Green Infrastructure Investment Opportunities - AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND - Climate Bonds ...
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Green Infrastructure Investment Opportunities, Australia & New Zealand Contents This report highlights green infrastructure investment opportunities in Australia and New Zealand 3 Executive summary This report highlights green infrastructure investment opportunities in Australia and superannuation funds and asset managers and their global counterparts, 4 Green New Zealand. It has been prepared to help meet the growing demand for green potential issuers, infrastructure owners and developers, as well as relevant infrastructure: an investment opportunities – including Government ministries (Finance, Planning, opportunity for green bonds - as well as to support the two countries’ transition to a low-carbon Energy, Transport, Environment). It is part of a research series which commenced growth economy. It aims to facilitate greater with the Green Infrastructure Investment engagement on this topic between Opportunities, Indonesia report in 5 Macroeconomic project owners and developers, and May 2018 and will investigate green outlook institutional investors. infrastructure investment opportunities around the world, initially focusing on the Green finance instruments and trends 6 Infrastructure are explored in the report, with sector- Asia-Pacific region. financing by-sector options presented. Green infrastructure investment opportunities In developing this report, the Climate Bonds Initiative consulted with key 8 Green finance are also explored sector-by-sector, with projects presented in reference case Government bodies, industry, the financial sector, peak bodies, NGOs 13 Green standards studies and a sample green pipeline of opportunities. The sample pipeline and think tanks – in partnership with ANZ, Commonwealth Bank of Australia, 16 Green is not exhaustive – rather a snap shot of the different types of opportunities Macquarie Group, NAB, Westpac, the Clean Energy Finance Corporation infrastructure available in the short and medium-term (CEFC), IFM Investors, the Investor investment future. A more comprehensive list of over 400 green infrastructure investment Group on Climate Change, the Principles for Responsible Investment and RIAA. opportunities opportunities is available on the Climate We would like to thank these partners Bonds Initiative website. along with the other organisations that 17 Low-carbon The report is intended for a wide contributed to the report: Australian transport range of stakeholders in Australia Water Association, Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA), GRESB and New and New Zealand, including domestic 21 Renewable Zealand Green Building Council. energy 24 Sustainable Climate Bonds Initiative water The Climate Bonds Initiative is an Climate Bonds Initiative screens green management international investor-focused not-for- profit organisation working to mobilise the finance instruments against its Climate Bonds Taxonomy to determine alignment 27 Green buildings USD100tn bond market for climate change solutions. and uses sector specific criteria for certification (see Annex 1). 32 Green investment It promotes investment in projects and assets needed for a rapid transition to a Climate Bond Partners range from investors representing USD14tn of AUM opportunities are low-carbon and climate resilient economy. and the world’s leading investment banks growing The mission focus is to help drive down the cost of capital for large-scale climate to governments like Switzerland and France and include major Australian and 33 Annexes and infrastructure projects and to support governments seeking increased capital New Zealand institutions such as ANZ, Commonwealth Bank of Australia, NAB, 36 References markets investment to meet climate goals. CEFC, GBCA, Investor Group on Climate Change and Westpac. The Climate Bonds The Climate Bonds Initiative carries out Initiative is also the lead partner in the market analysis, policy research, market Green Infrastructure Investment Coalition. development; advises governments and regulators; and administers a global green bond standard and certification scheme. Australia & New Zealand GIIO Report Climate Bonds Initiative 2
Executive summary Since the signing of the Paris Agreement This report identifies over 400 projects and there has been an increasing demand assets that could qualify for refinancing, “Climate change is real. It’s from institutional investors for investment additional financing, or new financing in the happening now. This is not opportunities that address environmental near- to long-term. about talking about what we challenges and support sustainable The Climate Bonds Taxonomy1 was used to do in the future, but the action development. Australia and New Zealand identify eligible green projects under four that we have the potential are both characterised by small populations, to carry out as leaders in the sectors. To narrow the scope and volume of high GDP per capita and well-developed projects the following filters were also applied: business community and the capital markets. Australia also benefits from access to a AUD2.6tn national savings pool. Low carbon transport – international environment.”3 Both nations face challenges in adapting to mostly projects valued New Zealand Prime Minister above AUD100m Jacinda Ardern climate impacts and in meeting tightening (Australia) and NZD100m international emissions targets. They also (New Zealand) need to develop sustainable urbanisation models and to address congestion. There Renewable energy - Most Australian and all New Zealand green is a mounting urgency for government only renewable energy bond issues to date have been Certified under and industry to increase their emphasis generation facilities above the Climate Bonds Standard reflecting strong on policies and provision of low-carbon, 50MW adherence to international best practice. The sustainable and climate resilient ‘green’ label of ‘green’ is, however, not widely applied Sustainable water infrastructure. The brown to green to infrastructure. The ‘green’ standards management – mostly transition from emissions intensive brown that do exist are mostly voluntary and projects valued above infrastructure to cleaner assets needs administered by non-government bodies. AUD50m (Australia) and to attract broad-based support and NZD50m (New Zealand) There is an immediate and growing considerable momentum in order to meet opportunity for institutional investors the Paris goals. Low-carbon buildings - to become more active, to expand their Green Star certified projects There is an infrastructure construction boom participation in green infrastructure - mostly 6-star rated underway in Australia and New Zealand. financing, building on the impressive projects Although both nations have traditionally relied foundation established so far. Investing in heavily on high-emission, fossil fuel-powered The report has been prepared to help green infrastructure will ultimately help the transport – there is an increasing focus on (low- meet the growing demand for ‘green’ and governments to reach their climate targets, carbon) public transport and freight rail. There ESG investment opportunities – including spur innovation, broaden the economic base, is a boom in building small- to large-scale green bonds - as well as to support both reduce urban congestion and promote more renewable energy capacity. Green building nations’ respective transitions to a low- sustainable economic and social well-being. certifications have grown significantly, and carbon economy. It aims to identify green The infrastructure pipeline found in this resilient buildings are becoming mainstream. investment projects with investment report is encouraging, but the scale of the potential and explore how investors can gain Almost half the projects included in challenge requires far greater ambition. The exposure to these using innovative green Infrastructure Australia’s Infrastructure Asian Development Bank estimates the finance instruments. Priority List 2018 meet international investor climate-adjusted infrastructure investment definitions of ‘green’, although they are Internationally, growing interest in green needs for Pacific region countries at 9.1% of not always labelled as such. Similarly, just finance has resulted in the development and their GDP between 2016 and 2030.2 With over 40% of New Zealand projects in the growth of dedicated green financial products Australia’s and New Zealand’s GDP totalling Australia and New Zealand Infrastructure including green bonds, green loans, social USD1.5tn, this translates to approximately Pipeline (ANZIP) could be considered ‘green’. and sustainable bonds, green infrastructure USD1.5tn by 2030. There is no time to rest investment trusts and green index products, on laurels - the scale and timeframe is such Green infrastructure development presents which complement opportunities in public that far more needs to happen and quickly. a range of attractive green investment and private equity investments. Green bonds opportunities. There is an increasing Both nations have the potential and have become a popular debt instrument for number of low-carbon transport, renewable economic conditions to develop a well- exposure to green assets and projects. energy, sustainable water management planned sequential pipeline of green and green building projects in the pipeline. A green bond market emerged in Australia investment opportunities. Australia in in 2014 and more recently in New Zealand. particular is also uniquely placed with Australia was the 2nd largest source of superannuation funds and managers having “Our cities are the crucible issuance within the Asia Pacific region for a global presence in infrastructure, debt of innovation, of enterprise – H1 2018 and 12th globally, outpacing green financing and alternative assets. A robust it’s where so much of GDP is issuance from larger bond markets like Japan. green market would see Australia poised created and it’s vital they have Australia has emerged as a best practice model to become a significant source of capital of early development with commitment flows and expertise into the region as the right infrastructure.”4 from the major banks and asset managers, ASEAN nations shift towards green Former Australian Prime providing a sound base for expansion, despite finance to help meet their intertwined Minister Malcolm Turnbull the relatively minor supply of non-bank ASX national-development, energy, emissions 100 green issuance to date. and climate goals. Australia & New Zealand GIIO Report Climate Bonds Initiative 3
Green infrastructure: an opportunity for growth International context Australia and New Zealand Zealand Infrastructure Pipeline19 (ANZIP) could be considered ‘green’. However, the budget Globally, the green economy is growing. Since Australia and New Zealand both face allocated to these seemingly ‘green’ projects, the signing of the 2015 Paris Agreement challenges in adapting to climate impacts in each country, is much less than that for all there has been an increasing and publicly and in meeting stricter international other projects. expressed awareness among institutional emissions targets. They also have challenges investors, particularly from OECD nations and in building sustainable urbanisation models With an increasing urgency to respond to the China, of the long-term risks climate change and addressing congestion. Both Australia challenges of climate change, governments, poses to their ability to match assets with and New Zealand have high urban based the financial sector and industry all need liabilities. This has led to growing demand populations of about 90%16 . to increase their emphasis on policies and for investment opportunities that address provision of low-carbon, sustainable and A greater role by the financial sector and environmental challenges and support resilient green infrastructure. The transition in particular private sector investment sustainable development, resulting in the from polluting brown infrastructure to is considered crucial to the successful development and growth of dedicated green cleaner and greener assets needs to gain implementation of policy responses related financial products, including green bonds. momentum with widespread support. to reducing carbon intensity, improving The global green bond market has seen capital allocation, bridging investment gaps, Traditional high-carbon infrastructure exponential growth, exceeding USD161bn accelerating infrastructure provision and investments still dominate in Australia, with of issuance in 2017 up 85% from the year embedding climate resilience. road, rail and ports being built to facilitate before. Milestones5 have been set for annual fossil-fuel industries. Australia’s CO₂ Both countries have ambitious infrastructure issuance of USD1tn in green bonds and loans emissions output on a per capita basis is one and energy development plans. The by 20206 and an Asian market of climate of the highest in the world20. emphasis is on improved connectivity, more related infrastructure in the trillions during reliable service delivery, and enhanced Having ratified the 2015 Paris Agreement, the following decade, according to the Asian productivity growth. The Australian 2017-18 Australia and New Zealand have committed Development Bank7. Federal Budget features an infrastructure to making finance flows consistent with a In Australia, despite a slow response by spending program of AUD75bn from pathway towards low-carbon and climate government, the financial sector is moving 2017-18 to 2026-27, including funding for resilient development. The Australian ahead8 . Australia’s major banks have led critical airport, road, and rail infrastructure government has, however, been criticised21 the way9 by adopting and promoting best projects. Similarly, the Government of for not making stronger emissions reductions practice10 in green bond issuance and New Zealand will focus on road, rail and commitments. After the recent national supporting smaller issuers. The world’s water infrastructure as well as regional elections, New Zealand has been pursuing fourth-largest pool of retirement funds development. It has allocated almost more ambitious climate policies. It has and other institutional investors have NZD1.5bn to these in the 2018 budget17. pledged to reach carbon neutrality by demonstrated an appetite for alternative 2050 and establish the mechanisms to Although both nations have traditionally assets and global presence in infrastructure11. phase out fossil fuels. relied heavily on road and water transport This creates a solid foundation to significantly – using high-emission, fossil fuel-powered Despite their different public approaches, increase investments in green infrastructure vehicles and vessels – there is an increasing both governments have made infrastructure and build a robust and supportive focus on public transport and freight