COPENHAGEN - Danish energy company Ørsted A/S announced adjustments to its business strategy with a reduced investment program aimed at strengthening its capital structure. The company’s board has approved a more disciplined approach to capital allocation, focusing on the most value-accretive growth opportunities.
The changes come after Ørsted reported its full-year results for 2024, which aligned with expectations, including an EBITDA excluding new partnerships and cancellation fees of DKK 24.8 billion. Last week, the company made significant strides by commissioning 2.4 GW of renewable capacity, securing 3.5 GW of offshore wind capacity in the UK, and finalizing the investment decision on the Baltica 2 offshore wind farm in Poland.
Despite these achievements, Ørsted has faced challenges, particularly with its US offshore wind portfolio, leading to additional pressure on its credit metrics. These issues, combined with broader industry challenges, have prompted a 25% reduction in Ørsted’s investment program through 2030 compared to its prior strategic ambition.
Rasmus Errboe, Group President and CEO of Ørsted, emphasized the company’s commitment to its 8.4 GW offshore wind construction program and the long-term potential of offshore wind and renewable energy, despite the current market challenges.
The revised business plan will be self-funded, relying on operating cash flow, partnerships, divestments, tax equity, and debt and hybrid issuances, without the need for new equity. Ørsted will concentrate on geographies and technologies with the highest potential for value creation and continue its company-wide efficiency program to drive further cost savings.
The adjustments will not impact the ongoing construction of 9 GW of renewable projects, which will expand Ørsted’s renewable capacity from 18 GW to over 27 GW. The company has set new financial targets and policies, including a DKK 210-230 billion investment program for 2024-2030, an expected EBITDA of DKK 29-33 billion in 2026, and an average return on capital employed of approximately 13% during the same period. Ørsted also remains committed to maintaining a solid investment grade credit rating and plans to reinstate dividends from the financial year 2026.
The information is based on a press release statement from Ørsted A/S.
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