As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 30, 2017

 

Registration No. 333-215110

 

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM S-1

(Amendment No. 4)
REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Nevada   7370   98-0550257
(State or other jurisdiction of   (Primary Standard Industrial   (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization)   Classification Code Number)   Identification No.)

 

301 McCullough Drive
4th Floor, Charlotte, North Carolina 28262
(704) 909-2806

(Address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code, of registrant’s principal executive offices)

 

Mr. Shlomi Palas
301 McCullough Drive
4th Floor, Charlotte, North Carolina 28262
(704) 909-2806

(Name, address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code, of agent for service)

 

Copies to:

 

Peter J. Gennuso, Esq.

Rob D. Powell, Esq.
Thompson Hine LLP
335 Madison Avenue, 12th Floor
New York, NY 10017
(212) 908-3958

James M. Jenkins, Esq.

Alexander R. McClean, Esq.

Harter Secrest & Emery LLP

1600 Bausch & Lomb Place

Rochester, NY 14604

(585) 232-6500

   

Approximate date of commencement of proposed sale to the public: From time to time after the effective date of this registration statement.

 

If any of the securities being registered on this Form are to be offered on a delayed or continuous basis pursuant to Rule 415 under the Securities Act of 1933, check the following box:

 

If this Form is filed to register additional securities for an offering pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, please check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering.

 

If this Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(c) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering.

 

If this Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(d) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act registration number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering.

  

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

 

Large accelerated filer   Accelerated filer
Non-accelerated filer   Smaller reporting company

Emerging growth company

     

 

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐

 

 

 

 

 

 

CALCULATION OF REGISTRATION FEE

 

Title of Each Class of Securities to be Registered   Proposed Maximum
Aggregate Offering
Price (1)
  Amount of
Registration Fee
(2)
 
Common Stock, par value $0.001 per share (3)(4)   $ 13,800,000   $ 1,599.42  
Pre-Funded Warrants to Purchase Common Stock and Common Stock issuable upon exercise thereof (4)     13,800,000      
Warrants to Purchase Common Stock (3)(5)          
Common Stock Issuable upon Exercise of Warrants (3)     15,180,000     1,759.36  
Representative’s Warrants to Purchase Common Stock (3)(5)           
Common Stock Issuable upon Exercise of Representative’s Warrants (3)      603,750     69.97  
Total   $ 29,583,750   $ 3,428.76 (6)  

 

(1) Estimated solely for purposes of calculating the registration fee pursuant to Rule 457(o) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (“Securities Act”).
(2) Calculated pursuant to Rule 457(o) under the Securities Act based on an estimate of the proposed maximum aggregate offering price.
(3) Pursuant to Rule 416 under the Securities Act, the securities being registered hereunder include such indeterminate number of additional shares of common stock as may be issued after the date hereof as a result of stock splits, stock dividends or similar transactions.  It also includes the offering price of additional securities that the underwriters have the option to purchase.
(4) The proposed maximum offering price of the common stock proposed to be sold in the offering will be reduced on a dollar-for-dollar basis based on the offering price of any pre-funded warrants offered and sold in the offering, and as such the proposed aggregate maximum offering price of the common stock and pre-funded warrants (including the common stock issuable upon exercise of the pre-funded warrants), if any, is $13,800,000.
(5) No fee pursuant to Rule 457(g) under the Securities Act.
(6) $4,352.43 of which has been previously paid.

 

The registrant hereby amends this Registration Statement on such date or date(s) as may be necessary to delay its effective date until the registrant shall file a further amendment which specifically states that this Registration Statement shall thereafter become effective in accordance with Section 8(a) of the Securities Act of 1933, or until the Registration Statement shall become effective on such date as the Commission acting pursuant to said Section 8(a) may determine.

 

 

 

 

The information in this preliminary prospectus is not complete and may be changed. These securities may not be sold until the Registration Statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission of which this preliminary prospectus is a part becomes effective. This preliminary prospectus is not an offer to sell these securities and it is not soliciting an offer to buy these securities in any state where the offer or sale is not permitted.

 

PRELIMINARY PROSPECTUS

Subject to Completion, Dated May 30, 2017

 

(BLUESPHERE LOGO)  

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION

 

$12,000,000

 

Up to [ ] Shares of Common Stock and/or

Pre-funded Warrants to Purchase Shares of Common Stock and

Warrants to Purchase up to [ ] Shares of Common Stock

 

This prospectus is part of a registration statement that we filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). This prospectus relates to the offering of $12,000,000 of our securities (the “Offering”), consisting of up to [ ] shares (the “Shares”) of our common stock, par value $0.001 per share (“Common Stock”), and warrants to purchase up to [ ] shares of our Common Stock (each whole warrant, a “Warrant”). This prospectus also includes the shares of Common Stock that are issuable from time to time upon exercise of the Warrants (the “Warrant Shares”). This prospectus also includes an offering to each purchaser whose purchase of shares of Common Stock in this Offering would otherwise result in the purchaser, together with its affiliates and certain related parties, beneficially owning more than 9.99% of our outstanding Common Stock immediately following the consummation of this Offering, the opportunity to purchase, if the purchaser so chooses, pre-funded warrants (the “Pre-Funded Warrants”), in lieu of Shares that would otherwise result in the purchaser’s beneficial ownership exceeding 9.99% of our outstanding Common Stock. Each Pre-Funded Warrant will be immediately exercisable for one share of our Common Stock and may be exercised at any time until the Pre-Funded Warrants are exercised in full. The purchase price of each Pre-Funded Warrant will equal the price per share at which the Shares are being sold to the public in this Offering, minus $0.01, and the exercise price of each Pre-Funded Warrant will be $0.01 per share. This Offering also relates to the shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise of any Pre-Funded Warrants sold in this Offering (the “Pre-Funded Warrant Shares”, along with the Shares, the Warrants, the Warrant Shares, and the Pre-Funded Warrants, the “Securities”). For each Pre-Funded Warrant we sell, the number of Shares we are offering will be decreased on a one-for-one basis. Because we will issue [_____] Warrant for each share of Common Stock or Pre-Funded Warrant sold in this Offering, the number of Warrants sold in this Offering will not change as a result of a change in the mix of the Shares and Pre-Funded Warrants sold. Each Share of Common Stock or Pre-Funded Warrant is being sold together in a fixed combination with a Warrant to purchase [ ] shares of Common Stock for a public offering price of $[ ] per share of Common Stock or Pre-Funded Warrant (minus $0.01 per Pre-Funded Warrant) and $[ ] per Warrant, or of $[ ] per combination of share (or pre-funded warrant (minus $0.01 per pre-funded warrant)) and warrant. Each Warrant is immediately exercisable for one share of our Common Stock at an exercise price of $[ ] per share, or [ ]% of the per share price of our Common Stock in the Offering. Each Warrant expires on [ ], 20[ ]. The shares of Common Stock and Warrants will be issued and will trade separately. Any reference in this prospectus to the shares of Common Stock sold in this Offering shall relate to all shares of our Common Stock sold in this Offering, regardless of whether sold in the form of Shares or Pre-Funded Warrants.

 

Our Common Stock is quoted on the OTCQB® Venture Marketplace (the “OTCQB”) under the symbol “BLSP”. On May 26, 2017, the closing sale price of our Common Stock was $3.29 per share. Currently, there is no established public trading market in the United States for our Common Stock and quotes of our Common Stock on the OTCQB may not be indicative of the market price on a national securities exchange. On January 19, 2017, we filed an application to have our Common Stock and the Warrants listed on The NASDAQ Capital Market under the symbols “BLSP” and “BLSPW”, respectively. No assurance can be given that our application will be approved. Listing of our Common Stock on The NASDAQ Capital Market is a condition to consummation of the Offering. The Pre-Funded Warrants are not and will not be listed for trading on any national securities exchange.

 

On November 23, 2016, our stockholders approved a reverse split of our Common Stock at a ratio reasonably necessary to satisfy the minimum requirements for listing on The NASDAQ Capital Market. On March 24, 2017, we effectuated a reverse split of our Common Stock upon the filing of our Certificate of Amendment No. 2 to our Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation, at a ratio of 130-to-1 (the “Reverse Stock Split”), such that each 130 shares of Common Stock issued and outstanding immediately prior to the effective time of the Reverse Stock Split automatically combined into 1 validly issued, fully paid and non-assessable share of Common Stock without any further action by the Company or the holder thereof. 

 

Unless otherwise indicated in this prospectus, all Common Stock share and per share information in this prospectus gives effect to the Reverse Stock Split.

 

See the section of this prospectus entitled “Underwriting” for more information on the Offering.

 

On August 15, 2016, the Company filed a registration statement on Form S-1 (“Resale Registration Statement”) seeking to register 684,872 shares of common stock on behalf of certain selling security holders named therein (“Selling Security Holders”). On September 14, 2016, the Resale Registration Statement went effective. The Company has not and will not receive any proceeds from the sale of the common stock by the Selling Security Holders.

 

 

 

 

Investing in our Securities involves a high degree of risk. For more information, see the section of this prospectus entitled “Risk Factors”.

 

Neither the SEC nor any state securities commission has approved or disapproved of these securities or passed upon the adequacy or accuracy of this prospectus. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.

 

We qualify as an “emerging growth company” as defined in the Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act (“JOBS Act”). For more information, see the subsection entitled “Emerging Growth Company” in the Prospectus Summary.

 

   

Per

Share

    Per Pre-Funded Warrant  

Per

Warrant

 

Total  

Per Share and Warrant 

 
Public offering price   $ [ ]    $ [ ]    [ ]   $ [ ]   
Underwriting discount and commissions (1)   $ [ ]    $ [ ]    [ ]   $ [ ]   
Proceeds, before expenses, to Blue Sphere Corporation (2)   $ [ ]    $ [ ]    [ ]   $ [ ]   

 

(1)

We have agreed to issue warrants to the Representative (or its designated affiliates) and to reimburse the Representative for its out-of-pocket expenses in connection with the Offering, subject to a cap of $130,000 in the aggregate, including but not limited to the fees (not to exceed $70,000) of its legal counsel. See “Underwriting” for additional information regarding underwriter compensation. 

(2)

We estimate our total expenses for the Offering to be approximately $530,000.

 

The underwriter expects to deliver the Shares, Pre-Funded Warrants and Warrants to purchasers against payment on or about [  , 2017]. We have granted the underwriter an option for a period of up to 45 days following the closing of the Offering to purchase up to an additional 15% of the total number of Shares and/or Warrants sold in the Offering at the public offering price, less the underwriting discounts and commissions. 

 

The Company is currently in the development stage and has limited operations and revenues to date, and there can be no assurance that the Company will be successful in furthering its operations and/or revenues. Persons should not invest unless they can afford to lose their entire investment. See the section entitled “Risk Factors” in this prospectus.

 

Maxim Group LLC

Sole Book-Running Manager

 

Chardan

  Co-Manager

  

The date of this prospectus is _____________ , 2017

 

 

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

PROSPECTUS SUMMARY 2
THE OFFERING 5
SUMMARY FINANCIAL DATA 6
RISK FACTORS 7
CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS 17
TAX CONSIDERATIONS 17
USE OF PROCEEDS 18
DETERMINATION OF THE PUBLIC OFFERING PRICE 19
MARKET FOR COMMON STOCK AND SHARES ELIGIBLE FOR FUTURE SALE 19
DILUTION 20
DIVIDEND POLICY 21
CAPITALIZATION 21
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS 22
DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS 28
PROPERTIES 40
LITIGATION 40
MANAGEMENT 41
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE 42
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION 45
PRINCIPAL STOCKHOLDERS 51
RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS 52
DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES 53
UNDERWRITING 59
LEGAL MATTERS 62
EXPERTS 62
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION 62
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS F-1

 

You should rely only on the information contained in this prospectus and any free writing prospectus prepared by us or on our behalf. We have not authorized anyone to provide you with different or additional information. If anyone provides you with different or additional information, you should not rely on it. The information in this prospectus is accurate only as of the date on the front of this prospectus. Our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects may have changed since the date of this prospectus. This prospectus is not an offer or solicitation relating to the Securities in any jurisdiction in which such an offer or solicitation relating to the Securities is not authorized. You should not consider this prospectus to be an offer or solicitation relating to the Securities if the person making the offer or solicitation is not qualified to do so, or if it is unlawful for you to receive such an offer or solicitation.

 

For investors outside the United States: neither we nor any of the underwriters have done anything that would permit this Offering or possession or distribution of this prospectus in any jurisdiction where action for that purpose is required, other than in the United States. Persons outside the United States who come into possession of this prospectus must inform themselves about, and observe any restrictions relating to, the offering of shares of the Securities and the distribution of this prospectus outside the United States.

 

 

 

 

PROSPECTUS SUMMARY

 

This summary highlights certain information appearing elsewhere in this prospectus. This summary is not complete and does not contain all of the information you should consider prior to investing in the Securities offered hereby. After you read this summary, you should read and consider carefully the more detailed information and financial statements and related notes that we include in this prospectus, especially the sections entitled “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.” If you invest in our Securities, you are assuming a high degree of risk.

 

Unless we have indicated otherwise or the context otherwise requires, references in this prospectus to the “Company,” “we,” “us” and “our” or similar terms are to Blue Sphere Corporation and its subsidiaries.

 

Our Company

 

We are an international Independent Power Producer (“IPP”) that is active in the global clean energy production and waste-to-energy markets. We aspire to become a key player in these rapidly growing markets by developing or acquiring projects with clean energy technologies, including but not limited to waste-to-energy facilities that generate clean energy, such as electricity, natural gas, and heat, as well as soil amendment and other by-products. These markets provide tremendous opportunity, insofar as we believe there is a virtually endless supply of waste and organic material that can be used to generate power and valuable by-products. In particular, the disposal of organic material to landfills in most parts of the world is a costly problem with environmentally-damaging consequences. We seek to offer a cost-effective, environmentally-safe alternative.

 

Our Projects

 

We are currently constructing or operating, or in negotiations to develop, as applicable, eighteen (18) projects related to our strategy of acquisition, development or operations of waste-to-energy facilities, which includes developing projects for which we have entered into nonbinding letters of intent to acquire additional biogas facilities in Italy and to develop and construct waste-to-energy facilities in the United States, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom and Israel. We continue to evaluate a pipeline of similar projects in the pre-development phase in the above listed countries, and we are also evaluating projects in other countries such as the Czech Republic, Poland, Canada and Mexico.

 

We are currently constructing or operating, as indicated below, the following projects:

 

United States (under construction)

Johnston, RI Waste to Energy Anaerobic Digester 3.2 MW Plant

 

United States (operating)

Charlotte, NC Waste to Energy Anaerobic Digester 5.2 MW Plant

 

Italy (operating)

Soc. agr. AGRICERERE srl – Tromello (Blue Sphere Pavia) 999 KW Plant
Soc. agr. AGRIELEKTRA srl – Alagna (Blue Sphere Pavia) 999 KW Plant
Soc. agr. AGRISORSE srl - Garlasco (Blue Sphere Pavia) 999 KW Plant
Soc. agr. GEFA srl – Dorno (Blue Sphere Pavia) 999 KW Plant

 

We currently have nonbinding letters of intent to develop the following projects:

 

United States (negotiating and/or conducting due diligence) 

  Red Springs, NC. New Construction waste-to-energy Anaerobic Digester 3.0 MW Plant
  Wallace, NC. New Construction waste-to-energy Anaerobic Digester 3.0 MW Plant

 

Italy (negotiating and/or conducting due diligence)  

  Cortona, Italy. Acquisition of fully operating 1.25MW Clean Energy Plants from Pronto-Verde, A.G.
  Cantu, Italy. Acquisition of fully operating .990 KW Clean Energy Plant from Pronto-Verde, A.G.
  Udine, Italy. Acquisition of fully operating .990KW Clean Energy Plant from Pronto-Verde, A.G.

 

The Netherlands (negotiating and/or conducting due diligence)

Sterksel, NL. New Construction waste-to-energy Anaerobic Digester 10.0 MW Plant *
Terramass, NL. New Construction waste-to-energy Anaerobic Digester 2.5 MW Plant

 

*

On December 8, 2016, Blue Sphere Brabant B.V., a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company in the Netherlands, won a grant to sell renewable gas on a per MWg basis to Rijksdienst voor Ondernemend Nederland (“RVO”) under the Renewable Energy Production Incentive Scheme. The grant provides for the sale of up to 234,466.589 MWh per year, for a maximum total value of the grant equal to €151,934,350.00 (approximately USD $161,642,955) paid over twelve (12) years, from the date the facility begins production. The grant is conditioned upon the following: (1) the construction must be assigned to a supplier (EPC) within one (1) year, with RVO receiving a copy of the assignment; (2) the facility must begin production within four (4) years; (3) notice of any material changes (i.e., in location, receiver, power, required dates, etc.) must be given to RVO; and (4) RVO is entitled to receive an annual progress report of the realization of the facility. 

 

2  

 

 

The United Kingdom (negotiating and/or conducting due diligence)

Carlton Forest, GB. New Construction waste-to-energy Pyrolysis Plant 7.5MW (electricity) + 10MW (thermal)
Hull, GB. New Construction waste-to-energy Pyrolysis Plant 15MW (electricity) + 15MW (thermal)
Seal Sands, GB. New Construction waste-to-energy Pyrolysis Plant 16MW (electricity) + 23MW (thermal)

 

We are currently negotiating nonbinding letters of intent to develop the following projects:

 

Italy (negotiating and/or conducting due diligence)

 

  Ostellato, Italy. New Construction of two 1MW Anaerobic Digester Plants with Energy Lab, S.p.A

 

Israel (negotiating and/or conducting due diligence)

Rishon, IL. New Construction of a MRF (Materials Recycling Facility) + a 2.5MW Anaerobic Digester Plant

 

Our strategy is to continue to expand in the future, including through acquisition of additional projects. From time to time, we negotiate, conduct due diligence and enter into nonbinding letters of intent for projects that we are evaluating. However, until due diligence is complete, further negotiations are finalized and the parties have executed a definitive agreement, there can be no assurance that we will be able to enter into any development or acquisition transaction, on the terms in the applicable letter of intent, if any, or at all, or any other similar arrangements. In the case of new construction projects for which we have not entered into definitive agreements, the power output identified herein reflects management’s position, determined based on a review of relevant factors including, but not limited to, pre-existing relationships with purchasers in the region, demand, land and facility space, environmental and engineering analysis, and the availability of feedstock and other sources of input. Furthermore, any such transactions that we do enter into would be subject to the uncertainties regarding our existing projects described in the “Risk Factors” section.

 

Our Strategy

 

Our main focus is providing tailored solutions internationally to produce clean energy primarily out of the treatment of waste. We are focused on waste-to-energy projects in the United States, Italy, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom and Israel and are in the process of developing a pipeline of similar projects. We believe there is a virtually endless supply of waste suitable for such projects and the demand for energy (particularly from such projects) is growing consistently.

 

Our model is to acquire or build, own and operate waste-to-energy facilities. We select projects with signed, long-term agreements with waste producers or waste haulers for feedstock, with national governments or electricity corporations for energy output and with private entities for the sale of other project by-products (such as renewable energy credits, heat and soil amendment). We are currently focused on several types of projects: (i) anaerobic digestion to electricity, (ii) landfill gas to energy, (iii) anaerobic digestion to gas, (iv) gasification, (v) incineration and (vi) energy crop to electricity.

 

Another component of the clean energy and waste-to-energy industry in the United States is renewable energy credits (“RECs”). A REC represents a MWh or KWh of clean energy. Many states, including North Carolina and Rhode Island, the sites of our two United States projects, require their utilities to prove that a portion of the energy they sell is produced from clean or renewable sources. A REC is used to demonstrate that the relevant unit of energy has a clean or renewable source. Consequently, utilities purchase RECs from producers of clean and renewable energy. Our agreements with Duke Energy Carolinas, LLC (“Duke Energy”) and The Narragansett Electric Company d/b/a National Grid (“National Grid”), for our North Carolina and Rhode Island projects, respectively, provide for “bundled” pricing for the sale of electricity and RECs.

 

We expect our projects to generate revenue through sales of thermal and electrical energy, energy efficiency technologies and RECs, and by-products, project development services, and tipping fees from accepting waste, as applicable to a particular project. On November 18, 2016, our project in the Charlotte, NC Waste to Energy Anaerobic Digester 5.2 MW Plant, of which we are a 25% owner, commenced commercial operations and started to provide its output to Duke Energy pursuant to the power purchase agreement with Duke Energy. The commencement of the commercial operations includes the gradual intake of waste from the facility’s feedstock suppliers, increasing the parasitic load to the digesters, completing the waste-water-treatment resources and completing all other mechanical features needed for the facility to operate at full capacity. As of December 31, 2016, the facility is in its mechanical completion and ramp-up phase of the project. We estimate that this project will be fully completed by April 30, 2017.

  

Our strategy is to integrate all activities and components that make up a waste-to-energy project and provide a turn-key, one-stop shop solution for waste-to-energy development. We are also actively seeking to acquire facilities that are in various stages of development. We work with and outsource key components of projects to engineering, procurement and construction (“EPC”) providers and other project participants that provide the most economically viable solution for each individual project. The EPC providers may also be the provider of the technology used for each project. We believe this provides us the flexibility and freedom to tailor the best solution for each project. We expect that we will remain involved in managing and financing all aspects of our projects throughout their lifetimes or until they are sold. We believe this assures all of the involved parties, including waste producers, financing stakeholders, EPC and technology providers, and customers, that there is long-term continuity and responsibility for each project.

 

We aim to be distinctive and successful in the waste-to-energy market by:

 

providing a one-stop, turn-key/build, own and operate/transfer solution;
identifying and obtaining the rights to lucrative projects without incurring material expense;
delivering seamless and professional project implementation through a combination of our own expertise and the use of third-party experts with a track-record of success;
being technology agnostic and using mature and well-known technologies and when necessary to tailor-make cost-efficient and effective solutions for our projects;
leveraging our management’s more than 30 years of experience in successful implementation of large and complex projects;
building local and international teams to support each project;
obtaining political, property, non-performance and insolvency insurance for our projects; and

 

3  

 

 

our projects receiving almost all of their revenue in United States dollars or Euros, whether operating in the United States, Europe or the developing world.

 

NASDAQ Listing Application and Proposed Symbols 

 

On January 20, 2017, we filed an application to have our Common Stock and Warrants listed on The NASDAQ Capital Market under the symbols “BLSP” and “BLSPW”, respectively.  No assurance can be given that our application will be approved. Listing of our Common Stock on The NASDAQ Capital Market is a condition to consummation of the Offering. The Pre-Funded Warrants are not and will not be listed for trading on any national securities exchange.

 

Restated Financial Statements

 

On November 11, 2016, we filed amendments to our Transition Report for the transition period from October 1, 2015 through December 31, 2015 and to our Quarterly Reports for the periods ending March 31, 2016 and June 30, 2016. All such amendments were filed to reflect the Company’s restatement of its consolidated financial statements for such respective periods due to the application of the equity method of accounting for the investments in the SPVs in Italy (defined herein). We applied the equity method as a result of our agreements between the SPVs and Austep, S.p.A. (“Austep”), whereby Austep operates, maintains and supervises each biogas plant, which prevent us from exercising a controlling influence over operating policies of the facilities. Under this method, our equity investment is reflected in our financial statements as an investment in nonconsolidated subsidiaries and the net earnings or losses of the investments is reflected as equity in net earnings of nonconsolidated companies. We believe that, while the revised financial statements reflected substantial modifications, the revenues and expenses that had been previously reported are now reflected in a line item for the Company’s nonconsolidated wholly-owned subsidiaries, and the modifications result in no impact to our operational results. Therefore, the modifications were substantially a matter of presentation. 