rail. and sustainability commitments. They will environment for green finance. There is a boom in building small- to large- require significant investment, both public The same can be said for New Zealand. Green scale renewable energy capacity. Green and private, underpinned by innovative finance concepts12 are taking hold and green building certifications have significantly finance models. Green finance can play a debt13 and bond issuance14 is appearing15. increased, and resilient buildings are significantly larger role in the future. becoming mainstream. The number of Australia and New Zealand have the The last two decades have been about green infrastructure projects has risen in potential to be global leaders in green making assets work harder. The future will both countries. infrastructure delivery as both governments be about making ‘green’ upgrades to have the capacity and economic conditions Almost half of the projects in Infrastructure existing assets and harnessing the capital to developing a well-planned sequential Australia’s Infrastructure Priority List 201818 required for the delivery of new smart pipeline of green investment opportunities. meet international investor definitions of resilient infrastructure. Infrastructure needs The respective finance sectors are well ‘green’, although they are not always labelled to be fit for purpose over long operating positioned to develop and subsequently as ‘green’. Similarly, just over 40% of New cycles in a carbon-constrained, climate- export green finance expertise. Zealand projects in the Australia and New impacted landscape. Nationally Determined Contribution under the Paris Agreement in terms of reduction commitments for annual national greenhouse gas emissions: Australia: 26–28% below 2005 levels by 2030 New Zealand: 30% below 2005 levels by 2030 Under the Paris Agreement, contributions must be updated regularly. The next update to Nationally Determined Contributions can be provided in 2020. Australia & New Zealand GIIO Report Climate Bonds Initiative 4
Macroeconomic outlook Australia Australia’s real GDP growth is projected to Australia Country Facts New Zealand Country Facts continue at around 3% in 2018 and 201922. Population: 25 million (2018) Population: 4.8 million (2018) Australia has experienced uninterrupted Population growth rate: 1.35% (2017) Population growth rate: 0.97% (2017) economic growth for 26 consecutive Urban population: 90%30 Urban population: 86%33 years. Continued growth will be aided by Rate of urbanisation: 1.37% annual rate Rate of urbanisation: 0.98% annual an improving global outlook, strong public of change (2015-20 est.)31 rate of change (2015-20 est.)34 infrastructure investment, and improved investor sentiment. Increased investment in GDP: USD1,323bn (2017) – 13th largest GDP: USD206bn (2017) housing is also anticipated to provide near- economy in the world Interest rate (cash rate): 1.75% (at end term support to the economy, helping with Interest rate (cash rate): 1.5% of 2017) housing supply and pricing23. Publicly-funded (at end of 2017) Inflation rate: 1.5% (Q2 2018) infrastructure development and private Inflation rate: 2.1% (Q2 2018) Government 10Y, M: 2.76% sector spending on non-residential buildings Government 10Y, M: 2.65% (at July 1st, 2018) will also be key drivers of investment activity (at July 1st, 2018) Balance of trade: -NZD113m (June 2018) and employment over the coming years24. Balance of trade: AUD1873m (June 2018) Government debt to GDP: 22.2 % Government debt to GDP: 41.9 % (2017)32 (2017)35 The economy has adjusted to the recent decline in mining-related investment thanks Moody’s rating: Aaa (stable) Moody’s rating: Aaa (stable) to an accommodative monetary policy, a S&P rating: AAA (stable) S&P rating: AA (stable) flexible labour market, stable rate of inflation, Fitch rating: AAA (stable) Fitch rating: AA (stable) and a lower exchange. Furthermore, non- mining business investment has picked up and is projected to continue with increasing infrastructure development. GDP for Australia and New Zealand (2008–2018)36 Public debt is expected to fall as a proportion 1600 220 of GDP, which should support a positive economic outlook. Government’s goal is to 200 reduce the annual deficit by around half of a 1400 percentage point of GDP per year over the four-year budget horizon25 . 180 New Zealand GDP (USD bn) New Zealand 1200 Australia GDP (USD bn) New Zealand’s real GDP growth is projected to 160 continue at 3% in 2018 and 201926 . Growth will be aided by anticipated increases in interest 1000 140 rates, strong tax revenue and government spending, particularly on infrastructure. With Australia government debt expected to decline as a New Zealand 800 120 share of GDP, additional spending should not affect fiscal sustainability. 2008 2010 2012 2014 2016 2018 Forecasts show surpluses in the operating balance before gains and losses, reaching Australia and New Zealand Government Bond 10Y (2008-2018)37 NZD7.3bn in 2021-22 or 2.1% of GDP, which means that national net debt falls as a percentage 7 of GDP to 19.1% in 2021-22. This would satisfy the Australia government’s net debt target of 20% by 202227. 6 New Zealand It would also address some of the concerns raised by Fitch Ratings: while they affirmed 5 New Zealand’s rating, the credit rating agency cited high external debt burden and persistent current-account deficits as an issue28. 4 All three ratings agencies found that New Zealand’s ratings were supported by strong 3 % Interest rate governance standards and prudent fiscal management. An example is the goal to keep 2 future annual CPI inflation between 1-3% over the medium term and to avoid unnecessary 1 volatility in output, employment, the exchange rate, and interest rates29. 2008 2010 2012 2014 2016 2018 Australia & New Zealand GIIO Report Climate Bonds Initiative 5
Infrastructure financing Globally, there is a high demonstrable Major publicly-funded works spending trends, need for infrastructure investments. Australia, 2014-202059 Large tax cuts since the 1980s have Metronet (WA) NorthCornex (NSW) led to considerable public-sector 24 Snowy Hydro Expansion (NSW) Sydney Metro Northwest (NSW) underinvestment in infrastructure. This Pacific Highway - Woolgoola to Balina (NSW) WestConnex (NSW) has resulted in a significant gap between Airport Link (WA) NBN public sources of infrastructure finance 20 Melbourne Metro (VIC) available and the levels of infrastructure investment required by global economies Level Crossing Removals (VIC) Western Distributor (VIC) to achieve their sustainable long-term 16 Cranbourne-Pakenham Rail (VIC) economic growth potential37. Western Harbour Tunnel (NSW) Currently about 1.5% (USD2tn) of Sydney Metro and Southwest (NSW) annual global GDP is invested in 12 Badgerys Creek Airport (NSW) infrastructure projects. However, an CBD and South East additional 1.0% (USD1.5tn) of global GDP Light Rail (NSW) needs to be invested annually to adequately 8 meet infrastructure needs in transport, energy, building, land protection and water through 203038. Unlike other asset classes, 4 USD Billions infrastructure investments present a unique risk-return profile. They tend to be less impacted by the business cycle and can 0 provide a hedge to changes in interest rate. Infrastructure financing can provide long- 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 duration exposures of over 20 years. increase competition and thus drive better and an information portal for market Financing infrastructure in value-for-money outcomes for