SJI Joint Venture, Catamaran Renewables, Announces Fuel Cell Project in Bronx, NY

Rhea-AI Summary

SJI (NYSE: SJI) has announced a new fuel cell project in Bronx, New York, through its joint venture Catamaran Renewables, which also includes Captona. The project involves a 5.0 MW fuel cell with projected commercial operations by Q4 2021, contributing to New Jersey's clean energy goals. With 75% of revenues fixed under New York’s VDER program, the investment promises steady cash flows. Marina Energy will own 92% of the project, benefiting from long-term agreements with creditworthy customers. This aligns with SJI's commitment to carbon-neutral energy by 2040.

Positive

• Acquisition of a 5.0 MW fuel cell project in Bronx supports clean energy initiatives.
• 75% of project revenues are fixed under New York’s VDER program, ensuring steady cash flows.
• Long-term offtake agreements are in place with creditworthy customers, securing revenue.

Negative

• None.

FOLSOM, NJ, June 25, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --                                                                                                  Media Contact: Dominick DiRocco

(609) 561-9000 ext. 4262

ddirocco@sjindustries.com

                                                                                       Investor Contact: Dan Fidell
(609) 561-9000 ext. 7027
dfidell@sjindustries.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SJI Joint Venture, Catamaran Renewables, Announces Fuel Cell Project in Bronx, NY

FOLSOM, NJ, June 25, 2021 – SJI (NYSE: SJI) remains committed to investments that advance the clean energy and decarbonization goals of New Jersey and our region. Catamaran Renewables (Catamaran), a joint venture between SJI subsidiary Marina Energy and renewable industry leader Captona announced today the acquisition of a third fuel cell project in Bronx, New York. The partners acquired the fuel cell from NineDot Energy, an experienced renewable development company based in the NYU Urban Future Lab cleantech incubator in Brooklyn, NY.

The Fuel Cell Project comprises 5.0 MW of installed capacity and is projected to achieve commercial operation in Q4 2021. Similar to the two fuel cells in Staten Island that we brought on-line in 2020, this investment qualifies under New York’s Value of Distributed Energy Resources (VDER) program. With roughly 75% of fuel cell revenues fixed under VDER and an anticipated 95% availability rate, these projects produce steady, low-risk cash flows and unlevered returns in line with our hurdle rate for non-utility investments.

Marina will own 92% of the project and accordingly, receive 92% of the ITC, cash flows and net income associated with the project. The project is supported by long-term offtake agreements with two creditworthy anchor customers. This project will support a substantial portion of our 2021 ITC goals.

“Catamaran’s strategic energy investments in fuel cell technology further SJI’s strategy of pursuing decarbonization initiatives to bring our communities the cleanest energy supply we can deliver,” said Mike Renna, SJI president and chief executive officer. “This is another step towards SJI’s commitment to growing and innovating its sustainable energy assets to build a clean future and deliver carbon-neutral energy by 2040.”

Catamaran brings more than 1.3 GW of operational experience across all types of renewable energy and has financed more than $1 billion in renewable energy transactions. For more information about SJI and its subsidiaries visit https://www.sjindustries.com/cleanenergy.

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About SJI

SJI (NYSE: SJI), an energy services holding company based in Folsom, NJ, delivers energy services to its customers through three primary subsidiaries. SJI Utilities, SJI’s regulated natural gas utility business, delivers safe, reliable, affordable natural gas to approximately 700,000 South Jersey Gas and Elizabethtown Gas customers in New Jersey. SJI’s non-utility businesses within South Jersey Energy Solutions promote efficiency, clean technology and renewable energy by providing customized wholesale commodity marketing and fuel management services; and developing, owning and operating on-site energy production facilities. SJI Midstream houses the company’s interest in the PennEast Pipeline Project. Visit sjindustries.com for more information about SJI and its subsidiaries.

FAQ

What is the new fuel cell project by SJI in Bronx, NY?

SJI's new fuel cell project in Bronx, NY, has a capacity of 5.0 MW and aims for commercial operation in Q4 2021.

How does the Bronx fuel cell project affect SJI's financials?

The project is expected to provide steady cash flows due to 75% of its revenues being fixed under New York’s VDER program.

What percentage of the Bronx project does Marina Energy own?

Marina Energy owns 92% of the Bronx fuel cell project.

What is SJI's goal for carbon neutrality?

SJI aims to deliver carbon-neutral energy by 2040 as part of its sustainability commitments.

Who are the partners involved in the Bronx fuel cell project?

The project is a joint venture between SJI subsidiary Marina Energy and renewable industry leader Captona.