Table of
Contents
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 20-F
(Mark One)
☐ REGISTRATION
STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OR (g) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
OR
x ANNUAL
REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE
ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019
OR
☐ TRANSITION
REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE
ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from ____________ to __________.
OR
☐ SHELL
COMPANY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
Date of event requiring this shell company report _____________
Commission file number: 001-37678
SPI Energy Co., Ltd.
(Exact name of Registrant as
specified in its charter)
N/A
(Translation of Registrant’s name into English)
Cayman Islands
(Jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
#1128, 11/F, No. 52 Hung To Road, Kwun Tong, Kowloon,
Hong Kong SAR, China
(Address of principal executive
offices)
Xiaofeng Peng, Chief Executive Officer
4677 Old Ironsides Drive, Suite 190,
Santa Clara, CA 95054
Telephone: +1 408-919-8000
Fax: +1 888-633-0309
Email: denton.peng@spigroups.com
(Name, Telephone, E-mail and/or Facsimile number and Address of
Company Contact Person)
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b)
of the Act.
Title of each
class |
Trading Symbol |
Name of each exchange on which
registered |
Ordinary Shares, par value $0.0001 per
share |
SPI |
(The NASDAQ Global Select
Market) |
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g)
of the Act.
None
(Title of Class)
Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to
Section 15(d) of the Act.
None
(Title of Class)
Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the issuer’s
classes of capital or common stock as of the close of the period
covered by the annual report.
14,837,469 ordinary shares as of June 29, 2020
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned
issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.
☐
Yes x No
If this report is an annual or transition report, indicate by check
mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to
Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
☐
Yes x No
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all
reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or
for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file
such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements
for the past 90 days.
☐
Yes x No
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted
electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted
pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter)
during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the
registrant was required to submit such files).
x
Yes ☐ No
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large
accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer,
or an emerging growth company. See definition of “large accelerated
filer,” “accelerated filer,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule
12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer ☐ |
Accelerated filer ☐ |
Non-accelerated filer x |
|
|
Emerging
Growth Company ☐ |
If an emerging growth company that prepares its financial
statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP, indicate by check mark if
the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition
period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting
standards† provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.
☐
† The term “new or revised financial accounting standard” refers to
any update issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board to
its Accounting Standards Codification after April 5, 2012.
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed a report on
and attestation to its management’s assessment of the effectiveness
of its internal control over financial reporting under Section
404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the
registered public accounting firm that prepared or issued its audit
report. ☐
Indicate by check mark which basis of accounting the registrant has
used to prepare the financial statements included in this
filing:
U.S. GAAP x |
International Financial Reporting
Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board
☐ |
Other ☐ |
If “Other” has been checked in response to the previous question,
indicate by check mark which financial statement item the
registrant has elected to follow.
☐
Item 17 ☐ Item 18
If this is an annual report, indicate by check mark whether the
registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the
Exchange Act).
☐
Yes x No
Explanatory Note
As a result of the global outbreak of the COVID-19, SPI Energy Co.,
Ltd. (the “Company”) was unable to meet the original filing
deadline of this Annual Report on Form 20-F (the “Annual Report”).
The Company’s business and facilities are located in Australia,
Italy, US, Greece, Hong Kong and Japan. In order to avoid the risk
of the virus spreading, the Company has been following the
recommendations of local health authorities to minimize exposure
risk for its employees, including the temporary closures of its
corporate offices, having employees work remotely and travel
restrictions or suspension. As a result, the Annual Report could
not be completed by the original filing deadline.
Because the outbreak of COVID-19 prevented the Company from filing
the Annual Report on a timely basis, the Company relied on the
order issued by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission dated
March 25, 2020 (Release No. 34-88465) (the “SEC Order”), providing
conditional relief to public companies that are unable to timely
comply with their filing obligations as a result of the outbreak of
COVID-19 and extending the original due date by 45 days as
permitted by the SEC Order.
Table of
Contents
CONVENTIONS THAT
APPLY TO THIS ANNUAL REPORT
Unless otherwise indicated and except where the context otherwise
requires, references in this annual report on Form 20-F to:
· |
“we,” “us,” “our Company,” “our” or
“SPI Energy” refer to SPI Energy Co., Ltd., a Cayman Islands
holding company and its subsidiaries or any of them, or where the
context so requires, in respect of the period before our Company
became the holding company of its present subsidiaries, such
subsidiaries as if they were subsidiaries of our Company at the
relevant time; |
· |
“2017,” “2018” and “2019” refers to
our fiscal years ended December 31, 2017, 2018 and 2019,
respectively; |
· |
“ADSs” refers to the American
depositary shares, each representing ten ordinary shares, which
were listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol of
“SPI” between January 19, 2016 and September 18, 2017; |
· |
“AUD” or “Australian Dollar” refers
to the legal currency of Australia; |
· |
“BT model” refers to our
build-and-transfer model; |
· |
“China” and “PRC” refer to the
People’s Republic of China, excluding, for purposes of this annual
report, Hong Kong and Macau special administrative regions and
Taiwan; |
· |
“DG” refers to distributed
generation; |
· |
“EPC” refers to engineering,
procurement and construction services; |
· |
“EUR” or “Euro” refers to the legal
currency of the countries comprising the euro area; |
· |
“British Pound” or “GBP” refers to
the legal currency of the United Kingdom; |
· |
“Japanese Yen” or “JPY” refers to
the legal currency of Japan; |
· |
“FIT” refers to feed-in
tariff(s); |
· |
“IPP model” refers to our
independent power producer model; |
· |
“LDK” refers to LDK Solar Co.,
Ltd.; |
· |
“O&M” refers to operating and
maintenance; |
· |
“PP”refers to power purchase
agreement(s); |
· |
“PV” refers to photovoltaic; |
· |
“Redomicile Merger” refers to the
redomicile of Solar Power, Inc. to the Cayman Islands through a
merger with and into a wholly-owned subsidiary of SPI Energy Co.,
Ltd., which was completed on January 4, 2016; |
· |
“RMB” or “Renminbi” refers to the
legal currency of China; |
· |
“Shares” or “ordinary shares”
refers to our ordinary shares, par value $0.0001 per share; |
· |
“SPI” refers to Solar Power, Inc.,
a company incorporated under the laws of California; |
· |
“U.K.” refers to the United
Kingdom; |
· |
“U.S.” refers to the United States
of America; |
· |
“U.S. dollar” or “$” refers to the
legal currency of the United States of America; and |
· |
“watt” or “W” refers to the
measurement of total electrical power, where “kilowatt” or “kW”
means one thousand watts, “megawatt” or “MW” means one million
watts and “gigawatt” or “GW” means one billion watts. |
Names of certain companies in this annual report are translated or
transliterated from their original Chinese legal names.
Discrepancies in any table between the amounts identified as total
amounts and the sum of the amounts listed therein are due to
rounding.
Share and per share amounts reflect a one-for-ten reverse stock
split that took place in November 2017 and a one-for-ten reverse
stock split that took place on November 2018.
The conversion of amounts of Australian Dollars, Euros and
Renminbi, respectively, into U.S. dollars in this annual report,
made solely for the convenience of readers, is based on the noon
buying rates in the city of New York for cable transfers of
Australian Dollars, Euros, British Pounds, Japanese Yen and
Renminbi, respectively, as certified for customs purposes by the
Federal Reserve Bank of New York as of December 31, 2019, which was
AUD 0.7030 to $1.00, EUR0.8907 to $1.00, GBP0.7536 to $1.00,
JPY108.67 to $1.00 and RMB6.9618 to $1.00, respectively, unless
indicated otherwise. No representation is intended to imply that
the Australian Dollar, Euro, British Pounds, Japanese Yen or
Renminbi could have been, or could be, converted, realized or
settled into U.S. dollars at the foregoing rates or any other
rate.
PART I
Safe Harbor
This annual report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended
December 31, 2019, and information we provide in our press
releases, telephonic reports and other investor communications,
including those on our website, contains forward-looking statements
within the meaning of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as
amended (the “Exchange Act”), and the Securities Act of 1933, as
amended (the “Securities Act”), which are subject to risks,
uncertainties, and assumptions that are difficult to predict. All
statements in this annual report on Form 20-F, other than
statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements.
These forward-looking statements are made pursuant to safe harbor
provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of
1995.
The forward-looking statements include statements, among other
things, with respect to anticipated future events, including
anticipated trends and developments in and management plans for our
business and the markets in which we operate and plan to operate;
future financial results, operating results, revenues, gross
profit, operating expenses, projected costs, and capital
expenditures; sales and marketing initiatives; competitive
position; and liquidity, capital resources, and availability of
future equity capital on commercially reasonable terms.
Forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words
such as “expect,” “plan,” “will,” “may,” “anticipate,” “believe,”
“estimate,” “should,” “intend,” “forecast,” “project” the negative
or plural of these words, and other comparable terminology. Our
forward-looking statements are only predictions based on our
current expectations and our projections about future events. All
forward-looking statements included in this annual report on Form
20-F are based upon information available to us as of the filing
date of this annual report on Form 20-F. You should not place undue
reliance on these forward-looking statements. We undertake no
obligation to update any of these forward-looking statements for
any reason.
We have identified factors that could cause actual plans or results
to differ materially from those included in any forward looking
statements. These factors include, but are not limited to, the
following:
|
· |
an inability to realize expected
benefits of the restructuring within the anticipated time frame, or
at all; |
|
|
|
|
· |
changes in tax law, tax treaties or
tax regulations or the interpretation or enforcement thereof,
including |
|
|
|
|
· |
taxing authorities not agreeing
with our assessment of the effects of such laws, treaties and
regulations; |
|
|
|
|
· |
an inability to execute any of our
business strategies; and |
|
|
|
|
· |
such other risk factors as may be
discussed in our reports filed with the SEC. |
These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks,
uncertainties, and other factors that may cause our actual results,
levels of activity, performance, or achievements to differ
materially from those expressed or implied by these statements.
These factors include the matters discussed in the section entitled
“Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk Factors” and elsewhere in this
annual report on Form 20-F. You should carefully consider the
risks and uncertainties described under this section.
ITEM
1.
IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND ADVISERS
Not Applicable.
ITEM
2.
OFFER STATISTICS AND EXPECTED TIMETABLE
Not Applicable.
ITEM
3.
KEY INFORMATION
A. |
Selected Financial Data |
Our Selected Consolidated Financial Data
The following selected consolidated statements of operations data
for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2018 and 2019 and the
selected consolidated balance sheet data as of December 31, 2018
and 2019 are derived from our audited consolidated financial
statements included elsewhere in this annual report. The selected
consolidated statements of operations data for the years ended
December 31, 2015 and 2016 and the consolidated balance sheet data
as of December 31, 2015, 2016 and 2017 are derived from our audited
consolidated financial statements not included in this annual
report. The selected consolidated financial data should be read in
conjunction with, and are qualified in their entirety by reference
to, our audited consolidated financial statements and related notes
and “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects” included
elsewhere in this annual report. Our consolidated financial
statements are prepared and presented in accordance with accounting
principles generally accepted in the United States of America, or
U.S. GAAP. The historical results are not necessarily indicative of
results to be expected in any future periods.
On January 1, 2017, we deconsolidated Sinsin Renewable Investment
Limited, a Malta company (“Sinsin”) due to loss of control.
On December 10, 2018, the SPI China (HK) Limited and all China
business were divested.
|
|
For the year ended December 31, |
|
|
|
2015 |
|
|
2016 |
|
|
2017 |
|
|
2018 |
|
|
2019 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
* |
|
|
|
* |
|
|
|
* |
|
|
|
|
|
Consolidated Statements of Operations Data: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net
sales: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net sales |
|
|
190,510 |
|
|
|
114,602 |
|
|
|
121,520 |
|
|
|
125,582 |
|
|
|
97,883 |
|
Total net sales |
|
|
190,510 |
|
|
|
114,602 |
|
|
|
121,520 |
|
|
|
125,582 |
|
|
|
97,883 |
|
Cost of goods sold: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cost of goods sold |
|
|
176,469 |
|
|
|
102,147 |
|
|
|
111,428 |
|
|
|
114,525 |
|
|
|
90,693 |
|
Provision for losses on contracts |
|
|
5,932 |
|
|
|
385 |
|
|
|
– |
|
|
|
– |
|
|
|
– |
|
Total cost of goods sold |
|
|
182,401 |
|
|
|
102,532 |
|
|
|
111,428 |
|
|
|
114,525 |
|
|
|
90,693 |
|
Gross profit |
|
|
8,109 |
|
|
|
12,070 |
|
|
|
10,092 |
|
|
|
11,057 |
|
|
|
7,190 |
|
Operating expenses: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
General and administrative |
|
|
76,747 |
|
|
|
13,728 |
|
|
|
13,994 |
|
|
|
12,225 |
|
|
|
15,158 |
|
Sales, marketing and customer service |
|
|
39,428 |
|
|
|
3,238 |
|
|
|
2,944 |
|
|
|
2,285 |
|
|
|
2,398 |
|
Provision (reverse) for doubtful accounts, notes and other
receivables |
|
|
45,328 |
|
|
|
7,106 |
|
|
|
1,693 |
|
|
|
(501 |
) |
|
|
4,115 |
|
Impairment charges on property, plant and equipment |
|
|
10,853 |
|
|
|
79,598 |
|
|
|
740 |
|
|
|
– |
|
|
|
2,235 |
|
Impairment charges on project assets |
|
|
– |
|
|
|
– |
|
|
|
– |
|
|
|
– |
|
|
|
2,455 |
|
Total operating expenses |
|
|
172,356 |
|
|
|
103,670 |
|
|
|
19,371 |
|
|
|
14,009 |
|
|
|
26,361 |
|
Operating loss |
|
|
(164,247 |
) |
|
|
(91,600 |
) |
|
|
(9,279 |
) |
|
|
(2,952 |
) |
|
|
(19,171 |
) |
Other income (expense): |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest expense |
|
|
(9,275 |
) |
|
|
(3,494 |
) |
|
|
(8,087 |
) |
|
|
(6,665 |
) |
|
|
(3,923 |
) |
Interest income |
|
|
2,218 |
|
|
|
802 |
|
|
|
384 |
|
|
|
320 |
|
|
|
155 |
|
Gain on extinguishment of convertible bonds |
|
|
– |
|
|
|
– |
|
|
|
7,121 |
|
|
|
– |
|
|
|
– |
|
Change in fair value of derivative liability |
|
|
(15,650 |
) |
|
|
(2,328 |
) |
|
|
– |
|
|
|
– |
|
|
|
285 |
|
Reversal (accrual) of tax penalty |
|
|
– |
|
|
|
– |
|
|
|
(9,670 |
) |
|
|
– |
|
|
|
6,890 |
|
Gain on troubled debt restructuring |
|
|
– |
|
|
|
– |
|
|
|
– |
|
|
|
1,887 |
|
|
|
– |
|
Loss on investment in affiliates |
|
|
(2,493 |
) |
|
|
(6,296 |
) |
|
|
(2,214 |
) |
|
|
– |
|
|
|
– |
|
Net foreign exchange gain(loss) |
|
|
4,412 |
|
|
|
646 |
|
|
|
(5,141 |
) |
|
|
1,118 |
|
|
|
1,261 |
|
Others |
|
|
628 |
|
|
|
847 |
|
|
|
509 |
|
|
|
487 |
|
|
|
(553 |
) |
Total other income (expense), net |
|
|
(20,160 |
) |
|
|
(9,823 |
) |
|
|
(17,098 |
) |
|
|
(2,853 |
) |
|
|
4,115 |
|
Loss from continuing operations before income taxes |
|
|
(184,407 |
) |
|
|
(101,423 |
) |
|
|
(26,377 |
) |
|
|
(5,805 |
) |
|
|
(15,056 |
) |
Income taxes expense |
|
|
673 |
|
|
|
606 |
|
|
|
137 |
|
|
|
332 |
|
|
|
92 |
|
Loss from continuing operations |
|
|
(185,080 |
) |
|
|
(102,029 |
) |
|
|
(26,514 |
) |
|
|
(6,137 |
) |
|
|
(15,148 |
) |
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax |
|
|
– |
|
|
|
(118,939 |
) |
|
|
(64,445 |
) |
|
|
(6,122 |
) |
|
|
– |
|
Net loss |
|
|
(185,080 |
) |
|
|
(220,968 |
) |
|
|
(90,959 |
) |
|
|
(12,259 |
) |
|
|
(15,148 |
) |
Net loss per common
share: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Basic and Diluted |
|
|
(30 |
) |
|
|
(34 |
) |
|
|
(13 |
) |
|
|
(1.7 |
) |
|
|
(1.20 |
) |
Net loss from continuing operations per common share: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Basic and Diluted |
|
|
(30 |
) |
|
|
(16 |
) |
|
|
(4 |
) |
|
|
(0.9 |
) |
|
|
(1.20 |
) |
Net loss from discontinued operations per common share: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Basic and Diluted |
|
|
– |
|
|
|
(18 |
) |
|
|
(9 |
) |
|
|
(0.8 |
) |
|
|
– |
|
Weighted
average number of common shares used in computing per share:** |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Basic and Dilutive |
|
|
6,120,471 |
|
|
|
6,415,616 |
|
|
|
6,826,633 |
|
|
|
7,262,023 |
|
|
|
12,733,062 |
|
|
|
As of December 31, |
|
|
|
2015 |
|
|
2016 |
|
|
2017 |
|
|
2018 |
|
|
2019 |
|
|
|
* |
|
|
* |
|
|
* |
|
|
* |
|
|
|
|
Summary Consolidated Balance Sheet Data: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash and
cash equivalents continuing |
|
|
6,021 |
|
|
|
2,024 |
|
|
|
2,238 |
|
|
|
4,141 |
|
|
|
2,764 |
|
Current assets of
continuing operations |
|
|
91,869 |
|
|
|
70,160 |
|
|
|
78,879 |
|
|
|
73,883 |
|
|
|
56,489 |
|
Current assets of
discontinued operations |
|
|
301,700 |
|
|
|
84,173 |
|
|
|
52,433 |
|
|
|
– |
|
|
|
– |
|
Total current
assets |
|
|
393,569 |
|
|
|
154,333 |
|
|
|
131,312 |
|
|
|
73,883 |
|
|
|
56,489 |
|
Total assets |
|
|
709,570 |
|
|
|
361,818 |
|
|
|
317,311 |
|
|
|
188,728 |
|
|
|
178,853 |
|
Current liabilities
of continued operations |
|
|
156,976 |
|
|
|
160,449 |
|
|
|
172,990 |
|
|
|
166,531 |
|
|
|
170,017 |
|
Current liabilities
of discontinued operations |
|
|
316,575 |
|
|
|
170,079 |
|
|
|
213,316 |
|
|
|
– |
|
|
|
– |
|
Total current
liabilities |
|
|
473,551 |
|
|
|
330,528 |
|
|
|
386,306 |
|
|
|
166,531 |
|
|
|
170,017 |
|
Total
liabilities |
|
|
493,012 |
|
|
|
374,746 |
|
|
|
414,955 |
|
|
|
188,658 |
|
|
|
184,328 |
|
Total equity
(deficit) |
|
|
216,558 |
|
|
|
(12,928 |
) |
|
|
(97,644 |
) |
|
|
70 |
|
|
|
(5,475 |
) |
Total liabilities and
equity |
|
|
709,570 |
|
|
|
361,818 |
|
|
|
317,311 |
|
|
|
188,728 |
|
|
|
178,853 |
|
* The China business was discontinued operations after the
disposal, the consolidated statements of operations data for the
years ended December 31, 2016 and 2017 and the consolidated balance
sheet data as of December 31, 2015, 2016 and 2017 were reclassified
to conform to current year presentation, while the consolidated
statements of operations for the years ended December 31, 2015 was
not reclassified as management considered it not cost-effective to
do so.
**The shares are presented on a retroactive basis to reflect the
Company’s Reverse Stock Splits.
Exchange Rate Information
Not Applicable.
B. |
Capitalization and
Indebtedness |
Not Applicable.
C. |
Reasons for the Offer and Use of
Proceeds |
Not Applicable.
Our business, financial condition and results of operations are
subject to various changing business, competitive, economic,
political and social conditions worldwide. In addition to the
factors discussed elsewhere in this annual report, the following
are some of the important factors that could adversely affect our
operating results, financial condition and business prospects, and
cause our actual results to differ materially from those projected
in any forward-looking statements.
Risks Related to Our Business and Industry
We have incurred net losses, experienced net cash outflows from
operating activities and recorded working capital deficit. If we do
not effectively manage our cash and other liquid financial assets
and execute our liquidity plan, we may not be able to continue as a
going concern.
We incurred net losses of $91.0 million, $12.3 million and $15.1
million in 2017, 2018 and 2019, respectively. We had an accumulated
deficit of $585.4 million as of December 31, 2019. We also had a
working capital deficit of $113.5 million as of December 31, 2019.
In addition, we have substantial amounts of debts that became due
in 2017, 2018 and 2019.
Historically, we have relied primarily on cash from our operations,
bank borrowings, private placements and financial leases to fund
our operations. We expect that our existing cash and cash
equivalents and cash flows from operating and financing activities
will be sufficient to meet our anticipated working capital
requirements and capital expenditure for at least the next 12
months, but generally inadequate to pursue new project acquisition
or development initiatives without additional capital. The timing
and amount of our working capital and capital expenditure
requirements may vary significantly depending on numerous factors,
such as the timeliness of payments from our customers. We have
filed liens to secure customer payments for each of our solar
projects, but there is no assurance that such payments will be
timely collected. We have also enhanced our collection efforts and
undertaken various measures to collect outstanding payments from
customers, damages from legal actions and other payments due to us.
The volatility and potential deterioration of the PV market
conditions and the overall global economies have also added
uncertainties regarding the sustainability of the PV industry and
adverse impact on the demand for our products. Without access to
sufficient level of capital from operations or through bank
borrowings or other sources, we may not be able to execute our
growth strategy or pursue additional projects, or may not even be
able to continue as a going concern. These doubts and uncertainties
may create concerns for our creditors, suppliers, customers and
other counterparties, and cause them to make it more difficult for
us to raise our financing, conduct our business and meet our debt
and other obligations.
The report of our independent registered public accounting firm on
our financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31,
2019 includes discussions on our ability to continue as a going
concern. Although we have formulated a liquidity plan as summarized
under Note 2 to our consolidated financial statements appearing
elsewhere in this annual report, we cannot assure you that we will
be able to successfully execute this liquidity plan. The amount of
liquidity that we need may be greater than we currently anticipate
as a result of additional factors and events beyond our control,
such as global economic slowdown, continued downturn in the global
PV market, potential financial crises globally or in any region
where we conduct a significant portion of our business, changes in
the regulatory and business environments, including international
trade-related sanctions, which may prevent us from operating
normally or from effectively competing in the PV industry. All of
these and other factors and occurrences may increase our cash
requirements and make us unable to satisfy our liquidity
requirements and we may, as a result, be unable to continue as a
going concern.
We have revised the assumptions underlying our existing operating
plans and recognized the fact that additional actions were needed
to reposition our operations to minimize our cash outflows.
Therefore, we are undertaking a number of initiatives in order to
conserve or generate cash on an incremental basis in 2019. For a
detailed discussion of these initiatives and strategies, please see
“Item 5. Operating and Financial Review
and Prospects—B. Liquidity and Capital Resources— Capital Resources
and Material Known Facts on Liquidity.”
However, there is no assurance that these initiatives and
strategies will be successfully implemented, or even if
successfully implemented, our cash position and our operational
efficiency will be improved. In the event that our business
initiatives and strategies do not achieve the expected results, our
business, financial conditions, results of operations and liquidity
position may be materially and adversely affected. Furthermore, we
have identified several business related risk factors, such as
compliance with laws and regulations, contingent liabilities
arising from litigations, suspected related party transactions and
unusual transactions, which could cause cash position to further
deteriorate.
We are in default on a number of our obligations, which could
result in our being forced to cease operations if we are unable to
reach satisfactory settlement with applicable counterparties.
We have outstanding convertible bonds of $55.0 million under a
convertible bond agreement (“Convertible Bond Agreement”) with
certain bond holders, which were defaulted in June 2016 and not
repaid through December 31, 2017. On February 12, 2017, we entered
into the first amendment agreement (the “1st Amendment”) with Union
Sky Holding Group Limited (“Union Sky”), one of the holders of our
convertible bonds, to extend the maturity date of the bonds,
pursuant to which the repayment of US$6.6 million, US$6.7 million
and US$6.7 million of the principal amount of the convertible bond
were due by April 30, 2017, January 30, 2018 and January 30, 2019,
respectively. Union Sky has the option to convert those outstanding
amounts under the Convertible Bond Agreement and its 1st Amendment
into the equity interest in our company at a conversion price of
$1.372 per share. We were not able to make the first payment as of
April 29, 2017. We have been in communications with the holders of
our convertible bonds, including Union Sky, to further extend the
maturity date of the bonds, and subsequently on June 29, 2018, the
Company entered into another amendment agreement (the “2nd
Amendment”) with the Union Sky and Magical Glaze Limited (the
“MGL”), a company incorporated under the laws of British Virgin
Islands, pursuant to which the Union Sky transferred all the rights
and obligations under the Convertible Bond Agreement and 1st
Amendment to MGL, and the maturity date of such bond was extended.
According to the 2nd Amendment, the repayments of US$6.6 million,
US$6.7 million and US$6.7 million of the principal amount of the
bond and interest thereon should be due by December 2019, June 2020
and December 2020, respectively. As of the date of this annual
report, we missed the December 2019 repayment and expect to miss
the June 2020 repayment. We have been working on negotiating a
third amendment to the Convertible Bond Agreement but have not yet
obtained a further extension from the bond holders.
If we are unable to enter into settlement arrangements with all of
the parties with whom we are in default, we could be forced to
cease operations.
Certain minority stockholders of Solar Juice Pty Ltd (“Solar Juice
Australia”), our 80% owned subsidiary in Australia, took certain
actions that, if effective, would result in us owning only a
minority interest in Solar Juice Australia, which would mean that
we no longer have control of Solar Juice Australia and no longer be
able to consolidate its financial results into our financial
statements.
In May, 2020, certain minority stockholders of Solar Juice
Australia took certain actions that, if effective, would result in
our owning only a minority interest in Solar Juice Australia, which
could cause us to no longer be able to control Solar Juice
Australia or consolidate its financial results into our financial
statements. This would result in a material adverse effect on our
financial results since Solar Juice Australia accounts for 82.3% of
our revenues and 15.7% of our assets.
In May 2020, Solar Juice Co. Ltd. (“Solar Juice Co”),a wholly owned
subsidiary of the Company, in its capacity as shareholder of Solar
Juice Australia together with Mr. Kun Fong Lee and Mr. Jinhan Zhou
(who hold shares in Solar Juice as trustee for Solar Juice Co)
("SPI Shareholders") commenced proceedings in the Federal Court of
Australia as plaintiffs against its other shareholders and some of
its other directors and purported directors and against Solar Juice
Australia ("Defendants") in relation to a purported new rights
issue undertaken by Solar Juice Australia, the purported removal by
those other shareholders of Mr. Kun Fong Lee and Mr. Jinhan Zhou as
directors of Solar Juice Australia and the purported appointment of
an additional director. The SPI Shareholders allege that the
purported new rights issue and the subsequent purported removal and
appointment of directors are invalid and ineffective and therefore
should be set aside. If effective, the purported rights issue will
result in the SPI Shareholders' shareholding in Solar Juice
Australia being reduced from 80% to 40%.
If our
lawsuit is not successful, our financial results and stock price
will be materially adversely affected.
We conduct our business in diverse locations around the world and
are subject to economic, regulatory, social and political risks
internationally and in the regions where we operate.
We currently conduct our business operations in the U.S., Japan,
U.K., Greece, Italy and Australia, and as of June 29, 2020, we own
and operate 16.8 MW of solar projects and have 19.636 MW of solar
projects under construction across the world. Our business is
therefore subject to diverse and constantly changing economic,
regulatory, social and political conditions in these markets.
Operating internationally exposes us to a number of risks globally
and in each of the markets where we operate, including, without
limitation:
|
· |
global economic and financial
conditions, including the stability of credit markets, foreign
currency exchange rates and their fluctuations; |
|
|
|
|
· |
the supply and prices of other energy
products such as oil, coal and natural gas in the relevant
markets; |
|
|
|
|
· |
changes in government regulations,
policies, taxes and incentives, particularly those concerning the
electric utility industry and the solar industry; |
|
|
|
|
· |
reconciling heterogeneous, complex or
contradictory regulations across different jurisdictions,
international trade policies, including trade restrictions,
embargoes and local sourcing or service requirements; |
|
|
|
|
· |
political risks, including risks of
expropriation and nationalization of assets, potential losses due
to civil unrests, acts of terrorism and war, regional and global
political or military tensions, strained or altered foreign
relations; |
|
|
|
|
· |
compliance with diverse and complex
local environmental, safety, health, labor and other laws and
regulations, which can be onerous and costly, as the magnitude,
complexity and continuous amendments to the laws and regulations
are difficult to predict and liabilities, costs, obligations and
requirements associated with these laws and regulations may be
substantial; |
|
|
|
|
· |
dependence on local governments,
utility companies and other entities for electricity, water,
telecommunications, transportation and other utilities or
infrastructure needs; |
|
|
|
|
· |
difficulties associated with local
operating and market conditions, particularly regarding customs,
taxation and labor; |
|
|
|
|
· |
difficulties for our senior management
to effectively supervise local management teams in diverse
locations; |
|
|
|
|
· |
increased difficulty in protecting our
intellectual property rights and heightened risk of intellectual
property disputes; |
|
|
|
|
· |
failure of our contractual
counter-parties to honor their obligations to us, and potential
disputes with regulatory authorities, customers, contractors,
suppliers, local residents or communities; |
|
|
|
|
· |
obtaining fair access and legal
remedies or benefits through local judicial or administrative
bodies; and |
|
|
|
|
· |
failure to adapt to effectively to
local competitive environments. |
If economic recovery is slow in the markets where we operate, our
business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects
could be materially and adversely affected. Moreover, as we expand
into additional markets, we may face unfamiliar regulatory regimes,
business practices, governmental policies and industry conditions.
As a result, our experience and knowledge of our existing markets
may not be applicable to new markets that we enter, requiring
significant time and resources to adapt our business to these
unfamiliar markets. To the extent that our diverse business
operations are affected by unexpected and adverse economic,
regulatory, social and political conditions, we may experience
business disruptions, loss of assets and personnel and other
indirect losses and our business, financial condition and results
of operations both locally and internationally could be materially
and adversely affected.
The reduction, modification, delay or discontinuation of government
subsidies and other economic incentives for the solar industry may
reduce the profitability or viability of our solar projects and
materially adversely affect our business.
At present, solar power is not cost competitive with other energy
sources in our existing markets and the new markets we plan to
expand into. For a variety of technological and economic reasons,
the cost of generating electricity from solar energy in these
markets currently exceeds and, absent significant changes in
technological or economic circumstances, will continue to exceed
the cost of generating electricity from conventional and certain
other competing energy sources. Therefore, government subsidies and
incentives, primarily in the form of feed-in tariffs, or FIT, price
support schemes, tax credits, net metering and other incentives to
end users, distributors, system integrators and manufacturers of
solar products are generally required to enable companies such as
us to successfully operate in these markets.
Government subsidies and incentives vary by geographic market. The
availability and size of such subsidies and incentives depend, to a
large extent, on political and policy developments relating to
environmental concerns and other macro-economic factors. These
government subsidies and incentives are expected to gradually
decrease in scope or be discontinued as solar power technology
improves and becomes more affordable relative to other types of
energy. Reductions have occurred in certain countries where we have
operations, and subsidies and incentives may be further reduced or
discontinued in countries where we currently or intend to operate.
Reductions may apply retroactively to existing solar projects,
which could significantly reduce the value of our existing solar
projects and other businesses. Even if reductions in government
subsidies and economic incentives apply only to future solar
projects, our operations in that country could be materially and
adversely affected as we would not be able to leverage our existing
presence to drive further growth. Moreover, certain solar subsidies
and incentives are designed to expire or decline over time, are
limited in total funding, require renewal from regulatory
authorities or impose certain investment or performance criteria on
our business partners or us, which we may not be able to satisfy.
In addition, we may not be able to upgrade our technologies rapidly
enough to compensate for foreseeable reductions in government
subsidies and incentives. As a result, a significant reduction in
the scope or discontinuation of government incentive programs in
our existing and target markets could have a material adverse
effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations
and prospects.
Misconduct and errors by our employees could harm our business and
reputation.
We are exposed to many types of operational risks, including the
risk of misconduct, errors and fraud by our employees and key
management personnel. Our training, resources, technologies and
fraud detection tools may be insufficient to accurately detect and
prevent fraud. Significant increases in fraudulent activity could
negatively impact our brand and reputation, which could increase
our costs and expenses. High profile fraudulent activity could even
lead to regulatory intervention, and may divert our management’s
attention and cause us to incur additional expenses and costs. If
any of the foregoing were to occur, our results of operations and
financial condition could be materially and adversely affected.
Changes to our business strategy provide a limited history on which
to base our prospects and anticipated results of operations. Our
historical operating results may not serve as an adequate basis to
evaluate our future prospects and results of operations.
For the past few years, we have expanded our global project
development business under our independent power producer model, or
IPP model, or our build-and-transfer model, or BT model, by ramping
up our portfolio of solar projects. This limited operating history
of developing and operating solar projects under our IPP and BT
model may not be a reliable indicator of our future
performance.
Given our limited operating history under the current business
model, we may not be able to ascertain and allocate the appropriate
financial and human resources necessary to grow these new business
areas. We may invest considerable capital into growing these
businesses but fail to address market or customer demands or
otherwise fail to achieve satisfactory financial return. In
particular, our results of operations, financial condition and
future success depend largely on our ability to continue to
identify suitable projects that complement our solar project
pipeline through acquisitions and secondary development, as well as
our ability to obtain the required regulatory approvals, financing
and cost-effective construction services for these acquisitions. We
must also sustainably manage and operate the solar projects that we
acquire, develop and hold under our IPP model, or successfully
identify buyers for solar projects under our BT model. In addition,
in expanding into these new business areas, we may be competing
against companies that have substantially more experience than we
do with respect to solar projects under our IPP and BT models. If
we are unable to achieve growth in these new business areas, our
overall growth and financial performance may be inferior to our
competitors and our operating results could be adversely
impacted.
Due to the change in our strategic focus and revenue
generating efforts in 2014, our prior operating history and
historical operating results may not provide a meaningful basis for
evaluating our business, financial performance and prospects.
Period-to-period comparisons of our operating results and our
results of operations for any period should not be relied upon as
an indication of our performance for any future period. We have
incurred net losses since our inception and as of December 31,
2019, we had an accumulated deficit of approximately $585.4
million. While we have had decreasing losses year over year, we may
not be able to achieve or maintain profitability in the near
future.
We may not be able to acquire additional solar projects to grow our
project portfolio, or effectively integrate or realize the
anticipated benefits of our acquisitions.
Our current business strategy includes plans to further increase
the number of solar projects we own and operate. Since 2014, we
have significantly expanded our operations through acquisitions of
solar projects across different development stages in Japan, the
U.S., the U.K., Greece and Italy, and we may acquire additional
businesses, products or technologies or enter into joint ventures
or other strategic initiatives in the future. Accordingly, our
ability to execute our expansion strategies depends on our ability
to identify suitable investment or acquisition opportunities, which
is subject to numerous uncertainties. We may not be able to
identify favorable geographical markets for expansion or assess
local demand for solar power, identify a sufficient number of
projects as contemplated, or secure project financing and
refinancing on reasonable terms for the contemplated acquisitions.
In addition, our competitors may have substantially greater capital
and other resources than we do, and may be able to pay more for the
acquisition targets we identify and may be able to identify,
evaluate, bid for and acquire a greater number of projects than our
resources permit.
Furthermore, we may not realize the anticipated benefits of our
acquisitions and each transaction involves numerous risks,
including, among others:
|
· |
difficulty in assimilating the
operations and personnel of the acquired business; |
|
|
|
|
· |
difficulty in effectively integrating
the acquired assets, technologies or products with our
operations; |
|
|
|
|
· |
difficulty in maintaining controls,
procedures and policies during the transition and integration; |
|
|
|
|
· |
disruption of our ongoing business and
distraction of our management from daily operations; |
|
|
|
|
· |
inability to retain key technical and
managerial personnel and key customers, suppliers and other
business partners of the acquired business; |
|
|
|
|
· |
inability to achieve the financial and
strategic goals for the acquired and combined businesses as a
result of insufficient capital resources or otherwise; |
|
|
|
|
· |
incurring acquisition-related costs or
amortization costs for acquired intangible assets that could impact
our operating results; |
|
|
|
|
· |
potential failure of the due diligence
processes to identify significant issues with product quality,
legal and financial liabilities, among others; |
|
|
|
|
· |
potential failure to comply with local
regulatory requirements or to obtain construction, environmental
and other permits and approvals from governmental authorities in a
timely manner or at all, which could delay or prevent such
acquisitions; and |
|
|
|
|
· |
potential failure to connect the
acquired solar projects to the local grid on schedule and within
budget, to ensure sufficient grid capacity for the life of the
solar projects, or to collect FIT payments and other economic
incentives as expected from local government authorities. |
Acquisitions of companies are inherently risky, and ultimately, if
we do not generate expected economic returns from the acquired
businesses, or become responsible for any preexisting liabilities
related to the acquired businesses, we may not fully realize the
anticipated benefits of the acquisitions, which could adversely
affect our business, financial condition or results of
operations.