government39. intelligence and investment opportunities42. Australia and New Zealand With guidance from the government’s Infrastructure Partnerships Australia’s 2017 The Australian and New Zealand Infrastructure and Project Financing Agency Australian Infrastructure Investment Report showed governments have used multiple funding (IPFA), an active investor approach to future a strong appetite for infrastructure opportunities, mechanisms to finance infrastructure infrastructure projects is planned. This will from both local and international investors. development. These include asset sales, deliver a return on taxpayer investments and debt, project financing, Public-Private taps alternate funding40. It is anticipated that Partnerships (PPP), federal grants, value after 2019 public investment would decrease, capture and concessional loans. and other types of financing will facilitate Use of Public Private Australia ongoing infrastructure development41. Partnerships There are opportunities for domestic and Australia has adopted long-term PPP While publicly-funded infrastructure international investors to finance, construct, infrastructure for the licensing of social spending continues to increase in Australia, own and refinance Australia’s transport, ventures, which transfer risk to the the government is seeking to attract utilities and social infrastructure. The private sector. However, there continues further private investment in public sector Department of Infrastructure, Regional to be limited long-term debt-financing infrastructure projects. The public sector Development and Cities and the Australian available since the global financial alone cannot meet the increased demand Trade Commission (Austrade) is working to crisis. In New Zealand, the government for infrastructure over the next decade and specifically attract foreign direct investment continues to actively support a small, fill the gaps in Australia’s infrastructure (FDI) in Australian infrastructure, by but innovative and growing PPP capability. There is also the potential to functioning as a focal point for FDI inquiries infrastructure market60. Examples PPPs – Australia Project Terms Procuring Industry Value Consortium members included government (AUDm) Sydney Metro 20 years: operations, NSW Transport 3,700 Northwest Rapid Transit consortium: MTR Northwest trains and systems Corporation (Australia), John Holland, Leighton Contractors, UGL Rail Services, Plenary Group Gold Coast Light 15 years: design, QLD Transport Stage 1: 1,296 GoldLinQ consortium: McDonnell Dowell Rail (Stage 1 build, finance, operate Stage 2: 420 Constructors, Bombardier Transportation, KDR Gold and Stage 2) and maintain Coast Pty Ltd (Keolis and Downer EDI), Plenary Group Australia & New Zealand GIIO Report Climate Bonds Initiative 6
“Infrastructure is a key driver for growth, in infrastructure investment. For example, IFM The need for green employment, and better quality of life Investors was established 28 years ago to infrastructure is growing in emerging markets and developing manage infrastructure investments on behalf About 70% of global greenhouse gas emissions economies (EMDEs). But this comes of Australian industry superannuation funds. It come from infrastructure construction and at a cost. Approximately 70% of is owned by 27 major not-for-profit Australian operations such as power plants, buildings, and global greenhouse gas emissions come pension funds and manages the retirement transport53. To overcome this global challenge from infrastructure construction and savings of over 11 million Australians47. IFM and meet the goals of the Paris Agreement, operations such as power plants, Investors currently manage AUD48bn in the OECD believes about USD100tn in climate buildings, and transport. The Overseas infrastructure in developed markets, with compatible infrastructure investment will be Development Institute estimates that interests in 30 investments across Australia, needed between 2016 and 203054. over 720 million people could be pushed North America and Europe48. back into extreme poverty by 2050 as In Australia, infrastructure-related emissions As the interest of Australian superannuation a result of climate impacts, while the account for more than half of the country’s funds in infrastructure is growing, so too are World Health Organization projects that total greenhouse gas emissions: 35% from innovations for investment. In order to close the number of deaths attributable to the the electricity sector and 18% from the the infrastructure gap, innovative finance harmful effects of emissions from key transport sector55. In New Zealand, energy products are required along with enhanced infrastructure industries will rise from and transport contribute just over 30% of planning and regulatory development. the current 150,000 per year to 250,000 total greenhouse gas emissions56. To reduce by 2030. [...] Crucially, in EMDEs with these emissions, climate compatible, green disproportionate exposure to climate New Zealand infrastructure is required, including low- change impacts, low-carbon infrastructure New Zealand has historically experienced an carbon and less polluting assets which are can help prevent a climate-related reversal underinvestment in infrastructure and there is also climate resilient. of development gains.”61 a great demand for brownfield and greenfield The Australian Infrastructure Plan (2016) infrastructure development. The central and Deblina Saha, co-author of Private emphasises that sustainability and resilience local governments in New Zealand own over Participation in Low-Carbon Infrastructure should not be seen as fringe concepts, but as NZD200bn of infrastructure assets and the Investment,62 The World Bank good economic practice, and that sustainable forecast is that infrastructure spend will be and resilient infrastructure can support over NZD110bn by 202549. growth and a higher standard of living57. With An investor survey43 showed that 70% of The government understands that traditional the onset of climate change, the capacity participating investors would be highly likely to infrastructure funding and PPPs are no longer of infrastructure to operate through minor invest in Australian infrastructure. The survey adequate and is seeking innovative means disruptions, and recover quickly from major indicated that investors were attracted by the of funding infrastructure. The New Zealand disruptions, will be critical to supporting people increased visibility of transactions and projects, Trade and Enterprise agency is working and businesses over the coming decades58. specifically citing the Australia & New Zealand on behalf of the government to connect There is an immediate and growing Infrastructure Pipeline (ANZIP) as a useful tool. investors with opportunities, including opportunity for investors to participate in green infrastructure investment. ANZIP is a joint initiative between the infrastructure financing in Australia and New Australian and New Zealand governments The government has previously set up funds Zealand. At the same time, investing in green and independent think tank Infrastructure that promote infrastructure development, infrastructure will ultimately help the Australian Partnerships Australia. It provides a detailed list such as the Future Investment Fund and New Zealand governments to reach their of likely and confirmed infrastructure investment established in 2012. It has provided almost climate targets, spur innovation, broaden the or major development opportunities