 

Our Corporate Information

 

We are a Nevada corporation. Our principal executive offices are located at 301 McCullough Drive, 4th Floor, Charlotte, North Carolina 28262 and our telephone number is (704) 909-2806. We also have office space located at 35 Assuta St. Even Yehuda, Israel 40500. Our web address is http://www.bluespherecorporate.com . The information on our website does not form a part of this prospectus.

 

Summary Risks

 

Before you invest in our Securities, you should carefully consider all the information in this prospectus, including matters set forth in the section of this prospectus entitled “Risk Factors”. We believe that the following are some of the major risks and uncertainties that may affect us:

 

We have a limited operating history which makes it difficult to evaluate our business and prospects;
     
We have a history of losses and can provide no assurance of our future operating results;
     
We will require additional funding, and our future access to capital is uncertain. Insufficient capital may limit our ability to pursue our projects;
     
We have incurred substantial indebtedness;
     
Project construction and development requires significant outlays of capital and is subject to numerous risks;
     
Our power purchase agreements, which we expect to be the primary source of future revenue for our projects, require us to meet certain milestones and other performance criteria;
     
Our business model depends on performance by third parties under contractual arrangements; and
     
Acquisition, financing, construction and development of new projects and project expansions may not commence as anticipated or at all.

  

Emerging Growth Company

 

We are an “emerging growth company,” as defined in the JOBS Act, and we may take advantage of certain exemptions from various reporting requirements that are applicable to other public companies.

 

We have elected to use the extended transition period provided in Section 7(a)(2)(B) of the Securities Act for complying with new or revised accounting standards that have different effective dates for public and private companies until the earlier of the date that we (i) are no longer an emerging growth company or (ii) affirmatively and irrevocably opt out of the extended transition period provided in Section 7(a)(2)(B).

 

We could remain an “emerging growth company” for up to five years from the last day of our fiscal year in which the first sale of our common equity securities occurred pursuant to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act, or until the earliest of (i) the last day of the first fiscal year in which our annual gross revenues are $1 billion, as adjusted, or more, (ii) the date that we become a “large accelerated filer” as defined in Rule 12b-2 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), which would occur if the market value of our common stock that is held by non-affiliates exceeds $700 million as of the last business day of our most recently completed second fiscal quarter, and (iii) the date on which we have issued more than $1 billion in non-convertible debt during the preceding three-year period.

 

4  

 

 

THE OFFERING

 

Securities Offered   Up to [ ] shares of our Common Stock or Pre-Funded Warrants, and Warrants to purchase up to [ ] shares of Common Stock.
     
Offering Amount   $12,000,000
     
Offering Price   $[ ] per Share of Common Stock or Pre-Funded Warrant (minus $0.01 per Pre-Funded Warrant), and $[ ] per Warrant, or $[ ] per combination of share (or pre-funded warrant (minus $0.01 per pre-funded warrant)) and warrant.
     
Description of the Pre-Funded Warrants   This prospectus also includes an offering to each purchaser whose purchase of shares of Common Stock in this Offering would otherwise result in the purchaser, together with its affiliates and certain related parties, beneficially owning more than 9.99% of our outstanding Common Stock immediately following the consummation of this Offering, the opportunity to purchase, if the purchaser so chooses, Pre-Funded Warrants, in lieu of Shares that would otherwise result in the purchaser’s beneficial ownership exceeding 9.99% of our outstanding Common Stock. Each Pre-Funded Warrant will be immediately exercisable for one share of our Common Stock and may be exercised at any time until the Pre-Funded Warrants are exercised in full. The purchase price of each Pre-Funded Warrant will equal the price per share at which the Shares are being sold to the public in this Offering, minus $0.01, and the exercise price of each Pre-Funded Warrant will be $0.01 per share. This Offering also relates to the shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise of any Pre-Funded Warrants sold in this Offering.  For each Pre-Funded Warrant we sell, the number of Shares we are offering will be decreased on a one-for-one basis. Because we will issue [___] Warrant for each share of Common Stock or Pre-Funded Warrant sold in this Offering, the number of Warrants sold in this Offering will not change as a result of a change in the mix of the Shares and Pre-Funded Warrants sold.
     
Description of the Warrants   The Warrants will have an exercise price of $[ ] per share, subject to adjustment as set forth therein and will expire [ ] years from the date of issuance. The Warrants are exercisable immediately. Investors will receive [ ] Warrant for each share of Common Stock purchased in the Offering.
     
Common Stock Issued and Outstanding Before This Offering  

2,211,098

     
Common Stock Issued and Outstanding After This Offering   [ ] ([ ] if the Pre-Funded Warrants and Warrants being offered hereby are exercised in full)
     
Over-allotment Option   We have granted the underwriter an option for up to 45 days from the closing date of the Offering to purchase up to an additional number of shares of Common Stock equal to 15% of the total number of shares of Common Stock and Pre-Funded Warrants and/or up to an additional number of Warrants equal to 15% of the Warrants to be offered hereunder.
     

Representative’s Warrants

 

  We have agreed to issue the Representative (or its designated affiliates), at the closing of the Offering, share purchase warrants covering a number of shares of Common Stock equal to up to three and one-half percent (3.5%) of the total number of shares of Common Stock and Pre-Funded Warrants being sold in the Offering, including pursuant to the over-allotment option.  
     
Use of Proceeds   The Company will use the net proceeds from the Offering for general corporate purposes and working capital, to finance project acquisitions, to finance the development of new and current projects and facilities, to repay outstanding bridge loans and debt of the Company, to expand the services it offers and to meet the enhanced corporate governance and reporting requirements mandated by The Nasdaq Capital Market. See the section entitled “Use of Proceeds.”
     
Risk Factors   See the prospectus section titled “Risk Factors” and the other information set forth in this prospectus for a discussion of factors you should consider before deciding to invest in the Securities.
     
Market for Common Stock  

Shares of the Company’s Common Stock are quoted on the OTCQB® Venture Marketplace under the symbol “BLSP”. On May 26, 2017, the closing sale price of our Common Stock was $3.29 per share.

     
NASDAQ Listing Application
and Proposed Symbols
  On January 20, 2017, we applied to have our Common Stock and Warrants listed on The NASDAQ Capital Market under the symbols “BLSP” and “BLSPW”, respectively. No assurance can be given that our application will be approved.  Listing of our Common Stock on The NASDAQ Capital Market is a condition to consummation of the Offering. The Pre-Funded Warrants are not and will not be listed for trading on any national securities exchange.
     
Reverse Stock Split   On November 23, 2016, our stockholders approved a reverse split of our Common Stock at a ratio reasonably necessary to satisfy the minimum requirements for listing on The NASDAQ Capital Market. On March 24, 2017, we effectuated the Reverse Stock Split upon the filing of our Certificate of Amendment No. 2 to our Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation, at a ratio of 130-to-1, such that each 130 shares of Common Stock issued and outstanding immediately prior to the effective time of the Reverse Stock Split automatically combined into 1 validly issued, fully paid and non-assessable share of Common Stock without any further action by the Company or the holder thereof.
     
Dividends   We have not declared or paid dividends on our Common Stock since our inception, and we do not anticipate paying any such dividends for the foreseeable future.

 

Unless otherwise indicated in this prospectus, all Common Stock share and per share information in this prospectus gives effect to the Reverse Stock Split. Any reference in this prospectus to the shares of Common Stock sold in this Offering shall relate to all shares of our Common Stock sold in this Offering, regardless of whether sold in the form of Shares or Pre-Funded Warrants.

 

The number of shares of our Common Stock issued and outstanding before the Offering is as of May 26, 2017, and the number of shares of our Common Stock outstanding before and after the Offering excludes:

 

  5,992 shares of our Common Stock are issuable upon the exercise of options granted under our 2010 Incentive Plan;

  620,300 shares of our Common Stock are issuable upon exercise of our currently outstanding warrants, with a weighted average exercise price of $9.36 per share;
  225,000 shares of our Common Stock that would be issuable upon exercise of the Debenture Refinance Warrants (as defined below), which will be issued following the closing of this Offering upon certain conditions precedent being met, at an exercise price based on the Refinance Price Formula (as defined below);

  53,847 shares of our Common Stock that would be issuable upon exercise  of certain warrants that are subject to dispute in the Prassas Litigation (as defined below), at an exercise price of $6.50 per share;
  197,954 shares of our Common Stock are issuable upon exercise of our currently outstanding convertible notes; 
  753,239 shares of our Common Stock that will become issuable September 24, 2017 upon full conversion of all of our currently outstanding convertible 2015 Debentures (as defined below), or in the alternative, upon closing of the Debenture Refinance, 1,129,858 shares of our Common Stock that would become issuable upon exercise six-months following issuance of the Convertible Debentures (as defined below), which will be issued following the closing of this Offering upon certain conditions precedent being met (including repayment of the 2015 Debentures), in both cases, based on a conversion price equal to 80% of the average reported closing price of the Common Stock on the OTCQB Venture Marketplace calculated using the five trading days immediately preceding the date above (in the case of the Convertible Debentures, such formula was assumed because an exercise price is currently indeterminable using the Refinance Price Formula);
  [   ] shares of our Common Stock issuable upon exercise of the over-allotment option; and 
  [   ] shares of our Common stock issuable upon exercise of the Representative’s Warrants.

 

  

5  

 

  

SUMMARY FINANCIAL DATA

 

The following summary of our financial data should be read in conjunction with, and is qualified in its entirety by reference to “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and our consolidated financial statements, appearing elsewhere in this prospectus.

 

Statements of Operations Data*

 

    For the Year ended
September 30, 2015
(audited)
  For the Year ended
December 31, 2016
(audited)
 

For the Three Months ended 

December 31, 2015  

(audited)  

 

For the Three Months ended 

March 31, 2016  

(unaudited)  

 

For the Three Months ended  

March 31, 2017  

(unaudited)  

 
Revenue from Services   $       588              
                                   
Loss from Operations   $ 5,317       7,516       1,106     1,980   1,194  
                                   
Finance Expense (Income)   $ 2,145       1,728       75     41   940  
                                   
Income  (Loss) from Change in Fair Value of Warrant Liability   $       1,390       (219 )   (1,190 ) 337  
                                   
Loss from extinguishment of Debenture   $                   615  
                                   
Equity (loss) earnings in Nonconsolidated Subsidiaries   $       444       (38   (670 ) 64  
                                   
Equity Earnings in Nonconsolidated Affiliates   $       5,961             367  
                                   
Net Loss   $ 7,462       1,801       1,288     3,881   1,981  

 

 

Balance Sheet Data*

 

    As of
December 31, 2016
(audited)
  As of
December 31, 2015
(audited)
 

As of March 31, 2017 

(unaudited)  

 
Current Assets   $ 1,905       3,303     1,811  
                       
Investments in Nonconsolidated Affiliates   $ 10,137       7,570     10,734  
                       
Investments in Nonconsolidated Subsidiaries   $ 4,429       4,993     4,563  
                       
Total Assets   $ 16,521       15,896     17,156  
                       
Total Current Liabilities   $ 11,574       10,808     13,891  
                       
Total Long Term Liabilities   $ 7,171       8,574     7,076  
                       
Total Stockholders’ Deficit   $ (2,224 )     (3,486 )   (3,811 )
                       
Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Deficit   $ 16,521       15,896     17,156  

 

* The Company changed its fiscal year to end on December 31st each year, effective January 1, 2016. The Company filed an Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2015, and a Transition Report on Form 10-Q for the three-month period ended December 31, 2015, as amended by Amendments No. 1 and No. 2 to the Transition Report on Form 10-Q for the three-month period ended December 31, 2015. Pursuant to Rule 13a-10 of the Exchange Act, the Company has included the audited financial statements for the three-month period ended December 31, 2015 with its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016.

 

6  

 

 

RISK FACTORS

 

Investing in our Securities involves a high degree of risk. You should carefully consider the following risk factors before deciding whether to invest in the Company. If any of the events discussed in the risk factors below occur, our business, financial condition, results of operations or prospects could be materially and adversely affected. In such case, the value and marketability of our Securities could decline. Additional risks and uncertainties that we do not presently know or that we currently deem immaterial may also impair our business, financial condition, operating results and prospects.

 

Risks Relating to Financial Position and Need for Additional Capital

 

Our independent auditors’ report states that there is substantial doubt that we will be able to continue as a going concern.

 

Our independent registered public accounting firm, Brightman Almagor Zohar & Co., a member firm of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, state in their audit report, dated February 14, 2017, that our recurring losses from operations raise substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern. There is a risk that we will continue to incur expenses without generating significant revenue into the future. Our source of funds to date has been the sale of our common stock and warrants, debt financing, development fees and disbursements from our projects in Italy. Because we cannot ensure that any of our projects currently in development will ever become operational or that we will be able to generate any significant revenue from our operating projects, obtaining new sources of equity or debt financing will be difficult.

 

We have a limited operating history which makes it difficult to evaluate our business and prospects.

 

The Company has a limited operating history upon which you can base an evaluation of its business and prospects. Our facility in North Carolina commenced commercial operations on November 18, 2016, and our facility in Rhode Island has not yet commenced operations. In December 2015, we acquired four biogas plants in Italy pursuant to the Italy Projects Agreement (as defined below). We have entered into nonbinding letters of intent for the acquisition or development of other projects, but there is no assurance that we will successfully acquire or develop such projects. Accordingly, our business is subject to substantial risks, uncertainties and expenses that are difficult to evaluate. Our ability to generate revenue and become and remain profitable will depend on, among other things:

 

our ability to satisfy the conditions for obtaining ownership of our projects for those projects we have entered into definitive signed agreements for;

our ability to enter into definitive signed agreements for the acquisition of our projects for which we have entered into term sheets, letters of intent or memoranda of understanding; 

our ability to obtain adequate financing for our projects on terms and upon timing consistent with our expectations;
our ability to develop and construct our projects at our projected cost and within our projected timetables;
our ability to effectively manage the operations at our projects;
our ability to develop and maintain an effective internal corporate organization; and
our ability to attract, hire and retain qualified and experienced management as well as technical and operations personnel.

 

There can be no assurance that our projects will generate sufficient revenue or that we will have adequate working capital to meet our obligations as they become due. Readers should consider the risks and difficulties frequently encountered by companies like ours, particularly in rapidly evolving markets. We cannot be certain that our business strategy will be successful or that we will successfully address these risks. In the event that we do not successfully address these risks, our business, prospects, financial condition, and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.

 

We have a history of losses and can provide no assurance of our future operating results.

 

As of March 31, 2017, we had working capital deficit of $12,080,000 and stockholders’ deficit of $3,811,000. As of December 31, 2015, and 2016, we had working capital deficit of $7,505,000 and $9,669,000, respectively, and stockholders’ deficit of $3,486,000 and $2,224,000, respectively. For the three months ended March 31, 2017, we incurred net losses of $1,981,000. For the years ended September 30, 2015 and December 31, 2016, we incurred net losses of $7,462,000 and $1,801,000, respectively. For the three months ended December 31, 2015, we incurred net losses of $1,288,000. As of March 31, 2017, and December 31, 2016, we had an aggregate accumulated deficit of $48,474,000 and 46,493,000, respectively. There is a substantial risk that we will incur additional substantial operating losses for the foreseeable future, and we may never achieve or maintain profitability. We anticipate that our expenses will increase as we continue to implement our project development and construction plan and expand our general and administrative operations. As a result, our projects will need to generate significant revenues in order to achieve and maintain profitability. We may not be able to generate these revenues or achieve profitability in the future. Our failure to achieve or maintain profitability could negatively impact the value of our Common Stock.

 

7  

 

 

Any delay in, or failure to, accomplish our acquisition, financing and development plans could adversely affect the ability of our projects to generate revenues and become profitable.

 

Because of the numerous uncertainties associated with the acquisition, financing, and development of our projects, we are unable to predict the timing of when we will become profitable, if ever. No assurances can be given about if and when our Rhode Island project will commence commercial operations, if we will close acquisitions of additional biogas plants in Italy, the Netherlands, the United States, the United Kingdom or Israel, or if we will be able to continue to develop a pipeline of projects. We may fail to satisfy the conditions in our acquisition, financing and development agreements, and project construction may not be completed on the schedule or within the budget that we intend, or at all. The foregoing could materially and adversely affect the ability of our projects to generate revenue and become profitable. Even if we do achieve profitability, we may be unable to sustain or increase our profitability in the future.

 

We will require additional funding, and our future access to capital is uncertain. Insufficient capital may limit our ability to pursue our projects.

 

All of our current and future projects will require significant amounts of financing from us and/or our partners. We also may seek additional capital due to favorable market conditions or strategic considerations, even if we believe we have sufficient funds for our current or future operating plans. There can be no assurance that additional funds will be available on acceptable terms or at all. We may be required to pursue sources of additional capital through various means, including debt or equity financings. Future financings through equity financings are likely to be dilutive to existing stockholders. Newly issued securities may include preferences, voting rights, warrants or other derivative securities, which may have additional dilutive effects to existing stockholders. Further, we may incur substantial costs to obtain additional funding, including investment banking fees, legal fees, accounting fees, printing and distribution expenses and other costs. We may also be required to recognize non-cash expenses in connection with certain securities we issue, such as convertible notes and warrants, which will adversely impact our financial condition. Our ability to obtain additional funding may be impaired by general market conditions and/or our financial condition, which could impact the availability or cost of future financings. If the amount of capital we are able to raise from financing activities, together with our projects’ future revenues from operations, if any, is not sufficient to satisfy our capital needs, we may not be able to pursue our projects and our business, financial condition and results of operations may be materially and adversely affected.

 

We have incurred substantial indebtedness.

 

As of March 31, 2017, we had indebtedness of approximately $13,177,000. Our level of indebtedness increases the possibility that we may not have sufficient cash to pay, when due, the principal, interest or other amounts due in respect of such indebtedness. Our level of indebtedness, combined with other financial obligations and contractual commitments, could:

  

make it difficult for us to satisfy our obligations with respect to such indebtedness, which could result in events of default under the loan agreements and instruments governing the indebtedness;
require us to dedicate a substantial portion of our cash flow from operations to payments on indebtedness, thereby reducing funds available for working capital, capital expenditures, and other corporate purposes;
increase our vulnerability to adverse economic and industry conditions, which could place us at a competitive disadvantage compared to competitors that have relatively less indebtedness;
limit our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our business and the industry in which we operate; and
limit our ability to borrow additional funds, or to dispose of assets to raise funds, if needed, for working capital, capital expenditures, and other corporate purposes.

 

We may incur additional indebtedness in the future, including through the issuance of convertible notes. If we incur a substantial amount of additional indebtedness, the related risks that we face could become more significant. Additionally, the terms of any future debt that we incur may impose requirements or restrictions that further affect our financial and operating flexibility.

 

Risks Relating to Business and Industry

 

Project construction and development requires significant outlays of capital and is subject to numerous risks.

 

The construction and development of our projects involves numerous risks. We are required to outlay significant capital for preliminary engineering, permitting, legal, and other expenses before we can determine whether a project is feasible or economically attractive. In order to successfully construct and develop our projects, we need to negotiate satisfactory engineering, procurement and construction agreements and feedstock supply and power purchase agreements, receive all required governmental permits and approvals, obtain financing, and timely implement construction and development. Successful completion of a particular project may be adversely affected by numerous factors, including: (i) failure or delay in obtaining required government permits and approvals with acceptable conditions; (ii) unavailability of financing; (iii) uncertainties relating to land costs for projects; (iv) engineering problems; (v) construction delays and contractor performance shortfalls; (vi) work stoppages; (vii) cost over-runs; (viii) failure of equipment and materials supply; (ix) adverse weather conditions; and (x) environmental and geological conditions.

 

8  

 

 

Our power purchase agreements, which we expect to be the primary source of future revenue for our projects, require us to meet certain milestones and other performance criteria.

 

Our power purchase agreements typically require us to meet certain milestones and other performance criteria, including the commencement of a project’s commercial operations by a certain date. Our failure to meet these milestones and other criteria, including minimum quantities once we have achieved commercial operations, may result in termination of these contracts, in which case we would lose any future cash flow from the relevant project and may be required to pay fees and penalties to our counterparty. We cannot assure you that we will be able to perform our obligations under such contracts or that we will have sufficient funds to pay any fees or penalties thereunder. In the past, our projects have been subject to fees and penalties under the Amended and Restated Renewable Energy Purchase Agreement, dated October 12, 2012 and amended on April 25, 2013, January 31, 2014, January 29, 2015 and September 30, 2016, by and between Orbit Energy Charlotte, LLC (“OEC”) and Duke Energy Carolinas, LLC (as amended, the “Duke PPA”), and the Power Purchase Agreement, dated May 26, 2011 and amended on April 11, 2013, December 9, 2013, January 9, 2015 and May 27, 2016, by and between Orbit Energy Rhode Island, LLC (“OERI”) and The Narragansett Electric Company d/b/a National Grid (as amended, the “National Grid PPA”) to extend certain milestones. The Duke PPA and National Grid PPA required us to commence commercial operations of the North Carolina and Rhode Island projects, respectively, by December 31, 2015. Because commercial operations of the North Carolina project were not commenced within 60 days of December 31, 2015, OEC was required to pay $500,000 of liquidated damages to Duke Energy pursuant to the Duke PPA during the first quarter of 2016; York Renewable Energy Partners LLC (“York”), our joint venture partner in the North Carolina and Rhode Island projects, was responsible for contributing these funds to OEC. Because commercial operations of the Rhode Island project were not commenced by December 31, 2015, OERI paid an additional “Development Period Security” payment of $22,500 pursuant to the National Grid PPA; York was responsible for contributing these funds to OERI. On May 27, 2016, National Grid agreed to modify the date to commence commercial operations to June 30, 2017. As an incentive and evidence of good faith to achieve commercial operation, OERI posted additional collateral in the amount of $22,500, such funds having been contributed to OERI by York. Although York was responsible for these amounts, we are heavily dependent on the Duke PPA and National Grid PPA as the expected primary source of future revenue for our North Carolina and Rhode Island projects, respectively.

 

We are heavily dependent on fixed price power purchase agreements or plant EBITDA agreements as the expected primary source of revenue for our projects.

 

We have entered into fixed price power purchase agreements with respect to our current projects. Currently, we are heavily dependent on the Duke PPA and National Grid PPA as the expected primary source of future revenue for our North Carolina and Rhode Island projects, respectively. In addition, we are heavily dependent on the Plant EBITDA Agreements with our operating partner, Austep, for each of our SPVs, which provide for payment of a specified amount of EBITDA by Austep. A material decrease in the output to these purchasers, a material adverse change in the terms of the purchase and sale of energy by these purchasers, the failure of Austep to make payments to us under the Plant EBITDA Agreements, or a material adverse change in the financial condition of these purchasers or Austep could significantly reduce the revenues of our projects and reduce our earnings.

 

Our business model depends on performance by third parties under contractual arrangements.