Our substantial indebtedness could adversely affect our business,
financial condition and results of operations.
We require a significant amount of cash to meet our capital
requirements and fund our operations, including payments to
suppliers for PV modules and components and to bank for project
loan. As of December 31, 2019, we had $2.9 million in outstanding
short-term borrowings (and the current portion of long-term
borrowings) and $6 million in outstanding long-term borrowings
(excluding the current portion).
Our existing debt may have significant consequences on our
operations, including:
|
· |
reducing the availability of our cash
flow to fund working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions
and other general corporate purposes as a result of our debt
service obligations; |
|
|
|
|
· |
limiting our ability to obtain
additional financing; |
|
|
|
|
· |
making us more vulnerable to changes
in our business, our industry and the general economy; |
|
|
|
|
· |
potentially increasing the cost of any
additional financing; and |
|
|
|
|
· |
limiting our ability to make future
acquisitions. |
Any of these factors and other consequences that may result from
our substantial indebtedness could have an adverse effect on our
business, financial condition and results of operations as well as
our ability to meet our payment obligations under our existing debt
facilities. Our ability to meet our payment obligations under our
existing debt facilities depends on our ability to generate
significant cash flow in the future. This, to some extent, is
subject to general economic, financial, competitive, legislative
and regulatory factors as well as other factors that are beyond our
control.
Our results of operations may be subject to fluctuations.
Before we achieve economies of scale in terms of our IPP projects
and receive steady electricity generation income, our revenue in a
given period will depend on the number of solar projects sold under
our BT model and sale of PV modules and solar component, and
therefore is subject to significant fluctuations. For instance, we
may generate a significant portion of our revenues from the
one-time sale of solar projects for certain periods. Moreover,
certain aspects of our operations will also be subject to seasonal
variations. For example, we may schedule significant construction
activities to connect solar projects to the grids prior to a
scheduled decrease in FIT rates in order to qualify for more
favorable FIT policies.
Failure to manage our evolving business could have a material
adverse effect on our business, prospects, financial condition and
results of operations.
We intend to expand our business within our existing markets and in
a number of selected new locations in the future. We also intend to
expand our global project development business in the future. As
our operations evolve, we expect to encounter additional challenges
in our internal management, construction contracting management,
investment and acquisition management, project management, project
funding infrastructure and financing capabilities. Our existing
operations, personnel, systems and internal control may not be
adequate to support our business expansion and may require new
investments in our internal management infrastructure. To manage
the future growth of our operations, we will be required to improve
our administrative, operational and financial systems, procedures
and controls, and maintain, expand, train and manage a growing
number of employees. In addition, we will need to hire and train
additional project development personnel to manage our growing
portfolio of IPP and BT projects. If we are unable to manage our
growth effectively, we may not be able to take advantage of market
opportunities, execute our business strategies successfully or
respond to competitive pressures. As a result, our business,
prospects, financial condition and results of operations could be
materially and adversely affected.
We act as the general contractor for our customers for the
provision of EPC services, and are subject to risks associated with
construction, delays and other contingencies, which could have a
material adverse effect on our reputation, business and results of
operations.
Historically, we have generated a significant portion of our
revenue from the provision of EPC services. We generally enter into
fixed-price EPC contracts under which we act as the general
contractor for our customers in connection with the installation of
their solar power systems. All essential costs are estimated at the
time of entering into the EPC contracts for a particular project,
and are reflected in the overall fixed-price that we charge our
customers. These cost estimates are preliminary and may or may not
be covered by contracts between us or our subcontractors, suppliers
or other parties to the project. In addition, we engage qualified
and licensed subcontractors for the construction of our EPC
projects. Shortages of such skilled labor could significantly delay
a project or otherwise increase our costs. Should miscalculations
in project planning or delay in execution occur (including those
due to unexpected increases in inflation, commodity prices or labor
costs), we may not be able to achieve our expected margins or
recover our costs.
In addition, our EPC contracts generally provide for performance
milestones. Delays in supply of PV module or components,
construction delays, unexpected performance problems in electricity
generation or other events may cause us to fail to meet these
performance criteria, resulting in unanticipated and severe revenue
and earnings losses and financial penalties. If we are unable to
complete the development of a solar project, or fail to meet one or
more agreed target construction milestone dates, any agreed upon
system-level capacity or energy output guarantees or warranties
(including, for some projects, twenty-five year performance
warranties) or other terms under our EPC contracts, or the solar
projects we develop cause grid interference or other damage, we may
be subject to termination of such contracts or significant damages,
penalties and/or other obligation under the EPC agreements or other
agreements relating to the projects (including obligations to
repair, replace and/or supplement additional modules and balance of
system materials for the projects), particularly if our liabilities
are not capped under the terms of such agreements, and we may not
be able to recover our investment in the project. The occurrence of
any of these events could have a material adverse effect on our
reputation, business and results of operations.
We generally recognize revenue from EPC services on a “cost-based
input method” and payments are due upon the achievement of
contractual milestones and any delay or cancellation of a project
could adversely affect our business.
We generally recognize revenue from our EPC services on a
“cost-based input method,” and as a result, revenues from our EPC
services are driven by the performance of our contractual
obligations, which is in turn generally driven by timelines of the
installation of solar power systems at customer sites. Such
arrangement could result in unpredictability of revenue and in the
near term, a revenue decrease. As with any project-related
business, there is potential for delays within any particular
customer project. Variation of project timelines and estimates may
impact our ability to recognize revenue in a particular period. In
addition, certain EPC contracts may provide for payment milestones
due at specified stages throughout the development of a project.
Because we must invest substantially in a project in advance of
achieving these milestones and receiving payments, delay or
cancellation of a project could adversely affect our business and
results of operations.
We may fail to comply with laws and regulations in the markets we
operate.
The development, construction and operation of solar projects are
highly regulated. We conduct our operations in many jurisdictions
and are subject to different laws and regulations, including
national and local regulations relating to building codes, taxes,
safety, environmental protection, utility interconnection, metering
and other matters. Our establish subsidiaries also have operations
in these countries and jurisdictions that are required to comply
with various local laws and regulations. While we strive to work
with our local counsel and other advisers to comply with the laws
and regulations of each jurisdiction where we operate, there have
been, and may continue to be, instances of non-compliances such as
late filings of annual accounts with the appropriate governmental
authorities, failure to notify governmental authorities of certain
transactions, failure to hold annual meetings as required, failure
to register director or address changes or other local requirements
which may result in fines, sanctions or other penalties against our
non-complying subsidiaries and its directors and officers. While we
do not believe our past and continuing non-compliances, singularly
or in the aggregate, will have a material adverse effect on our
business, financial condition or results of operations, we cannot
assure you that similar or other non-compliances will not occur in
the future which may materially and adversely affect our business,
financial condition or results of operations.
We are responsible for obtaining a variety of approvals, permits
and licenses from various authorities for our solar projects. The
procedures for obtaining such approvals, permits and licenses vary
from country to country, making it onerous and costly to adhere to
the varying requirements and standards of individual localities.
Failure to obtain the required approvals, permits or licenses or to
comply with the conditions associated therewith may result in
fines, sanctions, suspension, revocation or non-renewal of
approvals, permits or licenses, or even criminal liabilities, which
could material and adversely affect our business, financial
condition and results of operations. In addition, new government
regulations pertaining to our business or solar projects may result
in significant additional expenses. We cannot assure you that we
will be able to promptly and adequately respond to changes of laws
and regulations in various jurisdictions, or that our employees and
contractors will act in accordance with our internal policies and
procedures. Failure to comply with laws and regulations where we
develop, own and operate solar projects may materially and
adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial
condition. The market demand for solar power is strongly influenced
by government regulations and policies concerning the electric
utility industry as well as by policies promulgated by electric
utilities in each of the markets we operate. These regulations and
policies often relate to electricity pricing and technical
interconnection of electricity generation. Customer purchases of
alternative energy sources, including solar power technology, could
be deterred by these regulations and policies, which may
significantly reduce the demand for our PV solutions. For example,
without a regulatory-mandated exception for solar power systems,
utility customers are often charged interconnection or standby fees
for putting distributed power generation on the electric utility
grid or limit the production capacity to the grid. The county-level
government may also levy additional tax related to land use or
potential plants recovery that was not initially included during
the development or construction phase. These fees could increase,
rendering solar power less cost competitive in these markets and
our PV solutions less desirable.
It is difficult to ensure ongoing compliance with the changing
requirements of individual markets. Any new government regulations
or utility policies pertaining to solar projects may result in
significant additional expenses to us or other industry
participants and as a result could cause a significant reduction in
demand for our PV solutions.
The solar industry faces competition from both conventional power
industries and other renewable power industries.
The solar industry faces intense competition from all other players
within the energy industry, including both conventional energy
providers such as nuclear, natural gas and fossil fuels and other
renewable energy providers, such as geothermal, hydropower,
biomass, wind and nuclear energy. Other energy sources may benefit
from innovations that reduce their costs and increase safety, and
therefore improve their competitiveness. New natural resources may
be discovered, or global economic, business or political
developments may disproportionately benefit conventional energy
sources or other renewable energy sources at the expense of solar.
Governments may strengthen their support for other renewable energy
sources and reduce their support for the solar industry. Changes in
supply and demand of conventional energy sources or other energy
sources may reduce the cost of such sources and render solar power
less attractive. For instance, the recent decline in oil prices and
prolong low prices have adversely impacted the competitiveness of
solar energy. Failure for our customers, other business partners or
us to compete with the providers of other energy sources may
materially and adversely affect our business, results of operations
and financial condition.
The market for solar project development is highly competitive.
There is currently intense competition in the solar industry,
particularly in the downstream project development segment. Solar
projects encounter competition from utilities, industrial companies
and other independent power producers. In recent years, there has
been increasing competition for the award of PPAs, which has in
some markets resulted in an excess supply above designated reserve
margins and has been contributing to the declining electricity
prices in many markets. In light of these conditions, we may not be
able to obtain PPAs for our new solar projects under our IPP model,
and we may not be able to renew PPAs on the same terms and
conditions upon expiration, particularly in terms of securing an
electricity sale price that enables profitable operation or the
sale of a project at anticipated value, if at all.
We have expanded our business to include global project development
and may not have the same level of expertise and customer base as
our competitors, which may affect our ability to successfully
establish our presence in the global market. Our current or
potential competitors may have greater operational, financial,
technical, market share, scale, management or other resources than
us in our existing or target markets. Our competitors may also
enter into strategic alliances with other competitors to our
detriment, or may ally with our suppliers or contractors, thereby
limiting our procurement choices and our flexibility in project
development. Our current or potential competitors may offer PV
solutions comparable or superior to ours at the same or lower
prices, or adapt more quickly to industry trends than we do.
Increased competition may result in price reductions, reduced
profit margins and loss of market share.
Technological advances in the solar industry could render our PV
solutions uncompetitive or obsolete.
The solar industry is characterized by its rapid adoption and
application of technological advances. This requires us to develop
new PV solutions and enhance our existing PV solutions to keep pace
with and respond effectively to evolving technologies, market
conditions and customer demands. Our competitors may develop
technologies more advanced and cost-effective than ours. We will
need to invest substantially in research and development to
maintain our market position and effectively compete in the future.
Our failure to further refine or enhance our technologies could
render our technologies uncompetitive or obsolete, which could
reduce our market share and cause our revenues to decline.
In addition, we may invest in and implement newly-developed,
less-proven technologies in our project development or in
maintaining or enhancing our existing projects. There is no
guarantee that these new technologies will perform or generate
customer demand as anticipated. The failure of our new technologies
to perform as anticipated may materially and adversely affect our
business and results of operations.
If sufficient demand for solar projects develops slower than we
anticipate, develops in ways inconsistent with our strategy, or
fails to develop at all, our business, financial condition, results
of operations and prospects could be materially and adversely
affected.
The solar power market worldwide is at a relatively early stage of
development compared to conventional power markets and other
renewable power markets, such as that for hydropower. Thus, trends
in the solar industry are based only on limited data and may be
unreliable. Many factors may affect the demand for solar projects
worldwide, including:
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the cost and availability of project
financing for solar projects; |
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fluctuations in economic and market
conditions that improve the viability of competing energy
sources; |
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the cost-effectiveness, performance
and reliability of solar projects compared to conventional and
other non-solar energy sources; |
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the availability of grid capacity
allocated to solar power; |
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political opposition to solar power
due to environmental, land use, safety or other local
concerns; |
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the availability of government
subsidies and incentives to support the development of the solar
industry; |
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public perceptions of the utility,
necessity and importance of solar power and other renewable
energies; |
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the success of other alternative
energy generation technologies, such as fuel cells, wind power and
biomass; and |
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utility and grid regulations that
present unique technical, regulatory and economic barriers to the
development, transmission and use of solar energy. |
Our analysis and predictions concerning the future growth of the
solar industry are based on complex facts and circumstances and may
be incorrect. If market demand for solar projects in our existing
or target markets fails to develop according to our expectations,
our business, financial condition, results of operations and
prospects could be materially and adversely affected.
Our growth prospects and future profitability and our ability to
continue to acquire solar projects depends on the availability of
sufficient financing on terms acceptable to us.
The development of solar projects requires significant upfront cash
investments, including the costs of permit development,
construction and associated operations. Since 2014, we have been
expanding our solar project portfolio primarily by acquiring solar
projects across different development stages. Such expansion
strategy requires significant upfront capital expenditures which,
depending on the respective development stages of the acquired
projects, may not be recouped for a significant period of time. As
a result, we are required to pursue a wide variety of capital
resources to fund our operations, including private placements,
bank loans, financial leases and other third-party financing
options.
Our ability to obtain sufficient financing is subject to a number
of uncertainties, including:
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our future financial condition,
results of operations and cash flows; |
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the general condition and liquidity
of global equity and debt capital markets; |
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local regulatory and government
support for solar power in markets where we operate, such as
through tax credits and FIT schemes; |
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the availability of credit lines
from banks and other financial institutions; |
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economic, political, social and
other conditions in the markets where we operate; |
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our level of indebtedness and
ability to comply with financial covenants under our debt
financing; and |
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tax and securities laws which may
hamper our ability to raise capital. |
Due to these or other reasons, we may not be successful in
obtaining the required funds for future acquisitions. Furthermore,
we may be unable to refinance our bank borrowings on favorable
terms, or at all, upon the expiration or termination of our
existing loan facilities. In addition, rising interest rates could
adversely affect our ability to secure financing on favorable
terms. Our failure in securing suitable financing sources in a
timely manner or at all, or on commercially acceptable terms, could
significantly limit our ability to execute our growth strategies or
future acquisitions, and may have a material adverse effect on our
business, financial condition, results of operations and cash
flows.
The significant period of time between our upfront investments in
solar projects and their commencement of revenue generation could
materially and adversely affect our liquidity, business and results
of operations.
We have since 2014 commenced our global project development
business under our IPP or BT models by ramping up our portfolio of
solar projects. There is a significant gap between the time that we
make significant upfront investments in the solar projects and the
time that we receive any revenue from the electricity generated by
these solar projects after grid connection (under our IPP model) or
from the sale of these projects (under our BT model). These upfront
investments include, among others, legal, accounting and other
professional fees, costs associated with feasibility studies and
due diligence, payments for land use rights, construction costs,
government permits and deposits for grid connection agreements and
PPAs, none of which may be refundable if a project fails to achieve
completion. We have historically relied on private placements, bank
loans and financial leases to cover costs and expenses incurred
during project development.
In particular, there could be an especially long gap between the
initial assessment of a project, the first steps of acquiring land
use rights and negotiating interconnection agreements and the
obtaining of governmental approvals for construction. Acquisition
of land use rights can be particularly time-consuming if we are
engaged in primary development and need to negotiate with land
owners or government entities. The significant development time
increases the risk for adverse events during such process, whether
they be economic, environmental, political, social or otherwise,
that could cause further delays in project development or increase
the overall development costs. Due to such adverse developments or
unanticipated delays, we may be unable to recoup our initial
investment in the solar projects, which may materially and
adversely affect our liquidity, profitability and results of
operations.
We may encounter unexpected difficulties when developing solar
power projects.
In 2014, we commenced our global project development business by
ramping up our portfolio of solar projects under both our IPP, BT
and EPC models. The attributable capacity of our projects in
operation is 16.8 MW, projects under construction 19.636 MW, and
had an aggregate of 10.24MW of projects in announced pipeline as of
June 29, 2020. See “Item 4. Information
on the Company—B. Business Overview—Our Global Project Development
Business.” The development of solar projects involves numerous
risks and uncertainties and require extensive research, planning
and due diligence. Before we can determine whether a solar project
is economically, technologically or otherwise feasible, we may be
required to incur significant capital expenditure for land and
interconnection rights, preliminary engineering, permitting, legal
and other work. Success in developing a particular solar project is
contingent upon, among others:
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securing the rights to suitable
project locations with access to the grid, necessary rights of way,
and satisfactory land use permissions; |
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rezoning land, as necessary, to
support a solar project; |
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negotiating and receiving on
schedule the required permits and approvals for project development
from government authorities; |
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completing all required regulatory
and administrative procedures needed to obtain permits and
agreements; |
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obtaining rights to
interconnect the solar project to the grid or to transmit
energy; |
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paying interconnection and other
deposits, some of which are non-refundable; |
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negotiating favorable payment terms
with module and other equipment suppliers and contractors; |
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signing PPAs or other off-take
arrangements that are commercially acceptable and adequate for
providing financing; |
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obtaining construction financing,
including debt financing and equity contributions, as appropriate;
and |
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satisfactorily completing
construction on schedule. |
Successful completion of a particular solar project may be
adversely affected by numerous factors, including, without
limitation:
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unanticipated delays or changes in
project plans; |
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changes to laws and regulations
requiring additional permits, licenses and approvals, or
difficulties in obtaining and maintaining existing governmental
permits, licenses and approvals; |
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the inability to obtain adequate
financing with acceptable terms; |
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unforeseeable engineering problems,
construction or other unexpected delays and contractor performance
issues; |
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delays, disruptions or shortages of
the supply of labor, equipment and materials, including work
stoppages; |
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defective PV module or other
components sourced from our suppliers; |
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adverse weather, environmental and
geological conditions, force majeure and other events out of our
control; and |
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cost overruns due to any one or
more of the foregoing factors. |
Accordingly, some of the solar projects in our portfolio may not
eventually commence operation and connect to the grid, or even
proceed to construction. If a number of our solar projects are not
completed, our business, financial condition and results of
operations could be materially and adversely affected.
Our construction activities may be subject to cost overruns or
delays.
We engage third-party contractors for the construction of solar
projects. Construction of solar projects involves numerous risks
and uncertainties, and may be adversely affected by circumstances
outside of our control, including seasonal changes, inclement
weather, failure to receive regulatory approvals on schedule or
third-party delays in supplying PV modules or other materials. We
may not be able to negotiate satisfactory construction agreements
with third-party contractors, or our third-party contractors may
not be able to contract with their subcontractors on a timely
basis. In addition, if our contractors fail to adhere to our
quality standards or otherwise fail to meet their contractual
obligations, or if there is a shortage of contractors or labor
strikes that prevents our contractors from completing their
construction work on schedule or within budget, the solar projects
may experience significant delays or cost overruns. Increases in
the prices of solar products and components may also increase our
procurement costs. Labor shortages, work stoppages and labor
disputes could significantly delay a project or otherwise increase
our costs. In addition, delays in obtaining or failure to obtain
required construction permits could also delay or hinder the
construction of our solar projects. A lack of proper construction
permits, or post-construction approvals could delay or prevent our
solar projects from commencing operation and connecting to the
grid.
We may not be able to recover any of our losses resulting from
construction cost overruns or delays. In addition, since the FIT
applicable to a solar project generally depends on its lead time to
grid connection, construction and connection delays may lead to a
lower-than-expected FIT, which would adversely affect the long-term
value and potentially the viability of the project. Many PPAs also
require our solar projects to connect to the grid by a certain
date. If the construction of solar project is significantly
delayed, we may be in violation of our PPAs or may only be entitled
to reduced FIT payments, if at all. A reduction or forfeiture of
FIT payments would materially and adversely affect the
profitability for a solar power project. Any of the above
contingencies could lead to our failure to generate expected return
from our solar projects and result in unanticipated and significant
revenue and earnings losses.
We rely on third-party suppliers and contractors when developing
our solar power projects.
We source PV modules and other balance-of-system components from a
wide selection of third-party suppliers and engage third-party
contractors for the construction of solar projects. We typically
enter into contracts with our suppliers and contractors on a
project-by-project basis and do not maintain long-term contracts
with our suppliers or contractors. Therefore, we are generally
exposed to price fluctuations and availability of PV modules and
balance-of-system components sourced from our suppliers and
construction services procured from our contractors. For example,
in light of changing market dynamics and government policies, the
price and availability of PV modules have been subject to
significant volatility in recent years. Increases in the prices of
PV modules or balance-of-system components, decreases in their
availability, fluctuations in construction, labor and installation
costs, or changes in the terms of our relationship with our
suppliers and contractors may increase the cost of procuring
equipment and engaging contractors and hence materially adversely
affect our financial condition and results of operations.
Furthermore, the delivery of defective products or products or
construction services by our suppliers or contractors which are
otherwise not in compliance with contract specifications, or the
late supply of products or construction services, may cause
construction delays or solar power projects that fail to adhere to
our quality and safety standards, which could have a material
adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial
condition and cash flow.
Warranties provided by our suppliers and contractors may be limited
or insufficient to compensate for our losses, or may not cover the
nature of our losses incurred.
We expect to benefit from various warranties, including product
quality and performance warranties, provided by our suppliers and
contractors. These suppliers and contractors, however, may file for
bankruptcy, cease operations or otherwise become unable or
unwilling to fulfill their warranty obligations. Even if a supplier
fulfills its warranty obligations, the warranty may not be
sufficient to compensate us for all of our losses. In addition, the
warranty for inverters and transformers generally expire after 5 to
10 years from the date such equipment is delivered or commissioned
and is subject to liability limits. Where damages are caused by
defective products provided by our suppliers or construction
services delivered by our contractors, our suppliers or contractors
may be unable or unwilling to perform their warranty obligations as
a result of their financial conditions or otherwise. Or if the
warranty has expired or a liability limit has been reached, there
may be a reduction or loss of warranty protection for the affected
projects, which could have a material adverse effect on our
business, financial condition and results of operations.
Our solar projects have short operating histories and may not
perform up to our expectations.
The projects in our solar project portfolio are relatively new with
expected operating life of more than 20 years. The majority of our
projects in operation as of December 31, 2019 commenced operations
since 2014. In addition, the projects we acquire in the future may
not have commenced construction or operation or otherwise have a
limited operating history. As a result, our assumptions and
estimates regarding the future performance of these projects are,
and will be, made without the benefit of a meaningful operating
history, which may impair our ability to accurately assess the
potential profitability of the projects. The performance of these
projects will also be subject to risks inherent in newly
constructed renewable energy projects, including breakdowns and
outages, latent defects, equipment that performs below our
expectations and system failures. Failure of some or all of our
projects to perform up to our expectations could have a material
adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of
operations.
We may not be able to obtain long-term contracts for the sale of
electricity generated by our solar projects under our IPP model at
prices and on other terms favorable to attract financing and other
investments.
Since 2014, we started acquiring solar projects across different
stages of development globally and to hold some of these acquired
projects under our IPP model. Obtaining long-term contracts for the
sale of electricity generated by our solar projects under our IPP
model at prices and on other terms favorable to us will be
essential for obtaining financing or completing construction of
these projects. We must compete for PPAs against other developers
of solar and renewable energy projects. Furthermore, other sources
of power, such as natural gas-fired power plants, have historically
been cheaper than the cost of solar power and power from certain
types of projects, such as natural gas-fired power plants, can be
delivered on a firm basis. The availability of PPAs is subject to a
number of economic, regulatory, tax and public policy factors. The
inability to compete successfully against other power producers or
otherwise enter into PPAs favorable to us would negatively affect
our ability to develop and finance our projects and negatively
impact our revenue.
We may be subject to unforeseen costs, liabilities or obligations
when providing O&M services.
We provide ongoing O&M services to third-party solar projects
under fixed-price long-term service agreements, pursuant to which
we generally perform all scheduled and unscheduled maintenance and
operating and other asset management services for the system. Our
costs to perform these services are estimated at the time of
entering into the O&M agreement for a particular project, and
these are reflected in the fixed-price that we charge our customers
under the O&M agreement. Should miscalculations in estimating
these costs occur (including those due to unexpected increases in
inflation or labor costs), our O&M services may not be
profitable and our growth strategy and results of operations could
be adversely affected. Because of the long-term nature of these
O&M agreements, the adverse impacts on results of operations
could be significant, particularly if our liabilities are not
capped or subject to an above-market liability cap under the terms
of the O&M agreement. In addition, we may be subject to
substantial costs, liabilities or obligations in the event that the
solar projects we maintain and operate do not meet any agreed-upon
system-level availability or performance warranties.
We have limited insurance coverage.
Our insurance policies cover employee-related accidents and
injuries, property damage, machinery breakdowns, fixed assets,
facilities and liability deriving from our activities, including
environmental liability. We consider our current insurance coverage
to be adequate, but we cannot assure you that our insurance will be
sufficient or effective under all circumstances and against all
hazards or liabilities to which we may be subject. Furthermore, our
insurance coverage is subject to deductibles, caps, exclusions and
other limitations. A loss for which we are not fully insured could
have a material adverse effect on our business, financial
condition, results of operations and cash flows. Furthermore, due
to rising insurance costs and changes in the insurance markets, we
cannot assure you that our insurance coverage will continue to be
available at comparable rates or on similar terms, if at all. We
may also reduce or cancel our insurance coverage at any time. We
may not be able to maintain or obtain insurance of the type and
amount we desire at reasonable rates and we may elect to
self-insure a portion of our solar project portfolio. Any losses
not covered by insurance could have a material adverse effect on
our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash
flows.
In addition, the insurance industry in many parts of the world is
still in an early stage of development. As we continue to expand
our global presence, we cannot assure you that we will be able to
obtain adequate insurance coverage in each of the new markets we
enter. To the extent that our operations are not adequately insured
in these markets, our business, financial condition and results of
operations may be materially and adversely affected.
We may be subject to product or strict liability claims if the
provision of our EPC services or the solar projects we sell result
in injury or damage, and we have limited insurance coverage to
protect against such claims, as well as losses that may result from
business interruptions or natural disasters.
Solar projects are highly sophisticated and generate and transfer
large volumes of electric charge with the potential to harm or
kill, whether by improper installation or other causes. We are
therefore exposed to an inherent risk of product liability claims
or class action suits in the event that the installation of the
solar power systems during the provision of our EPC services, or
the solar projects we sell under our BT model, results in injury or
damage, and we may even be liable in some jurisdictions under a
strict liability theory, where liability holds even if we are not
negligent or at fault. Moreover, to the extent that a claim is
brought against us, we may not have adequate resources to defend
ourselves. We rely on our general liability insurance to cover
product liability and other liability claims and have not
separately obtained product liability insurance. The unfavorable
settlement of product or strict liability claims against us could
result in significant monetary damages and significant payments in
excess of our insurance coverage could have a materially adverse
effect on our financial results. Any such business disruption could
result in substantial costs and diversion of resources.
Solar energy generation depends heavily on suitable meteorological
conditions. If weather conditions are unfavorable, our power
generation output, and therefore the revenue from our solar
projects, may be substantially below our expectations.
The electricity produced and revenues generated by solar projects
are highly dependent on suitable solar conditions and associated
weather conditions. Such conditions are beyond our control.
Furthermore, components of these generation systems, including
solar panels and inverters, can be damaged by severe weather, such
as heavy snowstorms, hailstorms, ice storms, lightning strikes,
extreme winds, earthquakes or tornadoes. Replacement and spare
parts for key components may be difficult costly or unavailable.
Unfavorable weather and atmospheric conditions could reduce the
electricity output of our solar projects to below projected
generation, damage or impair the effectiveness of our projects or
require shutdown of key equipment, impeding operation of our
projects and our ability to achieve forecasted revenues and cash
flows.
The amount of electricity solar projects produce is dependent in
part on the amount of sunlight, or insolation, where the projects
are located. Because shorter daylight hours in winter months
results in less insolation, the generation of particular projects
will vary depending on the season.
We base our investment decisions with respect to solar power
generation assets on the findings of related solar studies
conducted prior to construction or based on historical conditions
at existing projects. However, actual climatic conditions at an
asset site may not conform to the findings of these studies. For
example, unexpected development of climate conditions that was not
taken into consideration during the investment decision-making
process, such as smog and sand storms may significantly reduce the
solar power generation. Therefore, our solar projects may not meet
anticipated production levels or the rated capacity of our
projects, which could adversely affect our business, financial
condition, results of operations and cash flows.
The operation of solar projects involves significant inherent risks
and hazards that could have a material adverse effect on our
business, financial condition, results of operations and cash
flows.
The operation of solar projects involves numerous hazardous
activities, including delivering electricity to transmission and
distribution systems. We are subject to natural disasters such as
earthquakes, floods, snow obscuration, high temperatures,
lightning, hurricanes, long-term climate changes, volcanoes and
wind risks, as well as other inherent risks affecting resource
availability such as fire, explosion, soil and ice buildup,
structural collapse and equipment failure. Moreover, we may suffer
from negligent acts by our PPA counterparties or other third
parties. Our rooftop projects could cause damage to the building
roof, resulting in claims due to water damages or replacement of
roofing materials. These and other hazards can cause significant
personal injury or loss of life, severe damage to, and destruction
of, property and equipment and contamination of, or damage to, the
environment, wildlife takes or fatalities and suspension of
operations. The occurrence of any of these events may result in
lawsuits against us asserting claims for substantial damages,
including for environmental cleanup costs, personal injury and
property damage and fines and/or penalties.
In addition, the ongoing operation of solar projects face risks
that include the breakdown or failure of equipment or processes or
performance below expected levels of output or efficiency due to
wear and tear, latent defect, design error or operator error or
force majeure events, among others. Unplanned outages, including
extensions of scheduled outages, occur from time to time and are an
inherent risk of our business. Unplanned outages typically increase
our operation and maintenance expenses and may reduce our revenues
as a result of generating and selling less electricity.
If we fail to properly operate and maintain our solar projects,
these projects may experience decreased performance, shortened
operating life or shut downs. Our solar projects may also require
periodic upgrading and improvement. Changes in our own operation or
local conditions may increase the costs of operating the project,
including costs related to labor, equipment, insurance and taxes.
If we cause damage to third parties, we may become liable for the
consequences of any resulting damage. We may also experience
equipment malfunction or failure, leading to unexpected maintenance
needs, unplanned outages or other operational issues. In addition,
inconsistencies in the quality of solar panels, PV modules,
balance-of-system components or maintenance services for our solar
projects may affect the system efficiency of our projects.
Any unexpected operational or mechanical failure, including failure
associated with breakdowns and forced outages, and any decreased
operational or management performance, could reduce our solar
projects’ power generating capacity below expected levels, reducing
our revenues and profitability. Degradation of the performance of
our solar projects above levels provided for in the relevant PPAs
may also reduce our revenues. Unanticipated capital expenditures
associated with maintaining, upgrading or repairing our projects
may also reduce our profitability. In addition, damage to our
reputation due to system failure or accidents could negatively
impact our relationships with customers and local government
authorities, which could also materially adversely affect our
business. Negative public or community response to solar energy
projects could adversely affect the approval for and construction
of our projects. We maintain insurance coverage that we consider
adequate but we cannot assure you that our insurance will be
sufficient or effective under all circumstances and against all
hazards or liabilities to which we may be subject.
Environmental, health and safety laws and regulations subject us to
extensive and increasingly stringent operational requirements, as
well as potentially substantial liabilities arising out of
environmental contamination.
We are subject to, in each of the jurisdictions we operate,
numerous national and local laws, regulations, guidelines,
policies, directives and other requirements governing or relating
to, among others, land use and zoning matters and protection of
human health and the environment, including those limiting the
discharge and release of pollutants into the environment, and the
protection of certain wildlife. These laws and regulations require
our solar projects to, among others, obtain and maintain approvals
and permits, undergo environmental impact assessments and review
processes and implement environmental, health and safety programs
and procedures to control risks associated with the construction,
operation and decommissioning of solar projects. If our solar
projects do not comply with applicable environmental laws,
regulations or permit requirements, we may be required to pay
significant fines or penalties or suspend or cease operations of
the affected projects. Violations of environmental and other laws,
regulations and permit requirements may also result in criminal
sanctions or injunctions.
Our solar projects may experience malfunctions and other unplanned
events that result in personal injury and property damage. As such,
the operation of our projects carries an inherent risk of
environmental, health and safety liabilities (including potential
civil actions, compliance or remediation orders, fines and other
penalties), and may subject us to administrative and judicial
proceedings. In addition, certain environmental laws and
regulations may impose joint and several liability on past and
present owners and operators of sites, related to the cleaning up
of sites where hazardous wastes or materials were disposed or
released.
We may continue to conduct acquisitions and enter into joint
ventures, investments or other strategic alliances which may be
unsuccessful.
We may continue to grow our operations through acquisitions, as
well as joint ventures or other strategic alliances when
appropriate opportunities arise. Such acquisitions, joint ventures
and strategic alliances may expose us to additional operational,
regulatory, market and geographical risks as well as risks
associated with additional capital requirements and diversion of
management attention. In particular, any future strategic alliances
may expose us to the following risks:
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There may be unforeseen risks
relating to our counterparty’s business and operations or
liabilities that were not discovered by us through our legal and
business due diligence prior to our investment. Such undetected
risks and liabilities could have a material adverse effect on our
reputation, business and results of operations in the future. |
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We may not have
experience acquiring, managing or investing in other companies.
Business acquisitions may generally divert a significant portion of
our management and financial resources from our existing business
and the integration of the target’s operations may pose significant
business challenges, potentially straining our ability to finance
and manage our existing operations. |
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There is no assurance that the
expected synergies from any business acquisition, joint venture or
strategic alliances will materialize. If we are not successful in
the integration of a target’s operations, we may not be able to
generate sufficient revenue from its operations to recover costs
and expenses of the acquisition. |
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Acquisition or
participation in a new joint venture or strategic alliance may
involve us in the management of operation in which we do not
possess extensive expertise. |
The materialization of any of these risks could have a material
adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of
operations. We rely substantially on our senior management team and
our ability to attract, train and retain qualified personnel for
our current and future success.
The industry experience, expertise and contributions of our
chairman, Mr. Xiaofeng Peng, is essential to our continuing
success. We will continue to rely on our senior management,
regional management and other key employees to manage our business
operations and implement our growth plans. If they cannot work
together effectively or efficiently, our business may be severely
disrupted. If one or more of our senior or regional management
personnel were unable or unwilling to continue to hold their
present positions, we might not be able to recruit, train and
retain personnel with comparable qualifications, and our results of
operations and financial condition may be materially and adversely
affected.
Our qualified and experienced project development teams are
critical to our success. We may not be able to continue to attract,
train and retain qualified personnel, including executive officers,
project development personnel, project management personnel and
other key personnel with the necessary experience and expertise. In
particular, as we enter into new markets, we face challenges to
recruit and retain qualified personnel who are familiar with local
regulatory regimes and have adequate experiences in project
development and operations. In particular, we have experienced a
lack of accounting personnel with an appropriate level of knowledge
and experience in U.S. GAAP.
There is substantial competition for qualified personnel in the
downstream PV industry. Our competitors may offer more competitive
packages or otherwise attract our personnel. Our costs to retain
qualified personnel may also increase in response to competition.
If we fail to continue to attract and retain a sufficient number of
personnel with suitable managerial, technical or marketing
expertise, our business operations could be adversely affected and
our future growth and expansions may be inhibited.
Our failure to protect our intellectual property rights may
undermine our competitive position, and litigation to protect our
intellectual property rights may be costly.
We rely primarily on trade secrets, know-how and other proprietary
information to protect our intellectual property. Nevertheless,
these afford only limited protection and the actions we take to
protect our intellectual property rights may not be adequate to
provide us with meaningful protection or commercial advantage.
Third parties may be able to use the technologies that we have
developed and compete with us, which could have a material adverse
effect on our business, financial condition or results of
operations. Our failure to protect our intellectual property and
proprietary rights may undermine our competitive position. Third
parties may infringe or misappropriate our proprietary technologies
or other intellectual property and proprietary rights. Policing the
unauthorized use of proprietary technology can be difficult and
expensive. In particular, the laws and enforcement procedures
certain markets where we operate are uncertain or do not protect
intellectual property rights to the same extent as do the laws and
enforcement procedures of the United States. We may need to resort
to court proceedings to enforce our intellectual property rights in
the future. Litigation relating to our intellectual property might
result in substantial costs and diversion of resources and
management attention away from our business. An adverse
determination in any such litigation will impair our intellectual
property rights and adversely affect our business, prospects and
reputation.