and is NZD5bn of new capital spending including economic base, and promote more sustainable aimed at investors and contractors44. NZD1bn for transport50. economic and social well-being. There are many Australian infrastructure In 2018, the government will launch two assets which are currently held by local further funds. The Provincial Growth Fund and international funds. These range will have NZD3bn to invest over three years “There is increasing focus in from regulated assets such as water and in regional economic development, including the infrastructure investment sewerage utilities to distribution pipelines regional infrastructure51. community on the opportunities and transmission wires. They include user- that green investment brings. The Green Investment Fund will focus more fee assets like toll roads, airports, ports and on promoting sustainable development, Across renewable energy, railways, as well as commercial operations specifically aimed at supporting the new sustainable transport, green like communications, power generation and buildings and sustainable government-wide mission to transition energy providers45. towards a net-zero-emissions economy by communities; financial investors, The government has a number of funds 2050. This fund takes the new approach of corporates and governments are for infrastructure. For example, the Urban co-investing alongside private capital. It aims all looking for ways to facilitate Congestion Fund (AUD1bn) established by to stimulate the inflow of additional private and participate in the transition the Australian Federal Government to address capital once it demonstrates the commercial to a low-carbon economy.” urban congestion in cities by investing in benefits of investing in green projects52. This projects that remove bottlenecks, improve model recognises that there is both the need John Pickhaver, Co-Head traffic safety and increase network efficiency and demand for more low-carbon green of Macquarie Capital, for both commuter and freight mobility46. infrastructure and less of the traditional, Australia and New Zealand, high-carbon infrastructure. Australia’s superannuation funds are also active Macquarie Group Australia & New Zealand GIIO Report Climate Bonds Initiative 7
Green finance Demand for sustainable investments is increasing Key global sustainable finance initiatives also illustrate Since the signing of the Paris Agreement the growing popularity of green finance and investment in demand has increased from institutional sustainable development: investors, particularly from OECD nations • The Principles for Responsible • The One Planet Sovereign Wealth and China, for investment opportunities that Investment: 2000 signatories from 67 Fund Working Group: comprising address environmental challenges and support countries, representing over 50%, or six major sovereign wealth funds, sustainable development. This has resulted over USD80tn of global assets under including the New Zealand in the development and growth of dedicated management (AUM). Superannuation Fund, who collectively green financial products including green bonds, manage over USD3tn in assets66. • The Principles for Sustainable green loans, social and sustainable bonds, Insurance: adopted by insurers • Climate Action 100+ initiative: 289 green infrastructure investment trusts and representing over 20% of the global investors with nearly USD30tn AUM green index products (see Annex 1 and 2 for insurance market by premium volume have signed on, including Australian descriptions of debt and equity instruments). and USD14tn in AUM. funds with more than AUD1tn under Green bonds63 are currently the most developed management67 68. • The Principles for Responsible Banking: segment of thematic instruments, carrying 26 leading banks from 5 continents • The UN Environment Finance Initiative a great recognition from the investor base. representing USD16tn in AUM65. (UNEP FI): 92% of the world’s 25 The ‘green’ label is a discovery mechanism largest banks are members - 120 that enables bond issuers, governments, • The Equator Principles: commitment leading banks across the world. investors and the financial markets to prioritise from 94 financial institutions in 37 investments, which genuinely contribute to countries, covering the majority • The Investor Group on Climate addressing climate change. of international project finance in Change: represents Australian and New developed and emerging markets. Zealand institutional investors with The demand for ‘green’ instruments continues total funds under management of over to rise. For example, the green bond market has • The Climate Bonds Initiative partners AUD2tn69. seen exponential growth - exceeding USD161bn represent USD13tn AUM and USD70trn of issuance in 2017, up from USD87bn in 2016. AUM represented on its Standards Board. This demand for green instruments comes from: - Mainstream asset managers (e.g. Aviva, Innovative financial instruments have been investors with unique risk exposure to the BlackRock, State Street); developed in order to mobilise capital markets Australian energy market. Westpac has also - Specialist ESG and green bond fund to fund green infrastructure projects. Green taken an innovative approach, by issuing managers (e.g. Amundi, Natixis/Mirova); debt instruments include green bonds, an AUD117.3m climate bond in 2018 to securitisation and other structured finance, Japanese retail investors, in the Uridashi - Sovereign and municipal governments commercial paper, bank credit facilities, bond market, to support the bank’s funding (e.g. Chinese SOEs through their Belt and retail bonds, secured and unsecured notes. for climate change solutions. Road Initiative); Institutional investors have invested in equity - Supranationals, i.e. multi-lateral funds, REITs, syndicated loans, and co- banks (e.g. World Bank, ADB, Asian investment vehicles. For investors with limited Infrastructure Investment Bank); and ability to manage their own green projects, a “Our goal is to make a positive variety of corporate bonds, securitisation and and lasting impact on the - Retail investors (e.g. World Bank green lives of our customers, people, syndicated loans are available. bonds and US municipality bonds). shareholders, communities, In Australia and New Zealand, green With investors increasingly looking for ways bonds continue to be the primary means of and our environment – and our to address ESG and climate change in their gaining exposure to green finance. Financial customers are telling us they want investment processes, green bonds, along with to participate in the transition institutions are increasingly entering the other green financing tools, present a useful market to refinance pools of existing eligible to a low carbon economy. We’re opportunity to meet environmental objectives and deliver on their fixed income mandates. assets. Green bond issuers – particularly continually developing and large banks and State Governments – offering innovative green finance can also use green bonds as a signalling tools that enable investors to back Green finance instruments in mechanism around ‘green’ policy. Australia and New Zealand major renewable energy projects This increasing demand and innovation of the Innovative structures have emerged in alongside NAB, and we find market has seen the creation of new, ‘green’ the local green bond market to provide new ways to support companies a diversity of investment options. For that deliver green infrastructure investment products designed to appeal example, National Australia Bank recently to investors with different risk appetites. projects around the world.” placed AUD200m of 10-year Low Carbon There are growing opportunities to mobilise private capital to support green infrastructure Portfolio Notes, which are backed by a Mike Baird, NAB Chief by investing in debt, funds, equity-linked portfolio of loans to Australian renewable Customer Officer, Corporate energy developers. The structure mimics and Institutional Banking, NAB products and listed companies. a loan portfolio syndication and provides Australia & New Zealand GIIO Report Climate Bonds Initiative 8
