| Category: | Other |
| Subject: | Foreign Ownership & Financing |
| ID: | 10446 |
| Date: | 4/25/2009 |
| Question: |
I represent a U.S.-based company active in the securitization of renewable energy revenue streams. We understand that Ontario will soon have in place the first province-wide feed-in tariff for various forms of renewable energy. We are interested in working with the owners of feed-in tariff contracts in Ontario to securitize their revenue streams under your new feed-in law.
We need to know what rules govern the involvement of U.S.-based companies in the securitization of Canada-based assets. Could you refer this inquiry to someone in your organization who can tell me, or refer me to others who can tell me, what rules and/or limitations apply to U.S.-based financial institutions wanting to be involved in the financing of renewable energy projects in Canada? Thanks in advance for any help you can provide in this matter. |
| Answer: |
The OPAs FIT program will not impose any restrictions on foreign financing.
You should ensure that you understand any tax implications of your investment either through an international tax lawyer or through the Canada Revenue Agency. Please contact the Federal Ministry of Finance for clarity on foreign ownership rules. |