We may be exposed to infringement or misappropriation claims by
third parties which, if determined adversely to us, could cause us
to pay significant damage awards.
Our success depends largely on our ability to use and develop our
technology and know-how without infringing the intellectual
property rights of third parties. The validity and scope of claims
relating to solar technology involve complex scientific, legal and
factual questions and analysis and, therefore, may be highly
uncertain. As we continue to expand internationally, we face a
heightened risk of becoming the subject of claims for intellectual
property infringement. We may be subject to litigation involving
claims of patent infringement or violation of intellectual property
rights of third parties. An adverse determination in any such
litigation or proceedings against us could subject us to
significant liabilities to third parties, including requiring us to
seek licenses from third parties, to pay ongoing royalties or to
pay monetary and punitive damages. Protracted litigation could also
result in our customers or potential customers deferring or
limiting their procurement of our PV solutions until resolution of
such litigation, which could result in losses and adversely affect
our reputation and results of operations.
Our management has identified material weaknesses in our internal
control over financial reporting and we may not be able to
remediate these weaknesses. Additionally, our management may
identify material weaknesses in the future that could adversely
affect investor confidence, impair the value of our securities and
increase our cost of raising capital.
Our management identified material weaknesses in our internal
control over financial reporting, and our chief executive officer
concluded that our disclosure and internal controls and procedures
were not effective as of December 31, 2019. See “Item 15. Controls and Procedures” for more
information. There can be no assurance as to how quickly or
effectively we can remediate the material weaknesses in our
internal control over financial reporting or that additional
material weaknesses will not be identified in the future.
Any failure to remedy additional weaknesses or deficiencies in our
internal control over financial reporting that may be discovered in
the future or to implement new or improved controls, or
difficulties encountered in the implementation of such controls,
could harm our operating results, cause us to fail to meet our
reporting obligations or result in material misstatements in our
financial statements. Any such failure could, in turn, affect the
future ability of our management to certify that our internal
control over financial reporting is effective. Ineffective internal
control over financial reporting could also subject us to the
scrutiny of the SEC and other regulatory bodies which could cause
investors to lose confidence in our reported financial information
and subject us to civil or criminal penalties or shareholder
litigation, which could have an adverse effect on the trading price
of our securities.
In addition, if we identify additional deficiencies in our internal
control over financial reporting, the disclosure of that fact, even
if quickly remedied, could reduce the market’s confidence in our
financial statements and harm our share price. Furthermore,
additional deficiencies could result in future non-compliance with
Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (“Sarbanes-Oxley”).
Such non-compliance could subject us to a variety of administrative
sanctions, including review by the SEC or other regulatory
authorities.
The preparation of our consolidated financial statements in
accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles
requires us to make estimates, judgments and assumptions that may
ultimately prove to be incorrect.
The accounting estimates and judgments that management must make in
the ordinary course of business affect the reported amounts of
assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial
statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during
the periods presented. If the underlying estimates are ultimately
proven to be incorrect, subsequent adjustments could have a
material adverse effect on our operating results for the period or
periods in which the change is identified.
The global cryptocurrency mining services market is highly
competitive and fragmented with low barriers to market.
Although the market for providing services to cryptocurrency miners
is new and evolving, the barriers to entry are quite low. Except
for having the financial resources to set up a facility, no
specialized technology or know-how required. Therefore, if
cryptocurrency mining remains profitable, we expect additional
competitors to enter the market, some of whom may have greater
resources than we do.
The prices of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies have been
fluctuating wildly in the last few months. If there is fewer people
who want to conduct cryptocurrency mining operations due to the
wild fluctuation, the demand for our services will decline.
The prices of cryptocurrencies have been fluctuating wildly in the
last few months. Such fluctuation may make cryptocurrency mining
less profitable. If the price of cryptocurrencies falls or does not
increase, fewer people are likely to conduct cryptocurrency mining
operations, which would reduce the demand for our services.
Blockchain technology and cryptocurrency are in the early stages of
development and it is difficult to predict how the market for
cryptocurrencies will develop.
Blockchain technology and cryptocurrency are in the early stages of
development and it is difficult to predict how the market for
cryptocurrencies will develop. There are significant factors which
may inhibit the growth of these markets, including:
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volatility in the market price of
cryptocurrencies; |
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the implementation of regulations
on cryptocurrency markets or technology; and |
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the erosion or loss of user
confidence in Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies could. |
Any of these factors could significantly limit the growth of our
business.
We need to access a large quantity of power at a reasonable cost in
order to provide our cryptocurrency mining services; if we are
unable to access such power sources, we will not be able to
continue providing cryptocurrency mining services profitably.
We need to access a large quantity of power at a reasonable cost in
order to provide our cryptocurrency mining services, and we do not
have any long-term contract for the provision of power at specified
prices. As competition in this area increases, we may not be able
to access power at reasonable costs or at all. If we are unable to
access new power sources, or the price of our current power sources
significantly increase, we will not be able to continue providing
cryptocurrency mining services profitably.
The hemp and CBD industries are evolving yet highly regulated
and we must anticipate and respond to changes and
risks.
In September 2019, the Company launched a hemp and Cannabidiol
(“CBD”) businesses and as of the date of this annual report, our
hemp and CBD businesses have no revenue derived from this business.
The hemp and CBD industries are not yet well-developed, and many
aspects of the industries’ development and evolution cannot be
accurately predicted. In addition, the hemp and CBD businesses are
heavily regulated in the jurisdiction(s) where we carry on such
businesses. Although the hemp and CBD businesses contribute nil to
our total revenue,our hemp and CBD businesses are subject to
various laws, regulations and guidelines by governmental
authorities relating to, among other things, the manufacture,
marketing, management, transportation, storage, sale, pricing and
disposal of cannabis, U.S. hemp and cannabis-based products, and
also including laws, regulations and guidelines relating to health
and safety, insurance coverage, the conduct of operations and the
protection of the environment. You should carefully consider that
there are other risks that cannot be foreseen or are not described
herein, which could affect Company’s business and financial
performance.
DEA Regulation of CBD Varies Depending on the Concentration
of THC
Under Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) regulations, marijuana
is a Schedule 1 drug not approved as a medication in the United
States; however, hemp has been distinguished from marijuana under
the definition revised in 2018. Hemp is defined as the plant
Cannabis sativa L. and any part of that plant — including the seeds
and all derivatives, extracts, cannabinoids, isomers, acids, salts,
and salts of isomers, whether growing or not — with a THC
concentration of not more than 0.3 percent on a dry weight
basis.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration ( FDA) Regulations Do Not
Permit CBD as a Food Additive or Dietary Supplement
Analysis of the potential for regulatory impact on any type of CBD
product is fact-specific and requires close evaluation of several
factors, including the type of product (e.g., food, dietary
supplement, or cosmetic), product’s labeling, and the existing
compliance structure of the product developer or manufacturer. The
FDA regulates CBD if it is used as a food additive, a dietary
supplement or in cosmetic products, or if it is advertised as a
drug.
Rapidly Changing State Laws May Impose Further Restrictions
on CBD Products
Where CBD products are sold or manufactured, it is important to
review applicable state law to determine any further restrictions
on CBD. For instance, the North Carolina Department of Agriculture
and Consumer Services recently announced it would send letters to
businesses notifying them that the sale of CBD in food, drinks and
animal food violates state and federal law. Further, in February
2019, Maine and New York announced that restaurants and other
retailers may not sell products containing CBD and that the states
would begin enforcing these restrictions. These state restrictions
may significantly impact overall sales of CBD products as the
regulatory landscape continues to evolve.
Avoid Certain Advertising and Labeling Claims for CBD
Products
Marketing claims about the therapeutic benefits of CBD may
inadvertently subject CBD product manufacturers to FDA’s drug
regulations. Claims that CBD can treat or mitigate a disease or
condition, for instance, may run afoul of FDA’s position on CBD
product marketing. To date, the FDA has approved only one drug
directly using CBD - Epidiolex - which treats two rare forms of
childhood epilepsy. The FDA has not determined that CBD is safe or
effective for treating any other particular disease or condition.
Accordingly, companies should avoid making claims that CBD will aid
in the treatment of any particular disease or condition or provide
any particular health benefits. FDA further clarified that it will
continue to aggressively pursue companies marketing CBD products
with “egregious and unfounded claims that are aimed at vulnerable
populations.”
Federal Regulation of CBD Will Continue to Evolve
The FDA’s position on CBD is not static, and potential investors
should continue to monitor the evolving federal landscape. The FDA
recently held a public hearing to obtain scientific data and
information about the safety, manufacturing, product quality,
marketing, labeling and sale of products containing cannabis or
cannabis-derived compounds. The FDA also announced that it is
forming a high-level internal agency working group to explore
potential pathways for dietary supplements and/or conventional
foods containing CBD to be lawfully marketed. The group will
consider what statutory or regulatory changes might be needed and
the likely impact of such marketing on public health. As
stakeholders weigh in on thisissue, FDA’s position on this topic
likely will continue to evolve.
Covid-19 continues to impact on alfalfa hay
transportation
With Asia’s increasing demand for American alfalfa hay, we have
recognized the importance of exporting to the Asian market.
However, the uncertainty around the coronavirus has disrupted
global markets and the U.S. market has not been immune. Major
oceanic carriers have reduced the frequency of their shipments,
disrupting our supply chain. This required U.S. exporters to
reschedule shipments and work to find boat space for new shipments.
Fortunately, there is sustained demand from major importing
countries, but logistics will be a challenge in the coming
months.
U.S.-China trade disruption remains unclear
The outcome of the U.S.-China trade war remains unclear. There
might be future disruptions in the market with potential for
tariffs being set on our products. This will affect the Chinese
demand for our products if our products become more expensive than
Chinese local producers when tariffs are added to our prices.
However, alfalfa hay is exempted from tariffs since September 2019
for one year so we are currently unaffected.
Weather Condition may lead to decline in Hay
production
Weather conditions are a huge factor affecting alfalfa hay
production. Increasingly random weather patterns due to global
warming could post a potential risk to production levels.
Risks Related to COVID-19
Our business and financial results may be materially
adversely affected by the current COVID-19 pandemic
outbreak.
The pandemic of a novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has resulted in a
widespread health crisis that has adversely affected the economies
and financial markets worldwide. Government efforts to contain the
spread of the coronavirus through lockdowns of cities, business
closures, restrictions on travel and emergency quarantines, among
others, and responses by businesses and individuals to reduce the
risk of exposure to infection, including reduced travel,
cancellation of meetings and events, and implementation of
work-at-home policies, among others, have caused significant
disruptions to the global economy and normal business operations
across a growing list of sectors and countries.
Our operating results substantially depend on revenues derived from
sales of PV project assets, provision of electricity and our
Australian subsidiary’s trading of PV components. As the COVID-19
spread continues, the measures implemented to curb the spread of
the virus have resulted in supply chain disruptions, insufficient
work force and suspended manufacturing and construction works for
solar industry. One or more of our customers, partners, service
providers or suppliers may experience financial distress, delayed
or defaults on payment, file for bankruptcy protection, sharp
diminishing of business, or suffer disruptions in their business
due to the outbreak. These preventative measures have also impacted
our daily operations. The efforts enacted to control COVID-19 have
placed heavy pressure on our marketing and sales activities.
Moreover, due to the decrease in prices of crude oil, the demand
for solar energy can decrease in the near future. We continue to
assess the related risks and impacts COVID-19 pandemic may have on
our business and our financial performance. In light of the rapidly
changing situation across different countries and regions, it
remains difficult to estimate the duration and magnitude of
COVID-19 impact. Until such time as the COVID-19 pandemic is
contained or eradicated and global business return to more
customary levels, our business and financial results may be
materially adversely affected.
Risks Related to Our International Operations
We are subject to risks associated with foreign currency exchange
rates, fluctuations of which may negatively affect our revenue,
cost of goods sold and gross margins and could result in exchange
losses.
We currently operate in a number of jurisdictions including the
U.S., Japan, U.K., Greece, Italy and Australia, and our local
operations are generally conducted in the functional currency of
the home jurisdiction. The FIT and other subsidies granted are also
denominated in local currencies. Thus, we deal on a regular basis
in several currencies concurrently, which exposes us to significant
currency exchange risks. Any increased costs or reduced revenue as
a result of foreign exchange rate fluctuations could adversely
affect our profit margins. The fluctuation of foreign exchange
rates also affects the value of our monetary and other assets and
liabilities denominated in local currencies. Generally, an
appreciation of the U.S. dollar against the relevant local
currencies could result in a foreign exchange loss for assets
denominated in such local currencies and a foreign exchange gain
for liabilities denominated in such local currencies. Conversely, a
devaluation of the U.S. dollar against the relevant local
currencies could result in a foreign exchange gain for assets
denominated in such local currencies and a foreign exchange loss
for liabilities denominated in such local currencies.
We may also expand into emerging markets, some of which may have an
uncertain regulatory environment relating to currency policy.
Conducting business in such emerging markets could increase our
exposure to foreign exchange risks. Although we access a variety of
financing solutions that are tailored to the geographic location of
our projects and to local regulations, we have not entered into any
hedging transactions to reduce the foreign exchange risks, but may
do so in the future when appropriate. However, if we decide to
hedge our foreign exchange exposure in the future, we cannot assure
you that we will be able to reduce our foreign currency risk
exposure in an effective manner, at reasonable costs, or at
all.
The ongoing debt crisis in the Eurozone and market perceptions
concerning the instability of the Euro and the European economy
could adversely affect our business, results of operations and
financing.
Concerns persist regarding the debt burden of certain Eurozone
countries and their ability to meet future financial obligations,
the overall stability of the Euro and the suitability of the Euro
as a single currency given the diverse economic and political
circumstances in individual Eurozone countries. These concerns or
market perceptions concerning these and related issues could
adversely affect the value of our Euro-denominated assets and
obligations and lead to future economic slowdowns.
Risks Related to Our Ordinary Shares
We have significant “equity overhang” which could adversely affect
the market price of our Shares and impair our ability to raise
additional capital through the sale of equity securities.
As of the date of this annual report, we had 14,837,469 ordinary
shares outstanding, including 4,289,340 ordinary shares, or
approximately 28.9% of our total ordinary shares outstanding, held
by Mr. Xiaofeng Peng, our director, executive chairman of the
board of directors and chief executive officer. The possibility
that substantial amounts of our outstanding ordinary shares may be
sold by Mr. Xiaofeng Peng or the perception that such sales
could occur, or “equity overhang,” could adversely affect the
market price of our ordinary shares, and could impair our ability
to raise additional capital through the sale of equity securities
in the future.
We are subject to litigation risks, including securities class
actions and shareholder derivative actions, which may be costly to
defend and the outcome of which is uncertain.
From time to time, we are subject to legal claims, with and without
merit, that may be costly, and which may divert the attention of
our management and our resources in general. In addition, our solar
projects may be subject to litigation or other adverse proceedings
that may adversely impact our ability to proceed with construction
or grid connection or sell a given project, which would adversely
affect our ability to recognize revenue with respect to such
project. We are currently involved in various legal proceedings.
See “Item 8. Financial Information
—Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information—Legal and
Administrative Proceedings.” The results of complex legal
proceedings are difficult to predict. Lawsuits filed against us may
assert types of claims that, if resolved against us, could give
rise to substantial damages, and an unfavorable outcome or
settlement of one or more of these lawsuits, or any future
lawsuits, could have a material adverse effect on our business,
financial condition, or results of operations. Even if these
lawsuits are not resolved against us, the costs of defending such
lawsuits may not be covered by our insurance policies. We cannot
assure you that additional litigation will not be filed against us
in the future.
It may be difficult to effect service of process on, or to enforce
any judgments obtained against us, our directors, or our senior
management members.
There is no statutory enforcement in the Cayman Islands of
judgments obtained in the federal or state courts of the United
States (and the Cayman Islands are not a party to any treaties for
the reciprocal enforcement or recognition of such judgments), a
judgment obtained in such jurisdiction will be recognized and
enforced in the courts of the Cayman Islands at common law, without
any re-examination of the merits of the underlying dispute, by an
action commenced on the foreign judgment debt in the Grand Court of
the Cayman Islands, provided such judgment (a) is given by a
foreign court of competent jurisdiction, (b) imposes on the
judgment debtor a liability to pay a liquidated sum for which the
judgment has been given, (c) is final, (d) is not in respect of
taxes, a fine or a penalty, and (e) was not obtained in a manner
and is not of a kind the enforcement of which is contrary to
natural justice or the public policy of the Cayman Islands.
However, the Cayman Islands courts are unlikely to enforce a
judgment obtained from the U.S. courts under civil liability
provisions of the U.S. federal securities law if such judgment is
determined by the courts of the Cayman Islands to give rise to
obligations to make payments that are penal or punitive in nature.
Because such a determination has not yet been made by a court of
the Cayman Islands, it is uncertain whether such civil liability
judgments from U.S. courts would be enforceable in the Cayman
Islands.
Our shareholders may experience future dilution.
Our amended and restated memorandum and articles of association
permits our board of directors, without shareholder approval, to
authorize the issuance of preferred shares. The board of directors
may classify or reclassify any preferred shares to set the
preferences, rights and other terms of the classified or
reclassified shares, including the issuance of preferred shares
that have preference rights over our ordinary shares with respect
to dividends, liquidation and voting rights. Furthermore,
substantially all of our ordinary shares for which our outstanding
stock options are exercisable are, once they have been purchased,
eligible for immediate sale in the public market.
We may from time to time distribute rights to our shareholders,
including rights to acquire our securities. However, we cannot make
these rights available in the United States unless we register the
rights and the securities to which the rights relate under the
Securities Act or an exemption from the registration requirements
is available. We are under no obligation to file a registration
statement with respect to any such rights or securities or to
endeavor to cause a registration statement to be declared
effective. Moreover, we may not be able to establish an exemption
from registration under the Securities Act. Accordingly, you may be
unable to participate in our rights offerings and may experience
dilution in your holdings.
The issuance of additional shares in our capital or the exercise of
stock options or warrants could be substantially dilutive to your
shares and may negatively affect the market price of our ordinary
shares.
The price of our securities has been and may continue to be highly
volatile.
The price of our ordinary shares has been and may continue to be
subject to wide fluctuations in the future in response to many
events or factors, including those discussed in the preceding risk
factors relating to our operations, as well as:
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actual or anticipated fluctuations
in operating results, actual or anticipated gross profit as a
percentage of net sales, our actual or anticipated rate of growth
and our actual or anticipated earnings per share; |
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changes in expectations as to
future financial performance or changes in financial
estimates; |
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changes in governmental regulations
or policies in the countries in which we do business; |
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our, or a competitor’s,
announcement of new products, services or technological
innovations; |
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the operating and stock price
performance of other comparable companies; |
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news and commentary emanating from
the media, securities analysts or government bodies relating to us
and to the industry in general; |
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changes in the general condition of
the global economy and credit markets; |
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general market conditions or other
developments affecting us or our industry; |
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announcements regarding patent
litigation or the issuance of patents to us or our
competitors; |
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release or expiry of lock-up or
other transfer restrictions on our outstanding ordinary
shares; |
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sales or perceived sales of
additional ordinary shares; and |
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commencement of, or our involvement
in, litigation. |
Any of these factors may result in large and sudden changes in the
volume and price at which our ordinary shares will trade. We cannot
give any assurance that these factors will not occur in the future
again. In addition, the securities market has from time to time
experienced significant price and volume fluctuations that are not
related to the operating performance of particular companies. These
market fluctuations may also have a material adverse effect on the
market price of our ordinary shares. In the past, following periods
of volatility in the market price of their stock, many companies
have been the subject of securities class action litigation. If we
become involved in similar securities class action litigation in
the future, it could result in substantial costs and diversion of
our management’s attention and resources and could harm our stock
price, business, prospects, financial condition and results of
operations.
If we fail to meet the applicable listing requirements, NASDAQ may
delist our ordinary shares from trading on its exchange in which
case the liquidity and market price of our securities could decline
and our ability to raise additional capital would be adversely
affected.
Our ordinary shares are currently listed for trading on the NASDAQ
Global Select Market. If we remain listed, there are a number of
requirements that must be met in order for our ordinary shares to
remain listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market, and the failure
to meet any of these listing standards could result in the
delisting of our ordinary shares from NASDAQ. We cannot assure you
that we will be able to timely file all required reports or comply
with all other NASDAQ Listing Rules at all times in the future, or
regain compliance in a timely manner in case of a default and avoid
any subsequent adverse action taken by the Listing Qualifications
Department, including but not limited to delisting.
Our articles of association contain anti-takeover provisions that
could prevent a change in control even if such takeover is
beneficial to our shareholders.
Our articles of association contain provisions that could delay,
defer or prevent a change in control of us that could be beneficial
to our shareholders. These provisions could also discourage proxy
contests and make it more difficult for you and other shareholders
to elect directors and take other corporate actions. As a result,
these provisions could limit the price that investors are willing
to pay for the ordinary shares. These provisions might also
discourage a potential acquisition proposal or tender offer, even
if the acquisition proposal or tender offer is at a price above the
then current market price of our ordinary shares. These provisions
provide that our board of directors has authority, without any
further action by our shareholders, to issue preferred shares in
one or more series and to fix their designations, powers,
preferences, privileges, and relative participating, optional or
special rights and the qualifications, limitations or restrictions,
including dividend rights, conversion rights, voting rights, terms
of redemption and liquidation preferences, any or all of which may
be greater than the rights associated with the ordinary shares. The
board of directors may decide to issue such preferred shares
quickly with terms calculated to delay or prevent a change in
control of us or make the removal of our management more difficult.
If the board of directors decides to issue such preferred shares,
the price of our ordinary shares may fall and the voting and other
rights of holders of our ordinary shares may be materially
adversely affected.
You may not receive dividends or other distributions on our
ordinary shares and you may not receive any value for them, if it
is illegal or impractical to make them available to you.
Under Cayman Islands law, we may only pay dividends out of our
profits or share premium account subject to our ability to pay our
debts as they fall due in the ordinary course of our business. Our
ability to pay dividends will therefore depend on our ability to
generate sufficient profits. We cannot give any assurance that we
will declare dividends of any amounts, at any rate or at all in the
future. We have not paid any dividends in the past. Future
dividends, if any, will be paid at the discretion of our board of
directors, subject to requirements under Cayman Islands law and our
memorandum and articles of association, as amended and restated
from time to time, and will depend upon our future operations and
earnings, capital expenditure requirements, general financial
conditions, legal and contractual restrictions and other factors
that our board of directors may deem relevant.
We are treated as a U.S. corporation for U.S. federal tax
purposes.
Due to the circumstances of our formation and the application of
Section 7874(b) of the United States Internal Revenue Code of 1986,
as amended (the “Code”), we are treated as a U.S. corporation for
all purposes of the Code. As a result, we are subject to U.S.
federal corporate income tax on our worldwide income. In addition,
if we pay dividends to a Non-U.S. Holder, as defined in the
discussion “Item 10. Additional Information—E. Taxation—U.S.
Federal Income Taxation,” U.S. income tax will be withheld at the
rate of 30%, or, subject to certain conditions, such lower rate as
may be provided in an applicable income tax treaty. Each investor
should consult its own tax adviser regarding the U.S. federal
income tax consequences of holding the ordinary shares in its
particular circumstances.
We rely on the foreign private issuer exemption for certain
corporate governance requirements under the NASDAQ Stock Market
Rules, or the NASDAQ Rules, including the majority independent
board requirement. This may afford less protection to holders of
our ordinary shares and ADSs.
As a foreign private issuer, we are exempt from certain corporate
governance requirements of NASDAQ. We are required to provide a
brief description of the significant differences between our
corporate governance practices and the corporate governance
practices required to be followed by U.S. domestic issuers under
the NASDAQ Rules. The standards applicable to us are considerably
different from those applied to U.S. domestic issuers. For
instance, we are not required to:
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have a majority of the board of
directors be comprised of independent directors; |
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have a compensation committee that
is comprised solely of independent directors; |
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having a nomination and corporate
governance committee that is comprised solely of independent
directors; |
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have executive compensation be
determined by independent directors or a committee of independent
directors; |
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have director nominees be selected,
or recommended for selection by the board of directors, by
independent directors or a committee of independent directors; |
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hold an annual meeting of
shareholders no later than one year after the end of our fiscal
year-end; and |
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have shareholder approval for
private placement of Company’s common stocks at a price less than
the greater of book or market value which together with sales by
officers, directors or Substantial Shareholders of the Company
equals 20% or more of common stock or 20% or more of the voting
power outstanding before the issuance. |
We are not required to, and will not voluntarily meet, these
requirements. For example, our board of directors currently
consists of five directors, three of whom satisfy the
“independence” requirements of Rule 10A-3 under the Exchange Act
and Rule 5605 of the NASDAQ Rules. The law of our home country, the
Cayman Islands, does not require a majority of our board of
directors be composed of independent directors. We intend to follow
our home country practice with regard to the composition of the
board of directors.
As a result, holders of our ordinary shares may not have the same
protection afforded to shareholders of companies that are subject
to all of NASDAQ’s corporate governance requirements. For a
description of the material corporate governance differences
between the NASDAQ Rules and Cayman Islands law, see “Item 16G. Corporate Governance.”
ITEM
4.
INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY
A. |
History and Development of the
Company |
Our legal and commercial name is SPI Energy Co., Ltd. Our principal
executive office is located at #1128, 11/F, No. 52 Hung To Road,
Kwun Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China. Our telephone number at
this address is +852 2291 6020 and our fax number is +852 2291
6030. Our registered office is situated at 4th Floor, Harbour
Place, 103 South Church Street, PO Box 10240, George Town, Cayman
Islands.
The Company was incorporated by SPI as a company limited by shares
in the Cayman Islands on May 4, 2015. On January 4, 2016, we
completed the redomiciliation of SPI to the Cayman Islands, whereby
SPI merged with and into a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company
and the holders of SPI common stock received ADS representing
ordinary shares of the Company. As a result, the former
shareholders of SPI became the beneficial owners of the capital
stock of the Company, and the Company, together with our
subsidiaries, now own and continue to conduct SPI’s business in
substantially the same manner as was conducted by SPI and its
subsidiaries. The Company is also managed by substantially the same
board of directors and executive officers that managed SPI
previously.
We raised a significant amount of cash for our working capital
purposes from the issuance of shares of SPI’s common stock and
convertible notes in 2014, 2015 and 2016 to non-U.S. investors in
private placements. In those periods, we entered into various
private placement share purchase agreements and option agreements
with a number of non-U.S. investors and issued approximately 14.6
million unregistered shares or options to purchase shares of SPI’s
common stock in reliance on Regulation S of the Securities Act, or
Regulation S, mostly at a per share purchase price benchmarked to
the prevailing trading price of SPI’s shares at the respective
dates of these agreements, and raised an aggregate of $401.58
million. We also raised $55.0 million of cash by issuing
unregistered convertible notes to non-U.S. investors in reliance of
Regulation S promulgated under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as
amended (“Regulations S”) in 2014 and 2015. In January 2016, we
raised $5 million by issuing 2.5 million ordinary shares, in
reliance on Regulation S, to a non-U.S. investor who exercised an
option to purchase our ordinary shares pursuant to an option
agreement with our Company. In September 2016, we entered into
share purchase agreements with certain existing shareholders,
including certain members of our management and other investors,
pursuant to which we agreed to issue and sell an aggregate of 386.1
million ordinary shares for a total consideration of approximately
$100 million. In January 2017, we completed approximately $0.881
million of its $100 million private placement. The investors in
these transactions have advised us that they no longer wish to
close on these transactions.
On January 17, 2019, we entered into share purchase agreements with
certain existing shareholders (including certain key management
personnel of the Company) and other investors (collectively, the
“Purchasers”), pursuant to which the Purchasers agreed to purchase
an aggregate of 6,600,000 ordinary shares of the Company at a price
of US$1.16 per Share, for a total consideration of approximately
$7.7 million. The transaction was closed on April 12, 2019. Those
shares were being offered and sold to private investors, on a
private placement basis in reliance on Regulation S. Those shares
have not been and will not be registered under the Securities Act
of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold in the United
States absent registration or an applicable exemption from
registration. Net proceeds from the sale of those shares are
intended to be used for expansion of our global PV project
activities and general corporate purposes.
Between January 19, 2016 and September 18, 2017, our ADSs were
listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol of
“SPI”. The Bank of New York Mellon, the depositary bank for the ADS
facility, terminated our ADS facility on September 18, 2017.
Following such termination, we listed our ordinary shares, par
value US$0.0001 per share, for trading on NASDAQ Global Select
Market in substitution for our ADSs. On September 19, 2017, our
ordinary shares began trading on the NASDAQ Global Select Market
under the symbol of “SPI”.
On January 1, 2017, we deconsolidated Sinsin due to loss of
control.
In September 2017, we entered into a framework share purchase
agreement to acquire 100% equity interests of three Greek
companies, namely THERMI SUN S.A, HELIOHRISI S.A., and HELIOSTIXIO
S.A., from THERMI TANEO Venture Capital Fund (“TTVCF”), for a total
consideration of EUR 16.8 million, subject to certain adjustments.
The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions. These
three companies own a total of four PV plants with 7.4MWp PV
installations in northern Greece. The closing of the transaction
took place in three separate stages (one for each company under
acquisition). The acquisition of HELIOSTIXIO S.A. was closed in
December 2017. The Company completed the second-stage acquisition
of 100% of the equity interest of HELIOHRISI S.A., which owns 1.988
MW of photovoltaic projects in Greece on March 20 2019. The last of
three acquisitions of 100% of the equity interest of THERMI SUN
S.A., which owns 4.4 Megawatts (“MW”) of photovoltaic (“PV”)
projects in Greece, was closed in November 1, 2019. With 7.4MWp PV
installations added to SPI Energy’s existing PV portfolio in
Greece, the Company becomes one of the significant PV owners in
Greece.
On December 10, 2018, we divested all our business and operations
in China for nominal consideration due to the significant
liabilities in the business.
On July 23 2019, the Company entered into a framework agreement to
acquire up to eight solar PV projects, totaling 21MW in the State
of Oregon (the “Oregon Portfolio”). On August 26, 2019, the Company
completed the closing of Manchester and Waterford solar projects
with a total of approximately 5.4MW. On September 10, 2019, the
Company completed the closing on the Belvedere project with
approximately 3.56MW of clean energy for the local community. On
September 24, 2019, the Company completed the closing of the Dover
and Clayfield solar projects with a total of approximately 5.45MW.
On April 22, 2020, the Company completed the acquisition of the
Cork project with a total of approximately 1.5MW. The Company has
now closed 6 of the 8 projects within the Oregon Portfolio.
On September 26, 2019, the Company completed the closing on the
sale of Sun Roof II and Sun Roof V to Theia Investments (Italy)
S.r.l. (“Theia”) a company established by an infrastructure fund
managed by Stafford Capital Partners (“Stafford”), a leading
private markets investment and advisory group. Sun Roof II,
comprised of three rooftop solar projects totaling 1.83 MW located
in Sassari, Italy, and Sun Roof V, a 1 MW rooftop solar project
located in Cisterna di Latina, Italy, have been in operation since
2012. Theia paid approximately EUR4.3 million to complete the
transaction. On March 16, 2020, the Company completed the closing
of the sale of its Sun Roof I assets, a 479 kWp rooftop solar
project located in Aprilia, Italy, that has been in operation since
2012. Proceeds from the sale were approximately EUR 1.1 million
before transaction fees, strengthening the Company’s balance sheet
and providing additional capital for the development of solar
assets in the US and Greece. After the sale of Sun Roof II, Sun
Roof V and Sun Roof I, the Company currently owns only 1 PV asset
with a capacity of 0.993 MW in Italy.
Nasdaq Compliance
On March 23, 2020, the Company received a notification letter from
Nasdaq indicating that the Company is not in compliance with NASDAQ
Listing Rule 5450(b)(3)(C) for continued listing because the market
value of its publicly held shares (“MVPHS”) was less than $15
million. Normally, the Company would be eligible for a 180 day
compliance period to regain the compliance. On April 17, 2020, the
Company received a notification letter from Nasdaq indicating that
the Company will have 156 calendar days from July 1, 2020, or until
December 3, 2020 to regain compliance with the Nasdaq’s market
value of publicly held shares (“MVPHS”) requirement. The Notice
also stated that Nasdaq has determined to toll the compliance
periods for bid price and MVPHS requirements (collectively, the
“Price-based Requirements”) through June 30, 2020. As a result,
companies presently in compliance periods for any Price-based
Requirements will remain at that same stage of the process and will
not be subject to being delisted for these concerns. Starting on
July 1, 2020, companies will receive the balance of any pending
compliance period in effect at the start of the tolling period to
regain compliance. Accordingly, since the Company had 156 calendar
days remaining in its MVPHS compliance period as of April 16, 2020,
it will, upon reinstatement of the Price-based Requirements, still
have 156 calendar days from July 1, 2020, or until December 3,
2020, to regain compliance. The Notices have no immediate effect on
the listing of the Company’s securities. The Company can regain
compliance at any time before December 3, 2020 by evidencing
compliance with the MVPHS requirement for a minimum of 10
consecutive trading days.
On April 28, 2020, the Company received a notification letter from
Nasdaq notifying the Company that its bid price per ordinary share
had been below $1.00 for a period of 30 consecutive business days
and, therefore, that the Company did not meet the minimum bid price
requirement set forth in Rule 5450(a)(1) of the Nasdaq Listing
Rules. Normally, the Company would be eligible for a 180 day
compliance period to regain the compliance.
Given current market conditions, Nasdaq previously determined to
toll the compliance periods for Price-based Requirements through
June 30, 2020. As a result, the Company will, upon reinstatement of
the Price-based Requirements, still have 180 calendar days from
July 1, 2020, or until December 28, 2020, to regain compliance.
The Notices have no immediate effect on the listing of the
Company’s securities. The Company can regain compliance at any time
before December 28, 2020 by evidencing compliance with the bid
price requirement for a minimum of 10 consecutive trading days.
We are a global provider of PV solutions for business, residential,
government and utility customers and investors. We provide a full
spectrum of EPC services to third party project developers, as well
as develop, own and operate solar projects that sell electricity to
the grid in multiple countries, including the U.S., the U.K.,
Greece, Japan and Italy. Prior to 2014, we were primarily engaged
in providing EPC services to developers in the U.S. We were also
engaged in the development, manufacture and marketing of a variety
of PV modules, the key components of solar parks that convert
sunlight into electricity, and balance-of-system components,
including our in-house brand. We have discontinued our
manufacturing business and liquidated our research and development
function. Beginning in 2014, we expanded our global project
development business by ramping up our portfolio of global solar
projects, including projects that we plan to hold in the long term
and derive electricity generation revenue from our independent
power producer model, or IPP model, and projects that we plan to
sell in the future when we are presented with attractive
opportunities under our build-and-transfer model, or BT model. We
grow our project portfolio primarily through acquisitions and act
as a secondary developer for the projects which are under
construction or in pipeline upon acquisition. Solar projects in our
current portfolio include projects at all stages of development,
including projects in operation, projects under construction and
projects in pipeline. See “—Our Global Project Development
Business—Our Solar Project Portfolio.”
For our EPC service business, the scope of our work encompasses
engineering design procurement of technical components from PV
module and panel manufacturers and contracting of construction and
installation, which reaches both upstream and downstream along the
spectrum of the solar business value chain. Our rigorous design and
supply chain management as well as construction quality control
enable us to design, build and deliver world-class solar system
configurations with components that can work optimally
together.
For our global project development business, as of June 29, 2020,
we had completed a series of acquisitions of solar projects that
were in operation, consisting of (i) 26.6 MW of projects in Greece,
acquired in December 2014 for a total consideration of $79.330
million including the rights to be awarded up to 360MW EPC
contracts, (ii) 4.3 MW of projects in Italy, acquired in February
2015 for a total consideration of $11.8 million, (iii) 1.082 MW,
1.988 MW and 4.4MW of projects in Greece, acquired in December
2017, March 2019 and November 2019 respectively, for a total
consideration of EUR 12.88 million ($14.46 million), (iv) 0.2744 MW
of projects in Japan, acquired in July 2017 for a total
consideration of JPY 110 million ($ 0.98 million) and (v) a total
of 15.77 MW DC of projects in the state of Oregon, US, acquired in
August, September 2019 and April 2020 respectively for a total
consideration of $1.3 million.
From January 2019 to December 31, 2019, we sold 1 solar project in
Japan (1.99MW) to a third party at the consideration of $9.56
million, which has been recognized as revenue accordingly. On
September 26, 2019, we sold Sun Roof II comprised of three rooftop
solar projects totaling 1.83 MW, and Sun Roof V with1 MW rooftop
solar project in Italy at the consideration of EUR4.3 million. On
March 16, 2020, we sold Sun Roof I, a 479 kWp rooftop solar project
located in Italy at the consideration of EUR1.1 million before
transaction fees. After the sale of Sun Roof II, Sun Roof V and Sun
Roof I, the Company currently owns only 1 PV asset with a capacity
of 0.993 MW in Italy.
As of the date of this report, we are constructing an aggregate of
19.636 MW of projects in the U.S. under our BT model. We anticipate
that the U.S. project will be connected to the grid in 2021.