 

Our businesses depend on third parties to, among other things, own and/or operate our projects, purchase energy produced by our projects, and supply and deliver the goods and services necessary for the construction and operation of our projects. Specifically, Austep S.p.A., an Italian corporation that specializes in the design, construction, operation and servicing of anaerobic digestion plants, operates, maintains and supervises each biogas plant owned by the SPVs in Italy pursuant to certain Plant EBITDA Agreements, which provide for payment of a specified amount of EBITDA by Austep. In addition, the design, development and delivery of our North Carolina and Rhode Island projects is performed by Auspark LLC, an affiliate of Austep, and the operations of our North Carolina and Rhode Island projects, respectively, are or will be performed by Austep USA Inc. and Austep RI LLC, each of which is an affiliate of Austep. See the section of this prospectus entitled “Description of Business” for definitions and further information. The viability of our projects depends significantly upon the performance of these third parties in accordance with long-term contracts. If these third parties cannot or will not perform their contractual obligations, whether due to their financial condition, force majeure events, changes in laws or regulations, or otherwise, we may not be able to secure alternate arrangements on substantially the same terms or at all for the goods and services provided under such contracts. In addition, some of the owners and operators of our projects may be smaller companies that are more likely to experience financial and operational difficulties than relatively larger, well-established companies, which could result in interruptions or delays in the operation of our projects. Any of the foregoing could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

We are a minority owner in our North Carolina and Rhode Island projects.

 

We are the owner of 25% of the North Carolina project and 22.75% of the Rhode Island project through certain joint ventures, and therefore are minority owners of these projects. The partnerships have contracted with Auspark LLC to design, construct and operate the North Carolina project and to design and construct the Rhode Island project. Our share of any net earnings (losses) generated by the North Carolina and Rhode Island projects is earned in accordance with our ownership of these projects. See the section of this prospectus entitled “Description of Business” for definitions and further information. As minority owners in the North Carolina and Rhode Island projects, we do not have full authority to control or make decisions concerning the development, contracting, ultimate operations of or sale of these projects. In addition, our right to receive distributions from each project is subject to certain priorities in favor of York, including, among other things, with respect to distributions from the North Carolina project and distributions upon a liquidation event for the Rhode Island project, York’s right to receive repayment its unrecovered capital contributions to each project, plus an annual rate of return of nine percent (9%) on such unrecovered capital contributions. Any of the foregoing could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

The SPV Financing Agreement is an off-balance sheet arrangement that is secured by the assets of the SPVs.

 

The SPVs, Banca IMI S.p.A. (“the SPVs’ lender”) and Intesa San Paolo S.p.A. are party to a certain €22,080,000 Financing Agreement, dated February 25, 2013 (the “SPV Financing Agreement”). As of March 31, 2017, €17,395,402 was outstanding under the SPV Financing Agreement. Because our agreements between the SPVs and Austep, whereby Austep operates, maintains and supervises each biogas plant, prevent us from exercising a controlling influence over operating policies of the facilities, we apply the equity method of accounting for the investments in the SPVs and the amounts owed under the SPV Financing Agreement are not reflected on our consolidated balance sheet. However, if we were to apply another method of accounting we could be required to consolidate the SPVs and the associated debt at that time, which could negatively affect our financial condition.

 

In addition, amounts outstanding under the SPV Financing Agreement are secured by the assets of the SPVs. If the SPVs were to default under the SPV Financing Agreement, and the SPVs’ lender were to foreclose on the secured assets, this could have a material effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

We may not be able to obtain feedstock or other inputs at acceptable prices, which could increase our operating costs significantly and harm our financial condition and results of operations.

 

We believe we have all definitive agreements needed to supply all feedstock needed for operation of our current projects, including an Organic Waste Delivery Agreement, dated October 13, 2016, between OERI and Renewable Organics Management LLC, for the supply of feedstock upon commencement of operations at our Rhode Island project. Although we and our third party operators can obtain certain project inputs pursuant to fixed price arrangements, we and they are vulnerable to the availability and price fluctuations of certain raw materials and utilities, such as feedstock and electricity. Our and our third party operators’ ability to operate our projects is dependent upon the availability of feedstock and utilities at reasonable prices. Market conditions can impact the availability and price of these inputs, and our and our third party operators’ suppliers may be unable to deliver our requirements for these inputs at acceptable prices or at all. During periods when availability of these inputs decreases or their prices increase, we or our third party operators may incur significant increases in operating costs without being able to increase the selling price of our projects’ energy output under fixed price power purchase agreements. This could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

 

Our operations in foreign markets could cause us to incur additional costs and risks associated with doing business internationally.

 

Our operations in markets outside the United States subject us to additional costs and risks, including:

 

compliance with foreign requirements regulating the environment and the waste-to-energy market;
difficulties in establishing, staffing and managing international operations;
U.S. laws and regulations related to foreign operations, including tax and anti-corruption laws and regulations;

 

9  

 

 

differing intellectual property laws;
differing contract laws that impact the enforceability of agreements among energy suppliers and energy consumers;
imposition of special taxes;
strong national and international competitors;
currency exchange rate fluctuations; and
political and economic instability in the countries in which we operate.

 

Our failure to manage the risks associated with international operations could limit the future growth of our business and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. We may be required to make a substantial financial investment and expend significant management efforts in connection with our international operations.

 

We conduct our operations in Israel, and therefore our results may be adversely affected by political, economic and military instability in Israel and its region.

 

Although our principal executive office is in the United States, a substantial part of our business and management is based in Israel and some of our officers, employees, consultants and directors are residents of Israel. Therefore, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be adversely affected by political, economic and military instability in Israel. Since the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, a number of armed conflicts have taken place between Israel and its Arab neighbors. Any hostilities involving Israel or the interruption or curtailment of trade within Israel or between Israel and its trading partners could adversely affect our operations and could make it more difficult for us to raise capital.

 

Operations in the developing world could cause us to incur additional costs and risks associated with doing business in developing markets.

 

We are seeking to operate in the developing world (such as, e.g., countries in Eastern Europe), which would make us vulnerable to political, economic and social instability in such areas. Many areas of the developing world have experienced political, economic and social uncertainty in recent years, including an economic crisis characterized in some cases by increased inflation, high domestic interest rates, negative economic growth, reduced consumer purchasing power and high unemployment. Currently, many of the countries in the developing world where we have been or may be pursuing projects have been pursuing economic stabilization policies, including the encouragement of foreign trade and investment and other reforms, but there is no guarantee these policies will be successful or stay in place. Political, economic and social instability in these countries may have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

Acquisition, financing, construction and development of new projects and project expansions may not commence as anticipated or at all.

 

Our strategy is to continue to expand in the future, including through acquisition of additional projects. From time to time we enter into nonbinding letters of intent for projects that we are evaluating. However, until the negotiations are finalized and the parties have executed a definitive agreement, there can be no assurance that we will be able to enter into any development or acquisition transaction, on the terms in the applicable letter of intent or at all, or any other similar arrangements.

 

The acquisition, financing, construction and development of new projects involves numerous risks, including:

 

difficulties in identifying, obtaining and permitting suitable sites for new projects;
assumptions with respect to the cost and schedule for completing construction;
the ability to obtain financing for a project on acceptable terms or at all;
delays in deliveries of, or increases in the prices of, equipment;
the unavailability of sufficient quantities of waste or other fuels for startup;
permitting and other regulatory issues, license revocation and changes in legal requirements;
labor disputes and work stoppages;
unforeseen engineering and environmental problems;
cost overruns; and
weather conditions and certain force majeure events.

 

In addition, new projects have no operating history and may employ recently developed technology and equipment. A new project may be unable to fund principal and interest payments under its debt service obligations or may operate at a loss. In certain situations, if a project fails to achieve commercial operation, at certain levels or at all, termination rights in the agreements governing the project financing may be triggered, rendering all of the project’s debt immediately due and payable. As a result, the project may be rendered insolvent and we may lose our interest in the project.

 

Some of our projects require a relatively long development and/or construction cycle, and are subject to regulatory, planning and market changes, all of which can affect our ability to finish the projects.

 

Some of our projects may require a relatively long development and or construction cycle. These long periods of development can subject us to certain regulatory, municipal planning and financial market changes after having invested capital into the development phases of the projects. These changes could have an adverse effect on our ability to finish such projects.

 

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Changes in climate conditions could materially affect our business and prospects.

 

Significant changes in weather patterns and volatility could have a positive or negative influence on our existing business and our prospects for growth. Such changes may cause episodic events (such as floods or storms) that are difficult to predict or prepare for, or longer-term trends (such as droughts or sea-level rise). These or other meteorological changes could lead to increased operating costs, capital expenses, disruptions in facility operations or supply chains, changes in waste generation and interruptions in waste deliveries, and changes in energy pricing, among other effects.

 

We may face intense competition and may not be able to successfully compete.

 

There are a number of other companies operating in the renewable energy and waste-to-energy markets. These include service or equipment providers, consultants, managers, buyers and/or investors. In contrast to the standard market approach in these markets, we seek to provide a one-stop shop, turn-key solution to project owners.

 

We may not have the resources to compete with our existing competitors or with any new competitors. Most of our competitors have significantly greater personnel, financial and managerial resources than we have, and we may fail to maintain or expand our business. Moreover, as the demand for renewable energy increases, new companies may enter the market, and the influx of added competition will pose an increased risk to us. Increased competition could harm our business, prospects, financial condition and results of operations.

 

We rely on key personnel, and if we are unable to retain or hire qualified personnel, we may not be able to maintain or expand our business.

 

The development of our business will continue to place a significant strain on our limited personnel, management, and other resources. Our future success depends upon the continued services of our executive officers and the engagement of key employees and contractors who have critical industry experience and relationships that we will rely on to implement our business plan. The loss of the services of any of our officers or the lack of availability of other skilled personnel would negatively impact our ability to maintain or expand our business, which could adversely affect our business, prospects, financial condition and results of operations. In order to support our projected growth, we will be required to effectively recruit, hire, train and retain additional qualified management personnel. Our inability to attract and retain the necessary personnel could have a material adverse effect on us. We have no “key man” insurance on any of our key employees.

 

In the past we have experienced material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting, which caused us to restate certain financials in 2016. If we fail to establish and maintain a system of disclosure controls and procedures and an effective system of internal control over financial reporting, we may not be able to accurately and timely disclose information about us and our financial results or prevent fraud. Any inability to accurately and timely disclose information and financial results could harm our business and reputation and cause the value of our Securities to decline.

 

A system of disclosure controls and procedures is necessary to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time specified in the SEC’s rules and forms. Effective internal control over financial reporting is necessary for us to provide reliable financial reports and prevent fraud. If we cannot disclose required information or provide reliable financial reports, we may not be able to manage our business as effectively as we would if an effective control environment existed, and our business and reputation with investors may be harmed. Due to lack of segregation of duties, limited resources, and lack of a formal audit committee and financial expert on our Board, we concluded that our internal controls over financial reporting were not effective as of December 31, 2016. We have taken certain steps to address these deficiencies, but we continue to determine how best to change our current system and implement a more effective system. There can be no assurance that implementation of any changes will be completed in a timely manner or that they will be adequate once implemented.

 

As reported in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 2016, our management concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was not effective as of December 31, 2016 in ensuring that (i) information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms and (ii) information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. As a result, we were required to restate certain financials in 2016.

 

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During 2016, we established an audit committee comprised of only disinterested directors, recruited a seasoned Chief Financial Officer, and began implementing and evaluating new internal controls over financial reporting and disclosure controls and procedures. Although management is still evaluating the design of these new controls and procedures, we believe that our improved processes and procedures will assist in the remediation of our material weaknesses. Once placed in operation for a sufficient period, we will subject these controls and procedures to appropriate tests in order to determine whether they are operating effectively. Management, with oversight from the audit committee, is committed to the remediation of known material weaknesses as expeditiously as possible. If we have continued material weaknesses in our internal financial reporting, our financial condition could be impaired or we may have to restate our financials, which could cause us to expend additional funds and would have a material impact on our ability to generate profits and on the success of our business.

 

Volatility in foreign exchange currency rates could adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.

 

We have significant exposure to revenues, expenses and certain asset and liability balances denominated in Euros. In addition, we conduct transactions in various currencies, which increases our exposure to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates relative to the U.S. Dollar. Fluctuations in the exchange rates of the Euro relative to the U.S. Dollar can significantly affect our operating results and equity earnings. Our operating and equity earnings are adversely affected when the U.S. Dollar strengthens relative to other currencies and are positively affected when the U.S. Dollar weakens. In the future, a larger portion of our international revenue may be denominated in foreign currencies, which will subject us to additional risks associated with fluctuations in those foreign currencies. In addition, we may be unable to successfully hedge against any such fluctuations.

 

If our strategy is unsuccessful, we will not be profitable and our stockholders could lose their investment.

 

We do not believe there is a track record for companies pursuing our specific strategy, and there is no guarantee that our strategy will be successful or profitable. If our strategy is unsuccessful and our projects do not generate revenue or profit, the value of our Securities could decrease and our stockholders could lose their investments.

 

We are and may become subject to litigation claims or suits, government investigations, and other proceedings that may result in adverse outcomes.

 

We are currently party to the Barkats Litigation, in which the New York Court has issued a Temporary Restraining Order in favor of JS Barkats PLLC, prohibiting us and Mr. Shlomo Palas, our Chief Executive Officer, from “transferring or dissipating [our] assets … to the extent of $652,000”. We are also currently party to the Prassas Litigation, in which a complaint was filed against us alleging breach of contract and further (a) seeking unpaid fees in the amount of USD $1,601,317.67 plus interest, (b) seeking issuance of an order of prejudgment attachment and garnishment on our bank accounts, other property held by us and all payments owed to us from third parties, (c) seeking an injunction restraining us from transferring funds or property outside of the court’s jurisdiction or alternatively that the court appoint a receiver to manage, operate, control and take possession of our assets, and (d) seeking a declaration that Prassas Capital, LLC has been granted a contractual right to purchase 53,847 shares of Common Stock at a price of $6.50 per share (after giving effect to the Reverse Stock Split). For more details on the Barkats Litigation and the Prassas Litigation, see the section entitled “Litigation”. In addition, at any given time we may be or may become subject to other litigation claims or suits, government investigations, and other proceedings involving competition, project operations, local regulatory matters, health and safety, hazardous materials usage tax, labor and employment, contract disputes, or other matters. The Barkats Litigation, Prassas Litigation, and any such claims, suits, government investigations, and proceedings are inherently uncertain and their results cannot be predicted with certainty. Regardless of the outcome, such proceedings can have an adverse impact on us because of legal costs, diversion of management resources, and other factors. Determining reserves for our current and pending litigation is a complex, fact-intensive process that requires significant judgment. Defense of any such proceedings could be costly and involve significant time and attention of our management and other resources, may result in monetary liabilities or penalties, and may require us to change our business in an adverse manner. It is possible that a resolution of any such proceedings, including the Barkats Litigation or the Prassas Litigation, could adversely affect our business, consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows in a particular period or the industry as a whole.

 

These proceedings could also result in reputational harm and/or regulatory sanctions, decrees or orders preventing us from engaging in certain business activity or practices. Any of these consequences could adversely affect our business and results of operations.

 

Risks Relating to the Regulation of Projects

 

We may be unable to obtain, modify, or maintain the regulatory permits, approvals and consents required to construct and operate our projects.

 

In order to construct and operate our projects, we must obtain and modify numerous environmental and other regulatory permits and certifications from federal, state and local agencies and authorities, including air permits and wastewater discharge permits. A number of these permits and certifications must be obtained prior to the start of construction of a project, while other permits are required to be obtained at or prior to the time of first commercial operation or within prescribed time frames following commencement of commercial operations. Any failure to obtain or modify the necessary environmental and other regulatory permits and certifications on a timely basis could delay the construction or commercial operation of our projects. In addition, once a permit or certification has been issued for a project, we must take steps to comply with each permit’s or certification’s conditions, which can include conditions as to timely construction and commencement of the project. Failure to comply with these conditions could result in revocation or suspension of the permit or certification and/or the imposition of penalties or other consequences. We also may need to modify existing permits to reflect changes in project design or requirements, which could trigger a legal or regulatory review under a standard that may be more stringent than when the permits were originally granted.

 

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Obtaining and modifying necessary permits and certifications is a time-consuming and expensive process, and we may not be able to obtain or modify them on a timely basis or at all. In the event that we fail to obtain or modify all necessary permits and certifications, we may be forced to delay construction or operation of a project or abandon the project altogether, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition, we may be required to make capital expenditures on an ongoing basis to comply with increasingly stringent federal, state, provincial and local environmental, health and safety laws, regulations and permits.

 

We are subject to environmental laws and potential exposure to environmental liabilities.

 

Because of the nature of our projects, we are subject to various federal, state and local environmental laws and regulations that govern our operations, including the import, handling and disposal of non-hazardous and hazardous wastes, and emissions and discharges into the environment. Failure to comply with these laws and regulations could result in costs for corrective action, penalties or the imposition of other liabilities. We also are subject to laws and regulations that impose liability and clean-up responsibility for releases of hazardous substances into the environment. Under certain of these laws and regulations, a current or previous owner or operator of property may be liable for the costs of remediating the release or spill of hazardous substances or petroleum products on or from its property, without regard to whether the owner or operator knew of, or caused, the contamination, and such owner or operator may incur liability to third parties impacted by such contamination. Failure to comply with applicable environmental laws and regulations and the imposition of environmental liability could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

Changes in applicable laws and regulations can adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

There has been substantial debate recently in the United States and abroad in the context of environmental and energy policies affecting climate change, the outcome of which could have a positive or negative influence on our existing business and our prospects for growing our business. Governmental entities that regulate our operations or projects may adopt new laws, regulations or policies, or amend or change the interpretation of existing laws, regulations or policies, at any time. We have no control over these changes, which could potentially have an adverse effect on our business, prospects, financial condition and results of operations.

 

Our business and reputation could be adversely affected if we or third parties with whom we have a relationship fail to comply with United States or foreign anti-corruption laws or regulations.

 

Our business and operations may be conducted in countries where corruption has historically penetrated the economy to a greater extent than in the United States. It is our policy to comply, and to require our local partners and those with whom we do business to comply, with all applicable anti-corruption laws, such as the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, and with applicable local laws of the foreign countries in which we operate. Our business and reputation may be adversely affected if we or our local partners fail to comply with such laws.

 

Risk Relating to our Securities and the Offering

 

Future sales of our Common Stock by existing stockholders could cause the price of our Securities to decline.

 

If our existing stockholders sell substantial amounts of our Common Stock in the public market, or if there is a perception that our stockholders might sell shares of our Common Stock, the price of our Securities could decrease significantly. If the holders of our convertible notes or warrants elect to convert or exercise, or if we issue additional convertible notes or warrants, the conversion or exercise of these securities into shares of our Common Stock could also decrease the price of our Securities. A decline in the price of our Common Stock might impede our ability to raise capital through the issuance of additional shares of our Common Stock or other securities.

 

We may allocate net proceeds from this Offering in ways which differ from our estimates based on our current plans and assumptions discussed in the section entitled “Use of Proceeds” and with which you may not agree.

 

The allocation of net proceeds of the Offering set forth in the section entitled “Use of Proceeds” represents our estimates based upon our current plans and assumptions regarding industry and general economic conditions, our projects’ future revenues and expenditures. The amounts and timing of our actual expenditures will depend on numerous factors, including success of our management’s initiatives, cash generated by our operations and project acquisition and development. We may find it necessary or advisable to use portions of the proceeds from the Offering for other purposes. Circumstances that may give rise to a change in the use of proceeds and the alternate purposes for which the proceeds may be used are discussed in the section entitled “Use of Proceeds”. You may not have an opportunity to evaluate the information on which we base our decisions on how to use the proceeds and may not agree with the decisions made. Additional information is available in the section entitled “Use of Proceeds”.

 

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The market price for our Securities may be particularly volatile given our status as a relatively unknown company, with a limited operating history and lack of profits which could lead to wide fluctuations in our share price. You may be unable to sell your Securities at or above your purchase price, which may result in substantial losses to you.

 

Our stock price may be particularly volatile when compared to the shares of larger, more established companies that trade on a national securities exchange and have large public floats. The volatility in our share price will be attributable to a number of factors. First, our Common Stock is more sporadically and thinly traded compared to the shares of such larger, more established companies. As a consequence of this limited liquidity, the trading of relatively small quantities of shares by our stockholders may disproportionately influence the price of those shares in either direction. The price for our shares could decline precipitously in the event that a large number of shares of our Common Stock are sold on the market without commensurate demand. Secondly, we are a speculative or “risky” investment due to our limited operating history and lack of profits to date, and uncertainty of future market acceptance for our potential products. As a consequence of this enhanced risk, more risk-adverse investors may, under the fear of losing all or most of their investment in the event of negative news or lack of progress, be more inclined to sell their shares on the market more quickly and at greater discounts than would be the case with the stock of a larger, more established company that trades on a national securities exchange and has a large public float. Many of these factors are beyond our control and may decrease the market price of our Securities, regardless of our operating performance. We cannot make any predictions or projections as to what the prevailing market price for our Securities will be at any time. Moreover, the OTCQB is not a liquid market in contrast to the major stock exchanges. We cannot assure you as to the liquidity or the future market prices of our Securities if a market does develop. If a more active market for our Securities develops, the price of our Securities could be highly volatile. The low and/or volatile price of our Securities may make it difficult for holders to sell our Securities at an acceptable price to them or at all. If an active market for our Securities does not develop, the fair market value of our Securities could be materially adversely affected.

 

In addition, because there is currently a low price for our Common Stock, many brokerage and clearing firms are not willing to effect transactions in our Common Stock or accept our shares for deposit in an account. Many lending institutions will not permit the use of low priced common stock as collateral for loans.

 

Holders of our Common Stock may incur dilution. Our certificate of incorporation authorizes the issuance of shares of “blank check” preferred stock.

 

We may issue additional shares of Common Stock or securities convertible into or exchangeable for shares of our Common Stock in order to raise additional capital, which could dilute existing stockholders’ percentage ownership of the Company. Our Board has the authority to cause us to issue additional shares of Common Stock and to determine the rights, preferences and privileges of such shares, without consent of any of our stockholders. Consequently, the stockholders may experience more dilution in their ownership of shares of our Common Stock in the future.

 

We are authorized to issue up to 1,750,000,000 shares of common stock, par value $0.001 per share, and up to 500,000,000 shares of preferred stock, $0.001 par value, in one or more series and with such rights, preferences and privileges as our Board may determine. Shares of our "blank check" preferred stock provide the Board with broad authority to determine voting, dividend, conversion, and other rights of such shares. As of May 26, 2017, there were 2,211,098 shares of our Common Stock issued and outstanding, no shares of our preferred stock issued and outstanding, up to 326,579 shares of Common Stock reserved and available for issuance under the 2016 Incentive Plan, 5,992 shares of our Common Stock are outstanding and issuable upon the exercise of options granted under our 2010 Incentive Plan, up to 620,300 shares of our Common Stock issuable upon exercise of our currently outstanding warrants, up to 225,000 shares of our Common Stock that would be issuable upon exercise of the Debenture Refinance Warrants (which will be issued following the closing of this Offering upon certain conditions precedent being met), up to 197,954 shares of our Common Stock issuable upon exercise of our currently outstanding convertible notes, and up to 53,847 shares of our Common Stock that would be issuable upon exercise of certain warrants that are subject to dispute in the Prassas Litigation. In addition, there were up to 753,239 shares of our Common Stock that will become issuable September 24, 2017 upon full conversion of all of our currently outstanding convertible 2015 Debentures, or in the alternative, upon closing of the Debenture Refinance, up to 1,129,858 shares of our Common Stock that would become issuable upon exercise six-months following issuance of the Convertible Debentures, which will be issued following the closing of this Offering upon certain conditions precedent being met (including repayment of the 2015 Debentures), in both cases, based on a conversion price equal to 80% of the average reported closing price of the Common Stock on the OTCQB Venture Marketplace calculated using the five trading days immediately preceding the date above (in the case of the Convertible Debentures, such formula was assumed because an exercise price is currently indeterminable using the Refinance Price Formula).

