[Opinion] Auditing the Solar Power Industry | Key Challenges

Solar energy sector has emerged as a significant player in the grid connected power generation capacity over the years. Specifically in India, it supports the government agenda of sustainable growth, while, emerging as an integral part of the solution to meet the nation’s energy needs and an essential player for energy security. India stands 5th in solar PV deployment across the globe at the end of 2022.

Solar power companies face unique accounting challenges that require the accountants and auditors to have careful consideration and expertise. We will delve into these accounting challenges and also the focus will be to understand auditors consideration towards specific issues in this industry.

1. Revenue Recognition for Solar Energy Sales under Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs)

Accounting Issue: Solar power developer companies generate revenue from the sale of solar energy to off-takers, such as utility companies, under power purchase agreements (PPAs).

The Timing of revenue recognition depends on the transfer of control over the energy generated, which may occur over time or at a specific point in time. Measurement is based on the volume of energy delivered, often subject to adjustments for performance incentives or penalties outlined in the PPAs. Fulfilling performance obligations, such as meeting energy production targets and ensuring facility reliability, is integral to revenue recognition

Auditor’s Approach:

• Evaluate PPA Structure:

1. 1. Fixed Pricing: Review, if the revenue recognized aligns with the predetermined price per unit over the contract term. Look into consistency and confirm that the revenue matches the fixed rate without adjustments for market fluctuations.
   2. Index-Based Pricing: Review how the energy price is adjusted based on specific indexes (e.g., inflation, commodity prices). Evaluate the accuracy of these adjustments and their impact on revenue.
   3. Market Referenced Pricing: Assess how prevailing market rates and any adjustments or floor prices affect the revenue. Verify that revenue recognition reflects current market conditions and contractual terms.

• Verify Energy Generation: Review energy generation records and metering data. Assess the reliability of monitoring systems and data collection processes to ensure they meet contractual commitments and reflect actual energy delivered.
• Assess Revenue Measurement: Scrutinize revenue calculations to ensure they comply with relevant accounting standards. Verify the accuracy of adjustments for performance incentives or penalties and ensure consistency in measurement practices across reporting periods.
• Review Revenue Recognition Methods: Ensure the company’s revenue recognition policies are consistent with PPA terms and accounting standards. Review application of contract terms and performance obligations in the revenue recognized.

2. Project Costs Capitalization and Cost Allocation

Accounting Issue: Solar power developer companies undertake substantial costs throughout the lifecycle of solar energy projects, encompassing development, construction, and operational phases. These costs include expenditures for land acquisition, engineering, procurement, construction, equipment, labor, and overheads. Capitalization practices involve identifying costs directly attributable to the construction of solar facilities and those necessary to bring the asset to its intended use. Moreover, effective cost allocation ensures that expenses are allocated to the relevant projects in a manner that reflects their usage and benefits, thereby facilitating the accurate measurement of project profitability and financial performance.

Auditor’s Approach:

1. Review Capitalization Policies: Examine the policies for capitalizing project costs, including criteria for direct costs, interest during construction, and overhead allocation. Assess the consistency and appropriateness of these policies across project phases.
2. Verify Capitalized Costs: Verify capitalized project costs by reviewing project records, invoices, and capitalization schedules. Ensure costs directly related to construction and necessary for bringing the asset to its intended use are accurately identified and segregated.
3. Assess Cost Allocation: Evaluate how costs are allocated to projects, ensuring methods reflect usage and benefits. Consider the reasonableness of allocation methods based on project size, duration, and complexity.
4. Verify Compliance with Accounting Standards: Check adherence to Accounting standards regarding cost capitalization and allocation. Ensure alignment with relevant standards on Property, plant and equipment for accurate recognition and reporting.
5. Assess Consistency and Disclosure: Evaluate consistency in capitalization and cost allocation practices across reporting periods and projects. Review financial statement disclosures to ensure transparency and compliance with accounting standards.

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