We had 10.24MW of projects in announced pipeline as of June 29,
2020. See “—Our Global Project
Development Business—Our Solar Project Portfolio.” We expect to
complete the acquisition of, or commence permitting processes for,
our projects in announced pipeline as soon as practicable. We
believe these new additions, combined with our existing project
portfolio, demonstrate our broad geographic reach and established
presence across key solar markets and mitigate country-specific
risks.
We divested all our operations in China in December 2018 for
nominal consideration due to the significant liabilities in the
business.
Deconsolidation
On January 1, 2017, we deconsolidated Sinsin due to loss of
control.
Disposition of China Assets
On August 30, 2018, the Company entered into a share purchase
agreement (the “SPA”) with Lighting Charm Limited (the “Buyer”), an
affiliate of Ms. Shan Zhou, the spouse of Xiaofeng Peng, the
Company’s Chairman of the Board of Directors and Chief Executive
Officer. The SPA was approved by an independent committee of the
Company’s Board of Directors and the transactions contemplated by
the SPA closed on December 10, 2018. Pursuant to the terms of the
SPA, the Company sold to the Buyer 100% of the shares of SPI China
(HK) Limited (“SPI China”), which held all of the Company’s assets
and liabilities related to its business in China (the “Acquired
China Business”). These assets include EPC business, PV projects,
Internet finance lease related business, and E-commerce in
China.
In connection with the transaction, a pre-closing restructuring was
accomplished. The pre-closing restructuring resulted in: (1)
SolarJuice Co., Ltd., a 100% wholly owned subsidiary of the
Company, acquiring 80% of the equity interests in Solar Juice Pty
Limited, a holding company which holds all the assets of the
Company in Australia; (2) the Company acquiring all of the equity
interests in Solar Power Inc. UK Service Limited, a holding company
which holds all the assets of the Company in UK; (3) SPI Orange
Power (Cyprus) Limited, a 100% wholly owned subsidiary of the
Company, acquiring all of the equity interests in SPI Renewable
Energy (Luxembourg) Private Limited Company S.a.r.l., a holding
company which holds part of the assets of the Company in Italy; (4)
SPI Orange Power (Cyprus) Limited acquiring all the equity
interests in ItalsolarS.r.l, a company which holds a portion of the
assets of the Company in Italy; (5) the Company acquiring all of
the equity interests of Sinsin, a holding company which held all
the assets of the Company in Greece; and (6) SPI Group Holding Co.,
Ltd., a 100% wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, acquiring 97%
of the equity interests in SPI Solar Japan G.K.
On December 10, 2018, the Company and the Buyer executed the bought
and sold notes and instrument of transfer relating to the shares in
SPI China. Upon the execution of the bought and sold notes, the
equitable title to the shares in SPI China past to the Buyer and
until the legal title is transferred, the Company held the shares
in SPI China on trust for the Buyer. On April 30, 2019, the legal
title transfer was completed and the Buyer became the owner of the
shares in SPI China.
Crypto Mining Hosting
In early 2018, we launched www.umining.io, a turnkey
solution offering global crypto-mining hosting, training, sales,
and repair services. As of December 31, 2019, we had 2 pilot mining
sites in Canada and the U.S. We continue to look for potential
investments to increase our mining capacity by the end of 2020
Hemp and CBD Business
In September 2019, the Company launched its newly established hemp
and CBD business. The Company has executed a management services
agreement with the Native American Agricultural Company (“NAAC”) to
cultivate hemp in the Navajo Nation; and obtained licenses from the
Navajo Nation to engage in lab testing, cultivation, processing,
wholesale distribution, and retail sales of hemp. In January 2020,
the Company completed the installation of its cannabidiol
extraction and milling equipment at an approximately 25,000-sqft
facility in Orange Cove, Fresno County in California. The newly
installed CBD processing equipment is designed to enable the
production of Hemp dry flower and Pre-roll, CBD crude oil,
distillate, and isolate, serving the growers in California. The
pre-production test runs of its CBD crude oil extraction and Hemp
try flower and Pre-roll production process and quality control
review have been completed. Currently, the Company is taking the
orders from customers.
Business of Alfalfa and Other Related Agriculture
Products
In May 2019, the Company announced to explore agriculture business
for productions, sales or marketing of alfalfa and other related
agriculture products in Arizona. Knight Holding Corporation is
focused on becoming one of the largest global providers of alfalfa
hay and other forage types. With China’s increasing demand for
American alfalfa hay, we have recognized the importance of
exporting to the Asia market. Committing ourselves to successfully
becoming a major supplier of alfalfa, we have established a
processing facility in Tonopah, Arizona. Our alfalfa pressing
facility sits in the center of the Harquahala Valley, located in
Western Maricopa County.
Engineering Design
As a critical first step in the EPC process, engineering design
involves the planning of the entire solar project, from feasibility
studies of the land and irradiation levels to efficient arrangement
of mounting, modules and connection systems. Our technical team
takes responsibility over initial solar project engineering with
support from third-party contractors. The engineering design
process includes the site layout and the electrical design, as well
as assessment of a variety of factors in order to choose
appropriate technologies and equipment for the project,
particularly modules and inverters. Throughout the engineering
design phase, we aim to reduce the risks, control the costs and
improve the performance of our EPC projects.
Procurement and Construction
In order to focus on our core downstream development and EPC
service businesses, we no longer manufacture PV modules or produce
other equipment such as controllers, inverters and balance of
system components. Rather, we procure them from third-party
manufacturers and install them in our PV systems as part of our EPC
business.
We procure PV modules and other key equipment for project
construction from independent suppliers and contract work to
third-party EPC contractors in areas such as logistics,
installation, construction and supervision. We believe this allows
us to focus our resources on higher value-added tasks. We maintain
an updated list of qualified and reliable global suppliers and
local third-party contractors in the areas where we operate with a
proven track record and with which we have established
relationships.
We choose our suppliers and third-party EPC contractors through a
competitive bidding process. The relevant departments of our
headquarters organize and collect bids, communicate with bidders
and coordinate with our regional development teams to meet local
technical and legal requirements. This helps ensure that we have a
strong, reliable and experienced supplier and construction team
working with us on each of our EPC project.
Procurement of PV Modules and Other Equipment
We apply stringent quality assurance protocols to select components
with a long useful life that are compatible with a variety of
parameters of the project, including local topography and local
solar irradiation.
PV modules, the primary equipment of our solar projects, typically
contribute to a substantial portion of the overall system costs. We
procure our PV modules from a wide array of suppliers including
Trina Solar Limited, JinkoSolar Holding Co., Ltd., Xiexin
Integration Technology Co., Ltd., JA Solar Holding Co., Ltd., LG
Electronics, and Chint, among others.
We consider the following factors when we procure project
equipment: technical specifications (such as size, type and power
output), bid prices, warranty and insurance programs, spectral
response, performance in low light, nominal power tolerance levels,
degradation rate, technical support and reputation of suppliers. We
typically require 10-year warranties for defects in materials or
workmanship and 25-year warranty for module capacity under normal
testing conditions (2-3% of capacity for the first year with a
0.5-0.8% linear degradation in capacity every year thereafter).
We are generally required to pay 100% of the purchase price within
a period ranging from three months to six months after receipt,
inspection and acceptance of the PV modules. We typically pay
manufacturers deposits that represent 10% to 50% of the total
purchase price.
Construction Contracting
When acting as a general contractor, we generally outsource the
construction of our PV power plants to third-party construction
companies and closely monitor their execution of our designs. Most
of these companies are specialized EPC construction subcontractors.
Our construction oversight teams conduct constructability reviews,
provide construction support, contract administration and document
control services, construction inspection, engineering support,
instrumentation installation and monitoring, and on-site
construction supervision and monitoring.
We utilize a number of metrics to manage and monitor the
performance of our third-party contractors in terms of both quality
and delivery time and to ensure compliance with applicable safety
and other requirements. For instance, we may delegate qualified
representatives to review, supervise, organize and provide comments
on the third-party contractor’s design, construction plan,
construction guidelines, materials and documentations. We also
conduct periodic inspections to examine project implementation and
quality against our project planning and quality standards and
prepare periodic reports for review and approval by our relevant
departments. If we identify any quality or progress issues that are
attributable to the work of our third-party contractors, we will
follow-up with them and monitor their rectification work.
Those third-party contractors are responsible for the quality of
the project and must maintain relevant insurance designating us as
the beneficiary. They must ensure the project complies with all
local safety, labor and environmental laws and regulations. We
examine and keep records of the production-related safety
documentation and insurance policies of our third-party
contractors. All production-related tools and equipment used by our
third-party contractors must be compliant with and certified by
applicable regulatory standards. The contractors submit detailed
quality assurance procedures and regularly updates us on the
progress, quality and safety of the project. Our third-party
contractors utilize a variety of measures to protect the project
location, including the transmission line, built facilities and
infrastructure, from damage during the construction process.
We are generally entitled to damages if our third-party contractors
fail to meet the prescribed requirements and deadlines under our
contracts. We usually negotiate to pay our third-party contractors
the remaining 5% or 10% of the contract price after the expiration
of the quality warranty period, which generally ranges from one to
two years. If we pay the full contract price upon completion of a
project, we require the contractor to provide a performance
guarantee in respect of the warranty obligations for such
project.
Commissioning and Warranties
We assess and evaluate our solar projects before completion. Upon
completion of construction, we conduct commissioning tests prior to
grid connection. The tests include a detailed visual inspection of
all significant aspects of the plant, an open circuit voltage test
and a short circuit current test, and then a direct-current test
after connecting to the grid. We focus commissioning tests on the
quality of the construction and major equipment. These tests are
conducted in order to ensure that the plant is structurally and
electrically safe, and is sufficiently robust to operate as
designed for the specified project lifetime.
After grid connection, we also conduct commissioning tests on
electricity generation performance. As grid connection requires
approval from power companies, post-grid connection commissioning
tests are also conducted by local quality supervisors or
third-parties approved by the power companies. In addition to the
warranties provided by the manufacturers of modules and
balance-of-system components, EPC contractors also typically
provide a limited warranty against defects in workmanship,
engineering design, and installation services under normal use and
service conditions for a period of one to two years following the
energizing of a section of a solar power plant or upon substantial
completion of the entire solar power plant. In resolving claims
under the workmanship, design and installation warranties, the new
owner has the option of remedying the defect to the warranted level
through repair, refurbishment, or replacement.
Our Global Project Development
Business
We develop and sell or own and operate solar projects which sell
electricity to the grid in multiple countries, including the U.S.,
the U.K., Greece, Japan and Italy. In 2014, we expanded our global
project development business by ramping up our portfolio of global
solar projects, including projects that we plan to hold in the long
term for electricity generation revenue under our IPP model, as
well as projects which we plan to sell in the future when we are
presented with attractive opportunities under our BT model. We grow
our project portfolio primarily through acquisitions and our
project acquisition strategy is based on rigorous market research
and due diligence on the target project’s capacity, local energy
demands, applicable tariff regime, supporting infrastructure, local
government support and topography for construction in the case of
projects under construction and projects in pipeline. We also
consider available financing options, internal rate of return, key
technical components, terms of the grid connection agreements and
power purchase agreements, or PPAs, as well as guarantees on
performance for projects in all development stages. We act as
secondary developer for the projects under construction or in
pipeline when they are acquired. We either hold these projects in
the long term for electricity generation revenue or sell them when
presented with attractive opportunities.
We had an aggregate 46.676 MW of projects in the U.S., the U.K.,
Greece, Japan and Italy as of June 29, 2020. We divested all of our
business in China in December 2018.
Most of our solar projects are subject to the FIT or PPA policies
of the countries or regions where they operate. FIT refers to the
national and local subsidies to solar power generation supported by
the government. PPA refers to power purchase agreement with
electricity company. For the FIT terms of our projects, please
refer to “—Our Solar Project Portfolio.”
Our Solar Project Portfolio
We expect our solar projects to have operational lives of 25 to 27
years. As of June 29, 2020, our solar project portfolio consisted
of:
|
· |
Projects in Operation — “Projects
in operation” refers to projects connected to the grid and selling
electricity. As of June 29, 2020, we have projects in operation
with an attributable capacity of 16.8 MW in the U.K., Greece, Japan
and Italy. |
|
|
|
|
· |
Projects under Construction —
“Projects under construction” refers to projects at the
construction stage. We generally complete construction in three to
six months after obtaining all the permits required for
construction, if local climate and topographical conditions permit.
We have 19.636 MW of projects under construction in the US as of
June 29, 2020 and we expect substantially all of them to be
connected to the grid by 2021. |
|
|
|
|
· |
Projects in Announced Pipeline —
“Projects in announced pipeline” refers to projects that we have
entered into definitive agreements to develop with a third party in
which we expect to own a majority of the equity interest, and
projects we have entered into definitive agreements to acquire. We
have 10.24 MW project pipeline in the state of Hawaii, U.S. as of
June 29, 2020. |
The following summary sets forth our solar projects in operation,
solar projects under construction and solar projects in announced
pipeline as of June 29, 2020. For more recent development of the
solar projects portfolio and potential sale of our solar projects,
please see “Item 5. Operating and
Financial Review and Prospects—B. Liquidity and Capital
Resources—Capital Resources and Material Known Facts on
Liquidity.”
Solar Projects in
Operation*
Country |
|
Project name |
|
Gross capacity (MW) |
|
Our equity holding |
|
Attributable capacity (MW) |
|
Ground/ Rooftop |
|
Connection date |
|
FIT terms |
Greece |
|
HELIOSTIXIO SA |
|
1.082 |
|
100% |
|
1.082 |
|
Ground |
|
September 2012 |
|
EUR0.215/kWh |
Greece |
|
HELIOHRISI SA |
|
1.988 |
|
100% |
|
1.988 |
|
Ground |
|
June
2012 |
|
EUR0.215/kWh |
Greece |
|
THERMI SUN SA |
|
4.400 |
|
100% |
|
4.400 |
|
Ground |
|
June
2012 |
|
EUR 0.215/KWh for the 3.4MW and EUR
0.25/KWh for the 0.7MW |
Japan |
|
Ibaraki |
|
0.2744 |
|
100% |
|
0.2744 |
|
Ground |
|
December 2014 |
|
JPY36/kWh |
Italy |
|
ItalsolarS.r.l. |
|
0.993 |
|
100% |
|
0.993 |
|
Ground |
|
December 2009 |
|
EUR0.325/kWh |
U.K. |
|
CairnhillSolarfield
Limited |
|
3.0906 |
|
100% |
|
3.0906 |
|
Ground |
|
February 2016 |
|
1.3 ROCs |
U.K. |
|
Emotion energy Solar One
Limited |
|
4.971 |
|
100% |
|
4.971 |
|
Ground |
|
March 2016 |
|
1.3 ROCs |
Total |
|
|
|
16.8 |
|
|
|
16.8 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
_______________
* The PPA agreements fix
the FIT during the first 20 years of operation and will drop to EUR
0.09/ KWh after the 20th year for the next 7 subsequent years. The
FIT will be charged based on the relevant law in force in Greece.
The current law in force is law4254/2014. According the monthly FIT
statements by the electricity supply bureau in Greece, the FIT
range of the PV plants was EUR0.19~0.20/kWh in 2014. Sinsin was
deconsolidated in the year of 2017 due to loss of control.
Solar
Projects Under Construction*
Country
|
|
Our equity
holding
|
|
Number of solar
projects
|
|
Attributable
capacity (MW)
|
|
Ground/Rooftop
|
|
Scheduled
Connection
date
|
|
FIT terms
|
US |
|
100% |
|
2 |
|
1.996 |
|
Ground |
|
2021 |
|
<500kW: $0.238/kWh>500kW:
$0.236/kWh |
US |
|
100% |
|
4 |
|
12.5 |
|
Ground |
|
2021 |
|
N/P |
US |
|
100% |
|
2 |
|
5.14 |
|
Ground |
|
2021 |
|
N/P |
Total |
|
|
|
8 |
|
19.636 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
_______________
|
* |
Intended by us to be BT projects in
2018 and 2019 and may be held as our IPP projects upon completion
of construction if we determine that the return of owning the
projects and selling electricity is more attractive. |
As of December 31, 2019, we had capital commitments of
approximately $5.1 million. As the total capital expenditure may be
affected by various factors including, among others, increases in
cost of key equipment and materials, failure to obtain sufficient
financing, unexpected engineering or environmental issues as well
as changes in regulatory requirements, the actual total capital
expenditure may deviate significantly from such estimates. We
expect to finance construction of these projects using cash from
our operations and private placements, bank borrowings, financial
leases as well as other third-party financing options.
Solar
Projects in Announced Pipeline*
As of June 29, 2020, we were in the process of obtaining relevant
regulatory approvals for the following self-developed and acquired
solar projects:
|
· |
a 10.24 MW project in the state of
Hawaii, U.S.; |
_______________________
|
* |
Our project portfolio excludes
projects for which we provide EPC services but in which we do not
own any equity interest or do not expect to acquire and excludes
projects we have disposed of. |
We sold all of our solar projects in China in connection with the
sale of our Chinese business in December 2018.
Featured Markets
|
· |
U.S. We have been
present in the U.S. market since the commencement of our business.
As of June 29, 2020, we have 19.636MW of projects under
construction and 10.24 MW of projects in announced pipeline. |
|
|
|
|
· |
U.K. We entered the
U.K. market in 2014. As of June 29, 2020, we owned 2 solar projects
in operation with a total capacity of 8.1MW. In the U.K., all of
the projects in our portfolio are eligible for FIT. |
|
|
|
|
· |
Greece. We entered
the Greek market in 2014. As of June 29, 2020, we own twelve (12)
operating solar projects with a total capacity of 33.8 MW, all of
which belong to seven (7) different Greek societe anonymes. Four
(4) societe anonymes, owned by Sinsin which was deconsolidated in
2017, collectively own eight (8) of the twelve (12) operating solar
projects. In Greece, all of the projects in our portfolio are
eligible for FIT. In March 2019 and November 2019, we acquired
solar projects of 1.988 MW and 4.4 MW, respectively. |
|
|
|
|
· |
Japan. We entered the
Japanese market in 2014. As of June 29, 2020, we have 0.2744 MW of
solar project in operation. In Japan, all of our projects are
eligible to receive FIT. |
|
|
|
|
· |
Italy. We entered the
Italian market in 2015. As of June 29, 2020, we have 0.993 MW of
solar projects in operation. In Italy, all of our projects are
eligible to receive FIT. |
The following table sets forth a breakdown of our net sales by
geographic location of customers for the periods indicated:
|
|
For the year ended December 31, |
|
|
|
2017 |
|
|
2018 |
|
|
2019 |
|
|
|
($ in
thousands except percentage) |
|
United
Kingdom |
|
|
6,903 |
|
|
|
5.7% |
|
|
|
932 |
|
|
|
0.7% |
|
|
|
979 |
|
|
|
1.0% |
|
Australia |
|
|
112,174 |
|
|
|
92.3% |
|
|
|
91,381 |
|
|
|
72.8% |
|
|
|
80,518 |
|
|
|
82.3% |
|
United States |
|
|
– |
|
|
|
– |
|
|
|
18,721 |
|
|
|
14.9% |
|
|
|
4,320 |
|
|
|
4.4% |
|
Greece |
|
|
– |
|
|
|
– |
|
|
|
378 |
|
|
|
0.3% |
|
|
|
1,138 |
|
|
|
1.2% |
|
Japan |
|
|
511 |
|
|
|
0.4% |
|
|
|
12,437 |
|
|
|
9.9% |
|
|
|
9,563 |
|
|
|
9.8% |
|
Italy |
|
|
1,932 |
|
|
|
1.6% |
|
|
|
1,733 |
|
|
|
1.4% |
|
|
|
1,365 |
|
|
|
1.4% |
|
Total |
|
|
121,520 |
|
|
|
100.0% |
|
|
|
125,582 |
|
|
|
100.0% |
|
|
|
97,883 |
|
|
|
100% |
|
Acquisition of Solar Projects
We made significant acquisitions of solar projects since 2017. See
“Item 5. Operating and Financial Review
and Prospects—Operating Results—Recent Acquisition Activities”
on the projects we have acquired or expect to acquire. We may keep
acquiring completed solar projects or other assets from independent
third-parties which we believe will synergize with our existing
operations and expansion strategies. Those acquisitions would be
preapproved by our board.
Our board of directors has formulated a uniform standard for
assessing target assets with respect to the acquisition of solar
projects, and such standard may be adjusted based on our Company’s
business, financial condition and results of operations from time
to time. Our board of directors considers the following criteria
when assessing potential acquisitions, among others:
|
· |
the internal rate of return of the
project prior to leverage, taking into consideration applicable FIT
or PPA rate, and other applicable government incentives; |
|
|
|
|
· |
our ratio of debt-service
coverage; |
|
|
|
|
· |
the solar irradiation hours of the
project, after discounting for performance; |
|
|
|
|
· |
the use of financeable and reliable
brands for and technical specifications of the key components,
including modules, invertors, mounting systems, racks/tracking
systems, and EPC integration services; |
|
|
|
|
· |
any performance guarantees
required, as well as any compensation for failing to perform; |
|
|
|
|
· |
clear and trustworthy opinions from
third-party professionals after detailed technical, financial, tax
and legal due diligence; and |
|
|
|
|
· |
reasonable payment terms matching
relevant milestones. |
Market Due Diligence
We aim to select solar projects located at sites with long solar
irradiation hours, high energy demand, good supporting
infrastructure, favorable tariff regimes, local government support
and appropriate topography for construction. We systematically
analyze land cost, solar irradiation, grid connection capacity,
land and property status, government support, availability of
project financing and any other project information that would
impact the overall economic return of the project. We target
projects that we believe to have appropriate balance of financial
returns, costs and risks.
Permit Development Process
The permit development process is the process of obtaining all
required permits, certifications and approvals from relevant
government authorities for solar project development. As of
December 31, 2019, most of our solar projects in operation had been
undertaken by us as a secondary developer.
We acquire solar projects under development by third parties which
have secured land use rights, development permits, or even begun
construction. We typically learn about potential projects suitable
for secondary development from our business partners, national or
local governments, industry publications, overseas engineering
exhibitions or overseas business liaison organizations. Our
criteria for sourcing solar projects include land cost, solar
irradiation, availability of FIT benefits or other government
incentives, grid connection capacity, local financing opportunities
and other project information. The selection process involves
detailed due diligence into those third parties’ relevant company
documentation, financial projections and the legal status of
permits already secured by the project.
After an acquisition, we continue to develop the project through
grid connection as our own. We pursue secondary permit development
in markets with relatively liquid markets for energy permits
transfer, thus allowing a smooth transfer of pre-operational solar
assets from third-party developers to us. Under certain
circumstances, we negotiate site acquisition, preliminary permits,
grid connection agreements and PPAs for projects under our
secondary development model depending on the development stage when
we acquire them.
Permit Development Steps
The following sets forth each step of our permit development:
|
· |
Evaluating project sites and
location—The critical factors for evaluating the site of a
solar project include its solar irradiation, its proximity to a
grid connection point, zoning regulations and its general
geographic and topographic features. If a project site is suitable
for development or acquisition, our regional development team
submits a site assessment report on the land and other related
information to our management for evaluation and approval. |
|
|
|
|
· |
Due diligence—Our
in-house technical and EPC team, along with third-party experts we
contract as needed, examine project items such as engineering and
design specifications, technical risks and solar irradiation and
environmental analyses. We pay special attentions to potential
delays and cost overruns, grid capacity and additional costs which
may not be captured in the technical design. We also ensure that a
project has clean legal titles to the permits and other permissions
it has secured. In all cases, we ensure that local regulations
allow us to properly carry out our business intentions for a
project, whether by allowing us to hold the project under our IPP
model or transfer it under our BT model. |
|
|
|
|
· |
Market
considerations—We target projects which have appropriate
balance of financial returns, costs and risks. Important factors
include, the costs of maintenance, local taxes and fees, and the
availability of applicable FIT, local credit or other refinancing
options. Our financial teams conduct financial forecasts based on
information about the financial prospects of the solar project and
the local energy market to make a profitability estimate and adjust
our capital plan accordingly. |
|
|
|
|
· |
Permitting—Permit and
licensing requirements vary depending on the jurisdiction of the
solar project, but the key permits, licenses and agreements
typically required for solar projects include land acquisition or
lease contracts, environmental impact assessments, building or
rezoning permits, planning consents, grid connection contracts and
PPAs. We work closely with relevant government and private
stakeholders to secure all necessary permits to develop a project,
including local or regional planning authorities, electric
utilities, local communities, environmental agencies, as well as
health and safety agencies. |
Project Financing
A solar project sponsor typically sets up a project company as a
special purpose vehicle to own a particular solar project and
arrange for project financing. We typically enter into contracts
and other agreements under the name of the project company, which
facilitates project financing by isolating the project and its
assets, and any potential securitization requirements, from our
broader global business.
The construction cost of a project is mainly funded by our working
capital, and to a lesser extent, funded through bank borrowings in
the year ended December 31, 2019. We seek to negotiate favorable
credit terms with our equipment suppliers and EPC contractors when
possible, such that payment is not due until several months after
construction and grid connection are complete. While the exact mix
of external and internal financing varies from project to project,
we estimate that as of December 31, 2019, approximately 50% to 60%
of the total costs of our solar projects under construction were
funded by our working capital, with the remainder funded through
bank borrowings. Our working capital dedicated towards a particular
project would be generally available to us for other purposes if
needed, and would not be considered restricted cash isolated at
that project. We also have given guarantees to the lenders on
certain project financings. However, none of our cash and cash
equivalents have been collateralized to guarantee such project
financings.
We generally seek to arrange debt financing for our solar projects
from local banks and financial leasing companies in countries that
are more open and receptive to renewable energy investments.
Engineering, Procurement and Construction
Given the multi-jurisdiction coverage of our project portfolio, we
choose to utilize our EPC capabilities or contract third party EPC
contractors to service our own projects, based on our cost analysis
taking into consideration of locations, topographical conditions as
well as the quality and competition of local EPC service providers.
For detailed information on our EPC capabilities, see “—Our
Engineering, Procurement and Construction Service Business.”
Operation and Maintenance Business
We operate and maintain solar projects connected to the grid,
especially those we have provided EPC services to. We may choose to
contract third party O&M contractors to service our own
projects, based on our cost analysis taking into consideration of
locations, topographical conditions as well as the quality and
competition of local EPC service providers. We regularly maintain
solar projects for our customers to ensure that these projects
operate in good condition and comply with the recommendations
issued by the grid company in order to remain connected.
By operating the projects effectively and efficiently, we reduce
down time and increase electricity output. A project’s major
lifecycle costs mainly consist of maintenance fee and depreciation
of modules, inverters and transformers. We monitor electricity
production and any incidents or abnormalities which may impede
normal operation. We adjust production levels based on the
available capacity of the grid.
Our Australia Distribution Business
Solar Juice Pty Limited or Solar Juice Australia is a wholesale
distributor of Solar PV panels, solar inverters, components and
complete solar systems, which was established in Australia in
September 2009. It is one of the largest importers of solar related
products in Australia with over 5000 B2B customers in every state
and territory of Australia, New Zealand and Southeast Asia. As of
the date of this annual report, Solar Juice Australia has nine
warehouses located around Australia.
Solar Juice Australia, as a wholesale supplier, has developed key
partners which have supported the growth of its brands throughout
Australia, New Zealand and SEA Countries. Solar Juice Australia
aligns itself with the most popular brands SMA, Fronius, ABB,
Solax, LG Electronics, LG Chem, Trina,JA and Chint, which have the
same values as Solar Juice Australia, namely service and support,
quality and value for money. Solar Juice Australia’s products are
backed by warranties held in Australia, experience and knowledge
which set it apart from the competition, and commitment to serving
the customer’ needs. Solar Juice Australia’s own branded products
Opal Panels, Opal Switch and Opal storage provided customers with
more value for money choices.
After years’ continuous rapid growth, Solar Juice Australia faced a
few external and internal challenges including PV market price
fluctuation, limited working capital and suppliers’ credit in 2018.
Solar Juice Australia’s management actively undertook an
operational restructure to meet market changes, adjusted inventory
level to fit working capital, cut operation costs and general
expenses to keep profit margin. Solar Juice Australia’s inventory
and trade payable balances were reduced by 14% and 38%
respectively, borrowings decreased 17% after a replacement of
previous trade finance with new debt finance from December 31, 2018
to December 31, 2019. As a result, Solar Juice Australia
successfully improved its operational efficiency and
cost-effectiveness, achieved $0.55 million net profit target, with
a stronger financial position by the end of 2019.
Solar Juice Australia will benefit from these improvements in long
term and keep its leadership in premium PV market in Australia. In
the meantime, Solar Juice Australia’s traditional strengths such as
outstanding customer services, technical supports and warranty
services will keep differentiating it from the competitors.
In May 2020, Solar Juice Co. Ltd (“Solar Juice Co”),a wholly owned
subsidiary of the Company, in its capacity as shareholder of Solar
Juice Australia (an Australian company) together with Mr. Kun Fong
Lee and Mr. Jinhan Zhou (who hold shares in Solar Juice Australia
as trustee for Solar Juice Co) ("SPI Shareholders") commenced
proceedings in the Federal Court of Australia as plaintiffs against
its other shareholders and some of its other directors and
purported directors and against Solar Juice Australia
("Defendants") in relation to a purported new rights issue
undertaken by Solar Juice Australia, the purported removal by those
other shareholders of Mr. Lee and Mr. Zhou as directors of Solar
Juice Australia and the purported appointment of an additional
director. The SPI Shareholders allege that the purported new rights
issue and the subsequent purported removal and appointment of
directors are invalid and ineffective and therefore should be set
aside. If effective, the purported rights issue will result in the
SPI Shareholders' shareholding in Solar Juice Australia being
reduced from 80% to 40%. If our lawsuit is not successful, we
will not control Solar Juice Australia or be able to consolidate
its financial results in our financial statements and our financial
results and stock price will be materially adversely
affected. Solar Juice currently accounts for 82.3% of our
revenues and 15.7% of our total assets.
Competition
Solar Power Market
The solar power market is intensely competitive and rapidly
evolving, and we compete with major international and domestic
companies over the development of solar projects. Our major
competitors include leading global players such as SunPower
Corporation, First Solar, Inc., Canadian Solar, Inc., SunEdison,
Inc., SolarCity Corporation, Lightsource Renewable Energy Limited,
and regional players such as West Holdings Corporation, Looop Inc.,
and other regional and international developers.
We believe that we can compete favorably with our competitors given
that the key competitive factors for solar project development and
operation include, without limitation:
|
· |
industry reputation and development
track record; |
|
|
|
|
· |
site selection and
acquisition; |
|
|
|
|
· |
permit and project development
experience and expertise; |
|
|
|
|
· |
relationship with government
authorities and knowledge of local policies; |
|
|
|
|
· |
ability to secure high-quality PV
modules and balance-of-system components at favorable prices and
terms; |
|
|
|
|
· |
ready access to project
financing; |
|
|
|
|
· |
control over the quality,
efficiency and reliability of project development; |
|
|
|
|
· |
expertise in permit and project
development; and |
|
|
|
|
· |
expertise in providing EPC and
O&M services. |
However, we cannot guarantee that some of our competitors do not or
will not have advantages over us in terms of greater operational,
financial, technical, management or other resources in particular
markets or in general. In terms of the broader energy sector, the
entire solar industry faces competition from other power generation
sources, including conventional sources as well as other emerging
technologies. Solar power has certain advantages and disadvantages
when compared to other power generating technologies. The
advantages include the ability to deploy products in many sizes and
configurations, install products almost anywhere in the world,
provide reliable power for many applications and reduce air, water
and noise pollution. Yet other energy sources have advantages which
may result in electric utilities, grid companies or other
off-takers to enter PPAs or other electricity purchase arrangements
with companies specializing in those energy sources rather than us
or other companies specializing in solar power.
Cryptocurrency Hosting Services
Cryptocurrencies and cryptocurrency mining are new industries, the
competitive landscapes are still developing. Although the barriers
to entry in this market are low, most of the large cryptocurrency
mining farms such as HIVE Blockchain, Hut8Mining, NVIDIA, Bitfury
Mines, Bcause LLC and Bitmain, cater to large investors.
However, cryptocurrency mining still requires large amounts of
energy to sustain. Our competitive advantage as a green energy
producing company in this industry would be being able to offset
the high electrical bills required in the mining process by
providing energy from our own energy grids and solar farms.
Hemp and CBD Business
Hemp and CBD are also relatively new industries that sprung up due
to the legalization of recreational marijuana in many states across
the United States. Being one of the first energy companies to
venture into this industry, our competitive advantage in this area
is being able to supplement energy needs of CBD and Hemp production
from our own energy grids or solar farms. This will offset a
significant portion of the costs required for production that can
potentially help us to price more competitively against other
companies in the industry. However, the CBD and Hemp industry is
still in its early stages of development. The demand of these
products have not solidified and the growth of the industry is not
as strong as its recreational marijuana counterpart.
Business of Alfalfa and Other Related Agriculture
Products
Our in-depth research into this market has shown that there is a
growing demand for Alfalfa grass, especially in Eastern countries
like China. Alfalfa grass is commonly used as stock feed for farmed
animals like cows. Our history of operations in China has helped us
to gain partners and grow a solid customer base over the years. Our
knowledge of the Chinese market will also prove to be valuable in
this venture.
Suppliers
There are numerous suppliers of PV modules in the solar power
industry, and we have adopted a supplier-neutral approach. For both
our EPC service business and global project development business,
we select the suppliers based on whether we could obtain
high-quality PV modules and balance-of-system components at
favorable prices and payment terms. For both our EPC service and
global project development business, we procure our PV modules from
a broad range of suppliers including Trina Solar Limited,
JinkoSolar Holding Co., Ltd., Xiexin Integration Technology Co.,
Ltd., JA Solar Holding Co., Ltd., LG Electronics, and Chint, among
others.
Our major suppliers of our alfalfa business and CBD and hemp is the
local growers near our hay processing facilities in the state of
Arizona and also CBD & hemp processing facility in the state of
California.
Customers and Marketing
We have historically provided EPC and O&M services, a line of
business we are still engaged in. We are also selling electricity
to the grid under our IPP model as well as selling solar projects
under our BT model. Customers of our EPC services include
independent power developers and producers as well as commercial
and industrial companies. For our global project development
business, we sell electricity to power companies and other
electricity off-takers, including government-owned utility
companies, operating in the United States, Greece and Italy under
our IPP model. Purchasers of our BT projects included utility
companies, independent power developers and producers, commercial
and industrial companies as well as investors in the solar
business. Further, customers of our Australia distribution business
include residential ones, towards which we distribute PV modules,
balance of system components, solar monitoring systems and
inverters.
From the year 2018 to 2019, there is a slightly decrease in the
proportion of revenue from sales of PV solar systems, the figures
for sales of PV solar components also saw a slight downwards
trend.
We promote our reputation by participating in industry conferences
worldwide and aggressively sourcing development opportunities in
markets with strong growth potential. Members of our senior and
local management team routinely meet with industry players and
interested investors. Our business development teams around the
world have significant experience building business in local
markets and actively pursue growth opportunities around the world.
We intend to continue to increase our marketing efforts going
forward.
We historically engaged in high-profile marketing activities
focused on developing our brand awareness not just among the solar
business developers who have traditionally been our customers, but
also among the general public. Since we have been in solar business
for 14 years, we have built our brand awareness and lately we have
not engaged in marketing activities.
Seasonality
Demand for solar power products tends to be weaker during the
winter months partly due to adverse weather conditions in certain
regions, which complicate the installation of solar power systems.
Our operating results may fluctuate from period to period based on
the seasonality of industry demand for solar power products.
Certain aspects of our operations are also subject to seasonal
variations. For example, we may schedule significant construction
activities to connect solar projects to the grids prior to a
scheduled decrease in FIT rates in order to qualify for more
favorable FIT policies.
Likewise to hemp and CBD business, demand and our operating results
for hemp and CBD products fluctuate from period to period based on
the seasonality of industry demand for solar power products.
Insurance
We maintain the types and amounts of insurance coverage that we
believe are consistent with customary industry practices in all the
countries where we operate. Our insurance policies cover
employee-related accidents and injuries, property damage, machinery
breakdowns, fixed assets, facilities and liability deriving from
our activities, including environmental liability. We maintain
business interruption insurance for interruptions resulting from
incidents covered by insurance policies. We have not had any
material claims under our insurance policies that would either
invalidate our insurance policies or cause a material increase to
our insurance premiums. We cannot assure you, however, that our
insurance coverage will adequately protect us from all risks that
may arise or in amounts sufficient to prevent any material
loss.
Regulations
We operate in multiple jurisdictions, including the U.S., Japan,
the U.K, Greece, Italy and Australia. We are therefore subject to
complex laws, regulations and policies promulgated by the
governments and government-run utilities of these jurisdictions,
including FIT regulations, clean energy incentive rules and
programs, laws and regulations that apply to all power producers,
regulations that specifically apply to solar power project
operators, EPC service providers as well as solar kit distributors,
tax regulations and intellectual property laws, among others.
