2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Basis of Presentation

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of our company and its controlled subsidiaries. All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation. Certain amounts in prior periods have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation.

Following the guidance for non-controlling interests in Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 810, Consolidation, references in this report to our earnings per share and our net income and shareholders’ equity attributable to common shareholders do not include amounts attributable to non-controlling interests.

Use of Estimates

The consolidated financial statements reflect all normal and recurring adjustments that, in the opinion of management, are necessary for a fair presentation of the financial position, results of operations, comprehensive income (loss), stockholders’ equity and cash flows for the periods presented. The preparation of financial statements in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from the estimates.

Financing Receivables

Financing receivables include financing sustainable infrastructure project loans, receivables and direct financing leases. We account for leases as direct financing leases in accordance with ASC 840, Leases.

Unless otherwise noted, we generally have the ability and intention to hold our financing receivables for the foreseeable future and thus they are classified as held for investment. Our intent and ability to hold certain loans may change from time to time depending on a number of factors, including economic, liquidity and capital conditions. A financing receivable held for investment represents the present value of the minimum note or lease payments, net of any unearned fee income, which is recognized as income over the term of the note or lease using the effective interest method. Financing receivables that are held for investment are carried at cost, net of unamortized acquisition premiums or discounts, loan fees, and origination and acquisition costs as applicable, unless the loans are deemed impaired. Financing receivables that we intend to sell in the short-term are classified as held-for-sale and are carried at the lower of amortized costs or fair value on our balance sheet. We may secure nonrecourse debt with the proceeds from our financing receivables.

We evaluate our financing receivables for potential delinquency, non-accrual or impairment on at least a quarterly basis and more frequently when economic or other conditions warrant such an evaluation. When a financing receivable becomes 90 days or more past due, and if we otherwise do not expect the debtor to be able to service all of its debt or other obligations, we will generally place the financing receivable on non-accrual status and cease recognizing income from that financing receivable until the borrower has demonstrated the ability and intent to pay contractual amounts due. If a financing receivable’s status significantly improves regarding the debtor’s ability to service the debt or other obligations, we will remove it from non-accrual status.

A financing receivable is considered impaired as of the date when, based on current information and events, it is determined that it is probable that we will be unable to collect all amounts due from the borrower in accordance with the original contracted terms. Many of our financing receivables are secured by sustainable infrastructure projects. Accordingly, we regularly evaluate the extent and impact of any credit deterioration associated with the performance and/or value of the underlying project, as well as the financial and operating capability of the borrower, its sponsors or the obligor as well as any guarantors. We consider a number of qualitative and quantitative factors in our assessment, including, as appropriate, a project’s operating results, loan-to-value ratios and any cash reserves, the ability of expected cash from operations to cover the debt service requirements currently and into the future, key terms of the transaction, the ability of the borrower to refinance the loan, other credit support from the sponsor or guarantor and the project’s collateral value. In addition, we consider the overall economic environment, the sustainable infrastructure sector, the effect of local, industry and broader economic factors and the historical and anticipated trends in interest rates, defaults and loss severities for similar transactions.

If a loan is considered to be impaired, we record an allowance to reduce the carrying value of the loan to the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s contractual effective rate or the amount realizable from other contractual terms such as the currently estimated fair market value of the collateral less estimated selling costs, if repayment is expected solely from the collateral. We charge off loans against the allowance when we determine the unpaid principal balance is uncollectible, net of recovered amounts.

Investments

Investments include debt or equity securities that meet the criteria of ASC 320, Investments—Debt and Equity Securities. Unless otherwise noted, we intend to hold debt securities to maturity and thus carry these securities on the balance sheet at amortized cost basis, which is initially at cost plus any premiums or discounts that are amortized or accreted into investment interest income using the effective interest method. Debt securities that we do not intend to hold to maturity are classified as available-for-sale and are carried at fair value on our balance sheet. Unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale debt securities are recorded as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in stockholder’s equity.

We evaluate our investments for other than temporary impairment (“OTTI”) on at least a quarterly basis, and more frequently when economic or market conditions warrant such an evaluation. Our OTTI assessment is a subjective process requiring the use of judgments and assumptions. Accordingly, we regularly evaluate the extent and impact of any credit deterioration associated with the financial and operating performance and/or value of the underlying project. We consider a number of qualitative and quantitative factors in our assessment. We first consider the current fair value of the security and the duration of any unrealized loss. Other factors considered include changes in the credit rating, performance of the underlying project, key terms of the transaction and support provided by the sponsor or guarantor.