 

Our Board may generally issue common and preferred shares, or convertible securities to purchase those shares, without further approval by our shareholders. Any preferred shares we may issue will have such rights, preferences, privileges and restrictions as may be designated from time-to-time by our Board, including preferential dividend rights, voting rights, conversion rights, redemption rights and liquidation provisions. The issuance of additional securities may cause substantial dilution to our stockholders.

 

Our Common Stock is a “penny stock”, as defined in the Exchange Act. Trading of our Common Stock may be restricted by the Securities and Exchange Commission’s “penny stock” regulations, which may limit a stockholder’s ability to buy and sell our stock.

 

Our Common Stock is subject to the regulations of the SEC promulgated under the Exchange Act that require additional disclosure for trading in penny stocks. The SEC regulations generally define penny stocks to be any equity security that is not listed on a national securities exchange and has a market price of less than $5.00 per share, subject to certain exceptions. Unless an exception is available, those regulations require broker-dealers to (i) approve the customer for the specific penny stock transaction and receive from the customer a written agreement to the transaction; (ii) furnish the customer a disclosure document describing the risks of investing in penny stocks; (iii) disclose to the customer the current market quotation, if any, for the penny stock; and (iv) disclose to the customer the amount of compensation the firm and its broker will receive for the trade. In addition, after executing the sale, a broker-dealer must send to its customer monthly account statements showing the market value of each penny stock held in the customer’s account. These disclosure requirements may have the effect of reducing the level of trading activity, if any, in the secondary market for a stock that becomes subject to the penny stock rules. Consequently, these penny stock rules may adversely affect the ability of broker-dealers and stockholders to trade our Common Stock.

 

As an issuer of “penny stock,” the safe harbor provided by the federal securities laws relating to forward-looking statements does not apply to the Company.

 

Although federal securities laws provide a safe harbor for forward-looking statements made by a public company that files reports under the federal securities laws, this safe harbor is not available to issuers of penny stocks. As a result, we will not have the benefit of this safe harbor in the event of a private legal action against us based on a claim that any forward-looking statement in our reports contained a material misstatement of fact or omitted a material fact necessary to make the statement not misleading. Such an action, whether successful or not, could have a material adverse effect on our business.

 

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Since we intend to retain any earnings for development of our business for the foreseeable future, you will likely not receive any dividends for the foreseeable future.

 

We have never paid dividends or made other cash distributions on our Common Stock. We currently intend to retain our future earnings to support operations and to finance expansion, and therefore we do not anticipate paying any cash dividends on our Common Stock in the foreseeable future. 

 

There is a limited public market for our Common Stock.

 

Trading in our Common Stock is conducted on the electronic bulletin board in the over-the-counter market. As a result, a holder of our Common Stock may find it difficult to dispose of or to obtain accurate quotations as to the market value of our Common Stock, and our Common Stock may be less attractive for margin loans, investment by financial institutions, as consideration in future capital raising transactions or for other purposes.

 

We filed an application to have our Common Stock and Warrants listed on The NASDAQ Capital Market. We can provide no assurance that our Common Stock or Warrants will be listed, and if listed, that our Common Stock and Warrants will continue to meet NASDAQ listing requirements. If we fail to comply with the continuing listing standards of The NASDAQ Capital Market, our securities could be delisted.

 

On January 20, 2017, we filed an application to have our Common Stock and Warrants listed on The NASDAQ Capital Market. Listing of our Common Stock on The NASDAQ Capital Market is a condition to consummation of the Offering. The Pre-Funded Warrants are not and will not be listed on a national securities exchange. We anticipate that our Common Stock and Warrants will be eligible to be listed on The NASDAQ Capital Market, subject to actions which may be required to meet the exchange’s listing requirements. However, we can provide no assurance that our application will be approved, and, if approved, that an active trading market for our Common Stock and Warrants will develop and continue. As a result, you may find it more difficult to purchase and dispose of our Common Stock and Warrants and to obtain accurate quotations as to the value of our Common Stock. For our Common Stock and Warrants to be listed on The NASDAQ Capital Market, we must meet the current NASDAQ Capital Market initial and continued listing requirements. If we were unable to meet these requirements, our Common Stock and Warrants could be delisted from The NASDAQ Capital Market. Our Common Stock could continue to trade on the over-the-counter bulletin board following any delisting from The NASDAQ Capital Market. Any such delisting of our Common Stock and Warrants could have an adverse effect on the market price of, and the efficiency of the trading market for, our Common Stock and Warrants, not only in terms of the number of shares that can be bought and sold at a given price, but also through delays in the timing of transactions and less coverage of us by securities analysts, if any. Also, if in the future we were to determine that we need to seek additional equity capital, it could have an adverse effect on our ability to raise capital in the public or private equity markets.

 

We completed the Reverse Stock Split in order to meet the initial listing requirements of The NASDAQ Capital Market. However, we cannot assure you that we will be able to comply with the minimum price requirements of The NASDAQ Capital Market.

 

We completed the Reverse Stock Split in order to achieve the requisite increase in the market price of our Common Stock to be in compliance with the minimum price requirements of The NASDAQ Capital Market. We cannot assure you that the market price of our Common Stock following the Reverse Stock Split will remain at the level required for the period of time required for listing or for continuing compliance with that requirement. It is not uncommon for the market price of a company’s common stock to decline in the period following a reverse stock split. If the market price of our Common Stock declines following the effectuation of a reverse stock split, the percentage decline may be greater than would occur in the absence of a reverse stock split. In any event, other factors unrelated to the number of shares of our Common Stock outstanding, such as negative financial or operational results, could adversely affect the market price of our Common Stock and jeopardize our ability to obtain or maintain The NASDAQ Capital Market’s minimum price requirements. In addition to specific listing and maintenance standards, The NASDAQ Capital Market has broad discretionary authority over the initial and continued listing of securities, which it could exercise with respect to the listing of our Common Stock and Warrants.

 

Despite completion of the Reverse Stock Split, there can be no assurance that we will be able to comply with other initial or continued listing standards of The NASDAQ Capital Market, and therefore our application may not be accepted for other reasons.

 

Even if the market price of our Common Stock continues to comply with the minimum bid price requirement following the Reverse Stock Split, we cannot assure you that we will be able to comply with the other standards that we are required to meet in order to achieve or maintain a listing of our Common Stock and Warrants on The NASDAQ Capital Market, and therefore our application may not be accepted for other reasons. The listing of our Common Stock on The NASDAQ Capital Market is a condition to consummation of the Offering. Even if our application is approved, our failure to meet these requirements could result in our Common Stock and Warrants being delisted from The NASDAQ Capital Market, irrespective of our compliance with the minimum bid price requirement.

  

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The Reverse Stock Split may decrease the liquidity of the shares of our Common Stock.

 

The liquidity of the shares of our Common Stock may be affected adversely by the Reverse Stock Split given the reduced number of shares that are outstanding following the Reverse Stock Split, especially if the market price of our Common Stock does not increase as a result of the Reverse Stock Split.

 

The market price of our Common Stock resulting from the Reverse Stock Split may not attract new investors, including institutional investors, and may not satisfy the investing requirements of those investors. Consequently, the trading liquidity of our Common Stock may not improve.

 

Although we believe that a higher market price of our Common Stock may help generate greater or broader investor interest, we cannot assure you that the Reverse Stock Split will result in a share price that will attract new investors.

 

We are classified as an “emerging growth company” as well as a “smaller reporting company” and we cannot be certain if the reduced disclosure requirements applicable to emerging growth companies and smaller reporting companies will make our Common Stock less attractive to investors.

 

We are an “emerging growth company,” as defined in the JOBS Act, and we may take advantage of certain exemptions from various reporting requirements that are applicable to other public companies, including, but not limited to, not being required to comply with the auditor attestation requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, reduced disclosure obligations regarding executive compensation in our periodic reports and proxy statements, and exemptions from the requirements of holding a nonbinding advisory vote on executive compensation and stockholder approval of any golden parachute payments not previously approved. We cannot predict if investors will find our Common Stock less attractive because we may rely on these exemptions. If some investors find our Common Stock less attractive as a result, there may be a less active trading market for our Common Stock and our stock price may be more volatile.

 

We have elected to use the extended transition period provided in Section 7(a)(2)(B) of the Securities Act for complying with new or revised accounting standards that have different effective dates for public and private companies until the earlier of the date that we (i) are no longer an emerging growth company or (ii) affirmatively and irrevocably opt out of the extended transition period provided in Section 7(a)(2)(B).

 

We could remain an “emerging growth company” for up to five years from the last day of our fiscal year in which the first sale of our common equity securities occurred pursuant to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act, or until the earliest of (i) the last day of the first fiscal year in which our annual gross revenues exceed $1 billion, (ii) the date that we become a “large accelerated filer” as defined in Rule 12b-2 under the Exchange Act, which would occur if the market value of our Common Stock that is held by non-affiliates exceeds $700 million as of the last business day of our most recently completed second fiscal quarter, and (iii) the date on which we have issued more than $1 billion in non-convertible debt during the preceding three-year period.

 

Notwithstanding the above, we are also currently a “smaller reporting company.” Specifically, similar to “emerging growth companies,” “smaller reporting companies” are able to provide simplified executive compensation disclosures in their filings; are exempt from the provisions of Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act requiring that independent registered public accounting firms provide an attestation report on the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting; and have certain other decreased disclosure obligations in their SEC filings. Decreased disclosures in our SEC filings due to our status as an “emerging growth company” or “smaller reporting company” may make it harder for investors to analyze our results of operations and financial prospects.

 

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CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

 

This prospectus contains forward-looking statements, within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act and the Exchange Act, that involve risk and uncertainties. Any statements contained in this prospectus that are not statements of historical fact may be forward-looking statements. Words such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “potential,” “continue,” “strategy,” “believes,” “anticipates,” “plans,” “expects,” “intends” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements that express our intentions, beliefs, expectations, strategies, predictions or any other statements relating to our future activities or other future events or conditions.

 

These statements are based on current expectations, estimates and projections about our business based, in part, on assumptions made by management. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Therefore, actual outcomes and results may, and are likely to, differ materially from what is expressed or forecasted in the forward-looking statements due to those risks discussed from time to time in this prospectus, including the risks described under “Risk Factors”, and due to numerous factors, including:

 

current or future financial performance;
management’s plans and objectives for future operations;
uncertainties associated with product research and development;
uncertainties associated with dependence upon the actions of government regulatory agencies;
product plans and performance;
management’s assessment of market factors; and
statements regarding our strategy and plans.

 

Any forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made, and we do not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances that occur in the future. If one or more of these or other risks or uncertainties materialize, or if our underlying assumptions prove to be incorrect, actual results may vary materially from what we may have projected. Any forward-looking statements you read in this prospectus reflects our current views with respect to future events and are subject to these and other risks, uncertainties and assumptions relating to our operations, results of operations, financial condition, growth strategy and liquidity. You should specifically consider the factors identified in this prospectus that could cause actual results to differ before making an investment decision.

 

Notwithstanding the above, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, expressly state that the safe harbor for forward looking statements does not apply to companies that issue penny stocks. Accordingly, the safe harbor for forward looking statements is not currently available to the Company because we may be considered to be an issuer of penny stock.

 

TAX CONSIDERATIONS

 

THE SUMMARY OF UNITED STATES FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES SET OUT BELOW IS FOR GENERAL INFORMATION ONLY. PROSPECTIVE INVESTORS SHOULD CONSULT THEIR TAX ADVISORS REGARDING THE PARTICULAR UNITED STATES FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES TO THEM OF ACQUIRING, OWNING AND DISPOSING OF THE SECURITIES, THE SHARES AND WARRANTS THAT COMPRISE SUCH SECURITIES AND ANY SHARES OF THE COMPANY’S COMMON STOCK UNDERLYING THE SECURITIES, AS WELL AS ANY TAX CONSEQUENCES ARISING UNDER ANY STATE, LOCAL OR FOREIGN TAX LAWS AND ANY OTHER UNITED STATES FEDERAL TAX LAWS.

 

The following is a summary of certain material United States federal income tax consequences to you of the acquisition, ownership and disposition of the Shares and Warrants, and the shares of Common Stock underlying the Pre-Funded Warrants and Warrants. This discussion is not a complete analysis of all of the potential United States federal income tax consequences relating thereto, and, except as otherwise specifically provided herein, it does not address any estate and gift tax consequences or any tax consequences arising under any state, local or foreign tax laws, or any other United States federal tax laws. This discussion is based on the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder, judicial decisions, and published rulings and administrative pronouncements of the Internal Revenue Service (the “IRS”) all as in effect as of the date of this prospectus. These authorities may change, possibly retroactively, resulting in United States federal income tax consequences different from those discussed below.

 

The discussion does not cover all aspects of United States federal income taxation that may be relevant to, or the actual tax effect that any of the matters described herein will have on, the acquisition, ownership or disposition of the Shares and Warrants, and the shares of Common Stock underlying the Pre-Funded Warrants and Warrants, by particular investors, and does not address state, local or non-U.S. tax laws, or any aspect of United States federal tax law other than income taxation (such as the estate and gift tax). In particular, this summary does not discuss all of the tax considerations that may be relevant to certain types of investors subject to special treatment under the United States federal income tax laws (such as financial institutions, insurance companies, investors liable for the alternative minimum tax, regulated investment companies, real estate investment trusts, individual retirement accounts and other tax-deferred accounts, tax-exempt organizations, partnerships and other pass-through entities, dealers or traders in securities or currencies, investors that will hold Securities as part of straddles, hedging transactions, conversion transactions or other integrated transactions for United States federal income tax purposes or investors whose functional currency is not the U.S. dollar). This discussion is limited to holders who purchase Securities pursuant to the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part and who hold the Shares and Warrants, and the shares of Common Stock underlying the Pre-Funded Warrants and Warrants, as a “capital asset” within the meaning of Section 1221 of the Code (generally, property held for investment).

 

If a partnership (or other entity taxed as a partnership for United States federal income tax purposes) holds the Securities, the tax treatment of a partner in the partnership will depend on the status of the partner, upon the activities of the partnership, and upon certain determinations made at the partner level. Accordingly, partnerships holding the Securities and the partners in such partnerships should consult their tax advisors regarding the specific United States federal income tax consequences to them.

 

For purposes of this discussion, a “U.S. Holder” is any beneficial owner of Securities who, for United States federal income tax purposes, is (i) an individual who is a citizen or resident of the United States; (ii) a corporation (or other entity treated as a corporation for United States federal income tax purposes) created or organized in or under the laws of the United States or of any state or in the District of Columbia; (iii) an estate the income of which is subject to United States federal income taxation regardless of its source; or (iv) a trust, if a United States court can exercise primary supervision over the administration of the trust and one or more United States persons have the authority to control all substantial decisions of the trust, or if the trust has a valid election in place to be treated as a United States person.

 

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General Principles Related to Taxation of U.S. Holders

 

Distributions on Shares of our Common Stock .

 

A distribution of cash or other property (other than certain pro rata distributions of our capital stock) in respect of our Common Stock owned by a U.S. Holder generally will be treated as a dividend to the extent it is paid from our current or accumulated earnings and profits (as determined under U.S. federal income tax principles). If the amount of such distribution exceeds our current and accumulated earnings and profits, such excess generally will be treated first as a tax-free return of capital to the extent of such U.S. Holder’s adjusted tax basis in such shares of our Common Stock, and then as capital gain (which will be treated in the manner described below under “- Sale or Other Taxable Dispositions of Securities ”). In the case of certain non-corporate U.S. Holders, any distribution on shares of our Common Stock treated as a dividend generally will be eligible for a reduced tax rate so long as certain holding period and other requirements are met. In general, dividends paid on our Common Stock will not be eligible for the dividends received deduction provided to corporations receiving dividends from certain United States corporations.

 

Sale or Other Taxable Dispositions of Securities .

 

Upon a sale, exchange or other disposition of the Securities or the Common Stock underlying the Securities, a U.S. Holder generally will recognize gain or loss in an amount equal to the difference between the amount realized on such sale, exchange or other disposition and such U.S. Holder’s adjusted tax basis in such Security. Any gain or loss so recognized on such security generally will be capital gain or loss and will be long-term capital gain or loss if such U.S. Holder has held such Security for more than one year at the time of such sale, exchange or other disposition. Net long-term capital gain of certain non-corporate U.S. Holders generally is subject to preferential rates of tax. The deductibility of capital losses is subject to limitations.

 

Backup Withholding and Information Reporting .

 

Information reporting will generally apply to non-corporate U.S. Holders with respect to payments of dividends on the Shares or the shares of Common Stock underlying the Securities and to certain payments of proceeds on the sale or other disposition of the Shares or the shares of Common Stock underlying the Securities. Certain non-corporate U.S. Holders may be subject to U.S. backup withholding on payments of dividends on the Shares or the shares of Common Stock underlying the Securities and certain payments of proceeds on the sale or other disposition of the Shares or the shares of Common Stock underlying the Securities unless the beneficial owner furnishes the payor or its agent with a taxpayer identification number, certified under penalties of perjury, and certain other information, or otherwise establishes, in the manner prescribed by law, an exemption from backup withholding.

 

U.S. backup withholding is not an additional tax. Any amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules may be allowed as a credit against a U.S. Holder’s United States federal income tax liability, which may entitle the U.S. Holder to a refund, provided the U.S. Holder timely furnishes the required information to the IRS.

 

Medicare Tax .

 

A U.S. person that is an individual or estate, or a trust that does not fall into the special classes of trusts that are exempt from such tax, will be subject to a 3.8% tax on the lesser of (1) the U.S. person’s “net investment income” for the relevant taxable year and (2) the excess of the U.S. person’s modified adjusted gross income for the taxable year over a certain threshold (which in the case of individuals will be between $125,000 and $250,000 depending on the individual’s circumstances). Net investment income generally includes interest, “S Corporation” flow through income, dividends, and net gains from the disposition of the Securities or the securities underlying the Securities, unless such income or gains are derived in the ordinary course of the conduct of a trade or business (other than a trade or business that consists of certain passive or trading activities). A U.S. Holder that is an individual, estate or trust should consult its tax advisor regarding the applicability of the Medicare tax to its income and gains in respect of its investment in our Securities.

 

USE OF PROCEEDS

 

We estimate that the net proceeds from our issuance and sale of all of the Shares, Pre-Funded Warrants and Warrants in the Offering will be approximately $[ ], assuming an initial public offering price of $[ ] per combination of share (or pre-funded warrant (minus $0.01 per pre-funded warrant)) and warrant, after deducting underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us.

  

We expect to use the net proceeds from the Offering for our general corporate purposes and working capital, to finance project acquisitions, to finance the development of new and current projects and facilities, to repay outstanding bridge loans and debt of the Company, to expand the services we offer and to meet our enhanced corporate governance and reporting requirements mandated by The NASDAQ Capital Market.

 

While we have no current specific plans for the proceeds, if proceeds from the Offering are used toward the repayment of debt of the Company, such proceeds would be applicable toward (i) the October 2016 Note, as amended, which has a current balance of $1,842,750, does not bear interest and matures on the earlier of June 2, 2017 or the third business day after the closing of a public offering and (ii) the February 7, 2017 demand Promissory Note to Viskoben Limited for the principal sum of $200,000 (the “Viskoben Note”), bearing interest at an absolute rate of ten percent (10.0%) through maturity, or a thirty percent (30.0%) rate of interest calculated annually.  Principal and interest under the Viskoben Note became due on May 7, 2017, and will become payable within fifteen (15) days of demand by the holder. For additional information on the October 2016 Note and the Viskoben Note, see the section of this prospectus entitled “Description of Securities”. If proceeds are used to finance project acquisitions or new projects and facilities, our new and current projects and facilities in development, as well as proposed project acquisitions, are described in the section of this prospectus entitled “Description of Business”. However, until the negotiations for any such projects are finalized and the parties have executed a definitive agreement, there can be no assurance that we will be able to enter into any such transaction, on the terms in the applicable letter of intent or at all, or any other similar arrangement.

 

18  

 

 

However, any proceeds received by the Company may be used for other purposes that our Board or our management, in its good faith, deems to be in the best interest of the Company. Our actual expenditures may vary significantly depending on numerous factors and circumstances, including:

 

the need or desire on our part to accelerate, increase or eliminate existing initiatives due to, among other things, changing market conditions, changing regulatory requirements and/or new competitive developments;
the existence of other opportunities or the need to take advantage of changes in timing of our existing activities; and/or
if strategic opportunities of which we are not currently aware present themselves, including acquisitions, joint ventures or other similar transactions.

 

From time to time, we evaluate these and other factors and we anticipate continuing to make such evaluations to determine if the existing allocation of capital, including the proceeds of the Offering, is being optimized.

 

No net proceeds will be used to repurchase shares of Common Stock in connection with our Share Repurchase Program. See “Description of Securities - Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities.”

  

DETERMINATION OF THE PUBLIC OFFERING PRICE

 

Prior to this Offering, there has been a limited public market for our Common Stock and no public market for our Pre-Funded Warrants or Warrants. The public offering price was determined through negotiations between us and the representative of the underwriter, and does not necessarily bear any relationship to the value of our assets, our net worth, revenues or other established criteria of value, and should not be considered indicative of the actual value of the Securities. In addition to prevailing market conditions, the factors considered in determining the public offering price included the following:

 

the information included in this prospectus;
the current market price of our Common Stock, trading prices of our Common Stock over time, and the illiquidity and volatility of our Common Stock;
the valuation multiples of publicly traded companies that we or the underwriter believes to be comparable to us;
our financial information;
our prospects and the history and the prospects of the industry in which we compete;
an assessment of our management, its past and present operations, and the prospects for, and timing of, our projects’ future revenues;
the present state of our development; and
the above factors in relation to market values and various valuation measures of other companies engaged in activities similar to ours.

 

MARKET FOR COMMON STOCK AND SHARES ELIGIBLE FOR FUTURE SALE

 

Our Common Stock is quoted on the OTCQB® Venture Marketplace under the symbol “BLSP”. Trading in our Common Stock has historically lacked consistent volume, and the market price has been volatile.

 

19  

 

 

The following table presents, for the periods indicated, the high and low sales prices of our Common Stock, adjusted retroactively to give effect to the Reverse Stock Split, and is based upon information provided by the OTCQB® Venture Marketplace. These quotations below reflect inter-dealer prices, without retail mark-up, mark-down, or commission, and may not necessarily represent actual transactions. These quotations are rounded to the nearest hundredth of a decimal place.

 

      HIGH     LOW  

Quarter Ended: 

                 
31-Mar-17     $            8.70     $              4.55  
                   
Quarter Ended:                  
31-Dec-16                10.40     $              6.50  
30-Sept-16     $            10.40     $              6.50  
30-Jun-16     $            13.00     $              7.80  
31-Mar-16     $            11.70     $              5.20  
                   
Quarter Ended:*                  
31-Dec-15     $              6.50     $              1.30  
30-Sep-15     $              5.20     $              1.30  
30-Jun-15     $              9.10     $              2.60  
31-Mar-15     $            29.90     $              5.20  
31-Dec-14     $            26.00     $            15.60  
                   
Quarter Ended:                  
30-Sep-14     $            41.60     $            22.10  
30-Jun-14     $            41.60     $              7.80  
31-Mar-14     $            48.10     $            11.70  
31-Dec-13     $            63.70     $              6.50  

  

* The Company changed its fiscal year to end on December 31st each year, effective January 1, 2016.

  

The last reported sale price of the Company’s common stock as of May 26, 2017 was $3.29 per share.

