Caisse de depot et placement du Quebec (la Caisse) has acquired a 17.3% interest in Quebec-based Boralex, which builds and operates renewable energy facilities in Canada, France, and the U.S.
la Caisse has acquired all of the Class A common shares of Boralex held by Cascades Inc. for the amount of $287.5 million. As part of the transaction, Boralex and la Caisse have agreed to explore partnership opportunities with respect to investing in future projects (developed by Boralex) that are in line with its growth strategy.
As part of the transaction, Boralex and la Caisse have agreed to explore partnership opportunities with respect to investing in future projects developed by Boralex.
“We wish to thank Cascades for its support since Boralex was founded in 1995. Bernard Lemaire’s vision has allowed Boralex to become a leader in the Canadian renewable energy industry and France’s largest independent producer of onshore wind power,” said Alain Rhéaume, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Boralex.
The transaction completed strengthens la Caisse’s position as one of the largest private investors in North America’s wind-power sector.
“To have la Caisse come in as principal shareholder reflects the trust it puts in the business model and know-how of Boralex. We intend to work with la Caisse to develop growth opportunities through its financial capabilities, expertise and international network,” said Patrick Lemaire, President and Chief Executive Officer of Boralex.
La Caisse will appoint two independent directors to Boralex’s Board of Directors and will have pre-emptive rights with respect to future issuances of shares, subject to customary exceptions.
“This stake in Boralex is an opportunity for us to invest in both a promising sector and high-quality assets, many of which are in Québec. In addition to sharing our long-term vision, Boralex’s ability to innovate and strong operating capacity ensure the reliability of its installations and contribute to its development. It has played an important role in the growth of this Québec-based company, both here and in global markets,” added Macky Tall, Executive Vice-President, Infrastructure, at la Caisse.
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