Macquarie Group green loan Clean Energy Finance “Westpac recognises Corporation (CEFC) that climate change is an In 2018, Macquarie Group issued a four-tranche GBP2bn loan facility that The CEFC, established by the Australian economic issue as well as an includes GBP500m green tranches: a Government, is an independent environmental issue, and banks 3-year revolving facility and a 5-year term entity investing in renewable energy, have an important role to play tranche. The green tranches will be used energy efficiency and low emissions in assisting the Australian to support renewable energy projects technologies. It has access to AUD10bn and New Zealand economies, initially and energy efficiency, waste in capital. At 30 June 2018, the CEFC’s transition to net zero emissions. management, green buildings and clean portfolio stood at AUD5.3bn. Increasing green bonds, green transport projects in the future. The The CEFC is required to target an loans and green underwriting green loan facility is one of the first such facilities issued under the Green Loan average return of the five–year Australian is a vital part of the mix, as is Principles of the Asia Pacific Loan Market Government bond rate +3% to +4% per supporting new issuers to come annum over the medium to long term to market.” Association (APLMA), which seek to (or +1% per annum for investments establish a set of best practice guidelines made via the AUD200m Clean Energy Lyn Cobley, Chief Executive, for green lending. The Macquarie Group Green Loan received considerable Innovation Fund). The CEFC works to Westpac Institutional Bank. catalyse or ‘crowd in’ additional private interest from Asian market investors. sector investment in clean energy projects. Portfolio leverage at 30 June 2018 FlexiGroup, an Australian retail lender, NAB RMBS exceeded AUD1.80 from the private sector issued its first loan receivables ABS with a In 2018, the NAB, through National for each dollar committed by the CEFC. green tranche in 2016. In 2018 it introduced RMBS Trust 2018-1, issued a AUD2bn a subordinated green tranche, in addition The CEFC directly finances large-scale RMBS in a multi-tranche issue that to the usual senior green tranche seen in projects, particularly in renewable energy, included a AUD300m green tranche, previous deals. and delivers finance for smaller-scale earmarked against AUD525m of prime projects through aggregation programs Non-financial corporates are also innovating. residential mortgages. The underlying with established co-financiers. The CEFC In 2017 Contact Energy, the New Zealand residential properties were assessed is also a substantial investor in Australia’s energy provider, had the majority of its against the Residential Building Criteria emerging climate bonds market, and has outstanding debt certified as ‘green’ when of the Climate Bonds Standard. The invested in several large-scale equity it created its Green Borrowing Programme. tranche was priced at 0.85% over the funds targeting clean energy gains across The unique feature is that the programme one-month BBSW and was close to infrastructure, property and agriculture. includes wholesale and retail bonds, private two times oversubscribed. Inclusion of Through its Sustainable Cities Investment placements, credit facilities, an export credit the green tranche increased demand Program, the CEFC further encourages line and commercial paper. Contact Energy and investor diversity, attracting investment in renewable energy, energy obtained programmatic certification under socially responsible funds as well as efficiency and low emissions technologies the Climate Bonds Standard. The certified mainstream investors from Australia70. across the built environment. debt facilities are backed by a pool of geothermal energy assets64. “As a core investor in National and regional green bond guidance is being adopted across Australia’s green bond market, the world to support market growth we are seeing growing interest Regulation & official guidelines Listing requirements from superannuation funds and Private initiatives In the pipeline managers who want to deepen their exposure to sustainable assets. This is essential if we are to achieve our national emissions reduction goals in the infrastructure sector and beyond. We are confident an increasing focus from underlying investors, along with improved sophistication and understanding of fund managers, and increased diversity of supply, can attract more investor support for this critical investment class.” Ian Learmonth, CEO, CEFC Australia & New Zealand GIIO Report Climate Bonds Initiative 9
International best practices and Global certification domestic guidelines for green instruments No external review CB Certified Rating The global green bond market is witnessing 100 exponential growth, benefitting both issuers and investors. With the growth of the market, best practices have been developed 80 at the international level to guide issuers, maintain investor confidence and avoid the risk of ‘greenwashing’. At the international level, two main voluntary processes for green 60 issuance have emerged: • the Green Bond Principles (GBPs), 40 coordinated by the International Climate Markets Association (ICMA), and the Green Loan Principles (GLPs), developed by the Loan Market Association (LMA), provide 20 process guidance around transparency on the use of proceeds, project selection process, management of proceeds and reporting72 73. 0 % • the Climate Bonds Standard & USA Supranational China France Germany Netherlands Sweden Spain Canada Japan Italy Mexico India Norway Australia Belgium UK Brazil South Korea Denmark China_HK Poland Indonesia Austria New Zealand South Africa Certification Scheme, managed by the Climate Bonds Initiative and developed by a network of technical experts, with input from industry players and investors, builds on the GBPs and adds green asset criteria which are aligned with achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement. Australia and New Zealand are important green bond issuers At a regional level, the Association of Cumulative issuance up to end H1 2018 Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Capital Markets Forum has provided green bond guidelines for adoption throughout the region while financial services regulators in China and India have their own green bond regulations. All are broadly consistent with China Japan USD6.8bn international standards. USD59.1bn Governments, regulators and stock exchanges have started developing South Korea USD3.0bn guidelines and regulations. These generally India Taiwan USD804m include guidance for issuance and disclosure USD6.6bn in line with the GBPs and are mostly aligned with the Climate Bonds Taxonomy and Vietnam USD27m Standard (see Annex 1). Philippines USD226m Green bond issuance in Australia and New Zealand Malaysia USD979m Australian issuance features a diverse Singapore USD611m range of bonds, with multiple deals from Indonesia USD1.9bn the four biggest Australian banks, two state governments (so far), a commercial property fund, a leading university and several Top issuer green ABS bonds. Most Australian and Fiji USD49m New Zealand green bond issues have been USD1-10bn Australia certified under the Climate Bonds Standard,
