Valuation of Power Generation Assets (Multiple to Use)

When valuing private power generation assets or platforms, when does it make sense to value on a $/kW basis and EV to EBITDA? Do you use EV / EBIT or Equity Value / Levered FCF or EV / AFCF (EBITDA - Maintenance Capex)?  

Seperately, what % of the development pipeline do you assume would materialize? As in what % of projects get killed 

2 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to know:

Valuation of Power Generation Assets

Valuation Multiples:

  1. $/kW Basis:

    • When to Use: This metric is often used for valuing power generation assets because it directly relates to the capacity of the asset. It's particularly useful for comparing assets with similar technologies and operational characteristics.
    • Context: This is a straightforward way to value assets based on their power output capacity.
  2. EV to EBITDA:

    • When to Use: This multiple is useful for valuing companies with stable, predictable earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization. It provides a clear picture of the company's operational profitability.
    • Context: This is a common metric in the industry for assessing the value of a company relative to its earnings.
  3. EV to EBIT:

    • When to Use: This is less common but can be used when depreciation and amortization are significant and vary widely among comparable companies.
    • Context: It provides a clearer picture of operational efficiency by excluding non-operational expenses.
  4. Equity Value to Levered FCF:

    • When to Use: This is useful for equity investors focusing on the cash flows available to equity holders after all expenses, including debt service.
    • Context: It helps in understanding the returns to equity investors.
  5. EV to AFCF (EBITDA - Maintenance Capex):

    • When to Use: This metric is useful for understanding the cash flow available after necessary capital expenditures to maintain the asset.
    • Context: It provides insight into the sustainable cash flow generation of the asset.

Development Pipeline Materialization

  • Assumption on Materialization:
    • Percentage of Projects that Get Killed: While the exact percentage can vary based on numerous factors such as regulatory environment, market conditions, and project specifics, a common industry assumption is that a significant portion of the development pipeline will not materialize.
    • Context: Based on previous WSO threads, it is often assumed that a substantial percentage of projects may not proceed to completion due to various hurdles. This can range widely, but a conservative estimate might be that 50-70% of projects could face cancellation or significant delays.

For more detailed insights, you might want to explore specific threads on WSO related to power generation asset valuation and development pipeline risks.

Sources: Life in Development - Expectations vs Reality, Life in Development - Expectations vs Reality, Development vs. REPE, Projecting out drugs that are in FDA approval process, Development vs Acquisitions Lifestyle

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