Likewise, our hemp and CBD businesses are subject to various laws,
regulations and guidelines by governmental authorities relating to,
among other things, the manufacture, marketing, management,
transportation, storage, sale, pricing and disposal of cannabis,
U.S. hemp and cannabis-based products, and also including laws,
regulations and guidelines relating to health and safety, insurance
coverage, the conduct of operations and the protection of the
environment.
C. |
Organizational
Structure |
The following table sets out our principal subsidiaries as of
December 31, 2019:
Subsidiaries |
Place of
Incorporation |
Percentage of
ownership |
Solar Juice (HK) Limited |
Hong Kong |
100% |
SPI Group Holding Co., Ltd. |
Hong Kong |
100% |
SP Orange Power (HK) Limited |
Hong Kong |
100% |
SPI Investment Holding Limited |
British Virgin Islands |
100% |
SolarJuice Co., Ltd. |
Cayman |
100% |
SPI Orange Co., Ltd. |
Cayman |
100% |
Knight AG Holding Co., Ltd. |
Cayman |
100% |
Knight Holding Corporation |
U.S. |
100% |
Knight AG Sourcing Inc. |
U.S. |
100% |
CBD and Hemp Group Co.,Ltd. |
U.S. |
100% |
1215542 B.C. LTD. |
Canada |
100% |
SPI Solar, Inc. |
U.S. |
100% |
SPI Orange Power (HK) Limited |
Hong Kong |
100% |
SPI Renewable Energy (Luxembourg) Private Limited
Company S.a.r.l.(1) |
Luxembourg |
100% |
Italsolar S.r.l. |
Italy |
100% |
Heliostixio S.A. |
Greece |
100% |
Helioxrisi S.A. |
Greece |
100% |
THERMI SUN S.A. |
Greece
|
100% |
Solar Juice (MY) SdnBhd |
Malaysia |
100% |
Solar Juice (SG) Pte Ltd |
Singapore |
100% |
Solar Juice Holding Pte Ltd. |
Singapore |
100% |
Calwaii Power Holding, LLC |
U.S. |
100% |
Solar Juice USA Inc. |
U.S. |
100% |
Solar Juice Pty Limited |
Australia |
80% |
SPI Solar Japan G.K.(2) |
Japan |
97% |
Solar Power Inc. UK Services Limited |
U.K. |
100% |
Emotion Energy Solar One Limited |
U.K. |
100% |
Cairnhill Solar field Limited |
U.K. |
100% |
SP Orange Power (Cyprus) Limited |
Cyprus |
100% |
Manchester Solar, LLC |
US |
100% |
Belvedere Solar LLC |
US |
100% |
Dover Solar LLC |
US |
100% |
Waterford Solar LLC |
US |
100% |
Clayfield Solar LLC |
US |
100% |
_____________________
Notes:
|
(1) |
SPI Renewable Energy (Luxembourg)
Private Limited Company S.a.r.l. holds two solar power project
entities in Italy and one entity in Germany. |
|
(2) |
SPI Solar Japan G.K. holds one
solar power project entities in Japan. |
D. |
Property, Plant and
Equipment |
Our global corporate headquarters are located in Hong Kong SAR,
China, which is under a one-year lease that expires on May 3, 2021.
We occupy approximately 3,332 square feet of office space in Santa
Clara, California, for legal and business development, under a
lease that expires in June 30, 2021. We occupy approximately 10.5
acre industrial property in Orange Cove, California, under a lease
that expires in December 31 2049, and be granted an option to
purchase the property. We owned approximately 120 acre land in
Arizona, US. We occupy approximately 114 square meters of office
space in Athens, the headquarters of the four Greek SPVs, under a
monthly lease that expires on June 30, 2020. We occupy
approximately 80 square feet of office space in London for
operations and business development under a lease which renews
every six months. We lease approximately 2,155 square meters of
office space and warehouse space in Wetherill Park, Sydney, which
expires on July 31, 2021.
ITEM 4A.
UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
None.
ITEM 5. OPERATING
AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS
You should read the following discussion and analysis in
conjunction with our financial statements and the related notes
appearing elsewhere in this annual report on Form 20-F. This
discussion may contain forward-looking statements based on current
expectations that involve risks and uncertainties. Our actual
results may differ materially from those anticipated in these
forward-looking statements as a result of various factors,
including those set forth under “Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk
Factors” or in other parts of this annual report on
Form 20-F.
We are a global provider of photovoltaic (PV) solutions for
business, residential, government and utility customers and
investors. We develop solar PV projects which are either sold to
third party operators or owned and operated by us for selling of
electricity to the grid in multiple countries in Asia, North
America and Europe. In Australia, we primarily sell solar PV
components to retail customers and solar project developers. Since
2018, we have engaged in the sale of bitcoin mining equipment,
providing hosting services to mine bitcoins. In 2019, we began
selling hay from the United States to China.
Our liquidity position has deteriorated since 2015. We suffered
losses of $91.0 million, $12.3 million and $15.1 million for the
years ended December 31, 2017, 2018 and 2019, respectively. We also
had an accumulated deficit of $585.4 million and a working capital
deficit of $113.5 million as of December 31, 2019. For a detailed
discussion, please see “Item 5. Operating
and Financial Review and Prospects—B. Liquidity and Capital
Resources—Capital Resources and Material Known Facts on
Liquidity.”
These may raise substantial doubt about our ability to continue as
a going concern. We have developed a liquidity plan, including cost
saving measures and improvements in working capital management. We
believe this liquidity plan, if executed successfully, will provide
sufficient liquidity to meet our obligations for a reasonable
period of time. However, we cannot assure you that this liquidity
plan will be successfully executed.
Principal Factors Affecting Our Results of Operations
We believe that the following factors have had, and we expect that
they will continue to have, a significant effect on the development
of our business, financial condition and results of operations.
COVID-19
The pandemic of a novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has resulted in a
widespread health crisis that has adversely affected the economies
and financial markets worldwide. Government efforts to contain the
spread of the coronavirus through lockdowns of cities, business
closures, restrictions on travel and emergency quarantines, among
others, and responses by businesses and individuals to reduce the
risk of exposure to infection, including reduced travel,
cancellation of meetings and events, and implementation of
work-at-home policies, among others, have caused significant
disruptions to the global economy and normal business operations
across a growing list of sectors and countries.
Our operating results substantially depend on revenues derived from
sales of PV project assets, provision of electricity and our
Australian subsidiary’s trading of PV components. As the COVID-19
spread continues, the measures implemented to curb the spread of
the virus have resulted in supply chain disruptions, insufficient
work force and suspended manufacturing and construction works for
solar industry. One or more of our customers, partners, service
providers or suppliers may experience financial distress, delayed
or defaults on payment, file for bankruptcy protection, sharp
diminishing of business, or suffer disruptions in their business
due to the outbreak. These preventative measures have also impacted
our daily operations. The efforts enacted to control COVID-19 have
placed heavy pressure on our marketing and sales activities.
Moreover, due to the decrease in prices of crude oil, the demand
for solar energy can decrease in the near future. We continue to
assess the related risks and impacts COVID-19 pandemic may have on
our business and our financial performance. In light of the rapidly
changing situation across different countries and regions, it
remains difficult to estimate the duration and magnitude of
COVID-19 impact. Until such time as the COVID-19 pandemic is
contained or eradicated and global business return to more
customary levels, our business and financial results may be
materially adversely affected.
Market Demand
Our revenue and profitability depend substantially on the demand
for our PV solutions, which is driven by the economics of PV
systems, including the availability and size of government
subsidies and other incentives, government support, cost
improvements in solar power, as well as environmental concerns and
energy demand. The world PV market in terms of new annual
installations is expected to grow significantly in the next five
years, providing EPC service providers and solar project developers
like us with significant opportunities to grow our business.
Many markets in the PV industry continue to be affected by
government subsidies and economic incentives. A number of countries
have introduced highly favorable FIT price support regimes. For
example, Japan, which has a high demand for power and low domestic
fossil fuel reserves, faces relatively high energy costs. As a
result, the Japanese government has introduced an attractive FIT
price support regime to encourage the development of solar parks.
In 2016, the United Kingdom reduced its FIT for all technologies by
65% at the national level. In Asia, several countries reduced their
FIT rates. For example, Japan reduced its solar FIT by 12.5% for
2017 and aims for cuts of 10% or more in the next two years. While
governments generally ratchet down PV subsidies over time to
reflect anticipated declines in the system costs of solar parks,
the ratchet down schedules often underestimate our actual realized
decrease in costs thus their effect on our margins is manageable.
To foster our growth, we have shifted our focus away from countries
with less favorable subsidy regimes and towards countries with more
favorable subsidy regimes.
In the long term, as PV technology advances and the average system
costs of solar projects decrease, we expect the market for
electricity in a growing number of countries to achieve grid
parity. As the PV industry becomes more competitive against other
energy industries and widespread grid parity strengthens demand for
solar projects, we expect our costs of sales to decrease and our
revenue and profitability to increase.
Government Subsidies and Incentive Policies
We believe that the growth of the solar power industry in the short
term will continue to depend largely on the availability and
effectiveness of government incentives for solar power products and
the competitiveness of solar power in relation to conventional and
other renewable energy resources in terms of cost. Countries in
Europe, notably Italy, Germany, France, Belgium and Spain, certain
countries in Asia, including Japan, India and South Korea, as
well as Australia and the United States have adopted favorable
renewable energy policies. Examples of government sponsored
financial incentives to promote solar power include capital cost
rebates, FIT, tax credits, net metering and other incentives to end
users, distributors, project developers, system integrators and
manufacturers of solar power products.
Governments may reduce or eliminate existing incentive programs for
political, financial or other reasons, which will be difficult for
us to predict. Reductions in FIT programs may result in a
significant fall in the price of and demand for solar power related
products. Our revenue and operating results may be adversely
impacted by unfavorable policy revisions, such as reductions FIT in
the United States, our largest market, and certain major markets
for our PV solutions. Electric utility companies or generators of
electricity from fossil fuels or other renewable energy sources
could also lobby for a change in the relevant legislation in their
markets to protect their revenue streams. Government economic
incentives could be reduced or eliminated altogether.
Our Solar Power Generation and Operations Capabilities
Our financial condition and results of operations depend on our
ability to successfully continue to develop new solar projects and
operate our existing solar projects. We expect to build and manage
a greater number of solar projects, which we expect to present
additional challenges to our internal processes, external
construction management, working capital management and financing
capabilities. Our financial condition, results of operations and
future success depend, to a significant extent, on our ability to
continue to identify suitable sites, expand our pipeline of
projects with attractive returns, obtain required regulatory
approvals, arrange necessary financing, manage the construction of
our solar projects on time and within budget, and successfully
operate solar projects.
Selected Statement of Operations Items
Revenue
Our revenue for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2018 and 2019
was mainly derived from sales of PV project assets, sales of
pre-development solar project, and sales of PV components.
The following table sets forth a breakdown of our revenue from
continuing operation by category of activities for the periods
indicated:
|
|
For the year ended December 31, |
|
|
|
2017 |
|
|
2018 |
|
|
2019 |
|
|
|
($ in
thousands except percentage) |
|
Sales of
PV components |
|
|
111,795 |
|
|
|
92.0 |
% |
|
|
93,547 |
|
|
|
74.5 |
% |
|
|
80,941 |
|
|
|
82.7 |
% |
Sales of PV project
assets |
|
|
6,042 |
|
|
|
5.0 |
% |
|
|
10,809 |
|
|
|
8.6 |
% |
|
|
9,563 |
|
|
|
9.8 |
% |
Electricity revenue
with PPAs |
|
|
2,793 |
|
|
|
2.3 |
% |
|
|
3,043 |
|
|
|
2.4 |
% |
|
|
3,368 |
|
|
|
3.4 |
% |
Sales of
pre-development solar project |
|
|
– |
|
|
|
– |
% |
|
|
15,794 |
|
|
|
12.6 |
% |
|
|
(2,835 |
) |
|
|
(2.9 |
)% |
Bitcoin mining related business |
|
|
– |
|
|
|
– |
% |
|
|
1,052 |
|
|
|
0.8 |
% |
|
|
4,197 |
|
|
|
4.3 |
% |
Sales of hays and
others |
|
|
890 |
|
|
|
0.7 |
% |
|
|
1,337 |
|
|
|
1.1 |
% |
|
|
1,162 |
|
|
|
1.2 |
% |
Total |
|
|
121,520 |
|
|
|
100.0 |
% |
|
|
125,582 |
|
|
|
100.0 |
% |
|
|
97,883 |
|
|
|
100.0 |
% |
Cost of Goods Sold
Our cost of goods sold consist primarily of raw materials and labor
cost. In the years ended December 31, 2017, 2018 and 2019, we
had cost of goods sold of $111.4 million, $114.5 million and $90.7
million from our continuing operation, respectively.
Operating Expenses
In the years ended December 31, 2017, 2018 and 2019, our
operating expenses consisted of (1) general and administrative
expenses, (2) sales, marketing and customer service expenses,
(3) impairment charges and (4) provision (reverse) for
doubtful accounts, notes and other receivables.
General and administrative expenses. Our general and
administrative expenses consist primarily of salaries and share
based compensation expense, professional service fees, rental and
office supplies expenses. In the years ended December 31,
2017, 2018 and 2019, our general and administrative expenses from
our continuing operations were $14.0 million, $12.2 million and
$15.2 million, respectively.
Sales, marketing and customer service expenses. Our sales,
marketing and customer service expenses consist primarily of
advertising expense, business development expense and salaries. In
the years ended December 31, 2017, 2018 and 2019, our sales,
marketing and customer service expenses from continuing operation
were $2.9 million, $2.3 million and $2.4 million, respectively.
Impairment charges. Our impairment charges consist of
impairment charges for project assets, goodwill and intangible
assets, property, plant and equipment and etc. In the years ended
December 31, 2017, 2018 and 2019, our impairment charges from our
continuing operations were $0.7 million, $nil and $4.7 million,
respectively.
Provision (reverse) for doubtful accounts, notes and other
receivables. In the year ended December 31, 2017, our provision
for doubtful accounts and notes from continuing operations were
$1.7 million. In the year ended December 31, 2018, we reversed the
provision of $0.5 million. In the year ended December 31, 2019 our
provision for doubtful accounts were of $4.1 million.
Other Income (Expense)
In the years ended December 31, 2017, 2018 and 2019, our other
income (expense) includes interest expense, interest income, gain
on extinguishment of convertible bonds, change in fair value of
derivative liability, loss on investment in affiliates, reversal
(accrual) of tax penalty, gain on trouble debt restructuring, net
foreign exchange gain and others.
Interest expense. Our interest expense arises from
borrowings. In the years ended December 31, 2017, 2018 and 2019,
our interest expense from continuing operations was $8.1 million,
$6.7 million and $3.9 million, respectively.
Interest income. Our interest income arises from cash
deposited in banks. In the years ended December 31, 2017, 2018 and
2019, our interest income from continuing operations was $0.4
million, $0.3 million and $0.2 million, respectively.
Gain on extinguishment of convertible bonds. We recorded a
gain on extinguishment of convertible bonds of $7.1 million from
continuing operations in the year ended December 31, 2017, due to
the extension of a convertible bond agreement that we entered into
with Union Sky Holdings Group Limited (“Union Sky”).
Tax penalty. We recorded a $9.7 million expected tax penalty
in the year ended December 31, 2017 for late filing of Federal and
State income tax returns from continuing operations for the tax
year ended December 31, 2016. On May 27, 2019 and February 20,
2020, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) issued notices which
assessed penalties for Federal income tax for the tax years ended
December 31, 2017 and 2016 in the amount of $1. 2 million and $1.3
million plus an immaterial amount of interest, respectively. The
state portion of tax penalty is re-estimated in the amount of $0.3
million. Thus, we reversed $6.9 million of tax penalty for the year
ended December 31, 2019.
Gain on trouble debt restructuring. We recorded a gain of
$1.9 million on trouble debt restructuring from continuing
operations for the year ended December 31, 2018. We defaulted the
first amendment agreement with Union Sky Holding Group Limited
(“Union Sky”). On June 29, 2018, we entered into another amendment
agreement with the Union Sky and Magical Glaze Limited (“MGL”) to
further extend the payment term. A gain was recognized for the
difference between the future undiscounted cash flow of the second
amended convertible bond of $20.0 million and the carrying amount
of the first amended convertible bond of $21.9 million as of June
29, 2018.
Loss on investment in affiliates. We recorded a loss on
investment in affiliates of $2.2 million which mainly arose from
further impairment on our investment in ENS in the year ended
December 31, 2017.
Income Tax
The following table sets forth our loss before income taxes for
continuing operations attributable to the relevant geographic
locations for the periods indicated:
|
|
For the year ended December 31, |
|
|
|
2017 |
|
|
2018 |
|
|
2019 |
|
|
|
($ in
thousands) |
|
United
States |
|
$ |
(24,757 |
) |
|
$ |
(6,946 |
) |
|
$ |
(4,926 |
) |
Foreign |
|
|
(1,620 |
) |
|
|
(1,141 |
) |
|
|
(10,130 |
) |
Total |
|
$ |
(26,377 |
) |
|
$ |
(5,805 |
) |
|
$ |
(15,056 |
) |
Cayman Islands
We are incorporated in the Cayman Islands. Under the current laws
of the Cayman Islands, we are not subject to income or capital
gains tax in the Cayman Islands. Payments of dividends and capital
in respect of our Shares will not be subject to taxation in the
Cayman Islands and no withholding will be required on the payment
of a dividend or capital to any holder of our Shares, nor will
gains derived from the disposal of our Shares be subject to Cayman
Islands income or corporation tax. The Cayman Islands currently
have no income, corporation or capital gains tax and no estate
duty, inheritance tax or gift tax.
United States
We and our subsidiaries organized in the United States are subject
to U.S. federal income tax at a rate of up to 35% for the year
ended December 31, 2017.
On December 22, 2017, the U.S. enacted the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act
(“TCJA” or the “Act”) (which is commonly referred to as “U.S. tax
reform”). Among other provisions, the Act reduces the top U.S.
federal corporate tax rate from 35% to 21%, requires companies to
pay a one-time transition tax on earnings of certain foreign
subsidiaries that were previously tax deferred, changes the rules
related to uses and limitations of net operating loss carryforwards
created in tax years beginning after December 31, 2017, and creates
new taxes on certain foreign sourced earnings. The Company
reflected the changes resulting from the Act in the financial
statements for the period of enactment, the year ended December 31,
2017. The change in corporate rate resulted in a $22.8 million
decrease in the Company’s gross deferred tax assets, with an
offsetting decrease in valuation allowance of the same amount. The
Company was not subject to a one-time repatriation tax as no
aggregate foreign accumulated earnings and profits existed in the
foreign subsidiaries as of December 31, 2018 and 2017. The Company
will account for future tax liability arising from Global
Intangible Low-Taxed Income, if any, as a period cost. The Company
has accounted for additional tax liability in 2018 arising from
Global Intangible Low-Taxed Income of $0.9 million which accounted
for as a period cost. In accordance with Staff Accounting Bulletin
No. 118, the Company determined that the measurement of deferred
tax assets and liabilities, as noted above, was accurate and no
other adjustments relating to the Act were necessary. The Company
has recognized no income on account of GILTI as no aggregate
foreign earnings existed in the foreign subsidiaries for 2019.
Hong Kong
Our subsidiaries incorporated in Hong Kong were subject to the
uniform tax rate of 8.25% for the years ended December 31, 2018 and
2019, respectively. They were exempted from the Hong Kong income
tax on its foreign-derived income and there were no withholding
taxes in Hong Kong on the remittance of dividends. No provision for
Hong Kong tax has been made in our consolidated financial
statements, as our Hong Kong subsidiary had not generated any
assessable income for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2018 and
2019.
See “Item 10. Additional Information—E.
Taxation” for more information.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
Principles of Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the financial
statements of our Company, our subsidiaries, and consolidated VIEs.
All material inter-company transactions and balances have been
eliminated upon consolidation. For consolidated subsidiaries where
our ownership in the subsidiary is less than 100%, the equity
interest not held by us is shown as noncontrolling interests. We
account for investments over which it has significant influence but
not a controlling financial interest using the equity method of
accounting. We deconsolidate a subsidiary when we cease to have a
controlling financial interest in the subsidiary. When control is
lost, the parent-subsidiary relationship no longer exists and the
parent derecognizes the assets and liabilities of the
subsidiary.
Revenue Recognition
On January 1, 2018, we adopted Accounting Standards Codification
(“ASC”) No. 606, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers” (“ASC 606”
or “Topic 606”) and applied the modified retrospective method to
all contracts that were not completed as of January 1, 2018.
Results for reporting periods beginning after January 1, 2018 are
presented under Topic 606, while prior period amounts are not
adjusted and continue to be reported in accordance with the Group’s
historical accounting practices under ASC Topic 605 “Revenue
Recognition”.
We have determined that the impact of the transition to the new
standard is immaterial to our revenue recognition model.
Accordingly, we have not made any adjustment to opening retained
earnings.
Our accounting practices under ASC Topic 606 are as followings:
The Company generates revenue from sales of PV components,
electricity revenue with power purchase agreements (“Electricity
revenue with PPAs”), sales of PV project assets, bitcoin mining
equipment sales and hosting service, sales of pre-development solar
projects, revenue from bitcoin mining and sales of hays.
Sale of PV components. Revenue on sale of PV components is
recognized at a point in time following the transfer of control of
such products to the customer, which typically occurs upon shipment
or acceptance of the customer depending on the terms of the
underlying contracts.
Electricity revenue with PPAs. We sell energy generated by
PV solar power systems under PPAs. For energy sold under PPAs, we
recognize revenue each period based on the volume of energy
delivered to the customer (i.e., the PPAs off-taker) and the price
stated in the PPAs. We have determined that none of the PPAs
contains a lease since (i) the purchaser does not have the rights
to operate the PV solar power systems, (ii) the purchaser does not
have the rights to control physical access to the PV solar power
systems, and (iii) the price that the purchaser pays is at a fixed
price per unit of output.
Sale of PV project asset. Our sales arrangements for PV
projects do not contain any forms of continuing involvement that
may affect the revenue or profit recognition of the transactions,
nor any variable considerations for energy performance guarantees,
minimum electricity end subscription commitments. The Company
therefore determined its single performance obligation to the
customer is the sale of a completed solar project. We recognize
revenue for sales of solar projects at a point in time after the
solar project has been grid connected and the customer obtains
control of the solar project.
Bitcoin mining equipment sales and hosting service. Revenue
on sale of bitcoin mining equipment is recognized at a point in
time following the transfer of control of such products to the
customer, which typically occurs upon delivery of the products to
the hosting site or receipt place assigned by the customer,
installation and setting up the products. Revenue for hosting
service is recognized over time as services are performed and based
on the output method related to the time incurred during the
service period.
Sales of pre-development solar projects. For sales of
pre-development solar projects in which we transfer 100% of the
membership interest in solar projects to a customer, we recognize
all of the revenue for the consideration received at a point in
time when the membership interest was transferred to the customer,
which typically occurs when we delivered the membership interest
assignment agreement to the customer.
The contract arrangements may contain provisions that can either
increase or decrease the transaction price. These variable amounts
generally are resolved upon achievement of certain performance or
upon occurrence of certain price reduction conditions. Variable
consideration is estimated at each measurement date at its most
likely amount to the extent that it is probable that a significant
reversal of cumulative revenue recognized will not occur and
true-ups are applied prospectively as such estimates change.
Changes in estimates for sales of pre-development solar projects
occur for a variety of reasons, including but not limited to (i)
EPC construction plan accelerations or delays, (ii) product cost
forecast changes, (iii) change orders, or (iv) occurrence of
purchase price reduction conditions. The cumulative effect of
revisions to transaction prices are recorded in the period in which
the revisions to estimates are identified and the amounts can be
reasonably estimated.
Revenue from bitcoin mining. We entered into a digital asset
mining pool to provide computing power to the mining pool.
Providing computing power in crypto asset transaction verification
services is an output of our ordinary activities. The provision of
computing power is the only performance obligation in the contracts
with mining pool. The transaction consideration we receive, if any,
is noncash consideration, which we measure at fair value on the
date received, which is not materially different than the fair
value at contract inception. The consideration is all variable.
Because it is not probable that a significant reversal of
cumulative revenue will not occur, the consideration is constrained
until we receive the consideration, at which time revenue is
recognized. There is no significant financing component in these
transactions.
Fair value of the digital asset award received is determined using
the average U.S. dollar spot rate of the related digital currency
at the time of receipt.
Sale of Alfalfa hay. Revenue on sale of alfalfa hay is
recognized at a point in time following the transfer of control of
such products to the customer, which typically occurs upon the
acceptance of the products made by the customer.
Product Warranties
We offer the industry standard warranty up to 25 years for PV
modules and industry standard warranty for five to ten years on
inverter and balance of system components. Due to the warranty
period, we bear the risk of extensive warranty claims long after
products have been shipped and revenues have been recognized. We
provide a limited warranty to the original purchasers of its solar
modules, inverters and cables for trading business for one to five
years, in relation to defects in materials and workmanship. For our
cable, wire and mechanical assemblies business, historically the
related warranty claims have not been material. For our solar PV
business, the greatest warranty exposure is in the form of product
replacement.
During the quarter ended September 30, 2007 and continuing through
the fourth quarter of 2010, we installed own manufactured solar
panels and accrued warranty based on our own historical data. Since
2011, due to the absence of historical material warranty claims and
identical warranty terms, we have not recorded any additional
warranty provision relating to solar energy systems sold. PV
construction contracts entered into during the recent years
included provisions under which we agreed to provide warranties to
the customers. The warranty we offer to its customers is identical
to the warranty offered to us by its suppliers, therefore, we pass
on all potential warranty exposure and claims, if any, with respect
systems sold by us to our suppliers.
Impairment of Long-lived Assets
Our long-lived assets include property, plant and equipment,
project assets and other intangible assets with finite lives. We
evaluate long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or
changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an
asset may not be recoverable. If circumstances require a long-lived
asset or asset group be tested for possible impairment, we first
compare undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by that
asset or asset group to its carrying amount. If the carrying amount
of the long-lived asset or asset group is not recoverable on an
undiscounted cash flow basis, an impairment is recognized to the
extent that the carrying amount exceeds its fair value. Fair value
is determined through various valuation techniques including
discounted cash flow models, quoted market values and third-party
independent appraisals, as considered necessary. Any impairment
write-downs would be treated as permanent reductions in the
carrying amounts of the assets and a charge to operations would be
recognized.
Inventories
Inventories are carried at the lower of cost or net realizable
value, determined by the weighted average cost method. Provisions
are made for obsolete or slow-moving inventories based on
management estimates. Inventories are written down based on the
difference between the cost of inventories and the net realizable
value based upon estimates about future demand from customers,
specific customer requirements on certain projects and other
factors. Inventory provision charges establish a new cost basis for
inventory that subsequently cannot be marked up based on changes in
underlying facts and circumstances.
Share-Based Compensation
Our share-based payment transactions with employees, such as
restricted shares and share options, are measured based on the
grant-date fair value of the equity instrument issued. The fair
value of the award is recognized as compensation expense, net of
estimated forfeitures, over the period during which an employee is
required to provide service in exchange for the award, which is
generally the vesting period.
Accounts Receivables and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
We grant open credit terms to credit-worthy customers. Accounts
receivable are primarily related to our sales of pre-development
solar project contracts and sales of PV components. For sales of
pre-development solar projects, the payment is typically due in
installments over the contract term, which are both before and
after the performance by the Company. Payment for sales of PV
components and electricity revenue with PPAs are typically due in
full within 30 to 90 days of shipping of the products or the start
of the contract term.
We maintain allowances for doubtful accounts. We regularly monitor
and assess the risk of not collecting amounts owed by customers.
This evaluation is based upon a variety of factors, including an
analysis of amounts current and past due along with relevant
history and facts particular to the customer. We do not have any
off-balance-sheet credit exposure related to its customers.
Contractually, we may charge interest for extended payment terms
and require collateral.
Project Assets
We acquire or construct PV solar power systems (“solar system”)
that are (i) held for development and sale or (ii) held
for our own use to generate income or return from the use of the
solar system. Solar systems are classified as either held for
development and sale within “project assets” or as held for use
within “property, plant and equipment” based on our intended use of
solar systems. We determine the intended use of the solar systems
upon acquisition or commencement of project construction.
Classification of the solar systems affects the accounting and
presentation in the consolidated financial statements. Transactions
related to the solar systems held for development and sale are
classified as operating activities in the consolidated statements
of cash flows and reported as sales and costs of goods sold in the
consolidated statements of operations upon the sale of the project
assets and fulfillment of the relevant recognition criteria.
Incidental electricity income generated from the solar systems held
for development and sale prior to the sale of the projects is
recorded in other operating income in the consolidated statement of
operations. The solar systems held for use are used by us in its
operations to generate income or a return from the use of the
assets. Income generated from the solar systems held for use are
included in net sales in the consolidated statement of operations.
The costs to construct solar system intended to be held for own use
are capitalized and reported within property, plant and equipment
on the consolidated balance sheets and are presented as cash
outflows from investing activities in the consolidated statements
of cash flows. The proceeds from disposal of solar system
classified as held for own use are presented as cash inflows from
investing activities within the consolidated statements of cash
flows. A net gain or loss upon the disposal of solar system
classified as held for own use is reported in other operating
income or expense in the consolidated statement of operation.
Solar systems costs consist primarily of capitalizable costs for
items such as permits and licenses, acquired land or land use
rights, and work-in-process. Work-in-process includes materials and
modules, construction, installation and labor, capitalized
interests and other capitalizable costs incurred to construct the
PV solar power systems.
The solar systems held for development and sale named as “project
assets”, are reported as current assets on the consolidated balance
sheets when upon completion of the construction of the solar
systems, we initiate a plan to actively market the project assets
for immediate sale in their present condition to potential third
party buyers subject to terms that are usual and customary for
sales of these types assets and it is probable that the project
assets will be sold within one year. Otherwise, the project assets
held for development and sale are reported as noncurrent assets. No
depreciation expense is recognized while the project assets are
under construction or classified as held for sale.
For solar systems held for development and sale, named as “project
assets”, we consider a project commercially viable if it is
anticipated to be sold for a profit once it is either fully
developed or fully constructed. We also consider a partially
developed or partially constructed project commercially viable if
the anticipated selling price is higher than the carrying value of
the related project assets plus the estimated cost to completion.
We consider a number of factors, including changes in
environmental, ecological, permitting, market pricing or regulatory
conditions that affect the project. Such changes may cause the cost
of the project to increase or the selling price of the project to
decrease. We record an impairment loss of the project asset to the
extent the carrying value exceed its estimated recoverable amount.
The recoverable amount is estimated based on the anticipated sales
proceeds reduced by estimated cost to complete such sales.
Income Taxes
We account for income taxes under the asset and liability method.
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future
tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial
statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and
their respective tax bases and operating loss and tax credit carry
forwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using
enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years
in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered
or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a
change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that
includes the enactment date. A valuation allowance is recognized if
it is more likely than not that some portion, or all, of a deferred
tax asset will not be realized.
The Company recognizes in the consolidated financial statements the
impact of a tax position, if that position is more likely than not
of being sustained upon examination, based on the technical merits
of the position. In evaluating whether a tax position has met the
more-likely-than-not recognition threshold, management presumes
that the position will be examined by the appropriate taxing
authority that has full knowledge of all relevant information. In
addition, a tax position that meets the more-likely-than-not
recognition threshold is measured to determine the amount of
benefit to be recognized in the financial statements. The tax
position is measured at the largest amount of benefit that is
greater than 50 percent likely of being realized upon settlement.
Our tax liability associated with unrecognized tax benefits is
adjusted periodically due to changing circumstances, such as the
progress of the tax audits, case law developments and new or
emerging legislation. Such adjustments are recognized entirely in
the period in which they are identified. We record interest and
penalties related to an uncertain tax position, if and when
required, as part of income tax expense in the consolidated
statements of operations. No reserve for uncertainty tax position
was recorded by us for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and
2017. We do not expect that the assessment regarding unrecognized
tax positions will materially change over the next 12 months. The
Company is not currently under examination by an income tax
authority, nor has been notified that an examination is
contemplated.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
Recently Adopted Accounting Standards
In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued
Topic 606, which supersedes the revenue recognition requirements in
Topic 605. The Group adopted Topic 606 as of January 1, 2018 using
the modified retrospective transition method applied to those
contracts which were not completed as of January 1, 2018.
In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-12, Leases (ASC Topic
842), which amends the leases requirements in ASC Topic 840,
Leases. The Group adopted ASC Topic 842 using the modified
retrospective transition method effective January 1, 2019. There
was no cumulative effect of initially applying ASC Topic 842 that
required an adjustment to the opening retained earnings on the
adoption date nor revision of the balances in comparative
periods.
In November 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-18, Statement of
Cash Flows (Topic 230): “Restricted Cash” (“ASU 2016-18”). ASU
2016-18 requires that a statement of cash flows explain the change
during the period in the total of cash, cash equivalents, and
amounts generally described as restricted cash or restricted cash
equivalents. This update is effective in fiscal years, including
interim periods, beginning after December 15, 2017 and early
adoption is permitted. The adoption of this guidance will result in
the inclusion of the restricted cash balances within the overall
cash balance and removal of the changes in restricted cash
activity, as a result, the Company no longer presents transfers
between cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash in the
statement of cash flows. Furthermore, an additional reconciliation
will be required to reconcile cash, cash equivalents, and
restricted cash reported within the Consolidated Balance Sheets to
sum to the total shown in the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows.
The Group has already disclosed the restricted cash separately on
its Consolidated Balance Sheets. Beginning January 1, 2018, the
Group has adopted and included the restricted cash balances on the
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows and reconciliation of cash,
cash equivalent, and restricted cash within its Consolidated
Statements of Balance Sheet and Consolidated Statement of Cash
Flows. This guidance has been applied retrospectively to the
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows for the year ended December
31, 2017, which required the Company to recast each prior reporting
period presented.
In January 2017, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update
(“ASU”) 2017-01, “Business Combination (Topic 805): Clarifying the
Definition of a Business”. The Company adopted ASU 2017-01 on
January 1, 2018 and applied the new definition of a business
prospectively for acquisitions made subsequent to December 31,
2017. Upon the adoption of ASU 2017-01, a new screen test is
introduced to evaluate whether a transaction should be accounted
for as an acquisition and/or disposal of a business versus assets.
In order for a purchase to be considered an acquisition of a
business, and receive business combination accounting treatment,
the set of transferred assets and activities must include, at a
minimum, an input and a substantive process that together
significantly contribute to the ability to create outputs. If
substantially all of the fair value of the gross assets acquired is
concentrated in a single identifiable asset or a group of similar
identifiable assets, then the set of transferred assets and
activities is not a business. The adoption of this standard
requires future purchases to be evaluated under the new
framework.
Accounting Pronouncements Issued But Not Yet Adopted
In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU No. 2018-13, Fair Value
Measurement (Topic 820)-Disclosure Framework-Changes to the
Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement. ASU 2018-13
removes the amounts and reasons for transfers between Level 1 and
Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy and the valuation processes for
Level 3 fair value measurements; modifies certain disclosure
requirements in Topic 820; and require additional disclosures such
as the range and weighted average of significant unobservable
inputs used to develop Level 3 measurements etc. ASU No. 2018-13 is
effective for the Company beginning in the first quarter of fiscal
year 2020. We do not expect this guidance will have a material
impact on its consolidated financial statements.
On December 18, 2019, the FASB issued ASU No. 2019-12, Income taxes
(Topic 740), Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes. This
guidance amends ASC Topic 740 and addresses several aspects
including 1) evaluation of step-up tax basis of goodwill when there
is not a business combination, 2) policy election to not allocate
consolidated taxes on a separate entity basis to entities not
subject to income tax, 3) accounting for tax law changes or rates
during interim periods, 4) ownership changes from equity method
investment to subsidiary or vice versa, 5) elimination of exception
to intraperiod allocation when there is gain in discontinued
operations and a loss from continuing operations, 6) treatment of
franchise taxes that are partially based on income. The guidance is
effective for calendar year-end public entities on January 1, 2021
and other entities on January 1, 2022. We are evaluating the impact
of this guidance on its consolidated financial statements.
We do not believe other recently issued but not yet effective
accounting standards, if currently adopted, would have a material
effect on the consolidated financial position, statements of
operations and cash flows.
Recent Acquisition Activities
When making solar project acquisitions, we focus on attractive
targets based on our assessment of the rate of return, taking into
consideration a target project’s irradiation hours, applicable FIT
rate, key technical components used as well as our cost of
financing for the acquisition. See “Item
4. Information on the Company—B. Business Overview—Our Global
Project Development Business—Acquisition of Solar Projects” for
more information on the criteria we apply when making project
acquisitions.
When we pursue a target engaged in a solar business, such as a
distribution business or a rooftop EPC business, we primarily
select targets with higher gross profit margins, or in the case of
a target engaged in a line of business complementary to our
existing operations, with high potentials for us to realize
synergies.
The following summary outlines the major acquisitions we completed,
or for which have entered into definitive agreements since
2017:
Solar Projects
In March 2017, our wholly owned subsidiary, SPI Solar Japan GK
entered into a definitive agreement to sell all of its interest in
the land and project development rights in its two solar PV
projects with total capacity of 4.4 MW in Shibayama city, Chiba.