 

As of May 26, 2017, 1,750,000,000 shares of Common Stock and 500,000,000 shares of preferred stock, $0.001 par value, in one or more series and with such rights, preferences and privileges as our Board may determine, have been authorized.

 

As of May 26, 2017, there were 132 holders of record of the Company’s common stock, per the listing of stockholders maintained by the Company’s transfer agent, ClearTrust, LLC. This number does not include beneficial owners whose shares are held in the names of various security brokers, dealers, and registered clearing agencies.

 

As of May 26, 2017, there were 2,211,098 shares of our Common Stock issued and outstanding, and no shares of our preferred stock were issued and outstanding. On the same date, (a) 5,992 shares of our Common Stock are issuable upon the exercise of outstanding options granted under our 2010 Incentive Plan; (b) 620,300 shares of our Common Stock are issuable upon exercise of our currently outstanding warrants; (c) 197,954 shares of our Common Stock are issuable upon exercise of our currently outstanding convertible notes; (d) up to 753,239 shares of our Common Stock that will become issuable September 24, 2017 upon full conversion of all of our currently outstanding convertible 2015 Debentures, or in the alternative, upon closing of the Debenture Refinance, up to 1,129,858 shares of our Common Stock that would become issuable upon exercise six-months following issuance of the Convertible Debentures, which will be issued following the closing of this Offering upon certain conditions precedent being met (including repayment of the 2015 Debentures), in both cases, based on a conversion price equal to 80% of the average reported closing price of the Common Stock on the OTCQB Venture Marketplace calculated using the five trading days immediately preceding the date above (in the case of the Convertible Debentures, such formula was assumed because an exercise price is currently indeterminable using the Refinance Price Formula); (e) up to 225,000 shares of our Common Stock that would be issuable upon exercise of the Debenture Refinance Warrants, which will be issued following the closing of this Offering upon certain conditions precedent being met; and (f) 53,847 shares of our Common Stock that would be issuable upon exercise of certain warrants that are subject to dispute in the Prassas Litigation, at an exercise price of $6.50 per share.

 

Our outstanding warrants to purchase shares of our Common Stock have a weighted average exercise price of $9.36 per share and expire on dates ranging from January 30, 2019 to December 19, 2021. All of our outstanding issued options were issued under our 2010 Incentive Plan, have an exercise price of $74.92 per share and expire on April 30, 2018. All previously disclosed options granted under our 2014 Incentive Plan, but not issued, were terminated by our Board on November 20, 2016.

 

As of May 26, 2017, there are no shares of our Common Stock that the Company presently is obligated to register but which have not been registered.

   

DILUTION

 

If you invest in the Securities in the Offering, your investment will be immediately and substantially diluted to the extent of the difference between the public offering price per share of our Common Stock and the as-adjusted net tangible book value per share of our Common Stock after giving effect to the Offering.

 

Our net tangible book value as of March 31, 2017 was $(3,811,000), or approximately $(1.73) per share. Net tangible book value per share represents our total tangible assets less total liabilities, divided by the number of shares of Common Stock outstanding.

  

20  

 

 

Net tangible book value dilution per share of Common Stock to new investors represents the difference between the amount per share paid by purchasers in this Offering and the as-adjusted net tangible book value per share of Common Stock immediately after completion of this Offering. After giving effect to the Debenture Refinance (as defined below) and our sale of the maximum number of [ ] shares of Common Stock in this Offering (which also includes [ ] Warrant per share of Common Stock purchased, which is excluded for the purposes of this calculation) at an assumed public offering price of $[ ], and after deduction of underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated Offering expenses payable by us, our pro forma as-adjusted net tangible book value as of March 31, 2017 would have been $[ ], or $[ ] per share of Common Stock. This represents an immediate increase in pro forma as-adjusted net tangible book value of $[ ] per share of Common Stock to existing stockholders and an immediate dilution in net tangible book value of $[ ] per share of Common Stock to investors of this Offering, as illustrated in the following table, based on shares outstanding as of March 31, 2017:

 

Assumed Offering price per share of Common Stock   $ [ ]  *
Actual net tangible book value per share before this Offering as of March 31, 2017   $ (1.73 )
Increase in net tangible book value per share attributable to new investors   $ [ ]  
Pro forma as-adjusted net tangible book value per share of Common Stock after the Offering as of March 31, 2017    $ [ ]  
Dilution in net tangible book value per share of Common Stock to new investors in the Offering   $ [ ]  

 

* The Offering price includes [ ] Warrant per share of Common Stock purchased, which is not included in the calculation of the table and the above discussion.

 

The following table summarizes, on a pro forma basis as of March 31, 2017, the total number of shares of Common Stock issued by us, the total consideration paid, or to be paid, and the average price per share paid, or to be paid, by existing stockholders and by new investors in the Offering at an assumed initial public offering price of $[ ] per share of Common Stock, before deducting underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated Offering expenses payable by us. As the table shows, new investors purchasing the offered Securities will pay an average price per share substantially [lower] than our existing stockholders paid.

 

  Shares Purchased   Total Consideration  

Avg. Price

Per Share

    Number       Percentage       Amount       Percentage       Amount  
Existing stockholders   [ ]       [ ] %   $ [ ]       [ ] %   $ [ ]  
New investors   [ ]       [ ] %   $ [ ]       [ ] %     [ ]  
Total   [ ]       [ ] %   $ [ ]       [ ] %     [ ]  

 

The table above is based on 2,201,963 shares of Common Stock issued and outstanding as of March 31, 2017, per the listing of stockholders maintained by the Company’s transfer agent, ClearTrust, LLC.

 

The table above excludes, as of March 31, 2017, (a) 596,016 shares of our Common Stock that were issuable upon exercise of our then-outstanding warrants, (b) 152,080 shares of our Common Stock that were issuable upon exercise of our then-outstanding convertible notes and/or debentures, and (c) 53,847 shares of our Common Stock that would be issuable upon exercise of certain warrants that are subject to dispute in the Prassas Litigation, at an exercise price of $6.50 per share.

   

DIVIDEND POLICY

 

We have never paid any cash dividends on our Common Stock and do not anticipate paying any cash dividends on our Common Stock in the foreseeable future. We intend to retain future earnings, if any, to fund ongoing operations and the future capital requirements of our business. Any future determination to pay cash dividends will be at the discretion of the Board and will be dependent upon our financial condition, results of operations, capital requirements and such other factors as the Board deems relevant.

 

CAPITALIZATION

 

The following table sets forth our capitalization (i) as of December 31, 2016, as adjusted for the reverse stock split, (ii) as of March 31, 2017, (iii) as of December 31, 2016, as adjusted for the reverse stock split and after giving effect to the Debenture Refinance, and (iv) as of December 31, 2016, as adjusted for the reverse stock split, after giving effect to the Debenture Refinance and as adjusted to give effect to the sale of the Securities in the Offering and the application of the estimated net proceeds derived from the sale of the Securities in the Offering. This table should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and related notes included elsewhere in this prospectus.  All amounts are denominated in thousands.

 

Stockholders’ Deficit  

As of  

 December 31,
2016
(audited)   

    As of March 31, 2017 (unaudited)     Pro Forma As of
December 31,
2016
(unaudited)
    Pro Forma As Adjusted of December 31, 2016 (unaudited)   
Common stock, $0.001 per share par value   $ 2     $ 2     $ 7     $ 7    
Treasury Shares     (28 )     (28 )     (28 )     (28 )
Accumulated other comprehensive income     33       27       33       33  
Additional paid-in capital     44,262       44,662       43,746       54,381  
Accumulated/Retained deficit     (46,493 )     (48,474 )     (46,493 )     (46,493 )
Total Stockholders’ Deficit   $ (2,224 )   $ (3,811 )   $ (2,740)     $ 7,900  

   

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MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with the consolidated unaudited interim and audited financial statements and notes thereto included in this prospectus. The following discussion contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and our actual results may differ significantly from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements. Factors that might cause such differences include, but are not limited to, those discussed in the section “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” contained in this prospectus. We assume no obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statements for any reason, except as required by law.

 

Company Overview

 

We are an international Independent Power Producer (“IPP”) that is active in the global clean energy production and waste-to-energy markets. We aspire to become a key player in these global markets, working with enterprises with clean energy, waste-to-energy and related by-product capabilities to generate clean energy, as well as soil amendment, compost and other by-products. We are currently focusing on projects related to the construction, acquisition or development of biogas and waste-to-energy facilities in the United States, Italy, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom and Israel.

 

Our business model is based on two main activities: we are a Build, Own & Operate (BOO) company, and we are a strategic acquirer of already constructed and operational facilities. In 2016, we continued to execute on our BOO business model by integrating the construction, financing and management of the North Carolina and Rhode Island projects. The North Carolina project commenced commercial operations on November 18, 2016 and we anticipate that the Rhode Island will commence commercial operations by April 30, 2017, and the combined projects will have a collective capacity of 8.4 MW. We are the owner of 25% of the North Carolina project and 22.75% of the Rhode Island project. The partnerships have contracted with Auspark LLC to design, construct and deliver the North Carolina and Rhode Island projects, and with Austep USA Inc. to operate the North Carolina project. Our share of any net earnings (losses) generated by the North Carolina project is recognized as equity earnings (loss) in nonconsolidated affiliates. Our share of any net earnings (losses) generated by the Rhode Island project will be recorded as deferred revenue from unconsolidated affiliates until the facility is commercially operational, and thereafter will be recognized as equity earnings (loss) in nonconsolidated affiliates. Our equity investment in the North Carolina and Rhode Island projects is reflected in our financial statements as an investment in nonconsolidated affiliates. We also executed on our acquisition strategy in 2015 by acquiring four SPVs in Italy, each of which owns an operational anaerobic digester with approximately 1 MW of capacity. We apply the equity method of accounting for the investments in the SPVs because our agreements between the SPVs and Austep, whereby Austep operates, maintains and supervises each biogas plant, prevent us from exercising a controlling influence over operating policies of the facilities. Under this method, our equity investment is reflected in our financial statements as an investment in nonconsolidated subsidiaries and the net earnings or losses of the investments is reflected as equity earnings (loss) in nonconsolidated subsidiaries. The foregoing achievements have put a tremendous burden on our human and financial resources. We plan to expand our BOO and strategic acquisition activities in the coming years, which will require adding members to our team and additional capital investments.

 

Results of Operations For the Three-Months Ended March 31, 2017 Compared to the Three-Months Ended March 31, 2016

 

General and Administrative Expenses

 

General and administrative expenses for the three-month period ended March 31, 2017 were $1,194,000, as compared to $2,082,000 for the three-month period ended March 31, 2016. The decrease in general and administrative expenses is mainly attributable to decrease in compensation expenses and service providers.

 

Equity Earnings in Nonconsolidated Affiliates

 

Equity Earnings in Nonconsolidated Affiliates for the three-month period ended March 31, 2017 was $367,000, as compared to $0 for the three-month period ended March 31, 2016. The increase is attributable to commencement of the commercial operation of our North Carolina project, which commenced its commercial operations and began providing output to Duke Energy pursuant to the Duke PPA on November 18, 2016. Until commencement of the commercial operations, we had not recorded our share of net earnings generated by the North Carolina project as equity earnings, but rather, had recorded them as deferred revenue in our current liabilities. As of March 31, 2017, we have not recorded our share of net earnings generated by the Rhode Island project as equity earnings, but rather, have recorded them as deferred revenue in our current liabilities. Deferred revenues represent payments that were received by us in connection with this project but were not recognized as equity earnings and increase in the affiliate’s membership interest accounted by the Company using the step-by-step basis in accordance with ASC 323-10-35-15. Such deferred revenues will be recorded to the income statement upon the commencement of the commercial operations of the Rhode Island plant and fulfillment of our obligation under the operating and development agreements. 

 

Equity Income (Loss) in Nonconsolidated Subsidiaries

 

Equity Income in Nonconsolidated Subsidiaries for the three-month period ended March 31, 2017 was $64,000, as compared to a loss of $(670,000) for the three-month period ended March 31, 2016. Our Equity Income or losses are attributable to our share of net income or losses generated by the SPVs. The first quarter of 2016 was a ramp up and maintenance period that has taken place following the closing of the acquisition of the SPVs. Pursuant to the Plant EBITDA Agreement with Austep, Austep operated, maintained and supervised our biogas plants and agreed that we would receive a monthly aggregate EBITDA of $204,147 (€188,000) from the four SPVs, collectively, during the initial six months following the closing date, and for periods thereafter the Plant EBITDA Agreements provides that we will receive an annual aggregate EBITDA of $4,082,946 (€3,760,000). We collected an aggregate of $1,001,247 (€939,999) during the three-month period ended March 31, 2017 for the four SPVs, which represented the full amount of specified payments under the Plant EBITDA Agreement for such period. We apply the equity method of accounting because the Plant EBITDA Agreement, pursuant to which Austep operates, maintains and supervises each facility, prevents us from exercising a controlling influence over the operating policies of the facilities. Under this method, the equity investment is reflected as an investment in nonconsolidated subsidiaries on our balance sheets and the net earnings or losses of the investments is reflected as equity in net earnings of nonconsolidated subsidiaries on the Company’s consolidated statements of operations.

 

Gain (Loss) from Change in Fair Value of Warrants Liability

 

Gain from Change in Fair Value of Warrants Liability for the three-month period ended March 31, 2017 was $337,000, as compared to a loss of $1,190,000 for the three-month period ended March 31, 2016. The gain is attributable to the decrease in the Fair Value of our Warrants Liability mainly due to the decrease in the price of share of our common stock. The loss for the three-month period ended March 31, 2016 is attributable to an increase in our losses from change in fair value of warrants liability and an increase in our equity losses from non-consolidated subsidiaries. The estimated fair value of our outstanding warrants liability was measured using Black-Scholes valuation models. These valuation models involved using such inputs as the estimated fair value of the underlying stock at the measurement date, risk-free interest rates, expected dividends on stock and expected volatility of the price of the underlying stock. The table bellows explains the changes in the Fair Value of Warrants Liability during the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2016 and 2015.

 

    Warrants
Liability
 
Balance at December 31, 2016   $ 2,045  
Issuance of warrants     181  
Changes in fair value     (337 )
Balance at March 31, 2017   $ 1,889  

 

Net Loss  

 

We incurred a net loss of $1,981,000 for the three-month period ended March 31, 2017, as compared to a net loss of $3,881,000 for the three-month period ended March 31, 2016. The decrease in net loss is mainly attributable to the decrease in our general and administrative expenses and increase in equity earnings in non-consolidated affiliates. 

 

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Results of Operations – For the Year Ended December 31, 2016 Compared to the Year Ended September 30, 2015

 

Revenue from Services

 

Revenue from Services for the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2016 were $587,500 as compared to $0 for the twelve-month period ended September 30, 2015. The increase is attributable to commencement of the commercial operation of our North Carolina project.

 

General and Administrative Expenses

 

General and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2016 were $7,516,000 as compared to $5,317,000 for the year ended September 30, 2015. The increase is mainly attributable to the increase in compensation expenses to employees and service providers related to our growth.

 

Equity Earnings in Nonconsolidated Affiliates

 

Equity Earnings in Nonconsolidated Affiliates for the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2016 was $5,961,000, as compared to $0 for the twelve-month period ended September 30, 2015. The increase is attributable to commencement of the commercial operation of our North Carolina project, which commenced its commercial operations and began providing output to Duke Energy pursuant to the Duke PPA on November 18, 2016. Until commencement of the commercial operations, we had not recorded our share of net earnings generated by the North Carolina project as equity earnings, but rather, had recorded them as deferred revenue in our current liabilities. With the commencement of commercial operations at our North Carolina project, we were able to recognize such deferred revenue as equity earnings in the quarter ended December 31, 2016. As of December 31, 2016, we have not recorded our share of net earnings generated by the Rhode Island project as equity earnings, but rather, have recorded them as deferred revenue in our current liabilities. Deferred revenues represent payments that were received by us in connection with those projects but were not recognized as equity earnings and increase in the affiliate’s membership interest accounted by the Company using the step-by-step basis in accordance with ASC 323-10-35-15. Such deferred revenues will be recorded to the income statement upon the commencement of the commercial operations of the Rhode Island plant and fulfillment of our obligation under the operating and development agreements.

  

Equity Loss in Nonconsolidated Subsidiaries

 

Equity Loss in Nonconsolidated Subsidiaries for the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2016 was $444,000, as compared to $0 for the twelve-month period ended September 30, 2015. As demonstrated below, our loss is attributable to our share of net losses generated by the SPVs. The third quarter of 2016 was our first operational quarter after the ramp up and maintenance period that has taken place since we closed the acquisition of the SPVs. Pursuant to the Plant EBITDA Agreement with Austep, Austep operated, maintained and supervised our biogas plants and agreed that we would receive a monthly aggregate EBITDA of $204,147 (€188,000) from the four SPVs, collectively, during the initial six months following the closing date, and for periods thereafter the Plant EBITDA Agreements provides that we will receive an annual aggregate EBITDA of $4,082,946 (€3,760,000). We collected an aggregate of €3,070,000 during the year ended December 31, 2016 for the four SPVs, which represented the full amount of specified payments under the Plant EBITDA Agreement for such period. We apply the equity method of accounting because the Plant EBITDA Agreement, pursuant to which Austep operates, maintains and supervises each facility, prevents us from exercising a controlling influence over the operating policies of the facilities. Under this method, the equity investment is reflected as an investment in nonconsolidated subsidiaries on our balance sheets and the net earnings or losses of the investments is reflected as equity in net earnings of nonconsolidated subsidiaries on the Company’s consolidated statements of operations. Summarized financial information for the Company’s equity method investment in the SPVs is as follows:

 

    Year ended December 31, 2016   Three Months ended December 31, 2015
Net sales   $   6,225,000   $  400,000
Operating Income   1,248,000   40,000
Net Loss   $       444,000   $    38,000

 

Gain from Change in Fair Value of Warrants Liability

 

Gain from Change in Fair Value of Warrants Liability for the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2016 was $1,390,000, as compared to $0 for the twelve-month period ended September 30, 2015. The gain is attributable to the decrease in the Fair Value of our Warrants Liability mainly due to the decrease in the price of shares of our Common Stock. The estimated fair value of our outstanding warrants liability was measured using Black-Scholes valuation models. These valuation models involved using such inputs as the estimated fair value of the underlying stock at the measurement date, risk-free interest rates, expected dividends on stock and expected volatility of the price of the underlying stock. The table bellows explains the changes in the Fair Value of Warrants Liability during the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2016 and 2015.

    Warrants
Liability
Balance at January 1, 2015   $    
      Issuance of warrants     325  
      Changes in fair value     219  
Balance at December 31, 2015   $ 544  
Issuance of warrants     2,891  
Changes in fair value     (1,390
Balance at December 31, 2016   $ 2,045  

 

Net Loss

 

We incurred a net loss of $1,801,000 for the year ended December 31, 2016, as compared to a net loss of $7,462,000 for the year ended September 30, 2015. The decrease in net loss is mainly attributable to an increase in the equity earnings in nonconsolidated affiliates as a result of the commencement of the commercial operations of our North Carolina project.

 

Results of Operations – For the Three Months Ended December 31, 2015 Compared to the Three Months Ended December 31, 2014

 

General and Administrative Expenses

 

General and administrative expenses for the three-month period ended December 31, 2015 were $1,106,000 as compared to $827,000 for the three-month period ended December 31, 2014.

 

Equity Loss in Nonconsolidated Subsidiaries

 

Equity loss in nonconsolidated subsidiaries for the three-month period ended December 31, 2015 was $38,000, as compared to $0 for the three-month period ended December 31, 2014.

 

Loss from Change in Fair Value of Warrants Liability

 

Loss from Change in the Fair Value of our Warrants Liability for the three-month period ended December 31, 2015 was $219,000, as compared to $0 for the three-month period ended December 31, 2014.

  

Net Loss

 

We incurred a net loss of $1,288,000 for the three-month period ended December 31, 2015, as compared to a net loss of $1,314,000 for the three-month period ended December 31, 2014.

 

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Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

Liquidity is the ability of a company to generate funds to support its current and future operations, satisfy its obligations, and otherwise operate on an ongoing basis. Significant factors in the management of liquidity are funds generated by operations, levels of accounts receivable and accounts payable and capital expenditures.

 

As of March 31, 2017, we had cash and cash equivalents of $242,000, as compared to $416,000 as of December 31, 2016. As of March 31, 2017, we had a working capital deficit of $12,080,000, as compared to $9,669,000 as of December 31, 2016. The increase in our working capital deficit was mainly attributable to increase in current maturities of debentures and long term loan in the amount of $713,000, increase in short term loans in the amount of $1,090,000, increase in accounts payables in the amount of $290,000 and increase in deferred revenues from nonconsolidated affiliates in the amount of $230,000.

 

As of December 31, 2016, we had cash of $416,000 as compared to $1,888,000 as of December 31, 2015. As of December 31, 2016, we had a working capital deficit of $9,669,000 as compared to $7,505,000 as of December 31, 2015. The decrease in our working capital deficit is mainly attributable to decrease in cash in the amount of $1,472,000, increase in current maturities of debentures and long term loan in the amount of $2,439,000 and increase in other accounts payable in the amount of $1,008,000. The decrease in our working capital deficit was mitigated by the decrease in deferred revenues from nonconsolidated affiliates in the amount of $3,394,000 due to the commencement of commercial operations of our North Carolina Project.

 

Net cash used in operating activities was $853,000 for the three-month period ended March 31, 2017, as compared to cash used in operating activities of $1,594,000 for the three-month period ended March 31, 2016. The decrease is mainly attributable to the decrease in equity losses in nonconsolidated subsidiaries, increase in equity losses in nonconsolidated affiliates and increase in changes in warrants to issue shares.

 

Net cash used in operating activities was $4,819,000 for the year ended December 31, 2016, as compared to $818,000 for the year ended September 30, 2015. The decrease is mainly attributable to the decrease in net loss.

 

Net cash used in investing activities was $0 for the three-month period ended March 31, 2017, as compared to net cash used in investing activities of $60,000 for the three-month period ended March 31, 2016.

 

Net cash flows used in investing activities was $60,000 for the year ended December 31, 2016, as compared to $37,000 for the year ended September 30, 2015. Net cash flows used in investing activities was $2,143,000 for the three-month period ended December 31, 2015 which represents mainly the cash used to acquire one hundred percent (100%) of the share capital of SPVs.

 

Net cash provided by financing activities was approximately $682,000 for the three-month period ended March 31, 2017, as compared to approximately $1,514,000 for the three-month period ended March 31, 2016.

 

Net cash flows provided by financing activities was approximately $3,393,000 for the year ended December 31, 2016 as compared to approximately $718,000 for the prior period ended September 30, 2015. The increase in cash provided by financing activities was due to increase in proceeds from issuance of shares and warrants due to offerings that we conducted during 2016 and decrease in our loan repayments. Net cash flows provided by financing activities was approximately $5,995,000 for the three-month period ended December 31, 2015 and represents mainly cash provided by our $3 million offering of senior debentures and warrants, as further described in our Form 8-K filed with the SEC on December 28, 2015, and loans received in connection with the acquisition of the SPVs.

 

The opinion of our independent registered public accounting firm on our audited financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2016 contains an explanatory paragraph regarding substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern. Our ability to continue as a going concern is dependent upon raising capital from financing transactions and future sales. 

 

To date, we have principally financed our operations through the sale of our Common Stock, the issuance of debt, our operations in Italy and development fees received for the North Carolina and Rhode Island projects. Although management anticipates that cash resources will be available to the Company from distributions from the Italian operations and the North Carolina and Rhode Island projects, it believes existing cash will not be sufficient to fund planned operations and projects investments through the next 12 months.

