Updated: May 20, 2025 06:52
Fitch Ratings has affirmed the ‘BB-’ rating on ReNew Power Restricted Group 4’s (RG4) USD 585 million senior secured notes due 2028, maintaining a stable outlook for the Indian renewable energy portfolio. The affirmation underscores both the strengths and risks of the group’s diversified wind and solar assets, as well as the ongoing support from parent company ReNew Power Private Limited.
Key Highlights
Rating and Outlook:
Fitch affirmed the ‘BB-’ rating on the $585 million notes, with a stable outlook, reflecting moderate credit risk and a balanced risk-return profile for investors. The rating indicates elevated vulnerability to default risk in adverse economic conditions but recognizes the group’s financial and operational flexibility.
Portfolio Overview:
ReNew RG4 comprises 10 subsidiaries operating nine wind projects (753.1 MW) and one solar project (50 MW) across seven Indian states, totaling 803.1 MW. All assets, except a recently commissioned 300 MW wind project, have over three years of operational history. The group benefits from proven technology and long-term power purchase agreements (PPAs).
Revenue and Counterparty Risk:
About 63% of capacity is contracted with state-owned distribution companies, while the remainder is with the sovereign-owned Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI). While SECI contracts offer strong payment security, some state-owned counterparties are considered weaker, introducing moderate receivables risk.
Debt Structure and Security:
The notes are senior secured obligations, supported by a ring-fenced structure, cash distribution waterfall, and lock-up covenants. There is no dedicated maintenance reserve, but excess cash retention and a parent guarantee help mitigate refinancing risk. The portfolio’s average debt-service coverage ratio (DSCR) remains adequate under Fitch’s base and rating case scenarios.
Operational and Market Risks:
The group faces midrange operational risk, with most O&M handled by original equipment manufacturers under long-term contracts. Volume risk is assessed as weaker due to moderate volatility in actual load factors and a wide forecast spread. However, curtailment risk is limited by the “must-run” status of renewables in India.
Parent Support:
The rating is directly linked to the credit quality of ReNew Power, the parent guarantor. Any change in the parent’s rating would impact the notes’ rating. The parent’s access to funding and refinancing channels further enhances RG4’s credit profile.
Insight
Fitch’s affirmation of the ‘BB-’ rating with a stable outlook reflects confidence in ReNew Power RG4’s diversified renewable portfolio, robust contractual framework, and parent support, while acknowledging ongoing counterparty and operational risks. The group’s ability to maintain adequate cash flows and manage refinancing will be key to sustaining its credit profile in the evolving Indian renewables sector.
Source: EQ Mag Pro, Fitch Ratings, Fitch Ratings – Official Release
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