SPI Japan will also provide engineering, procurement and
construction service to complete the projects. The solar plants are
located approximately 50 kilometres east of Tokyo in Chiba and each
with capacity of 2.2 MW and with an estimated total capacity of
5,200,000 kWh annually.
In May 2017, we entered into an agreement to sell all of our
interest in Todderstaffe Solar Limited, one of the solar PV system
in UK, to Capital Stage AG. The Todderstaffe project has a capacity
of 4.4MW.
In September 2017, we entered into a framework share purchase
agreement to acquire 100% equity interests of three Greek
companies, namely THERMI SUN S.A, HELIOHRISI S.A., and HELIOSTIXIO
S.A., from THERMI TANEO Venture Capital Fund (“TTVCF”), for a total
consideration of EUR €12.88 million, subject to certain
adjustments. The transaction is subject to customary closing
conditions. These three companies own a total of four PV plants
with 7.4MWp PV installations in northern Greece. The closing of the
transaction will take place in three separate stages (one for each
company under acquisition). The acquisition of HELIOSTIXIO S.A. was
closed in December 2017. The Company completed the second-stage
acquisition of 100% of the equity interest of HELIOHRISI S.A.,
which owns 1.988 MW of photovoltaic projects in Greece on March 20,
2019. The Company has completed its last of the three acquisitions
of 100% of the equity interest of THERMI SUN S.A., which owns 4.4
Megawatts ("MW") of photovoltaic (“PV”) projects in Greece in
November 2019. With 7.4MWp PV installations added to SPI Energy’s
existing PV portfolio in Greece, the Company becomes one of the
significant PV owners in Greece.
By the year end of December 31, 2018, our wholly owned subsidiary,
SPI Solar Inc., sold eight solar projects in the USA (9.653 MW) to
third parties.
In December 2018, SPI Energy Co., Ltd divested our solar projects
in China.
In July 2019, the Company entered into a framework agreement to
acquire up to eight solar PV projects, totaling 21MW in the State
of Oregon (the “Oregon Portfolio”). On August 26, 2019, the Company
completed the closing of Manchester and Waterford solar projects
with a total of approximately 5.4MW. On September 10, 2019, the
Company completed the closing on the Belvedere project with
approximately 3.56MW of clean energy for the local community. On
September 24, 2019, the Company completed the closing of the Dover
and Clayfield solar projects with a total of approximately 5.45MW.
On April 22, 2020, the Company completed the acquisition of the
Cork project with a total of approximately 1.89MW. The Company has
now closed 6 of the 8 projects within the Oregon Portfolio.
In October, 2019, the Company completed the closing on the sale of
Sun Roof II and Sun Roof V totaling 2.83MW to Theia Investments
(Italy) S.r.l (“Theia”). Theia paid approximately EUR 4.3 million
to complete the transaction.
In March, 2020, the Company completed the closing of the sale of
its Sun Roof I assets, a 479 kWp rooftop solar project in Italy.
Proceeds from the sale were approximately EUR 1.1 million before
transaction fees. After the sale of Sun Roof II, Sun Roof V and Sun
Roof I, the Company currently owns only 1 PV asset with a capacity
of 0.993 MW in Italy.
We have funded our acquisitions primarily from cash generated from
our financing activities and from credit facilities. Going forward
we expect to fund our future acquisitions with cash generated from
our operations, as well as equity and debt financing.
Results of Operations
The following table sets forth a summary, for the periods
indicated, of our consolidated results of operations from our
continuing operations and each item expressed as a percentage of
our total net revenues. Our historical results presented below are
not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for
any future period.
|
|
For the year ended December 31, |
|
|
|
2017 |
|
|
2018 |
|
|
2019 |
|
|
|
($ in
thousands except percentage) |
|
Net sales: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net sales |
|
|
121,520 |
|
|
|
100.0 |
% |
|
|
125,582 |
|
|
|
100.0 |
% |
|
|
97,883 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
Cost of goods sold: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cost of goods sold |
|
|
111,428 |
|
|
|
91.7 |
% |
|
|
114,525 |
|
|
|
91.2 |
% |
|
|
90,693 |
|
|
|
92.7 |
% |
Total cost of goods sold |
|
|
111,428 |
|
|
|
91.7 |
% |
|
|
114,525 |
|
|
|
91.2 |
% |
|
|
90,693 |
|
|
|
92.7 |
% |
Gross profit |
|
|
10,092 |
|
|
|
8.3 |
% |
|
|
11,057 |
|
|
|
8.8 |
% |
|
|
7,190 |
|
|
|
7.3 |
% |
Operating expenses: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
General and administrative |
|
|
13,994 |
|
|
|
11.5 |
% |
|
|
12,225 |
|
|
|
9.8 |
% |
|
|
15,158 |
|
|
|
15.5 |
% |
Sales, marketing and customer service |
|
|
2,944 |
|
|
|
2.4 |
% |
|
|
2,285 |
|
|
|
1.8 |
% |
|
|
2,398 |
|
|
|
2.4 |
% |
Provision (reverse) for doubtful accounts, notes and other
receivables |
|
|
1,693 |
|
|
|
1.4 |
% |
|
|
(501 |
) |
|
|
(0.4 |
)% |
|
|
4,115 |
|
|
|
4.2 |
% |
Impairment charges |
|
|
740 |
|
|
|
0.6 |
% |
|
|
– |
|
|
|
– |
% |
|
|
4,690 |
|
|
|
4.8 |
% |
Total operating expenses |
|
|
19,371 |
|
|
|
15.9 |
% |
|
|
14,009 |
|
|
|
11.2 |
% |
|
|
26,361 |
|
|
|
26.9 |
% |
Operating loss |
|
|
(9,279 |
) |
|
|
(7.6 |
)% |
|
|
(2,952 |
) |
|
|
(2.4 |
)% |
|
|
(19,171 |
) |
|
|
(19.6 |
)% |
Other income (expense): |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest expense |
|
|
(8,087 |
) |
|
|
(6.7 |
)% |
|
|
(6,665 |
) |
|
|
(5.3 |
)% |
|
|
(3,923 |
) |
|
|
(4.0 |
)% |
Interest income |
|
|
384 |
|
|
|
0.3 |
% |
|
|
320 |
|
|
|
0.3 |
% |
|
|
155 |
|
|
|
0.2 |
% |
Gain on extinguishment of convertible bonds |
|
|
7,121 |
|
|
|
5.9 |
% |
|
|
– |
|
|
|
– |
|
|
|
– |
|
|
|
– |
|
Change in fair value of derivative liability |
|
|
– |
|
|
|
– |
% |
|
|
– |
|
|
|
– |
|
|
|
285 |
|
|
|
0.3 |
% |
Loss on investment in affiliates |
|
|
(2,214 |
) |
|
|
(1.8 |
)% |
|
|
– |
|
|
|
–% |
|
|
|
– |
|
|
|
– |
% |
Net foreign exchange gain (loss) |
|
|
(5,141 |
) |
|
|
(4.2 |
)% |
|
|
1,118 |
|
|
|
0.9 |
% |
|
|
1,261 |
|
|
|
1.3 |
% |
Reversal (accrual) of tax penalty |
|
|
(9,670 |
) |
|
|
(8.0 |
)% |
|
|
– |
|
|
|
–% |
|
|
|
6,890 |
|
|
|
7.0 |
% |
Gain on troubled debt restructuring |
|
|
– |
|
|
|
– |
% |
|
|
1,887 |
|
|
|
1.5 |
% |
|
|
– |
|
|
|
– |
% |
Others |
|
|
509 |
|
|
|
0.4 |
% |
|
|
487 |
|
|
|
0.4 |
% |
|
|
(553 |
) |
|
|
(0.6 |
)% |
Total other expense, net |
|
|
(17,098 |
) |
|
|
(14.1 |
)% |
|
|
(2,853 |
) |
|
|
(2.2 |
)% |
|
|
4,115 |
|
|
|
4.2 |
% |
Loss before income taxes |
|
|
(26,377 |
) |
|
|
(21.7 |
)% |
|
|
(5,805 |
) |
|
|
(4.6 |
)% |
|
|
(15,056 |
) |
|
|
(15.4 |
)% |
Income taxes expense |
|
|
137 |
|
|
|
0.1 |
% |
|
|
332 |
|
|
|
0.3 |
% |
|
|
92 |
|
|
|
0.1 |
% |
Net loss |
|
|
(26,514 |
) |
|
|
(21.8 |
)% |
|
|
(6,137 |
) |
|
|
(4.9 |
)% |
|
|
(15,148 |
) |
|
|
(15.5 |
)% |
Comparison of the year ended December 31, 2019 to the year ended
December 31, 2018
Net sales —Net sales were $125.6 million and $97.9 million
for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2019, respectively,
representing a decrease of $27.7 million or 22%. The decrease in
net sales for the year ended December 31, 2019 over the
comparative period was primarily due to the decrease of sales of PV
solar components by $12.6 million and sales of pre-development
project by $18.6 million respectively, which was partially offset
by the increase of bitcoin and hay sales.
Cost of goods sold —Cost of goods sold was $114.5 million
(91.2% of net sales) and $90.7 million (92.7% of net sales) for the
years ended December 31, 2018 and 2019, respectively, representing
a decrease of $23.8 million or 21%. The decrease in cost of goods
sold was consistent with the decrease of sales.
Gross profit —Our gross profit decreased from $11.1 million
in the year ended December 31, 2018 to $7.2 million in the year
ended December 31, 2019. Gross margins were 8.8% and 7.3% for the
years ended December 31, 2018 and 2019, respectively. The
decrease in gross margin was primarily due to the reversal of sales
of pre-development projects amounting to $ 2.8 million.
General and administrative expenses —General and
administrative expenses were $12.2 million (9.8% of net sales) and
$15.2 million (15.5% of net sales) for the years ended
December 31, 2018 and 2019, respectively, representing an
increase of $2.9 million, or 24%. The increase in our general and
administrative expenses was mainly due to the increase of salary
and welfare and professional service fee, which was partially
offset by share-based compensation gain.
Sales, marketing and customer service expenses —Sales,
marketing and customer service expenses were $2.3 million (1.8% of
net sales) and $2.4 million (2.4% of net sales) for the years ended
December 31, 2018 and 2019, respectively, representing an
increase of $0.1 million, or 5%. Sales, marketing and customer
service expenses kept stable during the two years.
Provision (reverse) for doubtful accounts, notes and other
receivables —In 2018, we reversed doubtful accounts provision
of $0.5 million. In 2019, we accrued doubtful accounts provision of
$4.1 million.
Impairment charges —No impairment charge was recorded for
the year ended December 31, 2018 and we accrued $4.7 million
impairment loss for the year ended December 31, 2019. The increase
was due to decrease in the market value of mining equipment and
impairment in PV stations
Interest expense —Interest expense was $6.7 million (5.3% of
net sales) and $3.9 million (4.0% of net sales) for the years ended
December 31, 2018 and 2019, respectively, representing a
decrease of $2.8 million, or 41%. The decrease in interest expense
was due to the decrease of convertible bond interest.
Interest income —Interest income was $0.3 million (0.3% of
net sales) and $0.2 million (0.2% of net sales) for the years ended
December 31, 2018 and 2019, respectively.
Gain on trouble debt restructuring—We recorded a gain of
$1.9 million on troubled debt restructuring for the year ended
December 31, 2018. We defaulted the first amendment agreement with
Union Sky in 2018. On June 29, 2018, we entered into another
amendment agreement with the Union Sky and Magical Glaze Limited
(“MGL”), a company affiliated with Union Sky, to further extend the
payment term. A gain is recognized for the difference between the
future undiscounted cash flow of the second amended convertible
bond of $20.0 million and the carrying amount of the first amended
convertible bond of $21.9 million as of June 29, 2018.
Other gains or expenses—We generated other gain of $1.6
million and $1.0 million in the year ended December 31, 2018 and
2019.
Income tax expense —We had a provision for income taxes of
$0.3 million (0.2% of net sales) and $0.1 million (0.1% of net
sales) for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2019,
respectively.
Net loss —For the foregoing reasons, we incurred a net loss
of $15.1 million (15.5% of net sales) for the year ended December
31, 2019, representing an increase of loss compared to a net loss
of $6.1 million (4.9% of net sales) from our continuing operations
for the year ended December 31, 2018.
A comparison for operating results of the year ended
December 31, 2018 to the year ended December 31, 2017 has
been omitted from this annual report. For the details about the
comparison, please see “Item 5. Operating
and Financial Review and Prospects – A. Operating Results – Results
of Operations.” Included in the Company’s annual report on Form
20-F for the year ended December 31, 2018 filed with the SEC on
April 30, 2019.
B. |
Liquidity and Capital
Resources |
Liquidity
A summary of the sources and uses of cash and cash equivalents is
as follows:
|
|
For the year ended December 31, |
|
|
|
2017 |
|
|
2018 |
|
|
2019 |
|
|
|
($ in
thousands) |
|
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities, continuing
operations |
|
$ |
(14,373 |
) |
|
$ |
7,851 |
|
|
$ |
(2,871 |
) |
Net cash generated by operating activities, discontinued
operations |
|
|
2,733 |
|
|
|
159 |
|
|
|
– |
|
Net cash used in investing activities, continuing operations |
|
|
(2,934 |
) |
|
|
(3,346 |
) |
|
|
(7,894 |
) |
Net cash used in investing activities, discontinued operations |
|
|
(352 |
) |
|
|
(418 |
) |
|
|
– |
|
Net cash generated from (used in) financing activities, continuing
operations |
|
|
8,284 |
|
|
|
(1,585 |
) |
|
|
9,520 |
|
Net cash used in financing activities, discontinued operations |
|
|
(2,488 |
) |
|
|
(2,145 |
) |
|
|
– |
|
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash |
|
|
(477 |
) |
|
|
453 |
|
|
|
(351 |
) |
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents |
|
$ |
(9,607 |
) |
|
$ |
969 |
|
|
$ |
(1,596 |
) |
As of December 31, 2017, 2018 and 2019, we had $2.3 million, $4.6
million and $3.0 million, respectively, in cash and cash
equivalents, and restricted cash.
Operating Activities
Net cash used in operating activities from continuing operations
was $2.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2019, the
decrease in cash was primarily as a result of (i) net loss of
$15.1 million, (ii) change in tax penalty of $6.9 million, and
(iii) change in advance from customers of $8.4 million, and (iv)
change in inventories of $2.0 million; the decrease was partially
offset by (i) change in accounts payable of $7.8
million,(ii) Provision for prepaid and other current assets of
$4.1 million, (iii) change in notes receivable of $4.8 million,
(iv) change in project assets of $3.3 million, and (v) change in
accounts receivable of $3.1 million.
Net cash provided by operating activities from continuing
operations was $7.9 million for the year ended December 31,
2018, the increase in cash was primarily as a result of
(i) change in project assets of $17.8 million, and (ii) change
in inventories of $2.9 million, (iii) change in accounts payable of
$3.4 million, (iv) non cash share-based compensation of $2.7
million, and (v) change in accrued liabilities and other
liabilities of $4.0 million, (vi) depreciation of $1.2 million,
(vii) amortization of debt discount of convertible bonds of $1.9
million; the increase was partially offset by (i) net loss of
$12.3 million,(ii) change in accounts receivable of $13.9
million, (iii) change in advance from customers of $5.1 million,
and (iv) gain on troubled debt restructuring of $1.9 million.
Investing Activities
Net cash used in investing activities from continuing operations
was $7.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2019,
primarily as a result of the acquisition of PV station in Greece of
$8.3 million and acquisitions of property, plant and equipment of
$4.8 million, partially offset by proceeds from sale of
cryptocurrencies of $3.6 million and proceeds from disposal of
affiliated entities of $4.5 million.
Net cash used in investing activities from continuing operations
was $3.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2018, primarily as
a result of decrease of cash due to disposition of SPI China.
Financing Activities
Net cash generated from financing activities from continuing
operations was $9.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2019,
the increase in cash was primarily the result of proceeds from
issuance of common stocks of $7.7 million and proceeds from
issuance of convertible bond of $1.3 million.
Net cash used in financing activities from continuing operations
was $1.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2018, the decrease
in cash primarily consisted of (i) repayment of line of credit and
loans payable of $67.8 million; the decrease was partially offset
by (i) proceeds from line of credit and loans payable of $66.2
million.
Capital Resources and Material Known Facts on Liquidity
We have suffered recurring losses from operations. We have incurred
a net loss of $15.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2019.
As of December 31, 2019, we had an accumulated deficit of $585.4
million and working capital deficit of $113.5 million. As of
December 31, 2019, $55.9 million of convertible bonds was due
within one year. These raised substantial doubt about our ability
to continue as a going concern.
We have revised the assumptions underlying our existing operating
plans and recognized the fact that additional actions were needed
to reposition our operations to minimize our cash outflows.
Therefore, we undertook a number of initiatives in order to
conserve or generate cash on an incremental basis in 2018 and 2019.
These initiatives included:
|
· |
Working capital management. The
Group sold several PV projects in Japan and US, and is actively
negotiating with the buyers to mobilize cash collection. In
addition, the Group has intention to sell all the PV projects in
Italy and US. The sales of these projects are expected to bring in
significant amount of cash to the company to improve liquidity and
capital to reinvest into new solar projects. Except for the PV
projects in US to be constructed, the Group has been closely
monitoring the Group’s capital spending level until its liquidity
position has improved. These initiatives are aimed at preserving
cash and generating operating cash flows to enable the Group to
repay its borrowings and accounts payable. |
|
· |
Cost saving measures. The Group has
implemented certain measures with an aim to reduce its operating
expenses in 2020. Such measures include: 1) strictly controlling
and reducing business, marketing and advertising expenses in United
States and Australia; 2) lowering the remuneration of the Group’s
management team. |
However, we cannot assure you that this liquidity plan will be
successful executed. See “Item 3. Key
Information—D. Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Business and
Industry—. Historically, we have incurred net losses,
experienced net cash outflows from operating activities and
recorded working capital deficit. If we do not effectively manage
our cash and other liquid financial assets and execute our
liquidity plan, we may not be able to continue as a going
concern.”
Capital Expenditures
We incurred capital expenditures of $0.3 million, $0.1 million and
$1.5 million in 2017, 2018 and 2019, respectively. Capital
commitments amounted to approximately $5.1 million as of December
31, 2019. These capital commitments will be used primarily for the
construction of our solar projects. We expect to finance
construction of these projects using cash from our operations and
private placements, bank borrowings as well as other third-party
financing options.
Research and development, patents and licenses, etc.
We have discontinued our manufacturing business and liquidated our
research and development function.
Trend information
Other than as disclosed elsewhere in this annual report, we are not
aware of any trends, uncertainties, demands, commitments or events
for 2019 that are reasonably likely to have a material effect on
our net revenues, income, profitability, liquidity or capital
resources, or that would cause reported consolidated financial
information not necessarily to be indicative of future operating
results or financial conditions.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
We have not entered into any financial guarantees or other
commitments to guarantee the payment obligations of any third
parties. We have not entered into any derivative contracts that are
indexed to our own shares and classified as shareholder’s equity,
or that are not reflected in our consolidated financial statements.
We do not have any retained or contingent interest in assets
transferred to an unconsolidated entity that serves as credit,
liquidity or market risk support to such entity. We do not have any
variable interest in any unconsolidated entity that provides
financing, liquidity, market risk or credit support to us or
engages in leasing, hedging or research and development services
with us.
Tabular Disclosure of Contractual Obligations
The following table sets forth our contractual obligations as of
December 31, 2019:
|
|
Payment due by period |
|
Contractual Obligations |
|
Total
|
|
|
less than 1 year
|
|
|
1-3 years |
|
|
3-5 years |
|
|
more than 5 years |
|
|
|
($ in
thousands) |
|
Convertible bonds |
|
$ |
55,907 |
|
|
$ |
55,907 |
|
|
$ |
– |
|
|
$ |
– |
|
|
$ |
– |
|
Short-term
borrowings |
|
|
2,857 |
|
|
|
2,857 |
|
|
|
– |
|
|
|
– |
|
|
|
– |
|
Long-term debt
obligations |
|
|
6,039 |
|
|
|
– |
|
|
|
504 |
|
|
|
636 |
|
|
|
4,899 |
|
Operating lease
obligations |
|
|
2,835 |
|
|
|
546 |
|
|
|
601 |
|
|
|
286 |
|
|
|
1,402 |
|
Capital
commitment |
|
|
5,144 |
|
|
|
5,144 |
|
|
|
– |
|
|
|
– |
|
|
|
– |
|
Due to
an affiliate |
|
|
2,037 |
|
|
|
309 |
|
|
|
619 |
|
|
|
619 |
|
|
|
490 |
|
Total |
|
$ |
74,819 |
|
|
$ |
64,763 |
|
|
$ |
1,724 |
|
|
$ |
1,541 |
|
|
$ |
6,791 |
|
ITEM
6.
DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES
A. |
Directors and Senior
Management |
The following table sets forth the names and ages of our current
board of directors (the “Board”) and our named executive officers
and the principal offices and positions held by each person. Our
executive officers are appointed by the Board. Our directors serve
until the earlier to occur of the appointment of his or her
successor at the next meeting of shareholders, death, resignation
or removal by the Board. There are no family relationships among
our directors and our named executive officers.
Name |
Age |
Position |
Xiaofeng Peng |
45 |
Director, Executive Chairman of
the Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer |
Maurice Ngai |
58 |
Director |
HoongKhoeng Cheong |
55 |
Director and Chief Operating
Officer |
Lu Qing |
49 |
Director |
Jing Zhang |
65 |
Director |
Set forth below is a brief biography of each director, named
executive officer and significant employee that contains
information regarding the individual’s service as a director, named
executive officer or significant employee including business
experience for the past five years. In addition, information for
directors includes directorships held during the past five years,
information concerning certain legal or administrative proceedings,
if applicable, and the experiences, qualifications, attributes or
skills that caused the Board to determine that the individual
should serve as a director for us.
Mr. Xiaofeng Peng has served as a director and the executive
chairman of our Board since January 10, 2011 and as our chief
executive officer since March 25, 2016. Mr. Peng was appointed
chairman of the Board pursuant to the Stock Purchase Agreement
entered into between us and LDK on January 5, 2011. Mr. Peng
founded LDK in July 2005 and is its chairman of the board and chief
executive officer. Prior to founding LDK, Mr. Peng founded Suzhou
Liouxin Co., Ltd., or Suzhou Liouxin, in March 1997 and was its
chief executive officer until February 2006. Suzhou Liouxin is a
leading manufacturer of personal protective equipment in Asia. Mr.
Peng graduated from Jiangxi Foreign Trade School with a diploma in
international business in 1993 and from Beijing University Guanghua
School of Management with an executive MBA degree in 2002.
Dr. Maurice Wai-fung Ngai has served as our director since
May 9, 2016. Dr. Ngai is a member of the Working Group on
Professional Services under the Economic Development Commission of
HKSAR, a director of Hong Kong Coalition of Professional Services,
the President of the Hong Kong Institute of Chartered Secretaries
(2015), a General Committee member of The Chamber of Hong Kong
Listed Companies, a member of Qualification and Examination Board
of the Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the
Adjunct Professor of Law of Hong Kong Shue Yan University. Dr. Ngai
obtained a Doctoral Degree in Finance at Shanghai University of
Finance and Economics, a Master’s Degree in Corporate Finance from
Hong Kong Polytechnic University, a Master’s Degree in Business
Administration from Andrews University of Michigan and a Bachelor’s
Degree in Laws at University of Wolverhampton. He is in a selected
talent pool of State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration of
the State Council (SASAC) and is serving as an independent
non-executive director of several reputable listed companies.
Mr. HoongKhoeng Cheong has served as our director since
September 2017, as and our chief operating officer since May 2014.
Mr. Cheong has more than 20 years of engineering and operation
experience in the solar and electronics industries. He served in
various management positions in LDK from 2011 to 2014 and he was
appointed as the chairman of the Management Board and chief
executive officer of Sunways AG, a publicly-listed company in
Germany. He previously served as our general manager from 2007 to
2011 and was responsible for PV system design and development as
well as the manufacturing of key components for PV modules and
racking systems before joining LDK. Prior to joining the solar
industry in 2007, Mr. Cheong spent 16 years in the electronics
industry responsible for engineering development and manufacturing
of liquid crystal display products and he served as the Vice
President of Engineering of an affiliate of Flextronics
International Ltd. Mr. Cheong holds a Bachelor of Science degree in
mechanical engineering from the University of Louisiana and
obtained his Master of Science in computer integrated manufacturing
from Nanyang Technology University, Singapore in 1997.
Ms. Lu Qing has served as our director since May 2017. She
currently serves as the chief operating officer of WisePublic Asset
Management Limited, where she manages daily operations, and acts as
the special consultant to Peking Certified Public Accountants. Ms.
Lu Qing has qualified experience in the finance, accounting, tax
and legal fields. She served the head of internal audit of China
Regenerative Medicine International Limited (8158 HK) from January
2013 to October 2015. Ms. Lu Qing also served as financial
controller of Mainland China at Sing Tao News Corporation Limited
(1105 HK) from May 2005 to May 2008. From February 1992 to March
2002, Ms. Lu Qing served as one of the major business partners and
vice general manager at Peking Certified Public Accountants. Ms. Lu
Qing received bachelor’s degree in economics, major in accounting
from Central University of Finance and Economics in June 1993, and
a master’s degree in law from Peking University in January 2001.
Ms. Lu Qing is also a Certified Tax Agents, Certified Public
Valuer, and Certified Public Account in China.
Mr. Jing Zhang has served as our director since March 30,
2020. Mr. Zhang has served as a director of Hong Kong Dongying
Financial Group since 2012, where he manages the group’s private
equity operations. He has also been an independent director of New
City Construction Development Group Co., Ltd. and China
International Capital Corporation since 2012. He served as a deputy
general manager of China Yituo Group Co., Ltd. and a director and
chief financial officer of First Tractor Co., Ltd. from 1997 to
2007. Mr. Zhang Jing received the Master degree in Management
Engineering from Jiangsu University.
B. |
Compensation of Directors and
Executive Officers |
For the year ended December 31, 2019, the aggregate cash
compensation and benefits that we paid to our directors and
executive officers was approximately $3,129,680. No pension,
retirement or similar benefits have been set aside or have accrued
by us for our executive officers of directors.
Stock Incentive Plans
2006 Equity Incentive Plan
On November 15, 2006, SPI’s board of directors adopted the 2006
Equity Incentive Plan, reserving nine percent (9%) of the
outstanding shares of SPI’s common stock for the plan, and this
plan was approved by SPI’s shareholders on February 7, 2007. Upon
completion of the Redomicle Merger, our Company assumed SPI’s
existing obligations under the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan and an
equal number of the Company’s ordinary shares, rather than the
common stock of SPI, will be issued upon the exercise of the awards
under this plan.
The following are principal terms under our 2006 Equity Incentive
Plan:
Administration. The administrator is a committee consisting
of two or more independent members of the Board appointed by the
Board to administer this plan, or if there is no such committee,
the Board itself.
Awards. We may grant incentive and non-qualified share
options, restricted shares, unrestricted shares and share
appreciation rights under this plan.
Award Agreements. Each award granted under this plan will be
evidenced by a signed written award agreement between the Company
and the award recipient.
Exercise Price. The exercise price of any option or share
appreciation right will be determined by the administrator in
accordance with this plan.
Terms of Awards. The term of options granted under this plan
may not exceed ten years (or five years, in the case of an
incentive share option granted to an optionee who owns more than
ten percent of the total combined voting power of all classes of
share of the Company). The term of a share appreciation right will
be set forth in the award agreement as determined by the
administrator.
Vesting Schedule. The administrator may determine in its
discretion whether any award will be subject to vesting and the
terms and conditions of any such vesting. The award agreement will
contain any such vesting schedule.
Transfer Restrictions. No options, restricted shares awards
(prior to vesting, subject to the plan and the award agreement) or
share appreciation rights may be transferred other than by will or
by the laws of descent or distribution, except that non-qualified
options and share appreciation rights may be transferred to an
award recipient’s former spouse pursuant to a property settlement
made part of an agreement or court order incident to the divorce.
During the lifetime of an award recipient, only the award
recipient, his guardian or legal representative may exercise an
option (other than an incentive share option) pursuant to a
domestic relations order in accordance with the plan. During the
lifetime of an award recipient, only the award recipient may
exercise the restricted share awards or share appreciation
rights.
Termination of Employment or Service. In the event that an
award recipient terminates employment with us or ceases to provide
services to us, an award may be exercised following the termination
of employment or services as provided in the plan and the award
agreement.
Termination and Amendment of the Plan. This plan was
terminated automatically in 2016 pursuant to its terms. Our Board
has the authority to amend, suspend or terminate the plan, subject
to shareholder approval with respect to certain amendments. No
award will be granted after termination of this plan but all awards
granted prior to termination will remain in effect in accordance
with their terms.
2015 Equity Incentive Plan
On May 8, 2015, our board of directors adopted our 2015 Equity
Incentive Plan. Our shareholders approved this plan on the same
date. This plan went effective upon completion of the Redomicile
Merger. The total number of Shares that may be issued under this
plan is nine percent (9%) of the number of outstanding and issued
ordinary shares of the Company. Awards may, in the discretion of
the administrator, be made under this plan in assumption of, or in
substitution for, outstanding awards previously granted by the
Company or its affiliates or a company acquired by the Company or
with which the Company combines. The number of shares underlying
such substitute awards shall be counted against the aggregate
number of shares available for awards under the plan.
The following are principal terms under our 2015 Equity Incentive
Plan:
Administration. This plan is administered by the
compensation committee of our Board, and the compensation committee
may delegate its duties and powers in whole or in part to any
subcommittee of it.
Awards. We may grant non-qualified or incentive share
options, share appreciation rights and other share-based awards
such as restricted shares under this plan.
Option / Exercise Price. The purchase price per share of any
option and the exercise price of any share appreciation right will
be determined by the administrator in accordance with the plan.
Terms of Awards. The term of options granted under this plan
may not exceed ten years from the date of grant. Vesting
Conditions. The administrator has full power and authority to
accelerate or waive any vesting conditions.
Transfer Restrictions. Unless otherwise determined by the
administrator and subject to terms and conditions of the plan, an
award may not be transferred other than by will or by the laws of
descent and distribution.
Adjustments upon Certain Events. In the event of any change
in the outstanding shares by reason of certain corporate
transactions, the administrator will in its sole discretion make
such substitution or adjustment (if any) as to the number or kind
of securities issued or reserved for issuance pursuant to the plan
or outstanding awards, the maximum numbers of awards that may be
granted during a calendar year to any award recipient, the option
or exercise price of any awards, or other affected terms of the
awards. In the event of a change of control, the administrator may
(1) determine any outstanding awards to be automatically
exercisable or otherwise vested or no longer subject to lapse
restrictions; or (2) cancel these awards in accordance with the
plan, provide for issuance of substitute awards that substantially
preserve the otherwise applicable terms of these awards, or provide
that relevant options shall be exercisable within a period of at
least 15 days prior to the change of control and shall terminate
upon occurrence of the change of control.
Termination and Amendment of Plan. Unless terminated
earlier, this plan shall terminate automatically in 2025. Our Board
may amend, alter or discontinue this plan in accordance with terms
and conditions of the plan. No award may be granted under the plan
after termination date, but awards granted prior to termination
will remain in effect.
Option Awards
The following table summarizes the outstanding options that we
granted to our directors and executive officers and to other
individuals as a group under both of our 2006 Equity Incentive Plan
and our 2015 Equity Incentive Plan as of the date of this annual
report. We have not granted any outstanding options other than to
the individuals named below.
Name
|
|
Number of Shares
|
|
Exercise Price ($)
|
|
Grant Date
|
|
Expiration Date
|
Xiaofeng Peng |
|
100,000 |
|
$3.63 |
|
September 2017 |
|
September 2027 |
Maurice Ngai |
|
3,600* |
|
$62 |
|
May
2016 |
|
May
2026 |
|
|
3,600 |
|
$62 |
|
May
2016 |
|
May
2026 |
|
|
5,000 |
|
$3.63 |
|
September 2017 |
|
September 2027 |
HoongKhoeng Cheong |
|
46,000* |
|
$3.63 |
|
September 2017 |
|
September 2027 |
Qing Lu |
|
800* |
|
$3.63 |
|
September 2017 |
|
September 2027 |
Jing Zhang |
|
20,000* |
|
$0.66 |
|
March
2020 |
|
March
2030 |
Directors and executive officers
as a group |
|
179,000* |
|
From
$0.66 to $62 |
|
From
August 2013 to March 2020 |
|
From
May 2026 to September 2030 |
Other individuals as a
group |
|
92,200** |
|
|
|
|
|
|
_____________________
|
* |
Upon exercise of all share options,
would beneficially own less than 5.0% of our then outstanding share
capital. |
|
** |
Upon exercise of all share options,
each such individual would beneficially own less than 1.0% of our
then outstanding share capital. |
Board of Directors
Our board of directors currently consists of five directors, three
of whom satisfy the “independence” requirements of Rule 10A-3 under
the Exchange Act and Rule 5605 of the NASDAQ Rules. The law of our
home country, which is the Cayman Islands, does not require a
majority of the board of directors of our Company to be composed of
independent directors, nor does the Cayman Islands law require that
of a compensation committee or a nominating committee. We intend to
follow our home country practice with regard to composition of the
board of directors. A director is not required to hold any shares
in the Company by way of qualification. A director who is in any
way, whether directly or indirectly, interested in a contract or
transaction or proposed contract or transaction with our company
must declare the nature of his interest at a meeting of the
directors. Subject to the NASDAQ Rules and disqualification by the
chairman of the relevant board meeting, a director may vote in
respect of any contract or transaction or proposed contract or
transaction notwithstanding that he or she may be interested
therein and if he or she does so his or her vote shall be counted
and he or she may be counted in the quorum at the relevant board
meeting at which such contract or transaction or proposed contract
or transaction is considered. Our board of directors may exercise
all of the powers of our Company to borrow money, to mortgage or
charge our undertakings, property and uncalled capital, and to
issue debentures or other securities whenever money is borrowed or
pledged as security for any debt, liability or obligation of our
Company or of any third party.
Committees of the Board of Directors
We have an audit committee, a compensation committee and a
nominating and corporate governance committee under the board of
directors. We have adopted a charter for each of the three
committees. Each committee’s members and functions are described
below.
Audit Committee
Our audit committee consists of Maurice Ngai, Qing Lu and Jing
Zhang, and is chaired by Maurice Ngai. All of the members of our
audit committee satisfy the “independence” requirements of Rule
10A-3 under the Exchange Act and Rule 5605 of the NASDAQ Rules. The
audit committee assists the Board’s oversight of (1) the quality
and integrity of our financial statements and related disclosure,
(2) our compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, (3) the
independent auditor’s qualifications and independence, (4) the
performance of our internal audit function and independent auditors
and (5) related-party transactions. The audit committee is
responsible for, among other things:
|
· |
appointing the independent auditors
and pre-approving any non-audit services to be performed by the
independent auditors; |
|
|
|
|
· |
reviewing and approving all
proposed related-party transactions; |
|
|
|
|
· |
reviewing with the independent
auditors any audit problems or difficulties and management’s
response; |
|
|
|
|
· |
discussing the audited financial
statements with management and the independent auditors; |
|
|
|
|
· |
reviewing major issues as to the
adequacy of our internal controls and any significant deficiencies
or material weaknesses in internal controls; |
|
|
|
|
· |
meeting separately and periodically
with management and the independent auditors; |
|
|
|
|
· |
reviewing with the general counsel
the adequacy of procedures to ensure compliance with legal and
regulatory responsibilities; and |
|
|
|
|
· |
reporting regularly to the entire
board of directors. |
Compensation Committee
Our compensation committee consists of Qing Lu, Maurice Ngai and
Jing Zhang, and is chaired by Qing Lu. Maurice Ngai, Qing Lu and
Jing Zhang satisfy the “independence” requirements of Rule 10A-3
under the Exchange Act and Rule 5605 of the NASDAQ Rules. The
compensation committee has overall responsibility for evaluating
and recommending to the Board compensation of our directors and
executive officers and our equity-based and incentive compensation
plans, policies and programs. The compensation committee is
responsible for, among other things:
|
· |
approving and overseeing the total
compensation package for our executives; |
|
|
|
|
· |
reviewing and recommending to the
Board the compensation of our directors; |
|
|
|
|
· |
reviewing and approving corporate
goals and objectives relevant to the compensation of our chief
executive officer, evaluating the performance of our chief
executive officer in light of those goals and objectives, and
setting the compensation level of our chief executive officer based
on this evaluation; |
|
|
|
|
· |
reviewing periodically and
recommending to the Board and administering any long-term incentive
compensation or equity plans, programs or similar arrangements;
and |
|
|
|
|
· |
reporting regularly to the entire
board of directors. |
Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee
Our nominating and corporate governance committee consists of Jing
Zhang, Maurice Ngai, and Qing Lu, and is chaired by Jing Zhang.
