SolAmerica Energy Closes $50M Construction Financing for Illinois Portfolio

SolAmerica Energy (SolAmerica) has closed on financing for an 18 MW solar portfolio comprised of seven projects in Illinois that SolAmerica will manage and operate. The financing includes a $50 million construction loan with KeyBank and a $79 million sale leaseback tax equity commitment from Key Equipment Finance. The projects are expected to reach commercial operation in 2025. SolAmerica is owned by funds managed by AB CarVal.

KeyBanc Capital Markets, a leader in renewable energy financing and advisory services, acted as administrative agent, and collateral agent on this transaction. Key Equipment Finance, a leading equipment financier, acted as the sole tax equity investor.

"SolAmerica is proud to partner with KeyBank for tax equity and construction financing for our latest portfolio of Illinois solar projects," said Tully Blalock, CEO of SolAmerica Energy. "This transaction continues our team's history of developing successful projects by leveraging our strong relationships with industry-leading partners like Key, who are able to provide diverse capital solutions. We look forward to working more together in the future."

"As a part of our commitment to renewable energy, we are pleased to underwrite and to provide capital for SolAmerica Energy's portfolio of solar projects," said Mark Dondero, Director, KeyBanc Capital Markets Utility, Power, and Renewable Energy Group. "We look forward to continuing the relationship with SolAmerica to deploy renewable energy solutions."

"We are pleased to invest in innovative solar projects," said Robert Davies, Head of Clean Energy at Key Equipment Finance. "With KeyBank's financing, SolAmerica Energy will help achieve energy cost savings for the residents of Illinois, as well as environmental benefits for the community."

"We look forward to building these solar assets to meet the growing demand for renewables," said Alex Flamm, Managing Director with AB CarVal. "Key Bank is a great partner for SolAmerica. We appreciate their continued partnership and ability to provide a comprehensive solution."

Sheppard Mullin served as sponsor's counsel on the deal. Thompson Hine served as tax equity's and lender's counsel.