8point3 Energy Partners enters into agreement to acquire stake in 300-MW Stateline Solar Project

8point3 Energy Partners has announced that it has entered into an agreement to acquire First Solar's 34 percent stake in its 300-megawatt (MW) Stateline solar project for US$329.5 million. The project is located in San Bernardino County, California (USA).

The project is expected to generate approximately US$32 million in average annual pre-tax cash distributions and has a 20 year contract life. 

The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to close on or about December 1, 2016. The partnership expects to fund the acquisition through some combination of cash on hand, a promissory note and borrowings under its existing credit facility. 

The Stateline project commenced operations in August 2016. The project is majority owned by Southern Company. Southern California Edison is purchasing the power generated by the project under a 20 year power purchase agreement. 

Chuck Boynton, CEO of 8point3 Energy Partners said:

"Consistent with our long-term strategy of acquiring high quality solar projects from our sponsors, we are pleased to add First Solar's 34 percent minority interest in Stateline to our diversified portfolio. With the expected acquisition of Stateline, our portfolio will grow to interests in 937 MW of solar projects."