Analysis and design of financing channels for energy storage industry

Why do energy storage projects need project financing?

The rapid growth in the energy storage market is similarly driving demand for project financing. The general principles of project finance that apply to the financing of solar and wind projects also apply to energy storage projects.

Can you finance a solar energy storage project?

Since the majority of solar projects currently under construction include a storage system, lenders in the project finance markets are willing to finance the construction and cashflows of an energy storage project. However, there are certain additional considerations in structuring a project finance transaction for an energy storage project.

What do Lenders look for in an energy storage project?

OPERATING RISKS: Lenders generally will conduct diligence to understand an energy storage project’s operating limitations and operation and maintenance (O&M) costs. As part of that process, lenders will look for an O&M agreement with an experienced operator that will ensure that their project will be managed within its operating limitations.

What technologies are used in energy storage systems?

TECHNOLOGY RISKS: While lithium-ion batteries remain the most widespread technology used in energy storage systems, these systems also use hydrogen, compressed air, and other battery technologies. The storage industry is also exploring new technologies capable of providing longer-duration storage to meet different market needs.

What does reg-132569-17 mean for energy storage?

ITC PROPOSED REGULATIONS (REG-132569-17): The guidance retains the Code’s broad approach to defining new ITC-eligible energy storage property but also includes a nonexclusive list of qualifying technologies. The guidance confirms that a separate PTC-generating project may be co-located with a separate ITC-eligible project.

Will a tax credit be available for energy storage projects?

However, with the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, tax credits are now available for standalone energy storage systems, and thus lenders may be willing to provide bridge capital that is underwritten based on the receipt of proceeds from an anticipated tax equity investment, similar to renewable energy projects.