To the extent that we have identified an OTTI for a security and intend to hold the investment to maturity and we do not expect that we will be required to sell the security prior to recovery of the amortized cost basis, we recognize only the credit component of OTTI in earnings. We determine the credit component using the difference between the securities’ amortized cost basis and the present value of its expected future cash flows, discounted using the effective yield or its estimated collateral value. Any remaining unrealized loss due to factors other than credit, or the non-credit component, is recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income.

To the extent we hold investments with an OTTI and if we have made the decision to sell the security or it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell the security prior to recovery of its amortized cost basis, we recognize the entire portion of the impairment in earnings.

Securitization of Receivables

During the year ended December 31, 2013 and the three months ended December 31, 2012, and the years ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, we transferred receivables in multiple securitization transactions. We have established various special purpose entities or securitization trusts for the purpose of securitizing certain financing receivables or other debt investments. We determined that the trusts used in securitizations are variable interest entities, as defined in ASC 810, Consolidation. We typically serve as primary or master servicer of these trusts; however, as the servicer, we do not have the power to make significant decisions impacting the performance of the trusts. Based on an analysis of the structure of the trusts, under U.S. GAAP, we have concluded that we are not the primary beneficiary of the trusts as we do not have power over the trusts’ significant activities. Therefore, we do not consolidate these trusts in our consolidated financial statements.

 

We account for transfers of financing receivables to these securitization trusts as sales pursuant to ASC 860, Transfers and Servicing, as the transferred receivables have been isolated from the transferor (i.e., put presumptively beyond the reach of the transferor and its creditors, even in bankruptcy or other receivership) and we have surrendered control over the transferred receivables. When we sell receivables in securitizations, we generally retain interests in the form of servicing rights and residual assets, which are carried on the consolidated balance sheets as securitization assets.

Gain or loss on sale of receivables is calculated based on the excess of the proceeds received from the securitization (less any transaction costs) plus any retained interests obtained over the cost basis of the receivables sold. We generally transfer the receivables to securitization trusts immediately upon the initial funding from the third party purchasing a beneficial interest in the trust. For retained interests, we generally estimate fair value based on the present value of future expected cash flows using our best estimates of the key assumptions of anticipated losses, prepayment rates, and discount rates commensurate with the risks involved.

As described above, we initially account for all separately recognized servicing assets and servicing liabilities at fair value as required under ASC 860. Under ASC 860-50, Transfers and Servicing—Servicing Assets and Liabilities, entities may either subsequently measure servicing assets and liabilities using the amortization method or the fair value measurement method and we have selected the amortization method to subsequently measure our servicing assets. We assess servicing assets for impairment at each reporting date. If the amortized cost of servicing assets is greater than the estimated fair value, we will recognize an impairment in net income.

Our other retained interest in securitized assets, the residual assets, are classified as available-for-sale securities and carried at fair value on the consolidated balance sheets. We generally do not sell our residual assets. If we make an assessment that (i) we do not intend to sell the security or (ii) it is not likely we will be required to sell the security before its anticipated recovery, changes in fair value, such as those resulting from changes in market interest yield requirements, are reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income. However, in the case where we do intend to sell our residual assets or if the fair value of our residual assets is below the current carrying amount and we determine that the decline is OTTI, any impairment charge would be recorded through the statement of operations. An OTTI is considered to have occurred when, based on current information and events, there has been an adverse change in the timing or amount of cash flows expected to be collected. The impairment is equal to the difference between the residual asset’s amortized cost basis and its fair value at the balance sheet date. In the case where there is any expected decline in the forecasted cash flows, such decline would be unlikely to reverse during the holding period of the retained assets and thus would be considered OTTI.

Servicing income is recognized as earned. Servicing assets are amortized in proportion to, and over the period of, estimated net servicing income, and are periodically (including at December 31, 2013 and September 30, 2012) assessed for impairment.

Interest income related to the residual assets is recognized using the effective interest rate method. If there is a change in expected cash flows related to the residual assets, we calculate a new yield based on the current amortized cost of the residual assets and the revised expected cash flows. This yield is used prospectively to recognize interest income.

Modifications to Debt

We evaluate any modifications to our debt in accordance with the applicable guidance in ASC 470-50, Debt— Modifications and Extinguishments. If the debt instruments are substantially different, the modification is accounted for in the same manner as a debt extinguishment (i.e., a major modification) and the fees paid are recognized as expense at the time of the modification. Otherwise, such fees are deferred and amortized as an adjustment of interest expense over the remaining term of the modified debt instrument using the interest method.

 

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents at December 31, 2013 and September 30, 2012 include short-term government securities, certificates of deposit and money market funds, all of which had an original maturity of three months or less at the date of purchase. These securities are carried at their purchase price which approximates fair value.