commitment to ESG principles and Australian use of proceeds sustainable investing as well as increased awareness of climate impacts has become Renewable Energy Low Carbon Transport Waste one of the drivers behind the current demand Low Carbon Buildings Water for quality green debt issuance. The latest 3.0 Responsible Investment Association of Australasia (RIAA) report notes that funds 2.5 raised through green bonds are financing renewable energy assets, energy efficiency 2.0 initiatives and low-carbon public transport. 1.5 The following are examples of different types 1.0 AUD Billions of issuers, instruments and sectors of green bonds that have been issued in Australia and 0.5 New Zealand. For more information, please 0 see our report Australia & New Zealand Green financing country briefing (August 2018). 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Australia Australia Instrument: Use of proceeds bond Instrument: Green senior and subordinated tranches in a Issuer: Westpac receivables ABS Issuer type: Commercial bank Issuer: Flexi ABS Trust 2018-1 Amount: AUD500m Issuer type: Non-bank lender Date issued: May 2016 Amount: AUD81.3m (total for green tranches) Maturity: 5 years Date issued: May 2018 External review: CBI certified, verified by EY Asia Pacific Maturity: Multiple Use of proceeds: Wind, Low Carbon Buildings (Commercial) External review: CBI certified, verified by DNV GL Use of proceeds: Rooftop Solar PV and Solar Hot Water Loans Australia Australia Instrument: Use of proceeds bond Instrument: Use of proceeds bond Issuer: Queensland Treasury Corporation Issuer: Investa Commercial Property Fund Issuer type: Government Issuer type: Property asset manager Amount: AUD750m Amount: AUD100m Date issued: March 2017 Date issued: April 2017 Maturity: 7 years Maturity: 10 years External review: CBI certified, verified by DNV GL External review: CBI certified, verified by EY Asia Pacific Use of proceeds: Solar, Low Carbon Transport Use of proceeds: Low Carbon Buildings (Commercial) New Zealand New Zealand Instrument: Use of proceeds bond Instrument: Green borrowing programme Issuer: Auckland Council Issuer: Contact Energy Limited Issuer type: Municipality Issuer type: Non-financial corporate Amount: NZD200m Amount: NZD1.88bn Date issued: June 2018 Date certified: August 2017 Maturity: 5 years Maturity: Multiple tenors External review: CBI Certified, pre-issuance report by EY External review: CBI Certified, verified by EY Asia Pacific Use of proceeds: To refinance existing debt used to buy electric Use of proceeds: The programme finances only geothermal trains and equipment as well as to help finance the purchase of assets. Eligible projects must have an emission intensity more. lower than 100gCO2e/kWh to be in line with Climate Bonds Geothermal Criteria. Australia & New Zealand GIIO Report Climate Bonds Initiative 11
The future role of Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals superannuation in Australia’s infrastructure In September 2015, 193 nations came SDGs is in the range of USD2tn to 3tn per together to support the United Nations’ year. The growth of the green bond market Both the Australian and New Zealand Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provides an excellent foundation to raise governments are developing policy - a collection of 17 global goals with 169 capital for bridging this gap76. interventions to further support their targets addressing social and economic green finance sectors including green In Australia, ANZ raised an EUR750m development. Climate Bonds has investment banks, carbon markets, green SDG Bond in the European market to fund identified six SDGs where increased green certification mechanisms and renewable loans related to 9 SDGs.77 NAB’s novel investment and green bonds provide energy incentives71. SDG Green Bond combines SDG goals direct benefits: SDG 6, 7, 9, 11, 13 and 15.74 and Climate Bonds certification criteria as Australia’s employment-based compulsory For example, SDG 9 aims to build resilient eligibility requirements.78 Green bonds and superannuation contribution system has infrastructure, promote inclusive and SDG bonds are not separate streams. They been an underlying driver of national savings. sustainable industrialisation and foster aim to finance many of the same assets, Coupled with strong banks that are prepared innovation75. Realising SDG 9 by 2030 will and deliver economically, socially and to be early movers and adhere to best require significant resources, in both the environmentally resilient societies. practice in green bond issuance, Australia developing and developed world context. now has the foundations for green finance It is estimated that the funding gap for to expand into infrastructure projects. This achieving all 17 of the United Nations’ patient retirement capital is willing and able to make large-scale investments and can be deployed to improve deal flow and scale up corporate green bond issuance. “The Australian and New Zealand green bond markets are The large industry superannuation funds representative of global best practice. The markets are underpinned have led on infrastructure and clean energy by a diversity of issuance and innovation in use of proceeds, a strong investment since the mid 1990s. This is commitment towards transparency, with high levels of international partly a result of investment beliefs, a certification. ANZ is working with investors to build confidence in bias towards alternative investments and the ability to make direct equity-based market fundamentals and directions. The scale of green infrastructure investments. Over time, equity investments investments expected to be made in Australia, coupled with strong have increased through a mix of wholly investor demand, make the prospects for growth in green bonds bright.” owned specialist managers, joint ventures Christina Tonkin, Managing Director, Loans & Specialised Finance, and other co-ownership models. ANZ Specialist funds Key specialist funds in the infrastructure and businesses which invest in renewable Green Investment Fund financing space include Australia’s energy, energy efficiency and low emissions As part of a wider suite being spearheaded Clean Energy Innovation Fund and IFM’s technologies. The fund’s investments are by the new government, the Green Australian Infrastructure Fund. In New recognised as potentially carrying a higher Investment Fund will be established to Zealand, the Green Investment Fund will risk profile, given the start-up nature of the make investments in New Zealand that provide a boost to green infrastructure investee companies and technologies. reduce greenhouse gas emissions and funding when it becomes operational at provide a financial return. The fund will the end of 2018. IFM Australian receive a NZD100m capital injection Infrastructure Fund from the government and will operate Clean Energy Innovation Fund Australia’s largest infrastructure fund, the independently, supporting the nation’s The CEFC operates the Clean Energy AUD12bn IFM Australian Infrastructure transition towards a net-zero-emissions Innovation Fund, the largest dedicated Fund is collaborating with CEFC to reduce economy by 2050. It will work