 

Therefore, we are still seeking to raise additional funds for future operations and possible project investment, and any meaningful equity or convertible debt financing will likely result in significant dilution to our existing stockholders. There is no assurance that additional funds will be available on terms acceptable to us, or at all.

 

Inflation and Seasonality

 

In management’s opinion, our results of operations have not been materially affected by inflation or seasonality, and management does not expect that inflation risk or seasonality would cause material impact on our operations in the future.

 

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Change in Fiscal Year

 

As previously reported, on January 24, 2016, the Company’s Board changed the Company’s fiscal year end from September 30 to December 31, effective January 1, 2016. As a result of this change, the Company initially filed a Transition Report on Form 10-Q for the three-month period ended December 31, 2015, as amended by Amendments No. 1 and No. 2 to the Transition Report on Form 10-Q for the three-month period ended December 31, 2015, and the Company has included the audited financials for the three-month period ended December 31, 2015 with its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of March 31, 2017, we had no off-balance sheet arrangements of any nature.

 

Related Party Transactions

 

We are currently party to certain services and employment agreements with our executives and a non-executive member of our Board, which are specifically described under the headings “Narrative Disclosure to Executive Summary Compensation Table” and “Narrative Disclosure to Director Compensation Table” in the “Executive Compensation” section of this prospectus.

 

Critical Accounting Policies

 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“US GAAP”) requires our management to make assumptions, estimates and judgments that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements, including the notes thereto, and related disclosures of commitments and contingencies, if any. We consider our critical accounting policies to be those that require the more significant judgments and estimates in the preparation of financial statements. No new accounting standards have been adopted since the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016 was filed. The significant accounting policies applied in the annual financial statements of the Company as of December 31, 2016 are applied consistently in these financial statements except, for the following:

 

Emerging Growth Company

 

We are an “emerging growth company,” as defined in the JOBS Act, and we may take advantage of certain exemptions from various reporting requirements that are applicable to other public companies.

 

We have elected to use the extended transition period provided in Section 7(a)(2)(B) of the Securities Act for complying with new or revised accounting standards that have different effective dates for public and private companies until the earlier of the date that we (i) are no longer an emerging growth company or (ii) affirmatively and irrevocably opt out of the extended transition period provided in Section 7(a)(2)(B).

 

We could remain an “emerging growth company” for up to five years from the last day of our fiscal year in which the first sale of our common equity securities occurred pursuant to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act, or until the earliest of (i) the last day of the first fiscal year in which our annual gross revenues are $1 billion, as adjusted, or more, (ii) the date that we become a “large accelerated filer” as defined in Rule 12b-2 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), which would occur if the market value of our common stock that is held by non-affiliates exceeds $700 million as of the last business day of our most recently completed second fiscal quarter, and (iii) the date on which we have issued more than $1 billion in non-convertible debt during the preceding three-year period.

 

Functional currency

 

The functional currency of the Company is the U.S. dollar, except for Blue Sphere Pavia. Accordingly, all monetary assets, liabilities, expenses and equity earnings of the foreign subsidiary are re-measured into U.S. dollars at the exchange rates in effect at the reporting date. The foreign currency translation adjustments are included as a component in the stockholders’ deficit in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss.

 

Basis of Presentation

 

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with US GAAP and includes the accounts of the Company and its wholly owned subsidiaries. All intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation.

 

Cash equivalents

 

Cash equivalents are short-term highly liquid investments which include short term bank deposits (up to three months from date of deposit), that are not restricted as to withdrawals or use that are readily convertible to cash with maturities of three months or less as of the date acquired.

 

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

 

The Company records its financial assets and liabilities at fair value. The accounting guidance for fair value provides a framework for measuring fair value, clarifies the definition of fair value, and expands disclosures regarding fair value measurements. Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in an orderly transaction between market participants at the reporting date. The accounting guidance establishes a three-tiered hierarchy, which prioritizes the inputs used in the valuation methodologies in measuring fair value:

 

Level 1 – Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

 

Level 2 – Inputs other than Level 1 that are observable, either directly or indirectly, such as quoted prices in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities.

 

Level 3 – Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value of the assets or liabilities.

 

The Company recognizes transfers among Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 classifications as of the actual date of the events or change in circumstances that caused the transfers.

 

The Company’s financial instruments, including cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable and accrued liabilities have carrying amounts which approximate fair value due to the short-term maturity of these instruments.

  

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Property, Plant and Equipment

 

Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost, less accumulated depreciation. Assets are depreciated using the straight-line method over their estimated useful lives. Annual rates of depreciation are as follows:

 

    %
Computers, electronic equipment and software     33  
Vehicles     15  
Office furniture and equipment     15  

  

Investment in Unconsolidated Variable Interests’ Entities

 

The classification of the Company’s variable interests in the North Carolina, Rhode Island and Italian projects in the financial statements is based on the nature of the entity and the type of investment we hold. Variable interests in partnerships and corporate entities are classified as either equity method or cost method investments. In the ordinary course of business, the Company also make investments in entities in which we are not the primary beneficiary but may hold a variable interest such as limited partner interests or mezzanine debt investments. These investments are classified in our financial statements as investment in unconsolidated variable interest entities accounted for under the equity method. Investments in those companies that are not controlled but over which the Company can exercise significant influence (generally, entities in which the Company holds approximately between 20% to 100% of the voting rights of the investee) are presented using the equity method of accounting. Profits on intercompany sales, not realized outside the Company, are eliminated. The Company discontinues applying the equity method when its investment (including advances and loans) is reduced to zero and the Company has not guaranteed obligations of the affiliate or otherwise committed to provide further financial support to the affiliate.

 

Investments in preferred shares, which are not in substance common stock, are recorded on a cost basis according to ASC 323-10-15-13, “Investments - Equity Method and Joint Ventures - In-substance Common Stock” and ASC 323-10-40-1, “Investment - Equity Method and Joint Ventures - Investee Capital Transactions”.

  

A change in the Company’s proportionate share of an investee’s equity, resulting from issuance of common or in-substance common shares by the investee to third parties, is recorded as a gain or loss in the consolidated income statements in accordance with ASC 323-10-40-1.

 

Investments in non-marketable equity securities of entities in which the Company does not have control or the ability to exercise significant influence over their operation and financial policies are recorded at cost (generally when the Company holds less than 20% of the voting rights).

 

Management evaluates investments in affiliated companies, partnerships and other non-marketable equity securities for evidence of other-than-temporary declines in value. Such evaluation is dependent on the specific facts and circumstances. Accordingly, in determining whether other-than-temporary declines exist, management evaluates various indicators for other-than-temporary declines and evaluates financial information (e.g. budgets, business plans, financial statements, etc.). During 2016 and 2015, no material impairment was recognized.

 

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Use of Estimates

 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with US GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of expenses during the reporting period. Actual results may differ from those estimates. On an on-going basis, management evaluates its estimates, judgments and assumptions. Those estimates and assumptions affect including investments in unconsolidated variable interest entities, investments in nonconsolidated subsidiaries, deferred revenue from unconsolidated variable interest entities, contingencies and litigation, income taxes and determination of fair value of stock-based compensation. These estimates are based on information available as of the date of the consolidated financial statements; therefore, actual results could differ from management’s estimates.

 

Loss Per Share

 

Net loss per share, basic and diluted, is computed on the basis of the net loss for the period divided by the weighted average number of common stock outstanding during the period. Diluted net loss per share is based upon the weighted average number of common stock and of common stock equivalents outstanding when dilutive. Common stock equivalents include: (i) outstanding stock options under the Company’s share incentive plan and warrants which are included under the treasury share method when dilutive, and (ii) common stock to be issued under the assumed conversion of the Company’s outstanding convertible notes, which are included under the if-converted method when dilutive. The computation of diluted net loss per share for the years ended December 31, 2016 and September 30, 2015 and for the three months ended December 31, 2015 does not include common stock equivalents, since such inclusion would be anti-dilutive.

 

Income Taxes

 

The Company accounts for income taxes using the asset and liability method, which requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in the Company’s consolidated financial statements or in our tax returns. Estimates and judgments occur in the calculation of certain tax liabilities and in the determination of the recoverability of certain deferred income tax assets, which arise from temporary differences and carryforwards. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are measured using the currently enacted tax rates that apply to taxable income in effect for the years in which those tax assets are expected to be realized or settled. Management regularly assess the likelihood that deferred tax assets will be recovered from future taxable income and, to the extent that management believe, based upon the weight of available evidence, that it is more likely than not that all or a portion of deferred tax assets will not be realized, a valuation allowance is established through an adjustment to income tax expense. The factors used to assess the likelihood of realization of our deferred tax assets include the Company’s forecast of future taxable income and available tax planning strategies that could be implemented to realize the net deferred tax assets. Assumptions represent management’s best estimates and involve inherent uncertainties and the application of management’s judgment. The Company accounts for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in the Company’s consolidated financial statements by regularly reviewing its tax positions and benefits to be realized. The Company recognizes tax liabilities based upon management’s estimate of whether, and the extent to which, additional taxes will be due when such estimates are more-likely-than-not to be sustained. An uncertain income tax position will not be recognized if it has less than a 50% likelihood of being sustained upon examination by taxing authorities. The provision for income taxes includes the effects of any resulting tax reserves, or unrecognized tax benefits, that are considered appropriate as well as the related net interest and penalties.

 

Comprehensive Loss

 

Comprehensive income (loss) consists of net income (loss) and other gains and losses affecting equity that under US GAAP are excluded from net income (loss). For the Company, such items consist of translation adjustments.

 

Revenues from Services 

 

The Company recognizes revenues from Development Fees in accordance with ASC Topic, “605-20 Revenue Recognition from Services”.

 

Treasury Shares

 

Treasury shares are held by the Company and presented as a reduction of the Company stockholders’ equity (deficit) and carried at their cost to the Company, under treasury shares. 

 

Stock-based Compensation

 

The Company recognizes the estimated fair value of share-based awards under stock-based compensation cost. The Company measures compensation expense for share-based awards based on estimated fair values on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. This option pricing model requires estimates as to the option’s expected term and the price volatility of the underlying stock. The Company measures compensation expense for the shares based on the market value of the underlying stock at the date of grant, less an estimate of dividends that will not accrue to the shares holders prior to vesting. The Company elected to recognize compensation cost for awards that have a graded vesting schedule using the straight-line approach. Share-based payments to non-employees are measured at the fair value of the goods or services received or the fair value of the equity instruments issued if it is determined the fair value of the goods or services cannot be reliably measured, and are recorded at the date the goods or services are received. The amount recognized as an expense is adjusted to reflect the number of awards expected to vest. The fair value of equity awards is charged to the statement of operations over the service period. The offset to the recorded cost is to additional paid in capital. Consideration received on the exercise of stock options is recorded as capital stock and the related share-based payments reserve is transferred to share capital.

 

Contingencies

 

The Company is involved in various commercial and other legal proceedings that arise from time to time in the ordinary course of business. Except for income tax contingencies or contingent consideration or other contingent liabilities incurred or acquired in a business combination, the Company records accruals for these types of contingencies to the extent that the Company concludes their occurrence is probable and that the related liabilities are reasonably estimated. When accruing these costs, the Company will recognize an accrual in the amount within a range of loss that is the best estimate within the range. When no amount within the range is a better estimate than any other amount, the Company accrues for the minimum amount within the range. Legal costs are expensed as incurred. Contingent consideration and other contingent liabilities incurred or acquired in a business combination are recorded at a probability weighted assessment of their fair value and monitored on an ongoing basis for changes in that value.

 

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DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS

 

Company Overview

 

We are an international Independent Power Producer (“IPP”) that is active in the global clean energy production and waste-to-energy markets. We aspire to become a key player in these rapidly growing markets by developing or acquiring projects with clean energy technologies, including but not limited to waste-to-energy facilities that generate clean energy, such as electricity, natural gas, and heat, as well as soil amendment and other by-products. These markets provide tremendous opportunity, insofar as we believe there is a virtually endless supply of waste and organic material that can be used to generate power and valuable by-products. In particular, the disposal of organic material to landfills in most parts of the world is a costly problem with environmentally-damaging consequences. We seek to offer a cost-effective, environmentally-safe alternative.

 

What is Waste-to-Energy?

 

Waste-to-Energy is the process of generating energy in the form of electricity , natural gas and/or heat from the treatment of various forms of waste. Most waste-to-energy processes produce electricity and/or heat directly through combustion, or produce a combustible fuel commodity, such as methane, methanol or ethanol. Generally, waste-to-energy technology includes the following:

 

Incineration 

Incineration is the combustion of organic material such as waste with energy recovery, and is the most common waste-to-energy implementation. All new waste-to-energy plants in OECD countries (member and partner countries with the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development) incinerating waste must meet strict emission standards, including those on nitrogen oxides, sulphur dioxide, heavy metals and dioxins. Hence, modern incineration plants are vastly different from the old types of plants, some of which recovered neither energy nor materials. Modern incinerators reduce the volume of the original waste by up to 96%, depending upon composition and degree of recovery of materials, such as metals from the ash for recycling.

 

Anaerobic Digestion 

Anaerobic digestion is a collection of processes by which microorganisms break down biodegradable material in the absence of oxygen. The process is used for industrial or domestic purposes to manage waste or to produce fuels. The digestion process begins with bacterial hydrolysis of the input materials. Insoluble organic polymers, such as carbohydrates, are broken down to soluble derivatives that become available for other bacteria. Acidogenic bacteria then convert the sugars and amino acids into carbon dioxide, hydrogen, ammonia, and organic acids. These bacteria convert these resulting organic acids into acetic acid, along with additional ammonia, hydrogen, and carbon dioxide. Finally, methanogens convert these products to methane and carbon dioxide. The methanogenic archaea populations play an indispensable role in anaerobic wastewater treatments. Anaerobic digesters can also be fed with purpose-grown energy crops, such as maize. Anaerobic digestion is widely used as a source of renewable energy. The process produces a biogas, consisting of methane, carbon dioxide and traces of other ‘contaminant’ gases. This biogas can be used directly as fuel, in combined heat and power gas engines or upgraded to natural gas-quality biomethane. The nutrient-rich digestate also produced can be used as fertilizer.

 

Gasification 

Gasification is a process that converts organic or fossil fuel based carbonaceous materials into carbon monoxide, hydrogen and carbon dioxide. This is achieved by reacting the material at high temperatures (>700 °C), without combustion, with a controlled amount of oxygen and/or steam. The resulting gas mixture is called syngas (from synthesis gas or synthetic gas) or producer gas and is itself a fuel. The power derived from gasification and combustion of the resultant gas is considered to be a source of renewable energy if the gasified compounds were obtained from biomass. The advantage of gasification is that using the syngas is potentially more efficient than direct combustion of the original fuel because it can be combusted at higher temperatures or even in fuel cells, so that the thermodynamic upper limit to the efficiency defined by Carnot’s rule is higher or (in case of fuel cells) not applicable. Gasification can also begin with material which would otherwise have been disposed of such as biodegradable waste. In addition, the high-temperature process refines out corrosive ash elements such as chloride and potassium, allowing clean gas production from otherwise problematic fuels.

 

Pyrolysis 

Pyrolysis is a thermochemical decomposition of organic material at elevated temperatures in the absence of oxygen (or any halogen). It involves the simultaneous change of chemical composition and physical phase, and is irreversible. Pyrolysis is a type of thermolysis, and is most commonly observed in organic materials exposed to high temperatures. It is one of the processes involved in charring wood, starting at 200–300 °C (390–570 °F). It also occurs in fires where solid fuels are burning. In general, pyrolysis of organic substances produces gas and liquid products and leaves a solid residue richer in carbon content, char. Extreme pyrolysis, which leaves mostly carbon as the residue, is called carbonization.

 

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There are a number of other new and emerging technologies that can be used to produce energy from waste and other fuels without direct combustion. Many of these technologies have the potential to produce more electric power from the same amount of fuel than would be possible by direct combustion. This is mainly due to the separation of corrosive components (ash) from the converted fuel, thereby allowing higher combustion temperatures in, for example, boilers, gas turbines and fuel cells.

 

We Build, Own & Operate Projects and We Acquire Projects

 

Our business model is based on two main activities: we are a Build, Own & Operate (BOO) company, and we are a strategic acquirer of already constructed and operational facilities. Our BOO projects further fall into four primary phases of progress, making up our development cycle as follows:

 

  1. Pre-Development . In this phase, our business development team is evaluating project opportunities that may come from various sources such as: other developers, utility companies, strategic partners and land owners. In this phase, we are conducting site research, evaluating feedstock parameters, researching the availability for offtake agreements and reviewing regulatory issues surrounding a particular location.

 

  2. Development Phase . In this phase, we begin deploying capital and committing to projects. This phase generally includes the issuance of term-sheets or letters of intent for the development of projects. We begin the formal and in-depth due-diligence process to further these projects. Once due-diligence has been completed and a decision to move forward has been made, the company begins to assemble the various elements of the project. At this time, amongst other processes: technology is selected, an engineering study is completed, development plans are created, third party EPC operators are engaged, deposits are made on properties, environmental studies begin, permitting begins, feedstock agreements are put in place, a power purchase agreement (“PPA”) is agreed to and project financing is sourced. The development phase can take one year or longer depending on the project size and complexity.

 

  3. Construction Phase . In this phase, we complete a financial closing with our project finance partners and third party EPC and technology providers, the property is officially purchased or leased and a ground breaking occurs. After this site prep begins, materials are ordered, equipment is ordered and construction begins. Over the next year or longer: through our third party contractors, skilled technicians, laborers and managers build an advanced power plant that turns various forms waste into sources of clean energy and other by-products.

 

  4. Operating Phase . This phase includes the acceptance of waste materials, the ramp-up of biological elements in the case of an anaerobic digester plant, connecting to the electrical and or gas grids or connecting directly to a large end user. Once the connection is in place and the waste ramp-up phase is complete, and through our third party contractors, the plant is now fully operational. In addition to other administrative functions, management or our third party contractors will now begin to maintain feedstock intake, equipment monitoring and maintenance.

 

For our acquisition projects, we seek to acquire ongoing projects that are already constructed or operational.

 

Our Projects in All Phases

 

We are currently constructing or operating, or in negotiations to develop, as applicable, eighteen (18) projects related to our strategy of acquisition, development or operations of waste-to-energy facilities, which includes developing projects for which we have entered into nonbinding letters of intent to acquire additional biogas facilities in Italy and to develop and construct waste-to-energy facilities in the United States, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom and Israel. We continue to evaluate a pipeline of similar projects in the pre-development phase in the above listed countries, and we are also evaluating projects in other countries such as the Czech Republic, Poland, Canada and Mexico.

  

We are currently developing, constructing or operating, as indicated below, the following projects:

 

United States (under construction) 

Johnston, RI Waste to Energy Anaerobic Digester 3.2 MW Plant 

 

United States (operating)

Charlotte, NC Waste to Energy Anaerobic Digester 5.2 MW Plant 

 

Italy (operating) 

Soc. agr. AGRICERERE srl – Tromello (Blue Sphere Pavia) 999 KW Plant

 

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Soc. agr. AGRIELEKTRA srl – Alagna (Blue Sphere Pavia) 999 KW Plant
Soc. agr. AGRISORSE srl - Garlasco (Blue Sphere Pavia) 999 KW Plant
Soc. agr. GEFA srl – Dorno (Blue Sphere Pavia) 999 KW Plant

 

We currently have nonbinding letters of intent to develop the following projects:

 

United States (negotiating and/or conducting due diligence) 

  Red Springs, NC. New Construction waste-to-energy Anaerobic Digester 3.0 MW Plant
  Wallace, NC. New Construction waste-to-energy Anaerobic Digester 3.0 MW Plant

 

Italy (negotiating and/or conducting due diligence)  

  Cortona, Italy. Acquisition of fully operating 1.25MW Clean Energy Plants from Pronto-Verde, A.G.
  Cantu, Italy. Acquisition of fully operating .990KW Clean Energy Plant from Pronto-Verde, A.G.
  Udine, Italy. Acquisition of fully operating .990KW Clean Energy Plant from Pronto-Verde, A.G.

 

The Netherlands (negotiating and/or conducting due diligence)  

Sterksel, NL. New Construction waste-to-energy Anaerobic Digester 10.0 MW Plant *
Terramass, NL. New Construction waste-to-energy Anaerobic Digester 2.5 MW Plant

 

   * On December 8, 2016, Blue Sphere Brabant B.V., a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company in the Netherlands, won a grant to sell renewable gas on a per MWg basis to Rijksdienst voor Ondernemend Nederland (“RVO”) under the Renewable Energy Production Incentive Scheme. The grant provides for the sale of up to 234,466.589 MWh per year, for a maximum total value of the grant equal to €151.934.350,00 (approximately USD $161,642,955) paid over twelve (12) years, from the date the facility begins production. The grant is conditioned upon the following: (1) the construction must be assigned to a supplier (EPC) within one (1) year, with RVO receiving a copy of the assignment; (2) the facility must begin production within four (4) years; (3) notice of any material changes (i.e., in location, receiver, power, required dates, etc.) must be given to RVO; and (4) RVO is entitled to receive an annual progress report of the realization of the facility.

  

The United Kingdom (negotiating and/or conducting due diligence)

Carlton Forest, GB. New Construction waste-to-energy Pyrolysis Plant 7.5MW (electricity) + 10MW (thermal)
Hull, GB. New Construction waste-to-energy Pyrolysis Plant 15MW (electricity) + 15MW (thermal)
Seal Sands, GB. New Construction waste-to-energy Pyrolysis Plant 16MW (electricity) + 23MW (thermal)

 

We are currently negotiating, nonbinding letters of intent to develop the following projects:

 

Italy (negotiating and/or conducting due diligence)

  Ostellato, Italy. New Construction of two 1MW Anaerobic Digester Plants with Energy Lab, S.p.A

 

Israel (negotiating and/or conducting due diligence)

Rishon, IL. New Construction of a MRF (Materials Recycling Facility) + a 2.5MW Anaerobic Digester Plant

 

Our strategy is to continue to expand in the future, including through acquisition of additional projects. From time to time, we negotiate, conduct due diligence and enter into nonbinding letters of intent for projects that we are evaluating. However, until due diligence is complete, further negotiations are finalized and the parties have executed a definitive agreement, there can be no assurance that we will be able to enter into any development or acquisition transaction, on the terms in the applicable letter of intent, if any, or at all, or any other similar arrangements. In the case of new construction projects for which we have not entered into definitive agreements, the power output identified herein reflects management’s position, determined based on a review of relevant factors including, but not limited to, pre-existing relationships with purchasers in the region, demand, land and facility space, environmental and engineering analysis, and the availability of feedstock and other sources of input. Furthermore, any such transactions that we do enter into would be subject to the uncertainties regarding our existing projects described in the “Risk Factors” section.

 

Our United States Projects

 

On October 19, 2012, we entered into definitive project agreements in respect of both the North Carolina and Rhode Island sites with Orbit Energy, Inc. (“Orbit”), pursuant to which we would be entitled to full ownership of each of the entities that owns the rights to implement the respective projects (Orbit Energy Charlotte, LLC in the case of the North Carolina project (“OEC”) and Orbit Energy Rhode Island, LLC in the case of the Rhode Island project (“OERI”)), subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions.