Restricted Cash

Restricted cash at December 31, 2013, and September 30, 2012, includes $49.9 million and $2.0 million, respectively, of cash and cash equivalents set aside with certain lenders primarily to support deferred funding and other obligations for specific projects and to satisfy the deposit requirements of the former credit facility outstanding as of September 30, 2012.

Intangible Assets and Goodwill

Intangible assets are amortized using the straight-line method over the remaining estimated life, generally ranging from three to 15 years. The carrying amounts of intangible assets are reviewed for impairment when indicators of impairment are identified. If the carrying amount of the asset exceeds the undiscounted expected cash flows that are directly associated with the use and eventual disposition of the asset, an impairment charge is recognized to the extent the carrying amount of the asset exceeds the fair value.

Goodwill represents the costs of business acquisitions in excess of the fair value of identifiable net assets acquired. We evaluate goodwill for potential impairment annually on September 30, or whenever impairment indicators are present. We perform a two-step goodwill impairment test to identify potential goodwill impairment and measure the amount of goodwill impairment to be recognized, if any. First, we compare our fair value using our market capitalization based on the average market price relative to our current carrying value, including goodwill. If our fair value is in excess of the carrying value, the related goodwill is not impaired and no further analysis is necessary. If, however, our carrying value exceeds our fair value, there is an indication of potential impairment and a second step of testing is performed to measure the amount of impairment, if any. If our estimated fair value were to be less than our book value, the second step of the review process is performed to calculate the implied fair value of our goodwill in order to determine whether any impairment is required. The implied fair value of the goodwill is calculated by allocating our estimated fair value to all of our assets and liabilities as if we had been acquired in a business combination. If the carrying value of the goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of the goodwill, we recognize an impairment loss for that excess amount. We did not recognize any goodwill impairments in 2013, 2012 or 2011.

Variable Interest Entities and Equity Method Investment in Affiliate

We account for our investment in entities that are considered variable interest entities under ASC 810. We perform an ongoing assessment to determine the primary beneficiary of each entity as required by ASC 810. See Securitization of Receivables above.

The special purpose entities that are formed for the purpose of holding our financing receivables and investments on our balance sheet are designed by us and substantially all of the activities of these entities are closely associated with our activities. Based on our assessment, we determined that we have power over and receive the benefits of these special purpose entities; hence we are the primary beneficiary and should consolidate these entities under the provisions of ASC 810.

Prior to December 2012, the Predecessor had an equity method investment in affiliate that was accounted for using the equity method of accounting. The Predecessor determined this investment was a variable interest entity under ASC 810 over which it had the ability to exercise influence over operating and financial policies of the investee but it was not the primary beneficiary as it did not have the power to direct the most important decisions related to the most significant activities of the investment.

Under the equity method of accounting, the carrying value of our equity method investments is determined based on amounts we invested, adjusted for the equity in earnings or losses of investee allocated based on the partnership agreement, less distributions received. Because the partnership agreements contain preferences with regard to cash flows from operations, capital events and/or liquidation, we reflect our share of profits and losses by determining the difference between our “claim on the investee’s book value” at the end and the beginning of the period. This claim is calculated as the amount we would receive (or be obligated to pay) if the investee were to liquidate all of its assets at recorded amounts determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP and distribute the resulting cash to creditors and investors in accordance with their respective priorities. This method is commonly referred to as the hypothetical liquidation at book value method. Intra-company gains and losses are eliminated for an amount equal to our interest and are reflected in the share in loss from equity method investment in affiliate in the consolidated statements of operations.

We evaluate the realization of our investment accounted for using the equity method if circumstances indicate that our investment is OTTI. OTTI impairment occurs when the estimated fair value of an investment is below the carrying value and the difference is determined to not be recoverable. This evaluation requires significant judgment regarding, but not limited to, the severity and duration of the impairment; the ability and intent to hold the securities until recovery; financial condition, liquidity, and near-term prospects of the issuer; specific events; and other factors. Based on an evaluation of our equity method investment, we determined that no impairment had occurred for the three months ended December 31, 2012 and the years ended September 30, 2012 and 2011 and we had no equity method investments for the year ended December 31, 2013.

Income Taxes

We intend to elect and qualify to be taxed as a real estate investment trust (“REIT”) under Section 856 through 860 of the Internal Revenue Code, commencing with our taxable year ending December 31, 2013. To qualify as a REIT, we must meet a number of organizational and operational requirements, including a requirement that we currently distribute at least 90% of our net taxable income, excluding capital gains, to our shareholders. We intend to meet the requirements for qualification as a REIT and to maintain such qualification. As a REIT, we are not subject to federal corporate income tax on that portion of net income that is currently distributed to our owners. However, our taxable REIT subsidiaries (“TRS”) will generally be subject to federal, state, and local income taxes as well as taxes of foreign jurisdictions, if any.