Jing Zhang, Maurice Ngai and Qing Lu satisfy the “independence”
requirements of Rule 10A-3 under the Exchange Act and Rule 5605 of
the NASDAQ Rules. The nominating and corporate governance committee
assists the board of directors in selecting individuals qualified
to become our directors and in determining the composition of the
Board and its committees. The nominating and corporate governance
committee is responsible for, among other things:
|
· |
identifying and recommending to the
Board nominees for election to the Board or for appointment to fill
any vacancy that is anticipated or has arisen on the Board; |
|
· |
reviewing annually with the Board
the current composition of the Board in light of the
characteristics of independence, age, skills, experience and
availability of service to us of its members and of anticipated
needs; |
|
· |
identifying and
recommending to the Board the directors to serve as members of the
Board’s committees; |
|
· |
advising the Board periodically
regarding significant developments in law and practice of corporate
governance and making recommendations to the Board on all matters
of corporate governance; |
|
· |
monitoring compliance with our code
of business conduct and ethics, including reviewing the adequacy
and effectiveness of our procedures to ensure proper compliance;
and |
|
· |
reporting regularly to the entire
board of directors. |
Duties of Directors
Under Cayman Islands law, our directors owe to us fiduciary duties,
including a duty of loyalty, a duty to act honestly and a duty to
act in what they consider in good faith to be in our best
interests. Our directors also have a duty to exercise the skill
they actually possess and such care and diligence that a reasonably
prudent person would exercise in comparable circumstances. In
fulfilling their duty of care to us, our directors must ensure
compliance with our memorandum and articles of association, as
amended and restated from time to time. Our Company has the right
to seek damages if a duty owed by our directors is breached.
Terms of Directors and Executive Officers
The members of the Board serve until their successors are duly
elected and have qualified. Our officers are appointed by and serve
at the discretion of the board of directors. A director will cease
to be a director if, among other things, the director (i) becomes
bankrupt or makes any arrangement or composition with his
creditors; (ii) dies or is found by our company to be or becomes of
unsound mind; (iii) resigns his office by written notice to the
Company; (iv) the board resolves that his office be vacated; or (v)
is removed from office pursuant to any other provision of our
memorandum and articles of association.
Employment Agreements
We have entered into employment agreements with each of our
executive officers. These employment agreements became effective on
the signing date and will remain effective through 2020. We may
terminate an executive officer’s employment for cause for certain
acts of the officer, including, but not limited to, conviction of a
felony, any act involving moral turpitude, or a misdemeanor where
imprisonment is imposed; commission of any act of theft, fraud,
dishonesty, or falsification of any employment or the Company’s
records; improper disclosure of the Company’s confidential or
proprietary information; any action that has a detrimental effect
on the Company’s reputation or business; or failure to perform
agreed duties. We may also terminate an executive officer’s
employment without cause. Each of us or the relevant executive
officer may terminate the employment by giving advance written
notice. We may renew the employment agreements with our executive
officers.
As of December 31, 2017, 2018 and 2019, we had 63, 49 and 57
employees, respectively. The employees are based in the U.S., the
U.K., Italy, Greece, Hong Kong, Australia, and Japan. The following
table sets forth the number of our employees for each of our major
functions as of December 31, 2019:
Major functions |
|
As of
December 31,
2019 |
|
Managerial functions |
|
|
33 |
|
Operating
functions |
|
|
20 |
|
Others |
|
|
4 |
|
Total |
|
|
57 |
|
None of our employees are represented by a labor union nor are we
organized under a collective bargaining agreement. We have never
experienced a work stoppage and believe that our relations with our
employees are good.
As required by regulations in China, we participated in various
employee social security plans that are organized by municipal and
provincial governments, including pension, unemployment insurance,
childbirth insurance, work-related injury insurance, medical
insurance and housing insurance. We were also required under PRC
law to make contributions to employee benefit plans at specified
percentages of the salaries, bonuses and certain allowances of our
employees, up to a maximum amount specified by the local government
from time to time. Since we divested our Chinese operation in
December 2018, we are no longer subject to these laws.
The following tables set forth information with respect to the
beneficial ownership of our shares as of the date of the
report.
· |
each of our directors and executive
officers; and |
· |
each person known to us to own
beneficially in excess of 5% of our ordinary shares. |
Directors and Executive Officers |
|
Shares
Beneficially
Owned |
|
|
Percentage
Beneficially
Owned |
|
Xiaofeng Peng, Chairman of the
Board1 |
|
|
5,339,340 |
|
|
|
35.99% |
|
Maurice Wai-fung
Ngai, Director |
|
|
* |
|
|
|
* |
|
Qing Lu,
Director |
|
|
* |
|
|
|
* |
|
Jing Zhang,
Director |
|
|
* |
|
|
|
* |
|
HoongKhoeng Cheong,
Director and Chief Operating Officer |
|
|
* |
|
|
|
* |
|
All Directors and Executive Officers as a
Group2 |
|
|
6,071,140 |
|
|
|
42.20% |
|
__________________
|
(1) |
Consists of 2,000 ordinary shares
and options to purchase 50,000 ordinary shares, Mr. Xiaofeng Peng,
as the spouse of Ms. Shan Zhou, may be deemed to beneficially own
the 875,000 ordinary shares of the Company held by Ms. Shan Zhou.
Furthermore, LDK New Energy Holding Limited, or LDK Energy,
directly owns 3,412,340 ordinary shares. As the spouse of Ms. Shan
Zhou, who is the sole shareholder and a director of LDK Energy, Mr.
Peng may be deemed to beneficially own such 3,412,340 ordinary
shares beneficially owned by LDK Energy. Lighting Charm Limited
holds an option to purchase 1,000,000 ordinary shares. As the
spouse of Ms. Shan Zhou, who is the sole shareholder and a director
of Lighting Charm Limited, Mr. Peng may be deemed to beneficially
own such 1,000,000 ordinary shares beneficially owned by Lighting
Charm Limited. |
|
(2) |
Consists of an aggregate of
4,973,840 ordinary shares and options to purchase an aggregate of
1,097,300 ordinary shares. |
Principal Shareholders
|
|
Ordinary Shares Beneficially Owned
|
|
|
Percentage Beneficially Owned
|
|
LDK Solar
USA, Inc. (1) |
|
|
1,317,463 |
|
|
|
8.88% |
|
LDK Solar Europe
Holding SA (2) |
|
|
97,712 |
|
|
|
0.66% |
|
Shan Zhou(3) |
|
|
5,339,340 |
|
|
|
35.99% |
|
UPC CO., LTD.
(4) |
|
|
1,350,000 |
|
|
|
9.10% |
|
Qian Kun Prosperous
Times Investment Limited (5) |
|
|
800,000 |
|
|
|
5.40% |
|
______________________
|
(1) |
LDK Solar USA, Inc. LDK Solar USA,
Inc. is wholly owned by LDK Solar CO., Ltd. The address of LDK
Solar USA, Inc. LDK Solar USA, Inc. is One Front Street, Suite
1600, San Francisco, CA 94111, USA. |
|
(2) |
LDK Solar Europe Holding S.A. is
wholly owned by LDK Solar International Co., Ltd., which is in turn
wholly owned by LDK Solar CO., Ltd. The address of LDK Solar Europe
Holding S.A. is 898, rue Pafebruch, L-8308, Capellen RCS,
Luxembourg. |
|
(3) |
Consists of 875,000 ordinary shares
held by Ms. Shan Zhou and 3,412,340 ordinary shares beneficially
owned by LDK Energy. As the spouse of Mr. Peng, Ms. Shan Zhou may
also be deemed to beneficially own 2,000 ordinary shares and 50,000
ordinary shares that Mr. Peng has the option to purchase. Lighting
Charm Limited holds an option to purchase 1,000,000 ordinary
shares. As the sole shareholder and a director of Lighting Charm
Limited, Ms. Shan Zhou may be deemed to beneficially own such
1,000,000 ordinary shares beneficially owned by Lighting Charm
Limited. |
|
(4) |
Mrs. Qiuyue Liu is the natural
person who has sole voting and investment power over 1,350,000
ordinary shares of the company shares held through UPC CO., LTD.
The address of UPC CO., LTD. is at Floor 4, Willow house, cricket
square, PO Box 2804,Grand Cayman, KY1-1112, Cayman Islands. |
|
(5) |
Mr. Yunshi Wang is the natural
person who has sole voting and investment power over 800,000
ordinary of the company shares held through Qian Kun Prosperous
Times Investment Limited. The address of Qian Kun Prosperous Times
Investment Limited is Sea Meadow House, Blackburne Highway, (P.O.
Box 116), Road Town, Tortola, British Virgin Islands. |
As of the date of this annual report, 14,837,469 ordinary shares
are issued and outstanding. We cannot ascertain the exact number of
beneficial shareholders with addresses in the United States.
None of our shareholders has different voting rights from other
shareholders as of the date of this annual report. We are currently
not aware of any arrangement that may, at a subsequent date, result
in a change of control of our Company.
ITEM
7.
MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
Please refer to “Item 6. Directors, Senior Management and
Employees—E. Share Ownership.”
B. |
Related Party
Transactions |
Transactions with Our Directors, Executive Officers and
Shareholders
On January 17, 2019, we entered into share purchase agreements with
certain existing shareholders (including certain key management
personnel of the Company) and other investors (collectively, the
“Purchasers”), pursuant to which the Purchasers agreed to purchase
an aggregate of 6,600,000 ordinary shares of the Company at a price
of US$1.16 per Share, for a total consideration of approximately
$7.7 million.
Employment Agreements
See “Item 6. Directors, Senior Management
and Employees—C. Board Practices—Employment Agreements.”
Share Incentives
See “Item 6. Directors, Senior Management
and Employees—B. Compensation of Directors and Executive
Officers” for a description of share options that we have
granted to our directors, officers and other individuals as a
group.
C. |
Interests of Experts and
Counsel |
Not applicable.
ITEM
8.
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
A. |
Consolidated Statements and
Other Financial Information |
We have appended consolidated financial statements filed as part of
this annual report.
Legal and Administrative Proceedings
Some of our previous employees filed lawsuits in late 2015 and
early 2016 against us for breach of their prior employment
contracts with us. As of the date of this annual report, we have
reached a settlement with Michael Turco, Taimur Jamil, Sharon
Mauer, William Heck and Brain Lessig and the court has
administratively closed those matters. There is only one unclosed
employee lawsuit with Kevin Adler, which we and Kevin Adler have
reached a settlement in February 2020. The lawsuit is pending final
adjournment upon the payment of all settlement amount.
There is currently an ongoing dispute in Greece between the Company
and SPI China (HK) Limited on one hand (hereinafter collectively,
“SPI”) and SINSIN Europe Solar Asset Limited Partnership and SINSIN
Solar Capital Limited Partnership on the other hand (hereinafter
collectively, “SINSIN”) with respect to a share sale and purchase
agreement dated September 9, 2014 (“SPA”) entered into by and
between SINSIN,as vendors, and SPI, as purchasers, in relation to
all of the shares in Sinsin Renewable Investment Limited, a company
registered in Malta (for purpose of this section, “SRIL”). The SPA
is governed by Maltese law and any disputes thereunder shall be
referred to arbitration in Malta. SRIL is the direct and/or
indirect owner of four (4) Greek companies under the names “JASPER
PV MACEDONIA ENERGIAKI SOCIETE ANONYME”, “ORION ENERGIAKI SOCIETE
ANONYME PHOTOVOLTAICON ERGON”, “ASTRAIOS ENERGIAKI SOCIETE ANONYME
PHOTOVOLTAICON ERGON”, “PHOTOVOLTAICA PARKA VEROIA I SOCIETE
ANONYME” (hereinafter collectively, “4 SPVs”). The 4 SPVs
collectively own a number of photovoltaic parks in Greece having a
total power output of 26.57 MW.
In particular, the following judicial proceedings were initiated in
Greece and are pending as of the date of this annual report:
A. SINSIN’s Injunction Petition against the 4 SPVs dated January
26, 2018, with General Submission No 8118/2018, which was heard on
the March 20, 2018, before the Athens One-Member First Instance
Court and on which Judgement No 4212/2018 was issued on June
25,2018.
This Interim Measures Judgment ordered, inter alia, the
following:
(A) It suspends the force of the extraordinary General Meetings of
the shareholders of the 4 SPVs dated December 19, 2017 on the
appointment of their members of Board of Directors, until the
issuance of a final judgment on the lawsuit filed by SINSIN on
March 14, 2018 for the annulment of the extraordinary General
Meetings of the shareholders of the 4 SPVs dated December 19,
2017.
(B) It appoints an interim management of the 4 SPVs, consisting of
two members elected by SINSIN (Dejun Ye and Fan Yang) and one
member elected by the 4 SPVs (Hoong Khoeng Cheong), with the
following, exclusively defined, competences: (a) to represent
judicially and extra-judicially the 4 SPVs before any public
authority and court, (b) to manage the bank accounts of the 4 SPVs,
in order to, exclusively and solely, proceed with the payment of
existing and current obligations of the 4 SPVs towards third
parties, arising from their regular management (liabilities towards
the State, employees, social security institutions, private
creditors, banks), excluding the payment of any price of the shares
that were transferred from SINSIN to SPI pursuant to the
above-mentioned share sale and purchase agreement dated September
6, 2014, (c) to collect the proceeds of the 4 SPVs, especially from
selling electric energy from the photovoltaic parks of the 4 SPVs
to the Operator of Electricity Market (“LAGIE”), which (proceeds)
should be subsequently deposited to the bank accounts of the 4
SPVs, with the exclusive purpose being the payment of the above
under element b΄ obligations of the 4 SPVs (i.e., not for the
payment of the purchase price of the shares transferred by SINSIN
to SPI pursuant to the above-mentioned share sale and purchase
agreement dated September 6, 2014.
(C) It allows the petitioners to register with the Greek General
Commercial Registry (“GEMI”) the appointed interim management of
the 4 SPVs with the above competences.
B. SINSIN’s and Mr. Dejun Ye’s lawsuit against the 4 SPVs dated
March 14, 2018, with General Submission No. 25276/2018 (the
“Annulment Lawsuit”). By virtue of the Annulment Lawsuit, the
petitioners request the annulment of the December 19, 2017 General
Assemblies’ Resolutions of the 4 SPVs, which appointed a Board of
Directors elected by their shareholders SRIL, Veltimo Limited and
Photovoltaica Parka Veroia 1 Malta Limited, companies belonging to
SPI.
SPI and their subsidiaries opposed the above-mentioned petition.
SPI and their subsidiaries SRIL, Veltimo Limited and Photovoltaica
Parka Veroia 1 Malta Limited filed an Additional Intervention in
the above pending trial under General No. 40772/2018 in favor of
the 4 SPVs requesting the rejection of the Annulment Lawsuit.
By virtue of its Decision No 2318/2019, the Athens Multimember
Court of First Instance suspended the issuance of a definitive
judgment on SINSIN’s petition until the issuance of a final
decision on the case pending before the Malta arbitration tribunal
with respect to the SPA.
C. By virtue of a petition under General Submission No 7294/2018
dated January 25, 2018 filed by SINSIN before the Athens Local
Court against SRIL, Veltimo Limited and Photovoltaica Parka Veroia
1 Malta Limited, SINSIN lacking an enforcement title, requested the
above Athens Local Court to allow them to proceed to an auction of
the pledged shares of the 4 SPVs, in order to satisfy their claim
amounting to EUR 38.3 million, plus interest and expenses, for the
outstanding purchase price of the 4 SPVs shares under the
above-mentioned share sale and purchase agreement dated September
6, 2014.
SRIL, Veltimo Limited and Photovoltaica Parka Veroia 1 Malta
Limited opposed the above-mentioned petition.
The above petition was heard on October 23, 2018. The Athens Local
Court issued Decision No. 350/2019, which suspended the issuance of
a definitive judgment on SINSIN’s petition until the issuance of a
final decision on the case pending before the Malta arbitration
tribunal with respect to the SPA.
In June 2018, the Company, as Claimant, filed arbitration
proceedings in Malta against SINSIN as respondents for an alleged
breach of a share sale and purchase agreement dated September 6,
2014 entered into by and between the respondents as sellers and the
claimant as purchaser in relation to all of the shares in SRIL. The
claimant is requesting the payment of damages from the
respondents.
The respondents have filed separate arbitration proceedings in
Malta against the Company, requesting payment of the balance of the
purchase price due in terms of the share purchase agreement
mentioned above (stated to be EUR38,054,000) together with
interest. Company is contesting these claims. Meanwhile, SINSIN has
obtained the status of a precautionary garnishee order against the
Company as security for its claims and has had the same order
served on SRIL with a view to freezing any payments that may be due
by the target company to its shareholders, the Company.
The production of evidence in both arbitration cases has been
completed and the parties have also produced very extensive written
final submissions in relation to the cases. They have also filed
their respective rebuttals to the submissions.
Unless there are any unforeseen circumstances or developments, we
expect that the Tribunal is now in a position to move to deliberate
the cases with a view to issuing its final awards in both cases
concurrently. While no specific date has been given or agreed for
the delivery of the awards, in July 2019 the Tribunal had indicated
that it expected to be in a position to issue the awards by the end
of second quarter in 2020. It is possible that the Tribunal will
require more time for this purpose.
The cases are vigorously contested and both parties have produced
substantive evidence and plausible submissions with regard to their
interpretation of the facts and the application of relevant laws to
the circumstances. The likelihood of success for either party is
very difficult to assess at this time. We believe that there is a
possibility that the Tribunal could accept both Parties’ claims (in
part) thereby giving an award which is of limited success to each
party. We believe that at best there is a 50% chance of obtaining a
favourable award in favour of the Company.
In a best-case scenario, should an award in favour of the Company
be given, the Company would be awarded damages in the sum of Euro54
million together with interest and costs of the Arbitration held in
Malta. On the other end of the spectrum and in a worst-case
scenario, an arbitral award given in favour of SINSIN would lead to
an award ordering the Company to pay Euro38 million in outstanding
payments plus an unquantified amount in additional damages,
together with legal interest and costs. The damages will need to be
liquidated and quantified by the Tribunal.
It should also be noted that if there is an Award with costs
against the Company, fees and costs payable to the arbitral
tribunal and to counsel is expected to be material and could be as
high as Euro 1 million in the aggregate.
In June 2018, ENS obtained a default judgement invalidating the
Governance Agreement. In March 2019, ENS made an assignment for
benefit of creditors which assignment is part of a Wisconsin
Chapter 128 receivership initiated by creditor Analytics Plus, LLC
Captioned Analytics Plus, LLC v. Ensync, Inc., Waukesha
County Circuit Court Case No. 19-CV-556 (the “ Chapter 128
Proceeding”). The Company has instructed to vigorously pursue all
legal remedies available to the Company.
Solar Juice USA Inc.
(“SolarJuice”), a subsidiary of the Company, submitted a complaint
in the local court in the county of Santa Clara in the State of
California on or about June 11, 2020 against Shengrun Int’l
Industry Group, Inc., a California corporation (“Shengrun”) and
Sophie Harrison, a resident of the State of California and the
purported controlling person of Shengrun. In March, 2019,
SolarJuice and Shengrun entered into a real property purchase
agreement pursuant to which SolarJuice shall purchase from Shengrun
a real property located in Santa Clara in the State of
California. Subsequently, SolarJuice made a down payment of
$3,132,000 to Shengrun for the proposed transaction, and Sophie
Harrison provided personal guarantee that if Shengrun does not
convey the property to SolarJuice or if SolarJuice withdraws from
the transaction, she would be personally liable for the return of
the down payment to SolarJuice. As of the date hereof, the subject
property has not been conveyed to SolarJuice, neither has Shengrun
or Ms. Harrison refunded the down payment to SolarJuice. Counsel
for SolarJuice on this matter reasonably expects that the court
shall render a verdict against Shengrun and Ms. Harrison personally
(as related to the personal guarantee) and in favor of SolarJuice.
However, the counsel does not have the information to assess
whether Shengrun or Ms. Harrison has the assets available for the
governmental authorities or the Company to enforce such
verdict.
The Company is currently involved in a potential lawsuit against
NAAC regarding our newly set up CBD and hemp business. The Company
was required to make a down payment of $324,125 to NAAC on or
before July 31, 2019, and the Company timely made this payment.
Subsequently, however, NAAC failed to comply with or perform the
Agreement. First, in August 2019, representatives of the Company
visited the farm where NAAC was growing the hemp. The conditions of
the plants and growing operations appeared to be deficient and not
up to industry standards. Second, NAAC failed to provide the
required Milestone Report and Financial Reports. Finally, NAAC
failed to deliver any of the hemp plants by November 30, 2019, or
at all, and refused and failed to return Company’s down payment and
to make whole for the damages the Company has suffered. As such,
NAAC was in default under the Agreement. The Company sent two
demand letters to NAAC on October 25, 2019 and November 25, 2019
respectively without any response from NAAC. The Company has
instructed to vigorously pursue all legal remedies available to the
Company.
In May 2020, Solar Juice Co. Ltd (“Solar Juice Co”),a wholly owned
subsidiary of the Company, in its capacity as shareholder of Solar
Juice Australia (an Australian company) together with Mr. Kun Fong
Lee and Mr. Jinhan Zhou (who hold shares in Solar Juice Australia
as trustee for Solar Juice Co) ("SPI Shareholders") commenced
proceedings in the Federal Court of Australia as plaintiffs against
its other shareholders and some of its other directors and
purported directors and against Solar Juice Australia
("Defendants") in relation to a purported new rights issue
undertaken by Solar Juice Australia, the purported removal by those
other shareholders of Mr. Kun Fong Lee and Mr. Jinhan Zhou as
directors of Solar Juice Australia and the purported appointment of
an additional director. The SPI Shareholders allege that the
purported new rights issue and the subsequent purported removal and
appointment of directors are invalid and ineffective and therefore
should be set aside. If effective, the purported rights issue will
result in the SPI Shareholders' shareholding in Solar Juice
Australia being reduced from 80% to 40%. The parties to the
litigation have requested that the case be expedited but it is
current unknown when a final hearing will take place.
From time to time, we are involved in various other legal and
regulatory proceedings arising in the normal course of business.
While we cannot predict the occurrence or outcome of these
proceedings with certainty, it does not believe that an adverse
result in any pending legal or regulatory proceeding, individually
or in the aggregate, would be material to our consolidated
financial condition or cash flows. However, an unfavorable outcome
could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations
for a specific interim period or year.
Dividend Policy and Dividend Distribution
We have never declared or paid dividends, nor do we have any
present plan to pay any cash dividends on our ordinary shares in
the foreseeable future. We currently intend to retain our available
funds and any future earnings to operate and expand our
business.
Subject to our memorandum and articles of association and certain
restrictions under the Cayman Islands law, our board of directors
has complete discretion on whether to pay dividends. In addition,
our shareholders may by ordinary resolution declare a dividend, but
no dividend may exceed the amount recommended by our directors.
Even if our board of directors decides to pay dividends, the form,
frequency and amount will depend upon our future operations and
earnings, capital requirements and surplus, general financial
condition, contractual restrictions and other factors that the
board of directors may deem relevant.
Except as disclosed elsewhere in this annual report, we have not
experienced any significant changes since the date of our audited
consolidated financial statements included in this annual
report.
ITEM
9.
THE OFFER AND LISTING
A. |
Offering and Listing
Details |
Our ADSs, each representing ten ordinary shares, have been listed
on the NASDAQ Global Select Market between January 19, 2016 and
September 18, 2017. Our Ordinary Shares have been listed on the
Nasdaq Global Select Market since September 18, 2017.
Not Applicable.
Our ADSs, each representing ten ordinary shares, were listed on the
NASDAQ Global Select market between January 19, 2016 and September
18, 2017 under the symbol “SPI”. Our ordinary shares have been
listed on the NASDAQ Global Select market since September 19, 2017
under the symbol “SPI”.
Not Applicable.
Not Applicable.
Not Applicable.
ITEM
10.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Not Applicable.
B. |
Memorandum and Articles of
Association |
The registered office of our Company is at the offices of Harneys
Fiduciary (Cayman) Limited, PO Box 10240, 103 South Church Street,
4th floor, Harbour Place, George Town, Cayman Islands.
The objects for which the Company is established are unrestricted,
and the Company has full power and authority to carry out any
object not prohibited by the laws of the Cayman Islands.
The following summarizes material provisions of our currently
effective amended and restated memorandum and articles of
association, as well as the Companies Law (2020 Revision) of the
Cayman Islands, which is referred to as the Companies Law below,
insofar as they relate to the material terms of our ordinary
shares.
General
All of our issued and outstanding ordinary shares are fully paid
and non-assessable. Our ordinary shares are issued in registered
form, and are issued when registered in our register of members.
Our shareholders who are non-residents of the Cayman Islands may
freely hold and transfer their ordinary shares.
Dividends
The holders of our ordinary shares are entitled to such dividends
as may be declared by our board of directors, subject to the
Companies Law and the memorandum and articles of association of our
Company, as amended and restated from time to time. In addition,
our shareholders may by ordinary resolution declare a dividend, but
no dividend may exceed the amount recommended by our directors.
Under Cayman Islands law, dividends may be declared and paid only
out of funds legally available therefor, namely out of either
profit or share premium account, and provided further that a
dividend may not be paid if this would result in us being unable to
pay our debts as they fall due in the ordinary course of
business.
Register of Members
Under Cayman Islands law, we must keep a register of members and
there shall be entered therein:
(a) the names and
addresses of the members, a statement of the shares held by each
member, and of the amount paid or agreed to be considered as paid,
on the shares of each member;
(b) the date on which the
name of any person was entered on the register as a member; and
(c) the date on which any
person ceased to be a member.
Under Cayman Islands law, our register of members is prima
facie evidence of the matters set out therein (namely, the
register of members will raise a presumption of fact on the matters
referred to above unless rebutted) and a member registered in the
register of members shall be deemed as a matter of Cayman Islands
law to have legal title to the shares as set against its name in
the register of members. If the name of any person is incorrectly
entered in or omitted from our register of members, or if there is
any default or unnecessary delay in entering on the register the
fact of any person having ceased to be a member of our Company, the
person or member aggrieved (or any member of our Group or our
Company itself) may apply to the Grand Court of the Cayman Islands
for an order that the register be rectified, and the Court may
either refuse such application or it may, if satisfied of the
justice of the case, make an order for the rectification of the
register.
Voting Rights
Each holder of ordinary shares is entitled to one vote on all
matters upon which the ordinary shares are entitled to vote on a
show of hands or, on a poll, each holder is entitled to have one
vote for each share registered in his name on the register of
members. Voting at any meeting of shareholders is by show of hands
unless a poll is demanded. A poll may be demanded by the chairman
of the meeting or by any one or more shareholders holding at least
one-tenth of the paid-up shares given a right to vote at the
meeting or one-tenth of the votes attaching to the issued and
outstanding ordinary shares in us entitled to vote at general
meetings, present in person or by proxy.
A quorum required for a general meeting of shareholders consists of
one or more shareholders who hold in aggregate at least one-third
of the votes attaching to the issued and outstanding ordinary
shares in us entitled to vote at general meetings, present in
person or by proxy or, if a corporation or other non-natural
person, by its duly authorized representative. Although not
required by the Companies Laws or our amended and restated
memorandum and articles of association, we expect to hold
shareholders’ meetings annually and such meetings may be convened
by our board of directors on its own initiative or upon a request
to the directors by shareholders holding in aggregate at least
one-third of the votes attaching to the issued and outstanding
shares that carry the right to vote at general meetings. Advance
notice of at least 14 days is required for the convening of our
annual general meeting and other shareholders meetings.
An ordinary resolution to be passed by the shareholders requires
the affirmative vote of a simple majority of the votes cast by
those shareholders entitled to vote who are present in person or by
proxy in a general meeting, while a special resolution requires the
affirmative vote of no less than two-thirds of the votes cast by
those shareholders entitled to vote who are present in person or by
proxy in a general meeting.
Transfer of Ordinary Shares
Subject to the restrictions of our articles of association, as
applicable, any of our shareholders may transfer all or any of his
or her ordinary shares by an instrument of transfer in the usual or
common form or any other form approved by our board of
directors.
Our board of directors may, in its absolute discretion, decline to
register any transfer of any ordinary share which is not fully paid
up or on which we have a lien. Our directors may also decline to
register any transfer of any ordinary share unless:
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· |
the instrument of transfer is
lodged with us, accompanied by the certificate for the ordinary
shares to which it relates and such other evidence as our board of
directors may reasonably require to show the right of the
transferor to make the transfer; |
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· |
the instrument of transfer is in
respect of only one class of ordinary shares; |
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· |
the instrument of transfer is
properly stamped, if required; |
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|
· |
in the case of a transfer to joint
holders, the number of joint holders to whom the ordinary share is
to be transferred does not exceed four; |
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the ordinary shares transferred are
free of any lien in favor of us; and |
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a fee of such maximum sum as NASDAQ
may determine to be payable, or such lesser sum as our board of
directors may from time to time require, is paid to us in respect
thereof. |
If our directors refuse to register a transfer they shall, within
two months after the date on which the instrument of transfer was
lodged, send to each of the transferor and the transferee notice of
such refusal. The registration of transfers may, on 14 days’ notice
being given by advertisement in such one or more newspapers or by
electronic means, be suspended and the register of members closed
at such times and for such periods as our board of directors may
from time to time determine; provided, however, that the
registration of transfers shall not be suspended and the register
of members shall not be closed for more than 30 days in any
year.
Liquidation
On a winding up of our Company, if the assets available for
distribution among our shareholders shall be more than sufficient
to repay the whole of the share capital at the commencement of the
winding up, the surplus will be distributed among our shareholders
in proportion to the par value of the shares held by them at the
commencement of the winding up, subject to a deduction from those
shares in respect of which there are monies due, of all monies
payable to us for unpaid calls or otherwise. If our assets
available for distribution are insufficient to repay all of the
paid-up capital, the assets will be distributed so that the losses
are borne by our shareholders in proportion to the par value of the
shares held by them.
Calls on Ordinary Shares and Forfeiture of Ordinary Shares
Our board of directors may from time to time make calls upon
shareholders for any amounts unpaid on their ordinary shares in a
notice served to such shareholders at least 14 days prior to the
specified time of payment. The ordinary shares that have been
called upon and remain unpaid are subject to forfeiture.
Redemption, Repurchase and Surrender of Ordinary Shares
We may issue shares on terms that are subject to redemption, at our
option or at the option of the holders, on such terms and in such
manner as may be determined before the issue of such shares, by our
board of directors or by a special resolution of our shareholders.
We may also repurchase any of our shares provided that the manner
and terms of such purchase have been approved by our board of
directors or by ordinary resolution of our shareholders, or are
otherwise authorized by our memorandum and articles of association.
Under the Companies Law, the redemption or repurchase of any share
may be paid out of our profits or out of the proceeds of a fresh
issue of shares made for the purpose of such redemption or
repurchase, or out of capital (including share premium account and
capital redemption reserve) if we can, immediately following such
payment, pay our debts as they fall due in the ordinary course of
business. In addition, under the Companies Law no such share may be
redeemed or repurchased (a) unless it is fully paid up, (b) if such
redemption or repurchase would result in there being no shares
outstanding, or (c) if the company has commenced liquidation. In
addition, we may accept the surrender of any fully paid share for
no consideration.
Variations of Rights of Shares
All or any of the special rights attached to any class of shares
may, subject to the provisions of the Companies Law, be varied
either with the written consent of the holders of a majority of the
issued shares of that class or with the sanction of an ordinary
resolution passed at a general meeting of the holders of the shares
of that class.
Inspection of Books and Records
Holders of our ordinary shares have no general right under Cayman
Islands law to inspect or obtain copies of our list of shareholders
or our corporate records. However, we will provide our shareholders
with annual audited financial statements.
Changes in Capital
We may from time to time by ordinary resolution:
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· |
increase our share capital by such
sum, to be divided into shares of such classes and amount, as the
resolution shall prescribe; |
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· |
consolidate and divide all or any
of our share capital into shares of a larger amount than our
existing shares; |
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convert all or any of our paid-up
shares into stock and reconvert that stock into paid up shares of
any denomination; |
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sub-divide our existing shares, or
any of them into shares of a smaller amount that is fixed by the
amended and restated memorandum and articles of association;
and |
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cancel any shares which, at the
date of the passing of the resolution, have not been taken or
agreed to be taken by any person and diminish the amount of our
share capital by the amount of the shares so cancelled. |
Subject to Companies Law and confirmation by the Grand Court of the
Cayman Islands on an application by us for an order confirming such
reduction, we may by special resolution reduce our share capital
and any capital redemption reserve in any manner authorized by
law.
Issuance of Additional Preferred Shares
Our amended and restated memorandum and articles of association
authorizes our board of directors to issue additional ordinary
shares from time to time as our board of directors shall determine,
to the extent of available authorized but unissued shares.
Our amended and restated memorandum and articles of association
authorizes our board of directors to establish from time to time
one or more series of preferred shares and to determine, with
respect to any series of preferred shares, the terms and rights of
that series, including:
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the designation of the series; |
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the number of shares of the
series; |
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the dividend rights, dividend
rates, conversion rights, voting rights; and |
|
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the rights and terms of redemption
and liquidation preferences. |
Our board of directors may issue preferred shares without action by
our shareholders to the extent of available authorized but unissued
shares. In addition, the issuance of preferred shares may be used
as an anti-takeover device without further action on the part of
the shareholders. Issuance of these shares may dilute the voting
power of holders of ordinary shares.
C.
Material Contracts
In the past two years, we have not entered into any material
contracts other than in the ordinary course of business and other
than those described in “Item 4. Information on the Company—B.
Business Overview,” “Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party
Transactions—B. Related Party Transactions,” or elsewhere in this
annual report on Form 20-F.
D.
Exchange Controls
See “Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk
Factors—Risks Related to Our International Operations—We are
subject to risks associated with foreign currency exchange rates,
fluctuations of which may negatively affect our revenue, cost of
goods sold and gross margins and could result in exchange losses,”
“Item 4. Information on the Company—B. Business
Overview—Regulations—Foreign Currency Exchange” and “Item 4.
Information on the Company—B. Business
Overview—Regulations—Dividend Distribution.”
E.
Taxation
The following summary of the material Cayman Islands and United
States federal income tax consequences of an investment in our
ordinary shares is based upon laws and relevant interpretations
thereof in effect as of the date of this annual report, all of
which are subject to change, possibly with retroactive effect. This
summary does not deal with all possible tax consequences relating
to an investment in our ordinary shares, such as the tax
consequences under United States state or local tax laws, or tax
laws of jurisdictions other than the Cayman Islands and the United
States.
Cayman Islands Taxation
The Cayman Islands currently does not levy taxes on individuals or
corporations based upon profits, income, gains or appreciation, and
there is no taxation in the Cayman Islands in the nature of
inheritance tax or estate duty. There are no other taxes likely to
be material to us levied by the government of the Cayman Islands
except for stamp duty which may be applicable on instruments
executed in, or after execution brought within the jurisdiction of
the Cayman Islands. The Cayman Islands is not a party to any double
tax treaties that are applicable to any payments made to or by our
Company. There are no exchange control regulations or currency
restrictions in the Cayman Islands.
Economic Substance Law
Since 1 January 2019,the Cayman Islands adopted certain laws and
regulations in response to the Organisation for Economic
Co-operation and Development(OECD)Forum on Harmful Tax
Practices,which sets the global standard that requires companies to
have substantial activities in a jurisdiction (also known as
"economic substance").To date, the Cayman Islands have passed or
adopted the International Tax Co-Operation (Economic Substance)
Law, (as varied by the Regulations which are defined below and
includes any revision thereof or amendment thereto from time to
time,the"ES Law"), the International Tax Co-Operation (Economic
Substance) (Prescribed Dates) Regulations, 2018, the International
Tax Co-Operation (EconomicSubstance) (Amendment of Schedule)
Regulations, 2019 and the International Co-Operation (Economic
Substance) (Amendment of Schedule) (No. 2) Requlations. 2019
(collectively referred to as, the “Regulations”), and the related
guidance was published on 30 April 2019.
A relevant entity conducting any relevant activity must satisfy the
economic substance test the “ES Test”) as set out in the ES Law.
Failure to comply with requirements of the ES Law may result in
substantial fines and/or imprisonment.
Considering SPI Energy is a tax resident outside in US, the Company
has been determined that it is either not a Relevant Entity (i.e.
an “investment fund” or tax resident in another jurisdiction) or
not conducting a Relevant Activity for the purposes of the ES
Law.
U.S. Federal Income Taxation
Introduction
The following discussion is a summary of U.S. federal income tax
considerations of the purchase, ownership and disposition of the
ordinary shares. This discussion applies only to holders that hold
the ordinary shares as capital assets. This discussion is based on
the Code, Treasury regulations promulgated thereunder, and
administrative and judicial interpretations thereof, all as in
effect on the date hereof and all of which are subject to change,
possibly with retroactive effect. This discussion does not address
all of the tax considerations that may be relevant to specific
holders in light of their particular circumstances or to holders
subject to special treatment under U.S. federal income tax law,
such as banks, financial institutions, insurance companies,
controlled foreign corporations, passive foreign investment
companies, tax-exempt entities, regulated investment companies,
real estate investment trusts, partnerships and the partners
therein, dealers in securities or currencies, traders in securities
electing to mark to market, U.S. expatriates, persons who have
acquired the ordinary shares as part of a straddle, hedge,
conversion transaction or other integrated investment, U.S. Holders
(as defined below) that have a “functional currency” other than the
U.S. dollar or persons that own (or are deemed to own) 5% or more
of our stock. This discussion does not address the alternative
minimum tax, the Medicare tax on net investment income or any U.S.
state or local or non-U.S. tax considerations or, other than to the
limited extent set forth below, any U.S. federal estate or gift tax
considerations.