 

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Our North Carolina Project

 

  (FLOW CHART))

 

Design and Development

 

On June 5, 2014, OEC entered into an Amended and Restated Turnkey Agreement for the Design, Construction and Delivery of a Biogas Plant with Auspark LLC (“Auspark”), as amended or modified by letter agreement on January 22, 2015, February 3, 2015, March 31, 2016 and August 26, 2016 (the “NC Auspark Agreement”), and which amended and restated an original agreement dated April 30, 2014. Pursuant to the NC Auspark Agreement, Auspark has provided, and continues to provide, the design, supply, engineering, permitting, procurement, assembly, construction, installation, commissioning and delivery of the North Carolina project facility, for the fixed price of $17,350,000, payable in accordance with meeting scheduled milestones, with the final payment becoming due upon delivery of a final completion certificate by Auspark. As of March 31, 2017, approximately $15,400,000 in development fees have been paid to Auspark under the NC Auspark Agreement. Payments under the NC Auspark Agreement are funded by York Renewable Energy Partners LLC (“York”), our joint venture partner for the North Carolina project.

 

The term of the NC Auspark Agreement is based on the project construction and workflow completion plan, subject to amendment pursuant to the terms of the agreement. Either party may terminate the NC Auspark Agreement upon a substantial breach of performance following a 4-week cure period or the bankruptcy/insolvency of the other party. OEC may terminate for a gross violation of work quality subject to a 5-day cure period, or if Auspark loses the permits necessary to perform, and cannot cure such loss within 30 days. Auspark may terminate for failure of OEC to make specified reimbursements or failure of OEC to make payment within 30 days of demand. Austep, Auspark’s affiliate, guaranteed Auspark’s performance under the NC Auspark Agreement.

 

The Amended OEC Purchase Agreement 

On November 19, 2014, we signed an amended and restated purchase agreement with Orbit for the North Carolina project (the “Amended OEC Purchase Agreement”). Subject to the terms of the Amended OEC Purchase Agreement, Orbit transferred full ownership of OEC to us in exchange for our agreeing to pay Orbit a development fee of $900,000, reimbursement of $17,764 of Orbit’s expenses, and an amount equal to 30% of the distributable cash flow from the North Carolina project after the project achieves a post-recoupment 30% internal rate of return computed on the basis of any and all benefits from tax credits, depreciation and other incentives of any nature. We also agreed to use high solid anaerobic digester units designed by Orbit (the “HSAD Units”) and to retain Orbit to implement and operate the HSAD Units for an annual management fee of $187,500 (the “OEC Management Fee”), subject to certain conditions. The Amended OEC Purchase Agreement provided that we had until December 15, 2014 to pay Orbit the development fee and reimbursement amount, which was extended to January 15, 2015 in exchange for payment by us to Orbit of $75,000. We did not subsequently pay Orbit the development fee and reimbursement amount and, pursuant to the terms of the Amended OEC Purchase Agreement, ownership of OEC reverted back to Orbit on January 15, 2015.

 

Concord Energy Partners, LLC 

On January 30, 2015, (i) the Company, Concord Energy Partners, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“Concord”) and York entered into a development and indemnification agreement (the “Concord Development and Indemnification Agreement”), pursuant to which in 2015 York funded Concord’s payment to us of $1,250,000 in development fees used for developing the project, and Concord issued us 250 Series B units of Concord (“Concord Series B Units”) and issued 750 Series A units of Concord (“Concord Series A Units”) to York, and (ii) we and York entered into an amended and restated limited liability company operating agreement (the “Concord LLC Agreement”) to establish the Concord Series A Units and Concord Series B Units and admit us and York as 25% and 75% members of Concord, respectively. Purs uant to the foregoing agreements, York also agreed to fund Concord’s payment to us of two equal installments of $587,500 upon (a) mechanical completion of the North Carolina project and (b) commercial operation of the North Carolina project. On December 14, 2016, we received payment of the first installment. We expect to receive payment of the second installment by June 30, 2017.

 

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Pursuant to the Concord LLC Agreement, our right to receive distributions from Concord are subject to certain priorities in favor of York, as follows: 

(a) York’s nine percent (9%) rate of return on the $500,000 capital contribution to Concord to fund liquidated damages to Duke Energy pursuant to the Duke PPA since the commercial operations had not been commenced within 60 days of December 31, 2015;
(b) The repayment of York’s $500,000 capital contribution to Concord to fund liquidated damages to Duke Energy pursuant to the Duke PPA since the commercial operations had not been commenced within 60 days of December 31, 2015;
(c) The amount of any excess profits from “feedstock tipping fees” shall be distributed with twenty percent (20%) going to York, and eighty percent (80%) going to us;
(d) The amount of any excess profits from “thermal energy” shall be distributed equally between us and York; and
(e) Any amount remaining will be distributed pro-rata to us and York in proportion to York and our respective ownership of Concord.

 

In addition, our right to receive distributions upon a liquidation event of Concord are subject to certain priorities in favor of York, as follows: 

(a) York’s nine percent (9%) rate of return on its unrecovered capital contributions to Concord;
(b) The repayment of York’s unrecovered capital contributions to Concord; and
(c) Any amount remaining will be distributed pro-rata to us and York in proportion to York and our respective ownership of Concord.

 

Pursuant to the Concord LLC Agreement, Concord is managed by a board of managers initially consisting of three managers (the “Concord Board”). So long as York owns more than 50% of the membership interests of Concord, York is entitled to appoint two of the Concord Board’s three managers. So long as we own no less than 50% of the membership interests of Concord that we acquired pursuant to the Concord Development and Indemnification Agreement, we are entitled to appoint one manager of the Concord Board. York will make capital contributions to Concord in accordance with the budgeted investment amount for the North Carolina project set forth in the Concord LLC Agreement. In the event that the Concord Board determines in good faith that additional capital is needed by Concord and is in the best interests of the North Carolina project, the Concord Board may determine the amount of additional capital needed and issue new units to raise the necessary funds. In this case, if we do not exercise our pre-emptive right with respect to such units, our percentage interest in Concord would be reduced accordingly. The Concord LLC Agreement also contains certain restrictions on our right to transfer our membership interests in Concord to third parties. If we propose to sell any equity or assets relating to or in connection with the development, construction or operation of an energy generation facility to a third party prior to January 30, 2020, Entropy Investment Management LLC, an affiliate of York that provides project financing for renewable energy projects, will have a right of first refusal to acquire all or a portion of such sale.

 

The New OEC Purchase Agreement 

On January 30, 2015, we entered into the Orbit Energy Charlotte, LLC Membership Interest Purchase Agreement by and among the Company, Orbit, Concord, and OEC (the “New OEC Purchase Agreement”), pursuant to which (i) Concord purchased all of Orbit’s right, title and interest in and to the membership interests of OEC (the “OEC Interests”), (ii) Orbit abandoned all economic and ownership interest in the OEC Interests in favor of Concord, (iii) Orbit ceased to be a member of OEC and (iv) Concord was admitted as the sole member of OEC, in exchange for consideration of $917,764.

 

Under the Amended OEC Purchase Agreement and the New OEC Purchase Agreement, we had agreed to pay to Orbit the costs of evaluating and incorporating into the North Carolina project Orbit’s high solids anaerobic digestion technology and two HSAD Units designed by Orbit. Orbit was unable to design and install this technology into the North Carolina project, and we never paid any costs pursuant thereto. Instead, digesters were designed and provided by Auspark.

 

The New OEC Purchase Agreement also carried forward from the Amended OEC Purchase Agreement, and we indemnified York with respect to, our obligation to pay Orbit all amounts owed under the Amended OEC Purchase Agreement, including an amount equal to thirty percent (30%) of the North Carolina project’s distributable cash flow after we and the other equity investors in the North Carolina project fully recoup their respective investments in the North Carolina project (such investments to be calculated solely as amounts expended in and for the construction of the North Carolina project) and the North Carolina project achieves a thirty percent (30%) internal rate of return (the “NC Participation Fee”). The calculation of the project’s internal rate of return would take into account and be computed on the basis of any and all benefits from tax credits, depreciation and other incentives of any nature.

 

On January 13, 2017, the Company and Orbit entered into an agreement to eliminate the Company’s obligations to Orbit under the New OEC Purchase Agreement, the Concord LLC Agreement, the New OERI Purchase Agreement (defined below), and the Rhode Island LLC Agreement (defined below). In connection with the North Carolina project and the Rhode Island project, in exchange for an assignment to us of any rights to the NC Participation Fee and RI Participation Fee (defined below), and the termination of the OEC Management Fee and OERI Management Fee (defined below), Orbit will receive $200,000 in total, to be paid in twelve monthly equal installments, beginning on January 27, 2017.

 

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The Operations of the North Carolina project  

On June 5, 2014, OEC entered into a Service, Maintenance and Operation Agreement with Austep and its operating entity, Austep USA Inc. (“Austep USA”), whereby Austep USA will perform the day-to-day operation, management, service, and maintenance operations at the North Carolina project facility, for a term of 10 years beginning on the date that the facility achieves substantial completion, as defined in the NC Auspark Agreement. For a period of two years following such date, Austep USA will guarantee annual production of 41,000,000 kWh of electricity for two years, and will use its best efforts to generate 42,640,000 kWh each year during the term. Austep USA will receive an aggregate fee of $1,153,000 per year under the agreement. Austep guaranteed Austep USA’s performance under the agreement.

 

OEC and Duke Energy Carolinas, LLC (“Duke Energy”) are parties to an Amended and Restated Renewable Energy Purchase Agreement, dated October 12, 2012 and amended on April 25, 2013, January 31, 2014, January 29, 2015 and September 30, 2016 (as amended, the “Duke PPA”), pursuant to which OEC has agreed to sell, and Duke has agreed to purchase, the energy output of OEC’s facility, subject to the terms and conditions of the Duke PPA. Among other things, the Duke PPA required OEC to commence commercial operations by December 31, 2015 or, if not operational within 60 days of such date, pay Duke Energy $500,000 of liquidated damages, which would then extend the deadline for commercial operation to March 30, 2016. Since the commercial operations had not been commenced within 60 days of December 31, 2015, OEC was required to pay $500,000 of liquidated damages to Duke Energy pursuant to the Duke PPA during the first quarter of 2016, and York contributed these funds to OEC. The deadline for commercial operation was thereafter extended to November 23, 2016 by amendment to the Duke PPA. The Duke PPA is effective until August 21, 2030. The loss of Duke Energy as a customer of OEC could have a material adverse effect on the Company.

 

The Duke PPA further provides that OEC is responsible for certain interconnections fees and the costs and charges in connection with delivering power to the delivery point. OEC is responsible for delivering 100% of the output nameplate capacity of 5.2MW, and Duke Energy is responsible for purchasing up to the nameplate capacity. During the term of the Duke PPA, the bundled price payable to OEC is fixed per MWh, together with fixed prices per year for specified categories of RECs, as well as minimum REC requirements and purchase obligations during the term. Duke Energy is not responsible for purchasing additional energy or renewable energy attributes which exceeds 10% of the facility’s nameplate capacity. If OEC does not deliver up to the nameplate capacity, it must pay damages equal to specified replacement REC costs.

 

OEC is projected to require about 424 tons of organic feedstock on a daily basis and is working with organic waste suppliers to arrange supplies of feedstock. As of today, we believe we have all definitive agreements needed to supply all feedstock needed for operation of the North Carolina project.

 

On November 18, 2016, the North Carolina project connected to the grid, commenced commercial operations and started to provide output to Duke Energy pursuant to the Duke PPA. The North Carolina facility is currently in the mechanical completion and ramp-up phase of the project. Commencement of the commercial operations includes the gradual intake of waste from the facility’s feedstock suppliers, increasing the parasitic load to the digesters, completing the waste-water-treatment resources and completing all other mechanical features needed for the facility to operate at full capacity. The Company estimates that the North Carolina project will be fully completed by the end of the second quarter of 2017.

 

With respect to the North Carolina project, we have recognized revenue from services in the amount of $1,586,000 in the fiscal year 2015, and equity earnings in nonconsolidated affiliates in the amount of $5,960,946 and revenue from services in the amount of $587,500 in fiscal year 2016. We have recognized equity earnings in nonconsolidated affiliates in the amount of $367,000 in the first fiscal quarter of 2017.

 

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Our Rhode Island Project

 

(FLOW CHART)

 

Design and Development

 

On April 7, 2015, OERI entered into an Amended and Restated Turnkey Agreement for the Design, Construction and Delivery of a Biogas Plant with Auspark, as amended or modified by letter agreement on March 31, 2016 and August 26, 2016 (the “RI Auspark Agreement”), which amended and restated an original agreement dated April 30, 2014. Pursuant to the RI Auspark Agreement, Auspark has provided, and continues to provide, the design, supply, engineering, permitting, procurement, assembly, construction, installation, commissioning and delivery of the Rhode Island project facility, for the fixed price of $13,800,000, payable in accordance with meeting scheduled milestones, with the final payment becoming due upon delivery of a final completion certificate by Auspark. As of March 31, 2017, approximately $11,800,000 in development fees have been paid to Auspark under the RI Auspark Agreement. Payments under the RI Auspark Agreement are funded by York, our joint venture partner for the Rhode Island project.

 

The term of the RI Auspark Agreement is based on the project construction and workflow completion plan, subject to amendment pursuant to the terms of the agreement. Either party may terminate the RI Auspark Agreement upon a substantial breach of performance following a 4-week cure period or the bankruptcy/insolvency of the other party. OERI may terminate for a gross violation of work quality subject to a 5-day cure period, or if Auspark loses the permits necessary to perform, and cannot cure such loss within 30 days. Auspark may terminate for failure of OERI to make specified reimbursements or failure of OERI to make payment within 30 days of demand. Austep, Auspark’s affiliate, guaranteed Auspark’s performance under the RI Auspark Agreement. 

 

The Amended OEC Purchase Agreement 

On January 7, 2015, we signed an amended and restated purchase agreement with Orbit for the Rhode Island project (the “Amended OERI Purchase Agreement”). Subject to the terms of the Amended OERI Purchase Agreement, Orbit transferred full ownership of OERI to us in exchange for our agreeing to pay Orbit a development fee of $300,000, reimbursement of $86,432 of Orbit’s expenses, and an amount equal to 30% of the distributable cash flow from the Rhode Island project after the project achieves a post-recoupment 30% internal rate of return computed on the basis of any and all benefits from tax credits, depreciation and other incentives of any nature. We also agreed to use HSAD Units designed by Orbit and to retain Orbit to implement and operate the HSAD Units for an annual management fee of $187,500 (the “OERI Management Fee”), subject to certain conditions. The Amended OERI Purchase Agreement provided that we had until January 22, 2015 to pay Orbit the development fee and reimbursement amount, which was extended to February 28, 2015 in exchange for payment by us to Orbit of $31,000. We did not subsequently pay Orbit the development fee and reimbursement amount and, pursuant to the terms of the Amended OERI Purchase Agreement, ownership of OERI reverted back to Orbit.

 

Rhode Island Energy Partners, LLC 

On April 8, 2015, (i) the Company, Rhode Island Energy Partners, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“Rhode Island”) and York entered into a development and indemnification agreement (the “Rhode Island Development and Indemnification Agreement”), pursuant to which York funded Rhode Island’s payment to us of development fees of $1,541,900 used for developing the project, and Rhode Island issued us 2,275 Series B units of Rhode Island (“Rhode Island Series B Units), and issued 7,725 Series A units of Rhode Island (“Rhode Island Series A Units”) to York, and (ii) we and York entered into an amended and restated limited liability company operating agreement (the “Rhode Island LLC Agreement”) to establish the Rhode Island Series A Units and Rhode Island Series B Units and admit us and York as 22.75% and 77.25% members of Rhode Island, respectively. Pursuant to the foregoing agreements, York also agreed to fund Concord’s payment to us of three equal installments of $562,500 upon (a) signing of the Rhode Island Development and Indemnification Agreement, (b) the later of (x) the date of mechanical completion of the Rhode Island project and (y) the date on which an executed interconnection agreement between OERI and National Grid, including receipt of any regulatory approvals from the Rhode Island Public Utility Commission, is delivered by OERI, and (c) commercial operation of the Rhode Island project. To date, York has made payment of the first $562,500 installment.

 

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Pursuant to the Rhode Island LLC Agreement, our right to receive distributions from OERI are subject to certain priorities in favor of York, as follows: 

(a) The amount of any excess profits from “feedstock tipping fees” shall be distributed with twenty percent (20%) going to York, and eighty percent (80%) going to us;
(b) The amount of any excess profits from “thermal energy” shall be distributed equally between us and York; and
(c) Any amount remaining will be distributed pro-rata to us and York in proportion to York and our respective ownership in Rhode Island.

 

In addition, our right to receive distributions upon a liquidation event of Rhode Island are subject to certain priorities in favor of York, as follows: 

  (a) York’s nine percent (9%) rate of return on the sum of all obligations guaranteed by York in connection with the Rhode Island project;
  (b) York’s nine percent (9%) rate of return on its unrecovered capital contributions to Rhode Island;
  (c) The repayment of York’s unrecovered capital contributions to Rhode Island;
(d) Any amount remaining will be distributed pro-rata to us and York in proportion to York and our respective ownership in Rhode Island.

 

Pursuant to the Rhode Island LLC Agreement, Rhode Island is managed by a board of managers initially consisting of three managers (the “Rhode Island Board”). So long as York owns more than 50% of the membership interests of Rhode Island, York is entitled to appoint two of the Rhode Island Board’s three managers. So long as we own no less than 50% of the membership interests of Rhode Island that we acquired pursuant to the Rhode Island Development and Indemnification Agreement, we are entitled to appoint one manager of the Rhode Island Board. York will make capital contributions to Rhode Island in accordance with the budgeted investment amount for the North Carolina project set forth in the Concord LLC Agreement. In the event that the Rhode Island Board determines in good faith that additional equity capital is needed by Rhode Island and is in the best interests of the Rhode Island project, the Rhode Island Board may determine the amount of additional capital needed and issue new units to raise the necessary funds. In this case, if we do not exercise our pre-emptive right with respect to such units, our percentage interest in Rhode Island would be reduced accordingly. The Rhode Island LLC Agreement also contains certain restrictions on our right to transfer our membership interests in Rhode Island to third parties. If we propose to sell any equity or assets relating to or in connection with the development, construction or operation of an energy generation facility to a third party prior to April 8, 2020, Entropy Investment Management LLC will have a right of first refusal to acquire all or a portion of such sale.

 

The New OERI Purchase Agreement 

On April 8, 2015, we entered into the Orbit Energy Rhode Island, LLC Membership Interest Purchase Agreement by and among the Company, Orbit, Rhode Island and OERI (the “New OERI Purchase Agreement”), pursuant to which (i) Rhode Island purchased all of Orbit’s right, title and interest in and to the membership interests of OERI (the “OERI Interests”), (ii) Orbit abandoned all economic and ownership interest in the OERI Interests in favor of Rhode Island, (iii) Orbit ceased to me a member of OERI and (iv) Rhode Island was admitted as the sole member of OERI, in exchange for consideration of $386,432.

 

Under the Amended OERI Purchase Agreement and the New OERI Purchase Agreement, we had agreed to pay to Orbit the costs of evaluating and incorporating into the Rhode Island project Orbit’s high solids anaerobic digestion technology and two HSAD Units designed by Orbit. Orbit was unable to design and install this technology into the Rhode Island project, and we never paid any costs pursuant thereto. Instead, digesters were designed and provided by Auspark.

 

The New OERI Purchase Agreement also carried forward from the Amended OERI Purchase Agreement, and we indemnified York with respect to, our obligation to pay Orbit all amounts owed under the Amended OERI Purchase Agreement, including an amount equal to thirty percent (30%) of the Rhode Island project’s distributable cash flow after we and the other equity investors in the Rhode Island project fully recoup our respective investments in the Rhode Island project (such investments to be calculated solely as amounts expended in and for the construction of the Rhode Island project) and the Rhode Island project achieves a thirty percent (30%) internal rate of return (the “RI Participation Fee”). The calculation of the project’s internal rate of return would take into account and be computed on the basis of any and all benefits from tax credits, depreciation and other incentives of any nature.

 

On January 13, 2017, the Company and Orbit entered into an agreement to eliminate the Company’s obligations to Orbit under the New OEC Purchase Agreement, the Concord LLC Agreement, the New OERI Purchase Agreement, and the Rhode Island LLC Agreement. In connection with the North Carolina project and the Rhode Island project, in exchange for an assignment to us of any rights to the NC Participation Fee and RI Participation Fee, and the termination of the OEC Management Fee and OERI Management Fee, Orbit will receive $200,000 in total, to be paid in twelve monthly equal installments, beginning on January 27, 2017.

 

The Operations of the Rhode Island project

OERI is currently negotiating a service, maintenance and operation agreement to perform the day-to-day operation, management, service, and maintenance activities at the Rhode Island project facility.

 

OERI and The Narragansett Electric Company d/b/a National Grid (“National Grid”) are parties to a Power Purchase Agreement, dated May 26, 2011 and amended on April 11, 2013, December 9, 2013, January 9, 2015 and May 27, 2016 (as amended, the “National Grid PPA”), pursuant to which OERI has agreed to sell, and National Grid has agreed to purchase, the energy output of OERI’s facility, subject to the terms and conditions of the National Grid PPA. Among other things, the National Grid PPA required OERI to commence commercial operations by December 31, 2015, which could be extended up to six months by OERI upon deposit of $22,500 of collateral. Since commercial operations were not commenced by December 31, 2015, OERI paid an additional “Development Period Security” of $22,500 pursuant to the National Grid PPA, such funds having been contributed to OERI by York. On May 27 2016, National Grid agreed to modify the date to commence commercial operations to June 30, 2017. As an incentive and evidence of good faith to achieve commercial operation, OERI posted additional collateral in the amount of $22,500, such funds having been contributed to OERI by York. The National Grid PPA is effective for 15 years from the date commercial operations are commenced, which may be extended by 6 years at the option of National Grid. The loss of National Grid as a customer of OERI could have a material adverse effect on the Company.

 

The National Grid PPA further provides that OERI is responsible for certain interconnections fees, subject to an adjustment based on MWh sold under the agreement, and the costs and charges in connection with delivering power to the interconnection point. OERI is responsible for delivering 100% of the output nameplate capacity of up to 3.2MW, and National Grid is responsible for purchasing up to our nameplate capacity. National Grid is not responsible for purchasing additional energy in excess of the specified maximum amount. During the term of the agreement, National Grid will pay a fixed bundled price per MWh for energy and RECs, subject to escalation by a factor of 2% annually. If OERI fails to deliver energy in accordance with the National Grid PPA, it will be responsible for specified replacement damages.

 

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OERI has obtained all the required permits, except for the operating permit, to achieve commercial operation. Although no assurances can be given, we expect the Rhode Island project to commence commercial operations on or before the modified date to commence commercial operations, or June 30, 2017.

 

OERI and Renewable Organics Management LLC are parties to an Organic Waste Delivery Agreement, dated October 13, 2016, in respect of 80,000 tons per year of organic feedstock. This agreement has a five-year term, subject to renewal, and begins upon commencement of operations, at which time feedstock will be supplied to the Rhode Island project. OERI is projected to require 80,000 tons per year of organic feedstock on a daily basis, so the quantity represented by this agreement is expected to satisfy 100% of facility’s feedstock requirements for operations.

 

As of March 31, 2017, we have recorded deferred revenue from nonconsolidated affiliates in the amount of $5,888,000 with respect to our the Rhode Island project (which will be recorded as equity earnings in nonconsolidated affiliates upon the commencement of its commercial operations).