with Australian investor of its kind. It was carbon emissions. The CEFC is investing businesses, infrastructure owners and created in 2016 as a specialist financier AUD150m into the fund, which will be investors to bring forward emissions to invest AUD200m in early-stage used to target emissions reduction and reduction projects and draw in private clean energy companies. The fund energy efficiency initiatives across some of investment for these projects. The fund targets technologies and businesses the nation’s largest infrastructure assets, will co-invest alongside private capital. It that have passed beyond the research including ports, airports and electricity is anticipated that once it demonstrates and development stage and which can infrastructure79. This initiative supports investment and commercial success then benefit from early stage seed or growth IFM investors’ commitment to work other private investment will follow. capital to help them progress to the next with asset management teams to deliver stage of their development. It draws on sustainable ESG outcomes that benefit the CEFC finance to primarily provide equity communities they serve, the environment finance to innovative clean energy projects and superannuation member returns. Australia & New Zealand GIIO Report Climate Bonds Initiative 12
Green standards A large segment of institutional ISCA Infrastructure Sustainability Rating The ISCA is a member-based, not-for- investors has shown support to address Scheme is a third-party rating system for profit peak body. It administers a third- climate change. However, when it comes evaluating sustainability across the planning, party rating program, provides training to environmental criteria, investors design, construction and operation of all and knowledge sharing and creates a currently have too few tools to ensure phases of infrastructure programs, projects, community of practice around sustainable that their investments are making a networks and assets in Australia and New infrastructure83. significant impact. Having common Zealand. definitions of ‘green’ across global markets, allows investors, potential issuers and policy makers to identify Green Star is an internationally- community-wide - helping to improve green assets and attract investment recognised rating system for the design, environmental sustainability, boosting more easily. construction and operation of buildings, productivity, creating jobs and improving In Australia and New Zealand there are fit-out and communities. To rate a building the health and well-being of place for a number of bodies that have developed or a fit-outs overall environmental impact, people, and results in money savings. definitions and standards for green assets Green Star rating tools award points Green Star was launched by the Green and infrastructure projects: across nine categories: Energy, Water, Building Council of Australia in 2003 Materials, Indoor Environment Quality • The Infrastructure Sustainability Council and remains Australia’s only national (IEQ), Transport, Land Use & Ecology, of Australia’s (ISCA’s) Infrastructure and voluntary rating system for buildings Management, Emissions, and Innovation. Sustainability Rating Scheme and communities. New Zealand now covers all infrastructure types in Australia This helps to support stakeholders in has similar tools for design, construction and New Zealand80. the property and construction sectors to and operation of buildings, fit-out and design, construct and operate projects in a communities. These tools were adapted • The Green Star certification, more sustainable, efficient and productive for New Zealand. In both countries, Green administered by the Australian Green way, and provides tenants with a trusted Star can be used as a proxy for Climate Buildings Council and the New Zealand mark of independent verification to Bonds Certification84. Green Buildings Council, and the National support decision making. It has benefits Australian Building Environmental Rating System (NABERS) and NABERS New Zealand cover buildings. New Zealand also NABERS is a national rating system the building or tenancy has considerable has Homestar, an independent national that measures the environmental scope for improvement. Ideally it helps rating tool that measures the health, performance of buildings, tenancies and property owners, managers and tenants to warmth and efficiency of houses81. homes assessing energy efficiency, water improve their sustainability performance, usage, waste management and indoor reaping financial benefits and building • For renewable energy generation facilities, environment quality of a building or their reputation. guidance on development in Australia tenancy and its impact on the environment. and New Zealand can be sought from In Australia it is run by a government This is done by using measured and local standards, regulation and industry authority. In New Zealand the Energy verified performance information, such associations. Efficiency Conservation Authority has the as utility bills, and converting them into license for NABERSNZ in New Zealand. • The Climate Bonds Taxonomy is used to an easy to understand star rating scale The NZGBC administer NABERSNZ, which identify green projects and assets which from one to six stars. For example, a 6-star in New Zealand is primarily focused on a are aligned with achieving the goals of the rating demonstrates market-leading building’s energy performancee85. Paris Agreement. This excludes fossil fuel performance, while a 1-star rating means power generation, internal combustion engine personal vehicles and new roads and infrastructure that facilitate their movement, and freight rail that is primarily Climate Bonds Taxonomy and • Uses best practices for internal controls, used for fossil fuel transportation. the Climate Bonds Standard & tracking, reporting and external review. In 2017, a survey by the Investor Group Certification Scheme • Finances assets consistent with achieving on Climate Change of Australian and The Climate Bonds Taxonomy features eight the goals of the Paris Climate Agreement. New Zealand investors - with funds climate-aligned sectors (see Annex 1). The The certification of eligible projects and representing over AUD328bn in AUM - purpose of the Taxonomy is to encourage assets requires independent verification found that for setting strategy and common broad ‘green’ definitions across of the assets’ climate credentials against pursuing low-carbon investment, over global markets in a way that supports the the Climate Bonds Standard and relevant half of all participants in the Australian growth of a cohesive green bond market. Sector Criteria. The Criteria provide eligibility survey indicated that they were using The Climate Bonds Standard & Certification conditions or thresholds which must be met their own methodology for defining Scheme is used to provide a Fairtrade-like for assets to be in line with a rapid trajectory green investments, followed by the Low labelling scheme for bonds and other debt towards a 2050 zero-carbon future. The Carbon Investment (LCI) Registry (24%) instruments. Certification means that the deal: criteria are developed based on climate standards and the Climate Bonds Initiative science by technical expert groups with input standard at 11%82. • Is fully aligned with the Green Bond from industry. Principles or the Green Loan Principles. Australia & New Zealand GIIO Report Climate Bonds Initiative 13
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