Ameresco's Sale of RNG Tax Credits Fuels Clean Energy Transition
- 04-Jun-2025 12:15 AM
- Journalist: Emilia Jackson
Ameresco Inc, a leading energy solutions provider, announced a significant stride in its financial strategy and commitment to sustainable energy with the successful sale of approximately $71 million in Investment Tax Credits (ITCs). These ITCs were generated from three of Ameresco's Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) projects, which were developed, constructed, financed, and placed into service in 2024. This landmark transaction, facilitated by STX Group, marks Ameresco's third ITC sale to a corporate buyer and, crucially, its first sale of RNG tax credits under the new transferability rules.
Investment Tax Credits (ITCs) are a powerful tool in the clean energy landscape, offering a direct reduction in tax liability for businesses that invest in qualifying renewable energy projects. The "transferability rules," introduced by recent policy changes, further enhance the utility of these credits by allowing companies that generate them (like Ameresco) to sell them to unrelated corporate buyers who can then use them to offset their own tax obligations. This creates a more liquid market for clean energy incentives, broadening the pool of investors and thereby lowering the financing costs for vital renewable projects.
"We are excited to complete our first RNG tax credit sale, which reflects the growing value and market confidence in renewable natural gas as a critical component of the clean energy transition," stated Mike Bakas, President of Renewable Fuels at Ameresco. Bakas highlighted the strategic importance of this transaction, noting that it builds upon Ameresco's recent success in monetizing solar and battery storage tax credits, including a significant deal with MassMutual. This demonstrates Ameresco's versatility in leveraging various financial structures to maximize the value derived from its energy assets.
Renewable Natural Gas, produced from the capture and purification of biogas generated from organic waste sources like landfills, plays a pivotal role in decarbonization efforts. By converting methane, a potent greenhouse gas, into a usable and cleaner fuel source, RNG projects contribute significantly to reducing emissions and fostering a circular economy. The successful monetization of ITCs from these RNG projects provides a clear financial incentive for continued investment in this crucial sector of the clean energy economy.
Ameresco's consistent ability to capitalize on clean energy incentives through diversified financing pools solidifies its position as a frontrunner in the energy transition. The company remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions and is actively exploring further opportunities to monetize its comprehensive portfolio of energy assets, signaling a robust outlook for its continued growth and impact on the global energy landscape.