We account for income taxes of our TRS using the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the estimated future tax consequences attributable to the differences between the consolidated financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities from a change in tax rates is recognized in earnings in the period when the new rate is enacted.

Prior to the completion of the IPO, the Predecessor was taxed as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes. No provision for federal or state income taxes has been made for the three months ended December 31, 2012 or for the years ended September 30, 2012 and 2011 in the accompanying consolidated financial statements, since our profits and losses were reported on the Predecessor’s members’ tax returns.

We apply accounting guidance with respect to how uncertain tax positions should be recognized, measured, presented, and disclosed in the financial statements. This guidance requires the accounting and disclosure of tax positions taken or expected to be taken in the course of preparing our tax returns to determine whether the tax positions are “more likely than not” of being sustained by the applicable tax authority. We are required to analyze all open tax years, as defined by the statute of limitations, for all major jurisdictions, which includes federal and certain states. We have no examinations in progress, none are expected at this time, and years 2009 through 2012 are open. As of December 31, 2013 and September 30, 2012, we had no uncertain tax positions. Our policy is to recognize interest expense and penalties related to income tax matters as a component of other expense. There was no accrued interest and penalties as of December 31, 2013 and September 30, 2012, and no interest and penalties were recognized during the year ended December 31, 2013, the three months ended December 31, 2012, or the years ended September 30, 2012 and 2011.

Equity-Based Compensation

We recorded compensation expense for stock awards in accordance with ASC 718, Compensation—Stock Compensation, which requires that all equity-based payments to employees be recognized in the consolidated statements of operations based on their grant date fair values with the expense being recognized over the requisite service period.

Upon the completion of our IPO, we adopted the 2013 Equity Incentive Plan (the “2013 Plan”), which provides for grants of stock options, shares of restricted common stock, phantom shares, dividend equivalent rights, and long term incentive plan units (“LTIP units”) and other restricted limited partnership units issued by our Operating Partnership and other equity-based awards. From time to time, we may award non-vested restricted shares as compensation to members of our senior management team, our independent directors, advisors, consultants and other personnel under our 2013 Plan. The shares issued under this plan vest over a period of time as determined by the board of directors at the date of grant. We recognize compensation expense for non-vested shares that vest solely based on service conditions on a straight-line basis over the vesting period based upon the fair market value of the shares on the date of grant, adjusted for forfeitures.

Earnings Per Share

We compute earnings per share of common stock in accordance with ASC 260, Earnings Per Share. Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing net income attributable to controlling stockholders (after consideration of the earnings allocated to unvested shares of restricted common stock or restricted stock units) by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period excluding the weighted average number of unvested shares of restricted common stock or restricted stock units (“participating securities” as defined in Note 14). Diluted earnings per share is calculated by dividing net income attributable to controlling stockholders by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period plus other potentially dilutive securities. No adjustment is made for shares that are anti-dilutive during a period.

Due to the capital structure of the Predecessor, earnings per share of common stock information has not been presented for historical periods prior to the IPO.

Membership Interests of Predecessor

At September 30, 2012, the membership interests of the Predecessor were represented by 15,601,077 authorized, issued and outstanding Series A Participating Preferred Units (“Preferred Units”) and 1,733,453 authorized, 1,200,000 outstanding Class A Common Units (“Common Units”). The Preferred Units had voting rights and a 10% compounded annual yield and the Common Units, which the Predecessor issued to certain employees in connection with an employee incentive plan, did not have voting rights. Distributions were permitted only at the discretion of the board of directors of the Predecessor with distributions on the Common Units prohibited until distributions on the Preferred Units reduced the Preferred Units’ capital and unpaid annual yield to zero which occurred in October 2012 when we made a return of capital of $10.4 million to the Preferred Units holders and paid $2.3 million of accrued distributions that reduced the Preferred Units’ capital and unpaid annual yield to zero. The Preferred Units remained outstanding without a mandatory dividend and were pari passu with the Common Units for future distributions.

In connection with the formation transaction described in Note 1, upon the completion of the IPO, the Preferred Units and Common Units were exchanged for our shares of common stock or OP units in the Operating Partnership, or for certain unit holders, were redeemed for cash.

Segment Reporting

We provide and arrange debt and equity financing for sustainable infrastructure projects and report all of our activities as one business segment.