As used in this discussion, the term “U.S. Holder” means a
beneficial owner of the ordinary shares that is, for U.S. federal
income tax purposes, (i) an individual who is a citizen or resident
of the United States, (ii) a corporation, or other entity
classified as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes,
created or organized in or under the laws of the United States or
of any state thereof, or the District of Columbia, (iii) an estate
whose income is subject to U.S. federal income taxation regardless
of its source or (iv) a trust that (1) is subject to the
supervision of a court within the United States and the control of
one or more United States persons or (2) has a valid election in
effect under applicable United States Treasury regulations to be
treated as a United States person.
As used in this discussion, the term “Non-U.S. Holder” means a
beneficial owner of the ordinary shares that is not a partnership
(or entity treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax
purposes) and not a U.S. Holder.
Treatment of the Company as a U.S. Corporation for U.S. Federal
Income Tax Purposes
Even though we are organized as a Cayman Islands exempted company,
due to the application of Section 7874(b) of the Code, we are
treated as a U.S. corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes
and all purposes under the Code.
U.S.
Holders
Distributions
We do not currently anticipate paying distributions on our ordinary
shares. In the event that distributions are paid, however, the
gross amount of such distributions generally will be included in a
U.S. Holder’s gross income as dividend income on the date of
receipt to the extent that the distribution is paid out of our
current or accumulated earnings and profits, as determined under
U.S. federal income tax principles. To the extent the amount of any
distribution exceeds our current and accumulated earnings and
profits as so computed, it will be treated first as a non-taxable
return of capital to the extent of the U.S. Holder’s adjusted tax
basis in such ordinary shares and, to the extent the amount of such
distribution exceeds such adjusted tax basis, will be treated as
gain from the sale of such ordinary shares.
Subject to certain conditions, including a minimum holding period
requirement, dividends received by individuals and other
non-corporate U.S. Holders, generally will be subject to reduced
rates of taxation, and dividends paid by us will be eligible for
the “dividends received” deduction generally allowed to corporate
shareholders with respect to dividends received from U.S.
corporations.
Sale or Other Disposition of Ordinary Shares
A U.S. Holder generally will recognize gain or loss for U.S.
federal income tax purposes upon a sale or other disposition of the
ordinary shares in an amount equal to the difference between the
amount realized from such sale or disposition and the U.S. Holder’s
adjusted tax basis in such ordinary shares. Such gain or loss
generally will be a capital gain or loss and will be long-term
capital gain or loss (taxable at a reduced rate for individuals and
other non-corporate U.S. Holders) if, on the date of sale or
disposition, such ordinary shares were held by such U.S. Holder for
more than one year. The deductibility of capital losses is subject
to limitations.
Non-U.S. Holders
Distributions
Distributions treated as dividends (see “—U.S. Holders—Distributions” above)
paid to a Non-U.S. Holder are treated as income derived from
sources within the United States and generally will be subject to
U.S. federal withholding tax at a rate of 30% of the gross amount
of such dividend, or at a lower rate provided by an applicable
income tax treaty.
Even if a Non-U.S. Holder is eligible for a lower treaty rate, U.S.
federal withholding tax will be imposed at a 30% rate (rather than
the lower treaty rate) on dividend payments to a Non-U.S. Holder,
unless (i) the Non-U.S. Holder has furnished a valid U.S. Internal
Revenue Service (the “IRS”) Form W-8BEN or W-8BEN-E or other
documentary evidence establishing such holder’s entitlement to the
lower treaty rate with respect to such payments, and (ii) in the
case of actual or constructive dividends paid to a foreign entity,
(a) if such entity is, or holds the ordinary shares through, a
foreign financial institution, any such foreign financial
institution (x) has entered into an agreement with the U.S.
government to collect and provide to the U.S. tax authorities
information about its accountholders (including certain investors
in such institution), (y) satisfies an exemption from the
obligation to enter into such an agreement, or (z) satisfies the
terms of an applicable intergovernmental agreement, and (b) if
required, such entity has provided the withholding agent with a
certification identifying its direct and indirect U.S. owners.
If a Non-U.S. Holder is eligible for a reduced rate of U.S.
withholding tax pursuant to an applicable income tax treaty, the
Non-U.S. Holder may obtain a refund of any excess amounts withheld
by filing an appropriate claim for refund with the IRS.
Sale or Other Disposition
Any gain realized upon the sale or other disposition of ordinary
shares by a Non-U.S. Holder generally will not be subject to U.S.
federal income tax unless (i) the Non-U.S. Holder is an individual
who is present in the United States for 183 days or more in the
taxable year of the disposition, and certain other conditions are
met, or (ii) in the case of the sale or disposition of ordinary
shares on or after January 1, 2019, the requirements described in
item (ii) in the second paragraph under “—Distributions,” above,
are satisfied. Each Non-U.S. Holder is encouraged to consult with
its own tax advisor regarding the possible implications of these
withholding requirements on its investment in ordinary shares and
the potential for a refund or credit in the case of any withholding
tax.
Information Reporting and Backup Withholding
Payments of dividends or of proceeds on the disposition of ordinary
shares to U.S. Holders may be subject to information reporting and
backup withholding unless the U.S. Holder (i) is a corporation or
comes within certain other exempt categories and demonstrates this
fact, or (ii) provides a correct taxpayer identification number,
certifies as to no loss of exemption from backup withholding and
otherwise complies with applicable requirements of the backup
withholding rules. Non-U.S. Holders may be required to provide
documentary evidence establishing they are not subject to
information reporting and backup withholding. Payments of dividends
to Non-U.S. Holders and the amount of U.S. federal withholding tax
imposed on such dividends must generally be reported annually to
the IRS. A similar report will be sent to Non-U.S. Holders. Copies
of these reports may be made available to tax authorities in a
holder’s country of residence.
Backup withholding is not an additional tax. Any amounts withheld
under the backup withholding rules will be allowed as a refund or a
credit against a holder’s U.S. federal income tax liability,
provided the required information is furnished to the IRS on a
timely basis.
U.S. Federal Estate Tax
Ordinary shares owned or treated as owned by an individual who is
not a citizen or resident of the United States (as specifically
defined for U.S. federal estate tax purposes) at the time of death
will be included in the individual’s gross estate for U.S. federal
estate tax purposes and may be subject to U.S. federal estate tax
unless an applicable estate tax treaty provides otherwise.
F. |
Dividends and Paying
Agents |
Not applicable.
Not applicable.
We are subject to the periodic reporting and other informational
requirements of the Exchange Act as applicable to foreign private
issuers. Under the Exchange Act, we are required to file reports
and other information with the SEC. Specifically, we are required
to file annually a Form 20-F no later than four months after the
close of each fiscal year, which is December 31. Copies of reports
and other information, when so filed with the SEC, can be inspected
and copied at our executive offices. The SEC also maintains a web
site at www.sec.gov that contains reports, proxy and
information statements, and other information regarding registrants
that make electronic filings with the SEC using its EDGAR system.
As a foreign private issuer, we are exempt from the rules of the
Exchange Act prescribing the furnishing and content of quarterly
reports and proxy statements, and our executive officers, directors
and principal shareholders are exempt from the reporting and
short-swing profit recovery provisions contained in Section 16 of
the Exchange Act. In addition, we are not required under the
Exchange Act to file periodic reports and financial statements with
the SEC as frequently or as promptly as U.S. companies whose
securities are registered under the Exchange Act.
In accordance with Rule 5250(d) of the NASDAQ Rules, we will post
this annual report on Form 20-F on our website at
http://www.spigroups.com.
I. |
Subsidiary Information |
Not applicable.
ITEM
11.
QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
Foreign Exchange Risk
We currently conduct our business operations in the U.S., Japan,
the U.K., Greece, Italy and Australia. The functional currency of
our Company and our subsidiaries located in the United States is
the U.S. dollar. The functional currency of our subsidiaries
located in Europe and Australia are the Euro and AUD, respectively.
Transactions denominated in foreign currencies are re-measured into
the functional currency at the rates of exchange prevailing when
the transactions occur. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated
in foreign currencies are re-measured into the functional currency
at rates of exchange in effect at the balance sheet dates. Exchange
gains and losses are included in our consolidated statements of
operations.
Our reporting currency is the U.S. dollar. Assets and liabilities
of subsidiaries, whose functional currency is not the U.S. dollar,
are translated into the U.S. dollar using exchange rates in effect
at each period end, and revenues and expenses are translated into
the U.S. dollar at average rates prevailing during the year. Gains
and losses resulting from the translations of the financial
statements of these subsidiaries into the U.S. dollar are
recognized as other comprehensive income in our consolidated
statements of comprehensive income.
Depending on movements in foreign exchange rates, the foreign
currency translation may have an adverse impact on our consolidated
financial statements. In 2017, 2018 and 2019, we recorded foreign
exchange loss of $5.1 million, gain of $1.1 million and gain of
$1.3 million in our consolidated statements of operations,
respectively.
Interest Rate Risk
Our exposure to interest rate risk primarily relates to interest
expenses incurred on our short-term and long-term borrowings, as
well as interest income generated from excess cash invested in
demand deposits. Such interest-earning instruments carry a degree
of interest rate risk. We have not used any derivative financial
instruments to manage our interest rate risk exposure. We have not
been exposed to, nor do we anticipate being exposed to, material
risks due to changes in interest rates. However, our future
interest expense may increase due to changes in market interest
rates. If market interest rates for short-term demand deposits
increase in the near future, such increase may cause the amount of
our interest income to rise. A hypothetical 10% increase in the
average interest rate for our bank borrowings would result in an
increase of approximately $0.1 million and $0.1 million in interest
expense for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2019. We may use
derivative financial instruments, such as interest rate swaps, to
mitigate potential risks of interest expense increases due to
changes in market interest rates.
ITEM
12.
DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES
Not Applicable.
PART
II
ITEM
13.
DEFAULTS, DIVIDEND ARREARAGES AND DELINQUENCIES
We have outstanding convertible bonds of US$55.0 million, which
were defaulted in June 2016 and not repaid as at December 31, 2016.
On February 12, 2017, we entered into an Amendment Agreement
(“Agreement”) with Union Sky Group Limited, one of the holders of
our convertible bonds, to extend the maturity date of the bonds,
pursuant to which the repayment of US$6.6 million, US$6.7 million
and US$6.7 million of the principal amount of the convertible bond
will be due by April 30, 2017, January 30, 2018 and January 30,
2019, respectively. Union Sky Group Limited has the option to
convert the outstanding amounts under the convertible bond into
equity interest in our company at a certain conversion price. We
were not able to make the first repayments of April 29, 2017. We
have been in communications with the holders of our convertible
bonds, including Union Sky Group Limited, to further extend the
maturity date of the bonds, and On June 29, 2018, the Company
entered into the 2nd Amendment with the Union Sky Group Limited and
Magical Glaze Limited (the “MGL”), a company incorporated under the
laws of British Virgin Islands, pursuant to which agreement the
Union Sky Group Limited has transferred all the rights and
obligations under the Convertible Bond Agreement and 1st Amendment
to MGL, and the maturity date of the note was extended. According
to the 2nd Amendment, the repayment of US$6.6 million, US$6.7
million and US$6.7 million of the principal amount of the note and
interest thereon is due by December 2019, June 2020 and December
2020, respectively. As of the date of this annual report, we missed
the December 2019 repayment and expect to miss the June 2020
repayment. We have been working on negotiating a third amendment to
the Convertible Bond Agreement but have not yet obtained a further
extension from the bond holders.
ITEM 14.
MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHTS OF SECURITY HOLDERS AND USE OF
PROCEEDS
A.-D. Material
Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders
On January 4, 2016, pursuant to the terms of the Second Amended and
Restated Agreement and Plan of Merger and Reorganization dated
October 30, 2015, SPI merged with and into a wholly-owned
subsidiary of our Company. This resulted in the redomicliation of
SPI to the Cayman Islands and our Company becoming our holding
company. Upon completion of the Redomicle Merger, each ten shares
of SPI’s common stock acquired before the relevant F-4 registration
statement became effective converted into the right to receive one
ADS, representing ten ordinary shares in the capital of our
Company, and each right to purchase shares of SPI’s common stock
automatically converted into an equivalent right to purchase
ordinary shares of our Company. Accordingly, the shares became
governed by our Company’s amended and restated memorandum and
articles of association. See “Item 10.
Additional Information—Memorandum and Articles of
Association.”
Between January 19, 2016 and September 18, 2017, our ADSs were
listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol of
“SPI”. The Bank of New York Mellon, the depositary bank for our ADS
facility, terminated our ADS facility on September 18, 2017.
Following such termination, we listed our ordinary shares, par
value US$0.0001 each, for trading on NASDAQ Global Select Market in
substitution for our ADSs. On September 19, 2017, the substitution
listing became effective and our ordinary shares began trading on
the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol of “SPI”.
Except for the foregoing, there have been no changes to the
instruments defining the rights of the holders of any class of our
registered securities, and the rights of holders of our registered
securities have not been altered by the issuance or modification of
any other class of our securities. There has been no removal or
substitution of assets securing any class of our registered
securities. None of our registered securities have a trustee or
paying agent.
Not applicable.
ITEM
15.
CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Disclosure Controls and Procedures
Our executive management is responsible for establishing and
maintaining a system of disclosure controls and procedures (as
defined in Rule 13a-15 and 15d-15 under the Exchange Act) designed
to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in the
reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded,
processed, summarized and reported within the time periods
specified in the SEC’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and
procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures
designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an
issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange
Act is accumulated and communicated to the issuer’s management,
including its principal executive officer and principal financial
officer, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to
allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. Our executive
management concluded that, because of the material weaknesses in
our internal control over financial reporting discussed below, our
disclosure controls and procedures were not effective as of
December 31, 2019. Notwithstanding the material weaknesses
discussed below, our executive management has concluded that the
consolidated financial statements included in this Form 20-F
present fairly, in all material respects, our financial position,
results of operations and cash flows for the periods presented in
conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the
U.S.
Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial
Reporting.
Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining
adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such term is
defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(f). Our internal control over
financial reporting is a process designed by, or under the
supervision of, our chief executive officer, to provide reasonable
assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the
preparation of financial statements for external purposes in
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Internal
control over financial reporting includes those policies and
procedures which (a) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in
reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions
and dispositions of our assets; (b) provide reasonable assurance
that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation
of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted
accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of ours
are being made only in accordance with authorizations of our
management and directors; and (c) provide reasonable assurance
regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized
acquisition, use or disposition of our assets that could have a
material effect on the financial statements.
Management, including our chief executive officer, assessed the
effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as
of December 31, 2019. In making this assessment, management used
the criteria for effective internal control over financial
reporting described in Internal Control-Integrated Framework (2013)
issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway
Commission. A material weakness is a deficiency, or a combination
of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting, such
that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement
of our consolidated financial statements will not be prevented or
detected on a timely basis. Based on management’s assessment of the
effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting,
management has identified the following material weaknesses in our
internal control over financial reporting as of December 31,
2019:
|
· |
Lack of an internal audit
department since April 2017, and internal audit evaluation work was
not performed during the year ended December 31, 2019. |
|
|
|
|
· |
We didn’t have adequate risk
assessment procedures, including those on identification and
assessment of fraud risks, to cope with the expansion of its
business and organization. In particularly, we did not put in place
an adequate process to continuously assess the legal, compliance
and fraud risks associated with the business initiatives and the
related financial impact. As a result, we did not properly account
for certain transactions, which led to significant adjustments to
the consolidated financial statements for the year ended December
31, 2019. |
|
|
|
|
· |
Our review controls over
management’s judgment and financial statement assertions were
ineffective with respect to certain significant transactions
including impairment charges on project assets and accounting for
convertible bonds. Our review controls in these areas were not
effective, as we failed to prepare sufficient documentation on the
judgment made and the significant assumptions used in accounting
for the transactions. As a result, there were material adjustments
on convertible bonds, impairment charges on project assets and
accrued liabilities reflected in the consolidated financial
statements for the year ended December 31, 2019. |
|
|
|
|
· |
We did not have adequate controls
on the internal communication between finance team and operation
team related to the status of the construction of project assets,
execution of contracts and conclusion of business decisions. This
deficiency has resulted in the finance team not having accurate or
updated information necessary to properly assess the accounting
treatment for the relevant business transactions. As a result,
there were material adjustments to the consolidated financial
statements for the year ended December 31, 2019. |
|
|
|
|
· |
We did not have adequate
communications between the headquarter and subsidiaries, and lack
of sufficient supervision over the local management team, related
to the daily operation of the subsidiaries. |
|
|
|
|
· |
We had insufficient resources for
financial information processing and reporting and lack of
appropriate GAAP knowledge. As a result, there was material
adjustments to the consolidated financial statements for the year
ended December 31, 2019. |
The material weaknesses described above may result in misstatement
of our consolidated financial statements that would not be
prevented or detected. As a result of these material weaknesses,
management has concluded that our internal control over financial
reporting was not effective as of December 31, 2019.
Remediation Activities
Our management has been engaged in, and continues to be engaged in,
making necessary changes and improvements to the overall design of
controls and procedures to address the material weaknesses in our
internal control over financial reporting and the ineffectiveness
of our disclosure controls and procedures described above. To
remediate the material weaknesses, we will adopt the following
changes:
|
(i) |
With respect to the insufficiency
of knowledge and experience in U.S. GAAP and the lack of expertise
in handling complex accounting and reporting matters, we plan to
continue to: (1) provide more comprehensive training on U.S. GAAP
to our accounting team and other relevant personnel, and (2)
enhance our accounting manual to provide our accounting team with
more comprehensive guidelines on the policies and controls over
financial reporting under U.S. GAAP and SEC rules and
requirements. |
|
(ii) |
With respect to inadequate risk
assessment controls, we plan to continue to: (1) organize the
related department to hold risk assessment discussions before
significant business expansion and organization changes, (2)
provide more comprehensive training to our accounting team and
legal department to improve the risk awareness of unusual and
significant transactions, and (3) implement Office Automation
System to standardize processes so that unusual and significant
transactions can be timely identified and approved properly. (4)
enhance the in-house tax department management and improve the tax
compliance. |
|
(iii) |
With respect to our management
review controls over significant judgment and financial statement
assertions, we plan to continue to: (1) provide appropriate
training on management review standards and requirements to the
related business department, and (2) enhance management monitoring
and review of key processes with more comprehensive guidelines on
the policies and controls over financial reporting. |
|
(iv) |
With respect to the deficiencies in
internal communication with the company, we plan to continue to
organize regular operation meetings between our finance team and
operation team to share the status of significant transactions,
project assets, execution of contracts and business decisions,
among others. |
Attestation Report of the Independent Registered Public Accounting
Firm
Because we are not an accelerated filer, we are not required to
obtain an attestation report of our independent registered public
accounting firm.
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
Other than the changes resulting from the material weakness
described above, there have been no changes in our internal control
over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) and
15d-15(f) of the Exchange Act) during the fiscal year ended
December 31, 2019 that have materially affected, or are reasonably
likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial
reporting.
ITEM
16.
RESERVE
ITEM
16A. AUDIT
COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT
Our board of directors has determined that Maurice Ngai, an
independent director, is our audit committee financial expert.
Maurice Ngai satisfies the independent requirements of Rule 10A-3
under the Exchange Act and Rule 5605 of the NASDAQ Rules.
ITEM
16B. CODE
OF ETHICS
Our board of directors believes in strict adherence to the highest
standards of business ethics and responsibility. We have thus
adopted a code of business conduct and ethics that applies to us
and our directors, officers, employees and advisors. Certain
provisions of the code apply specifically to our chief executive
officer, chief financial officer, senior operating officer and any
other persons who perform similar functions for us. We have filed
this code of business conduct and ethics as an exhibit to this
annual report on Form 20-F. The code of business conduct and ethics
is also available at our website at www.spigroups.com.
ITEM
16C. PRINCIPAL
ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES
The following table sets forth the aggregate fees by categories
specified below in connection with certain professional services
rendered by Marcum Bernstein & Pinchuk LLP, our current
principal external auditors for the periods indicated.
|
|
2018 |
|
|
2019 |
|
Audit
fees |
|
$ |
860,000 |
|
|
$ |
440,000 |
|
Audit-related
fees |
|
|
– |
|
|
|
– |
|
Tax fees |
|
|
– |
|
|
|
– |
|
All other fees |
|
|
– |
|
|
|
– |
|
Total |
|
$ |
860,000 |
|
|
$ |
440,000 |
|
__________
|
(1) |
Audit fees consist of fees billed
for professional services rendered for the audit of our financial
statements and services that are normally provided by the above
auditors in connection with statutory and regulatory fillings or
engagements. |
|
(2) |
Audit related fees consist of
assurance and related services that are reasonably related to the
performance of audit or review of our financial statements related
to our SEC filings. |
Consistent with the rules of the SEC regarding auditor
independence, our Board of Directors is responsible for the
appointment, compensation and oversight of the work of our
independent registered public accounting firm. Our Board asks our
independent registered public accounting firm to provide a detailed
description of its services each year as a basis for its
decision-making. The Board evaluates the proposals based on four
categories: audit services, audit-related services, tax services,
and other services; and determines the proper arrangement for each
service according to its judgment as to our needs over the coming
year. Our Board pre-approves all audit and non-audit services to be
performed by our independent registered public accounting firm. The
Board pre-approved 100% of the audit and audit-related services
performed by the independent registered public accounting firms
described above in fiscal years 2018 and 2019.
ITEM
16D. EXEMPTIONS
FROM THE LISTING STANDARDS FOR AUDIT COMMITTEES
Not Applicable.
ITEM
16E. PURCHASES
OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS
Not Applicable.
ITEM
16F. CHANGE
IN REGISTRANT’S CERTIFYING ACCOUNTANT.
Not applicable.
|
ITEM 16G. |
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE |
As a foreign private issuer whose securities are listed on the
NASDAQ Global Select Market, we are permitted to follow certain
home country corporate governance practices in lieu of the
requirements of the NASDAQ Stock Market Marketplace Rules (the
“NASDAQ Rules”) pursuant to NASDAQ Rule 5615(a)(3), which provides
for such exemption to compliance with the NASDAQ Rule 5600 Series,
Rule 5250(b)(3) and Rule 5250(d). We are relying on the exemptions
available to foreign private issuers under the NASDAQ Rules and are
not obligated to comply with certain exchange corporate governance
standards, including the NASDAQ corporate governance standards
requiring that:
|
· |
the majority of the board of
directors be comprised of independent directors; |
|
|
|
|
· |
executive compensation be
determined by independent directors or a committee of independent
directors; |
|
|
|
|
· |
director nominees be selected, or
recommended for selection by the board of directors, by independent
directors or a committee of independent directors; |
|
|
|
|
· |
we hold an annual meeting of
shareholders no later than one year after the end of our fiscal
year-end; |
|
|
|
|
· |
we make all required disclosures
relating to third party director and nominee compensation; and |
|
|
|
|
· |
we make available and distribute
our annual and interim reports to all shareholders. |
Our Cayman Islands counsel, has advised us that there are no
comparable Cayman Islands laws related to the above corporate
governance standards.
ITEM
16H. MINE
SAFETY DISCLOSURE
Not applicable.
PART
III
ITEM
17.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
We have elected to provide financial statements pursuant to Item
18.
ITEM
18.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The consolidated financial statements of SPI Energy Co., Ltd. are
included at the end of this annual report beginning on page
F-1.
ITEM
19.
EXHIBITS
Exhibit
Number |
Description
of Document |
1.1 |
Amended and Restated Memorandum
and Articles of Association, as currently in effect (incorporated
by reference to Exhibit 3.2 of our registration statement on Form
F-4 (File No. 333-204069) filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on May 11, 2015) |
|
|
2.1 |
Registrant’s Specimen Certificate
for Shares (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 of Amendment
No. 1 to our registration statement on Form F-4 (file No.
333-204069) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on
June 24, 2015) |
|
|
4.1 |
2006 Equity Incentive Plan (as
amended) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to our Post
Effective Amendment No. 1 to our registration statement on Form S-8
(file No. 333-203917) filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on January 4, 2016) |
|
|
4.2 |
2015 Equity Incentive Plan
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to our registration
statement on Form F-4 (file No. 333-204069) filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission on May 11, 2015) |
|
|
4.3 |
Form of Indemnification Agreement
between the directors and the Registrant (incorporated by reference
to Exhibit 10.1 of our registration statement on Form F-4 (file No.
333-204069) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on
May 11, 2015) |
|
|
4.4 |
Translation of Capital Increase and
Share Subscription Agreement among Meitai Investment (Suzhou) Co.,
Ltd., Beijing DingdingYiwei New Energy Technology Development Co.,
Ltd. and shareholders of Beijing DingdingYiwei New Energy
Technology Development Co. Ltd., dated September 1, 2015
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to our current report on
Form 8-K (file No. 000-50142) filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission on September 4, 2015) |
|
|
4.5 |
Exchange and Release Agreement dated
December 26, 2013 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to
our current report on Form 8-K (file No. 000-50142) filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission on February 21,
2014) |
|
|
4.6 |
Form of Project Management
Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to our
current report on Form 8-K (file No. 000-50142) filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission on February 21,
2014) |
|
|
4.7 |
Second Amended and Restated Operating
Agreement for KDC Solar Mountain Creek Parent LLC dated February
18, 2014 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to our
current report on Form 8-K (file No. 000-50142) filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission on February 21,
2014) |
|
|
4.8 |
First Amended and Restated Exchange
and Release Agreement dated April 17, 2014 (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.1 to our current report on Form 8-K (file
No. 000-50142) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on
April 23, 2014) |
|
|
4.9 |
Third Amended and Restated Operating
Agreement for KDC Solar Mountain Creek Parent LLC dated April 17,
2014 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to our current
report on Form 8-K (file No. 000-50142) filed with the Securities
and Exchange Commission on April 23, 2014) |
|
|
4.10 |
Equity Cash Flow Letter dated April
17, 2014 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to our
current report on Form 8-K (file No. 000-50142) filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission on April 23, 2014) |
|
|
4.11 |
Translation of Share Purchase
Agreement by and between SPI Solar Power Suzhou Co., Ltd. and China
Energy Power Group Operation and Maintenance Management Jiangsu
Co., Ltd. dated October 22, 2014 (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.2 to our current report on Form 8-K (file No. 000-50142)
filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 23,
2014) |
|
|
4.12 |
Translation of Share Purchase
Agreement by and between SPI Solar Power Suzhou Co., Ltd. and
Liaoning Xinda New Energy Investment Co., Ltd. dated October 22,
2014 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to our current
report on Form 8-K (file No. 000-50142) filed with the Securities
and Exchange Commission on October 23, 2014) |
|
|
4.13 |
Translation of Equity Purchase
Agreement by and between SPI Solar Power Suzhou Co., Ltd., Beijing
Taihedafang Investment Development Co., Ltd. and XingheChaerhu
Development Co., Ltd. dated October 22, 2014 (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.4 to our current report on Form 8-K (file
No. 000-50142) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on
October 23, 2014) |
4.14 |
Convertible Promissory Note Purchase
Agreement by and between Solar Power, Inc. and Brilliant King Group
Ltd. dated December 12, 2014 (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.3 to our current report on Form 8-K (file No. 000-50142)
filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on December 18,
2014) |
|
|
4.15 |
Convertible Promissory Note Purchase
Agreement by and between Solar Power, Inc. and Poseidon Sports
Limited dated December 12, 2014 (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.6 to our current report on Form 8-K (file No. 000-50142)
filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on December 18,
2014) |
|
|
4.16 |
Convertible Promissory Note Purchase
Agreement by and between Solar Power, Inc. and Union Sky Holding
Group Limited dated December 15, 2014(incorporated by reference
to Exhibit 10.8 to our current report on Form 8-K (file No.
000-50142) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on
December 18, 2014) |
|
|
4.17 |
Purchase Agreement by and between
Solar Power, Inc. and Forwin International Financial Holding
Limited dated December 12, 2014 (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.11 to our current report on Form 8-K (file No.
000-50142) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on
December 18, 2014) |
|
|
4.18 |
Stock Purchase Agreement by and among
CECEP Solar Energy Hong Kong Co., Limited, SPI China (HK) Limited
and Solar Power, Inc. dated January 15, 2015 (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.1 to our current report on Form 8-K (file
No. 000¬50142) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on
January 16, 2015) |
|
|
4.19 |
Option Agreement by and between Solar
Power, Inc. and Central Able Investments Limited dated January 22,
2015(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to our current
report on Form 8-K (file No. 000-50142) filed with the Securities
and Exchange Commission on January 23, 2015) |
|
|
4.20 |
Share Purchase Agreement by and among
SPI China (HK) Limited, LDK Solar Europe Holding S.A. and LDK Solar
USA, Inc. dated March 30, 2015(incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.1 to our current report on Form 8-K (file No. 000-50142)
filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 31,
2015) |
|
|
4.21 |
Share Purchase Agreement by and among
SPI China (HK) Limited., Andrew Burgess, Rami Fedda and Allied
Energy Holding Pte Ltd. dated March 31, 2015 (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.2 to our current report on Form 8-K (file
No. 000-50142) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on
March 31, 2015) |
|
|
4.22 |
Membership Interest Purchase
Agreement by and among Solar Power, Inc., William Hedden, as
Trustee of the William H. Hedden and Sandra L. Hedden Trust,
Stephen C. Kircher, the chief strategy officer of SPI, as Trustee
of the Kircher Family Irrevocable Trust dated December 29, 2004,
and Steven Kay dated March 31, 2015 (incorporated by reference
to Exhibit 10.1 to our current report on Form 8-K (file No.
000-50142) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on
April 6, 2015) |
|
|
4.23 |
GK Interest Sale and Purchase
Agreement by and between SPI Solar Japan G.K. and Re Capital K.K.
dated April 15, 2015 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1
to our current report on Form 8-K (file No. 000-50142) filed with
the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 17,
2015) |
|
|
4.24 |
Securities Purchase Agreement by and
between EnSync, Inc. (formerly known as ZBB Energy Corporation) and
Solar Power, Inc. dated April 17, 2015 (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.2 to our current report on Form 8-K (file
No. 000-50142) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on
April 17, 2015) |
|
|
4.25 |
Translation of Share Purchase Agreement by and among Solar Power,
Inc., Meitai Investment (Suzhou) Co., Ltd., Zhong Junhao, Li Jin,
Tong Ling Hong Xin Ling Xiang Investment Partnership, Shanghai Yi
Ju Sheng Yuan Investment Center, Shanghai Ninecity Investment
Holding (Group) Ltd., Shanghai Yi Ju Sheng Quan Equity Investment
Center, Shanghai Panshi Investment Co., Ltd. and Shanghai All-Zip
Roofing System Group Co., Ltd. dated April 30, 2015
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to our current report on
Form 8-K (file No. 000-50142) filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission on April 30, 2015) |
|
|
4.26 |
Purchase Agreement by and between
Solar Power, Inc. and Yes Yield Investments Limited dated May 4,
2015 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to our current
report on Form 8-K (file No. 000-50142) filed with the Securities
and Exchange Commission on May 7, 2015) |
|
|
4.27 |
Option Agreement by and between Solar Power, Inc. and Yes Yield
Investments Limited dated May 4, 2015 (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.2 to our current report on Form 8-K (file
No. 000-50142) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on
May 7, 2015) |
|
|
4.28 |
Convertible Promissory Note Purchase
Agreement by and between Solar Power, Inc. and Vision Edge Limited
dated June 15, 2015 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1
to our current report on Form 8-K (file No. 000-50142) filed with
the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 15,
2015) |
|
|
4.29 |
Option Agreement by and between Solar
Power, Inc. and Vision Edge Limited dated June 15, 2015
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to our current report on
Form 8-K (file No. 000-50142) filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission on June 15, 2015) |
|
|
4.30 |
Supply Agreement between EnSync, Inc.
(formerly known as ZBB Energy Corporation) and Solar Power, Inc.
dated July 13, 2015 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3
to our current report on Form 8-K (file No. 000-50142) filed with
the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 17,
2015) |
|
|
4.31 |
Governance Agreement between EnSync,
Inc. (formerly known as ZBB Energy Corporation) and Solar Power,
Inc. dated July 13, 2015 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit
10.2 to our current report on Form 8-K (file No. 000-50142) filed
with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 14,
2015) |
|
|
4.32 |
Second Amended and Restated Agreement
and Plan of Merger and Reorganization by and among Solar Power,
Inc., SPI Energy Co., Ltd. and SPI Merger Sub, Inc. dated October
30, 2015(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 of our
current report on Form 8-K (file No. 000-50142) filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission on October 30, 2015) |
|
|
4.33 |
Purchase Agreement by and between
Tiger Capital Fund SPC and SPI Energy Co., Ltd. dated April 24,
2017 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.40 to our Annual
Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2016, filed
with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 27,
2017) |
|
|
4.34 |
Purchase Agreement by and between
Qian Kun Prosperous Times Investment Limited and SPI Energy Co.,
Ltd. dated July 6, 2017 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit
4.41 to our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December
31, 2016, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on
October 27, 2017) |
|
|
4.35 |
Purchase Agreement by and between
Qian Kun Prosperous Times Investment Limited and SPI Energy Co.,
Ltd. dated October 10, 2017 (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 4.42 to our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended
December 31, 2016, filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on October 27, 2017) |
|
|
4.36 |
Purchase Agreement by and between
Alpha Assai fund sp of Sunrise SPC and SPI Energy Co., Ltd. dated
October 10, 2017 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.43 to
our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31,
2016, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October
27, 2017) |
|
|
4.37 |
Framework Share Purchase Agreement by
and among SPI Energy Co., Ltd., Thelmico Limited, SP ORANGE POWER
(CYPRUS) LIMITED, THERMI TANEO Venture Capital Fund and other
parties named therein, dated September 20, 2017 (incorporated
by reference to Exhibit 4.44 to our Annual Report on Form 20-F for
the year ended December 31, 2016, filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission on October 27, 2017) |
|
|
4.38 |
Sale and Purchase Agreement dated
August 28, 2018 between SPI Energy Co., Ltd. and Lighting Charm
Limited (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.38 to our
Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2018,
filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 30,
2019) |
|
|
4.49 |
Share Purchase Agreement dated
January 15, 2019 between SPI Energy Co., Ltd. and Happy Goal
Industries Limited (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.38
to our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31,
2018, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April
30, 2019) |
|
|
4.50 |
Share Purchase Agreement dated
January 15, 2019 between SPI Energy Co., Ltd. and CHEONG Hoong
Khoeng (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.38 to our Annual
Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2018, filed
with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 30,
2019) |
|
|
4.51 |
Share Purchase Agreement dated
January 15, 2019 between SPI Energy Co., Ltd. and LDK New Energy
Holding Limited (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.38 to
our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31,
2018, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April
30, 2019) |
|
|
4.52 |
Share Purchase Agreement dated
January 15, 2019 between SPI Energy Co., Ltd. and LIM Joo Heng
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.38 to our Annual Report on
Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2018, filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission on April 30, 2019) |
|
|
4.53 |
Share Purchase Agreement dated
January 15, 2019 between SPI Energy Co., Ltd. and UPC Co., Ltd.
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.38 to our Annual Report on
Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2018, filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission on April 30, 2019) |
|
|
4.54 |
Share Purchase Agreement dated March 20, 2019 between SP Orange
Power (Cyprus) Limited and Thermi Taneo Venture Capital Fund
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.38 to our Annual Report on
Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2018, filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission on April 30, 2019) |
|
|
4.55* |
Membership Interest Purchase Agreement for Oregon
Portfolio dated on July 15, 2019 between Sulus LLC and SPI Solar,
Inc. |
|
|
4.56* |
Common
Stock Purchase Agreement between Knight AG Holding Co., Ltd. and
Jacky Lo. |
4.57* |
Management Services Agreement dated on July 24,
2019 between Native American Agricultural Company and CBD and Hemp
Group Co., Ltd. |
4.58* |
Equipment Purchase Contract dated on August 6
2019 between CBD and Hemp Group Co., Ltd. and All Datum
Inc. |
4.59* |
Sales
and Purchase Agreement dated on July 8 2019 between Bitmain
Equipment (Canada) Inc. and 1215542 B.C.LTD |
4.60* |
Hosting
Agreement dated on July 9, 2019 between 1151203 B.C.LTD and 1215542
B.C.LTD |
4.61* |
Supplemental Agreement dated on October 7, 2019
between 1151203 B.C.LTD and 1215542 B.C.LTD |
4.62* |
Second
Supplemental Agreement dated on March 8, 2020 between 1151203
B.C.LTD and 1215542 B.C.LTD |
4.63* |
Remote
Hash Power Computing Service Agreement dated on July 15, 2019
between 1215542 B.C.LTD and SPI Orange Co., Ltd. |
4.64* |
Securities Purchase Agreement dated on May 28,
2019 between SPI Energy Co., Ltd. and ILIAD RESEARCH AND TRADING,
L.P. |