companies like First Solar (NASDAQ:FSLR), Array Technologies (NASDAQ:ARRY), Shoals Technologies Group (NASDAQ:SHLS), and NextEra Energy (NYSE:NEE), particularly benefiting First Solar due to the FEOC restrictions and the longer-than-anticipated duration of credits. NextEra Energy stands out with its impressive 79% return on equity and healthy current ratio of 2.2, indicating strong operational efficiency and solid liquidity position. Conversely, the residential solar market may face challenges starting in fiscal year 2026, with companies like Sunrun (NASDAQ:RUN) expected to have pricing power over both customers and suppliers, including negatively rated SolarEdge Technologies (NASDAQ:SEDG) and Enphase Energy (NASDAQ:ENPH).

The draft bill’s impact is seen as negative for the hydrogen sector, with companies such as Plug Power (NASDAQ:PLUG) facing the early termination of Hydrogen PTC. The wind sector is also affected, with the 45X credit expiring in 2028, five years earlier than current law.

The next steps for the bill include a hearing scheduled for 2:30 pm ET on May 13, with Memorial Day set as the target for approval in the House. The Senate aims to pass the legislation by July 4. However, the bill must be passed without losing more than three Republican votes, assuming no Democrat support, and it is likely to undergo multiple legislative rounds, potentially leading to changes from the current text, especially in the Senate.For investors seeking deeper insights, InvestingPro offers comprehensive analysis of NextEra Energy and other renewable energy companies, including detailed financial metrics, Fair Value assessments, and expert ProTips. The platform’s Pro Research Report provides actionable intelligence for navigating the evolving regulatory landscape in the alternative energy sector.

In other recent news, Nextracker Inc. has made significant financial moves and received varied assessments from analysts. Piper Sandler adjusted its outlook on Nextracker, lowering the price target to $49 while maintaining an Overweight rating due to market uncertainties. The firm also predicted a backlog increase to approximately $5.0 billion and lowered revenue and EBITDA expectations by 5% and 6%, respectively. Meanwhile, RBC Capital initiated coverage with an Outperform rating and set a higher price target of $55, citing Nextracker’s operational improvements and innovative product design as competitive advantages. RBC Capital expressed confidence in the company’s financial health and potential to exceed future fiscal estimates.

Additionally, Nextracker has expanded its credit flexibility by amending its credit agreement to allow greater flexibility in indebtedness related to Surety Bonds. This amendment, effective as of February 14, 2025, permits an unlimited amount of Surety Bonds under certain leverage conditions. The company also fully repaid all outstanding obligations under its term loan, enhancing its operational leeway. These developments reflect Nextracker’s strategic financial maneuvers to strengthen its position in the market.

This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.

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