Azure Completes Rs 2400 cr Refinancing

Azure Power Global Limited, has announced the successful completion of its ₹24 billion refinancing transaction, structured as an INR Term Loan underwritten solely by REC Limited. Following this transaction, the company has successfully prepaid its Green Bonds, originally issued in 2019 for $350 million and backed by 10 solar projects commissioned between 2016 and 2019. The bonds were set to mature in December 2024.

This refinancing strengthens Azure Power’s financial position as it continues to expand its renewable energy portfolio.

Azure Power had earlier completed a ₹13 billion (~$155 million) refinancing transaction with HSBC for its 300 MW solar power project in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. Following this, India Infradebt Limited has also participated in this project. The project has been operational since March 2023 under a long-term offtake agreement with the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI).

“The successful refinancing transactions underscore our endeavour in optimising financing costs and widening lender relationships” added Sugata Sircar, Group Chief Financial Officer & Executive Director, Finance.

Azure Power boasts a portfolio of over ~4.3 GW of renewable energy assets in India, underscoring its position as a leader in the country’s green energy transition.

The pioneering renewable energy developer has had a bit of a roller coaster ride in the sector, with, milestones including a then unprecedented NYSE listing, followed by a win in SECI’s manufacturing linked solar tender as well. However, multiple issues bogged down the firm in the past three years, culminating with the delisting from NYSE, and a long hard road to recovery, where it has been aided by a decent portfolio of active projects including with key off takers like SECI.

A key focus has been refinancing of expensive debt, including dollar denominated debt, where the firm has made steady progress