 

Our Italy Projects

 

The Acquisition of Our Italy Projects  

On May 14, 2015, we entered into a Share Purchase Agreement (the “Italy Projects Agreement”) with Volteo Energie S.p.A., Agriholding S.r.l., and Overland S.r.l. (each, a “Seller” and collectively, the “Sellers”) through our indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary, Bluesphere Italy S.r.l. (we subsequently changed the name of Bluesphere Italy S.r.l to Bluesphere Pavia S.r.l (“Blue Sphere Pavia”), which is the name we use herein). Pursuant to the Italy Projects Agreement, we agreed to purchase one hundred percent (100%) of the share capital of Agricerere S.r.l., Agrielektra S.r.l., Agrisorse S.r.l. and Gefa S.r.l (each, an “SPV” and collectively, the “SPVs”) from the Sellers, who collectively held all of the outstanding share capital of each SPV. Each SPV is engaged in the owning and operating of an anaerobic digestion biogas plant for the production and sale of electricity to Gestore del Servizi Energetici GSE, S.p.A., a state-owned company, pursuant to a power purchase agreement. All references to, and descriptions of, the Italy Projects Agreement incorporate the terms of an amendment to the same entered into by the parties on December 14, 2015.

 

Pursuant to the Italy Projects Agreement, we agreed to pay an aggregate purchase price of €5,600,000 for all of the SPVs, which, upon the application of certain credits applied, was adjusted to $5,646,628 (€5,200,000) (the “Purchase Price”). Fifty percent (50%) of the Purchase Price, less certain credits, was due to the Sellers on the Closing Date and the remaining balance along with interest at a rate of two percent (2%) per year (“the deferred payment”), less certain credits, is due to the Sellers on the third anniversary of the Closing Date. The Purchase Price is subject to certain adjustments and to an adjustment based on the actual EBITDA results in the 18 months following the Closing Date, per the following mechanism: 

(a) If the actual EBITDA in the 18 months following the Closing Date divided by 1.5 is greater than € 934,519, then the deferred payment shall be increased by the amount equal to fifty percent (50%) of the difference.
(b)

If the actual EBITDA in the 18 months following the Closing Date divided by 1.5 is lesser than € 934,519, then the deferred payment shall be reduced by the amount necessary to maintain a Purchase Price that yields an Equity IRR of twenty-five percent (25%), but more than 35% of the remaining balance.

 

Under the Italy Projects agreement, EBITDA is defined as “total cash revenues received minus all cash expenditures made during the relevant period excluding principle and interest payments due to the bank and taxes”.

 

Pursuant to the Italy Projects Agreement, the Company will reimburse the Sellers the VAT amount that was requested and will be requested by the SPVs for the fiscal year of 2014. The reimbursed amount will not exceed €1,160,425 and will be refunded to the Sellers only after the amount is refunded to Blue Sphere Pavia by the VAT authorities in Italy. Pursuant to the Italy Projects Agreement, we also issued a corporate guarantee to the Sellers, whereby the Company will secure the obligations of Blue Sphere Pavia under the Italy Projects Agreement.

 

On December 14, 2015 (the “Closing Date”), pursuant to the Italy Projects Agreement, we completed the acquisitions of one hundred percent (100%) of the share capital of the “SPVs. On the Closing Date, the Company paid an amount of $2,143,181 (€1,952,858), which represented fifty percent (50%) of the Purchase Price adjusted for certain post-closing adjustments and closing costs. The remaining balance of the Purchase Price (balance less the adjusted closing payment) is promised by a note accruing interest at an annual rate of two percent (2%) to each Seller, with such principal and interest accrued due to each Seller on or before the third anniversary of the Closing Date, subject to adjustment to the variation of EBITDA, as described above. The portion of the Purchase Price and all closing costs, pre-closing receivables, fees and related expenses paid at closing were primarily financed by a loan of €2,900,000, obtained pursuant to the Helios Loan Agreement, of which €200,000 was repaid to Helios in March 2016.

 

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The closing of the Italy Projects Agreement was subject to certain conditions precedent including, but not limited to, obtaining consent to the proposed sale and resulting change of control from Banca IMI S.p.A. (“the SPVs’ lender”) in connection with a certain €22,080,000 Financing Agreement, dated February 25, 2013, between the SPVs, Banca IMI S.p.A. and Intesa San Paolo S.p.A. (the “SPV Financing Agreement”), as well as from other counterparties to certain agreements to which the SPVs are a party. Amounts outstanding under the SPV Financing Agreement are secured by the assets of the SPVs. After the Closing Date, the SPV’s paid a waiver fee of approximately $109,000 to the SPVs’ lender, such amount representing 50% of the fees and expenses charged by the lenders in connection with obtaining these consents. In addition, under the Italy Projects Agreement, the Sellers granted us a special credit of €100,000 per SPV, half of which is allocable to each payment of the Purchase Price. Following the achievement of key milestones under the SPV Financing Agreement, on December 21, 2016, we agreed with the SPVs’ lender to certain revised terms under the SPV Financing Agreement for each SPV, specifically (a) each SPV received a new VAT line of credit equal to €300,000 per SPV, and an extension to each SPV’s existing VAT line of credit for one year, (b) our obligation to fund a debt service reserve account deposit totaling €1,100,000 was terminated, and (c) a minimum cash requirement of €200,000 per account was removed. In addition, on December 21, 2016, the SPVs’ lender also officially approved the Framework EBITDA Agreement (defined below). As of December 31, 2016, €18,326,646 was outstanding under the SPV Financing Agreement.

 

The Operations of the Italy Projects  

On July 17, 2015, we entered into a Framework EBITDA Guarantee Agreement (the “Framework EBITDA Agreement”) with Austep S.p.A. (“Austep”), an Italian corporation. Austep specializes in the design, construction, operation and servicing of anaerobic digestion plants. The Framework EBITDA Agreement provides a framework pursuant to which Austep will perform technical analyses of operating anaerobic digestion plants in Italy that we identify as potential acquisition targets. If and when we acquire such anaerobic digestion plants in Italy, subject to the terms of the Framework EBITDA Agreement, we and Austep have agreed to negotiate individual agreements pursuant to which Austep will operate, maintain and supervise each plant and guarantee agreed-upon levels of EBITDA to us for a specified period. The Framework EBITDA Agreement will apply to the first fifteen anaerobic digestion plants that we may acquire in Italy, including the plants subject to the Italy Projects Agreement.

 

On the Closing Date, each SPV entered into Plant EBITDA Guarantee Agreement with Austep (collectively, the “Plant EBITDA Agreements”). In accordance with the Plant EBITDA Agreements, Austep will operate, maintain and supervise each biogas plant owned by the SPVs. In addition, the Plant EBITDA Agreements provide that we will receive a monthly aggregate EBITDA of $204,147 (€188,000) from the four SPVs, collectively, for the initial six months following the Closing Date, and thereafter the Plant EBITDA Agreements provide that we will receive an annual aggregate EBITDA of $4,082,946 (€3,760,000) from the four SPVs, collectively. Pursuant to the terms of the Plant EBITDA Agreements, the Company will receive the guaranteed levels of EBITDA, and Austep will receive ninety percent (90%) of the revenue in excess of such levels.

 

On December 21, 2016, each SPV entered into a Management Agreement with BlueSphere Pavia (each, an “SPV Management Agreement”), as approved by the SPVs’ lender. The SPV Management Agreement for each SPV is in substantially the same form. In addition to other customary terms, each SPV Management Agreement is for a term of 5 years, automatically renewable for subsequent 5 year terms, and provides that each SPV will pay a fee of €112,800 per year to BlueSphere Pavia, an amount equal to 12% of the annual EBITDA provided for under each SPV’s Plant EBITDA Agreement, in exchange for administration, technical and professional services. Either party may terminate the SPV Management Agreement upon 3 months’ notice. Each SPV Management Agreement further provides that in the case of an event of default under the respective SPV Financing Agreement, the payment of fees to BlueSphere Pavia under the SPV Management Agreement will be suspended and, if applicable, subordinated to the full satisfactions of the SPVs’ lender’s rights under the SPV Financing Agreement.

  

The Helios Loan Agreement 

On August 18, 2015, we and two of our wholly-owned subsidiaries, Eastern Sphere Ltd. (“Eastern Sphere”), the parent of Blue Sphere Pavia, and Blue Sphere Pavia, entered into a Long Term Mezzanine Loan Agreement (the “Helios Loan Agreement”) with Helios Italy Bio-Gas 1 L.P. (“Helios”) to finance the Italy Projects Agreement. Under the Helios Loan Agreement, Helios made up to five million euros (€5,000,000) available to Blue Sphere Pavia (the “Helios Loan”) to finance (a) ninety percent (90%) of the total required investment of the first four SPVs acquired, (b) seventy to eighty percent (70-80%) of the total required investment of up to three SPVs subsequently acquired, if applicable, (c) certain broker fees incurred in connection with the acquisitions, and (d) any taxes associated with registration of an equity pledge agreement (as described below). Each financing of an SPV acquisition will be subject to specified conditions precedent and will constitute a separate loan under the Helios Loan Agreement. Helios’s obligation to provide additional funds under the Helios Loan Agreement, in connection with subsequently acquired SPVs, terminated on June 30, 2016.

 

As of December 31, 2016, the outstanding balance under the Helios Loan was $2,607,000. Subject to specified terms, representations and warranties, the Helios Loan Agreement provides that each loan thereunder will accrue interest at a rate of fourteen and one-half percent (14.5%) per annum, and that Helios is entitled to an annual operation fee of one and one-half percent (1.5%) per annum. Payments of principal, interest and the operation fee are due and payable quarterly. The final payment for each loan will become due no later than the earlier of (a) thirteen and one half years from the date such loan was made available to Blue Sphere Pavia, and (b) the date that the license to produce electricity granted to the relevant SPV expires. Pursuant to the Helios Loan Agreement and an equity pledge agreement, Eastern Sphere pledged all its shares in Blue Sphere Pavia to secure all loan amounts utilized under the Helios Loan Agreement.

 

In addition, the Helios Loan Agreement provides for no prepayment of the outstanding amount; however, subject to Helios’ right of first refusal and following 5 years from the date of closing, we may prepay upon meeting certain conditions, including that the net consideration of such prepayment will be the principal amount of the Helios Loan, less loan principal, interest and operation fees previously paid, multiplied by 2.12. The Helios Loan Agreement is subject to certain standard events of default subject to a 7-day cure period, including our failure to make two consecutive installment payments or pay the operations fee, events of insolvency or liquidation, and the declaration of an event of default under each the SPV Financing Agreement. 

 

On December 2015, we borrowed €2,900,000 ($3,149,000) under the Helios Loan Agreement to finance the purchase of the SPVs, of which €200,000 was repaid to Helios in March 2016. No additional funds have since been borrowed.

 

Strategy

  

Our main focus is providing tailored solutions internationally to produce clean energy primarily out of the treatment of waste. We are focused on waste-to-energy projects in the United States, Italy, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom and Israel and are in the process of developing a pipeline of similar projects. We believe there is a virtually endless supply of waste suitable for such projects and the demand for energy (particularly from such projects) is growing consistently.

 

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Our model is to acquire or build, own and operate waste-to-energy facilities. We select projects with signed, long-term agreements with waste producers or waste haulers for feedstock, with national governments or electricity corporations for energy output and with private entities for the sale of other project by-products (such as renewable energy credits, heat and soil amendment). We are currently focused on several types of projects: (i) anaerobic digestion to electricity, (ii) landfill gas to energy, (iii) anaerobic digestion to gas, (iv) gasification, (v) incineration and (vi) energy crop to electricity.

 

Another component of the clean energy and waste-to-energy industry in the United States is renewable energy credits (“RECs”). A REC represents a MWh or KWh of clean energy. Many states, including North Carolina and Rhode Island, the sites of our two United States projects, require their utilities to prove that a portion of the energy they sell is produced from clean or renewable sources. A REC is used to demonstrate that the relevant unit of energy has a clean or renewable source. Consequently, utilities purchase RECs from producers of clean and renewable energy. Our agreements with Duke Energy and National Grid, for our North Carolina and Rhode Island projects, respectively, provide for “bundled” pricing for the sale of electricity and RECs.

 

We expect our projects to generate revenue through sales of thermal and electrical energy, energy efficiency technologies and RECs, and by-products, project development services, and tipping fees from accepting waste, as applicable to a particular project. On November 18, 2016, our project in the Charlotte, NC Waste to Energy Anaerobic Digester 5.2 MW Plant commenced commercial operations and started to provide its output to Duke Energy pursuant to the power purchase agreement with Duke Energy. The commencement of the commercial operations includes the gradual intake of waste from the facility’s feedstock suppliers, increasing the parasitic load to the digesters, completing the waste-water-treatment resources and completing all other mechanical features needed for the facility to operate at full capacity. As of December 31, 2016, the facility is in its mechanical completion and ramp-up phase of the project. We estimate that this project will be fully completed by June 30, 2017.

 

Our strategy is to integrate all activities and components that make up a waste-to-energy project and provide a turn-key, one-stop shop solution for waste-to-energy development. We are also actively seeking to acquire facilities that are in various stages of development. We work with and outsource key components of our projects to engineering, procurement and construction (“EPC”) providers and other project participants that provide the most economically viable solution for each individual project. The EPC providers may also be the provider of the technology used for each project. We believe this provides us the flexibility and freedom to tailor the best solution for each project. We expect that we will remain involved in managing and financing all aspects of our projects throughout their lifetimes or until they are sold. We believe this assures all of the involved parties, including waste producers, financing stakeholders, EPC and technology providers, and customers, that there is long-term continuity and responsibility for each project.

 

We aim to be distinctive and successful in the waste-to-energy market by:

 

providing a one-stop, turn-key/build, own and operate/transfer solution;
identifying and obtaining the rights to lucrative projects without incurring material expense;
delivering seamless and professional project implementation through a combination of our own expertise and the use of third-party experts with a track-record of success;
being technology agnostic and using mature and well-known technologies and when necessary to tailor-make cost-efficient and effective solutions for our projects;
  leveraging our management’s more than 30 years of experience in successful implementation of large and complex projects;
building local and international teams to support each project;
obtaining political, property, non-performance and insolvency insurance for our projects; and
  our projects receiving almost all of their revenue in United States dollars or Euros, whether operating in the United States, Europe or the developing world.

 

Competition

 

There are a number of other companies operating in the clean energy and waste-to-energy space, ranging from other project developers to service or equipment providers, buyers and/or investors. Unlike the common market approach in this space (i.e., being solely a project developer, service or equipment provider or a buyer or investor), we seek to provide a one-stop shop, turn-key solution for project development and operation. As described above, our business model is to acquire or develop and manage all aspects of project implementation and sales of the project’s clean energy and by-products. We believe this integrated approach is attractive to project stakeholders and will differentiate us in a positive manner from our competition. We are aware of several competitors in the United States, such as – Harvest Power, Neo Energy, Anaergia, Quasar, CH4 and others. We value these companies, as they are helping to create awareness and credibility for the waste-to-energy space. However, companies in the waste-to-energy industry tend to focus on new or singular technologies, whereas we believe that we have a competitive advantage in being technology agnostic. By having our own technology experts, we are able to focus on finding the best locations where waste is abundant and implementing the best technology for that particular waste stream.

 

The clean energy and waste-to-energy space is intensely competitive and subject to rapid and significant technological change. Many of our competitors and other companies operating in this space have greater financial and other resources than we have. As a result, these companies may be more effective in developing and implementing a business model similar to ours and/or competing with us in any aspect of project implementation and clean energy sales.

 

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Government Regulation

 

Permitting  

Each of our projects in development requires certain government approvals. In the United States, the standard required environmental permits relate to solid waste composting and air quality.

 

All construction and operational permits for our North Carolina and Rhode Island projects have been obtained, except for the operating permit to achieve commercial operation for our Rhode Island project. In Italy, all permits for operation of the projects have been received, and these projects are operational.

 

Regulatory Changes and Compliance

 

Many aspects of our operations and facilities are affected by political developments and are subject to both domestic and foreign governmental regulations, including those relating to:

 

constructing and equipping facilities;
workplace health and safety;
currency conversions and repatriation;
taxation of foreign earnings and earnings of expatriate personnel; and
protecting the environment.

 

We cannot determine the extent to which new legislation, new regulations or changes in existing laws or regulations may affect our future operations.

 

Environmental

 

Our operations and properties are subject to a wide variety of increasingly complex and stringent foreign, federal, state and local environmental laws and regulations, including those governing discharges into the air and water, the handling and disposal of solid and hazardous wastes, the remediation of soil and groundwater contaminated by hazardous substances and the health and safety of employees. Sanctions for noncompliance may include revocation of permits, corrective action orders, administrative or civil penalties and criminal prosecution. Some environmental laws provide for strict, joint and several liability for remediation of spills and other releases of hazardous substances, as well as damage to natural resources. In addition, companies may be subject to claims alleging personal injury or property damage as a result of alleged exposure to hazardous substances. Such laws and regulations may also expose us to liability for the conduct of or conditions caused by others or for our acts that were in compliance with all applicable laws at the time such acts were performed.

 

These laws and regulations include the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980, as amended, the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act, the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act and similar laws that provide for responses to, and liability for, releases of hazardous substances into the environment. These laws and regulations also include similar foreign, state or local counterparts to these federal laws, which regulate air emissions, water discharges, hazardous substances and waste and require public disclosure related to the use of various hazardous substances. Our operations are also governed by laws and regulations relating to workplace safety and worker health, including the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Act and regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

Effect of Existing or Probable Government Regulations on Our Business

 

Our business is affected by numerous laws and regulations on the international, federal, state and local levels, including energy, environmental, conservation, tax and other laws and regulations relating to our industry. Failure to comply with any laws and regulations may result in the assessment of administrative, civil and criminal penalties, the imposition of injunctive relief or both. Moreover, changes in any of these laws and regulations could have a material adverse effect on our business. In view of the many uncertainties with respect to current and future laws and regulations, including their applicability to us, we cannot predict the overall effect of such laws and regulations on our future operations.

 

We believe that our operations comply in all material respects with applicable laws and regulations and that the existence and enforcement of such laws and regulations have no more restrictive an effect on our operations than on other similar companies in our industry. We do not anticipate any material capital expenditures to comply with international, federal and state environmental requirements. However, we can provide no assurance that we will not incur significant environmental compliance costs in the future.

 

Employees

 

We have eleven full-time basis professionals: our non-executive chairman, chief executive officer, two executive vice-presidents, chief technical officer, chief financial officer, controller for European operations, vice president of strategy and business development, vice president investor relations, operation manager for the United States market and vice president of business development for the United States market. We also employ one part-time office manager. Our subsidiary, Eastern Sphere, has two full-time employees, our vice president of business development for the European market and our executive vice president of mergers and acquisitions.

 

Segments and Geographic Information

 

We have one reporting segment. For information regarding revenue and other information regarding our results of operations for each of our last two fiscal years, please refer to our financial statements included in this prospectus and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” included in this prospectus.

 

Corporate History

 

We were incorporated in the state of Nevada on July 17, 2007 and were originally in the business of developing and promoting automotive internet sites. In March 2010, we conducted a reverse merger, name change and forward split of our Common Stock, and current management took over operations, at which point we changed our business focus to become a project integrator in the clean energy production and waste to energy markets.

 

In 2013, we amended and restated our Articles of Incorporation to, among other things, (a) authorize the issuance of 500,000,000 shares of preferred stock, $0.001 par value, in one or more series and with such rights, preferences and privileges as our Board may determine and (b) effect a 113-for-1 reverse stock split of our outstanding Common Stock.

 

On March 24, 2017, we amended our Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation to effectuate the Reverse Stock Split, at a ratio of 130-to-1.

 

Our direct wholly-owned subsidiaries are Eastern Sphere, Binosphere LLC (“Binosphere”), and Blue Sphere Brabant B.V. (“BSB”). Through our ownership of Blue Sphere Pavia, which is owned 100% by Eastern Sphere, we own 100% of Agricerere S.r.l., Agrielekra S.r.l., Agrisorse S.r.l. and Gefa S.r.l. Through our ownership of Eastern Sphere, we also own 50% of PureSphere Ltd. We also own a 25% interest in Concord (which owns OEC) and a 22.75% interest in Rhode Island (which owns OERI). On January 31, 2017, we dissolved Johnstonsphere LLC, and on April 30, 2017, we dissolved Sustainable Energy Ltd., neither of which had any operations. As of the date of this prospectus, BSB had not commenced operations. Below is a chart of our direct and indirect subsidiaries.

  

 

(FLOW CHART)

 

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Our Corporate Information

 

Our principal executive offices are located at 301 McCullough Drive, 4th Floor, Charlotte, North Carolina 28262 and our telephone number is (704) 909-2806. Our web address is http:// www.bluespherecorporate.com . The information on our website does not form a part of this prospectus.

 

Available Information

 

We are required to file annual, quarterly and current reports and other information with the SEC. Copies of our Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K and other documents that we will file with or furnish to the SEC will be available free of charge by sending a written request to our Chief Executive Officer at our corporate headquarters. Additionally, the documents we file with the SEC are or will be available free of charge at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, NE, Washington D.C. 20549. Other information on the operation of the Public Reference Room is or will be available by calling the SEC at (800) SEC-0330. This information is also available from the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov.

 

PROPERTIES

 

Our principal executive office is located in North Carolina at 301 McCullough Drive, 4th Floor, Charlotte, NC 28262. Since May 22, 2013, we have leased office space at this site and currently pay $196 per month through May 31, 2017, and have extended the term for an additional 12 months for $186 per month. We also have office space located at 35 Asuta St. Even Yehuda, Israel 40500, for which we pay the operating expenses but do not pay any rent.

 

Each of the SPVs owned by Blue Sphere Pavia own the real property used for the operation of the facilities, which has been used as collateral to secure the SPVs obligations under the SPV Financing Agreement, as follows: (i) Agrielektra S.r.l. owns the approximately 5.63 acres of real property used for the operation of the SPV, located at Strada Provinciale 29, Alagna (Pavia); (ii) Agricerere S.r.l. owns the approximately 5.85 acres of real property used for the operation of the SPV, located at Strada dei Balzini, Tromello (Pavia); (iii) Agrisorse S.r.l. owns the approximately 6.34 acres of real property used for the operation of the SPV, located at Strada Provinciale 206, Garlasco (Pavia); and (iv) Gefa S.r.l. owns the approximately 4.85 acres of real property used for the operation of the SPV, located at Strada Vicinale di Milano, Dorno (Pavia).

 

OERI leases the real property in Johnston, Rhode Island used for the operation of the Rhode Island project facility. The lease is for a period of 15 years beginning on April 1, 2015, and includes two subsequent renewal terms of 6 and 5 years, respectively. The lease includes a monthly base rent scale starting at $15,000 per month in year 1 and increasing each year up to $22,688.85 per month at the end of the initial term. The current monthly rent is $15,450 per month. OEC owns the approximately 13.06 acres of real property used for the operation of the North Carolina project facility, located at 600 Johnson Road, Charlotte, North Carolina.

 

We intend to obtain additional working space near our projects if and when we believe this is necessary for the development and operation of the projects. Until such time, we believe that our property is adequate for the conduct of our business. 

 

LITIGATION

 

From time to time, we and our subsidiaries may be parties to legal proceedings arising in the normal course of our business. Except as noted below, we and our subsidiaries are currently not a party, nor is our property subject, to any material pending legal proceedings. None of our directors, officers, affiliates, or any owner of record or beneficially of more than five percent of our Common Stock, is involved in a material proceeding adverse to us or our subsidiaries or has a material interest adverse to us or our subsidiaries.

 

Barkats Litigation

 

On October 22, 2016, the law firm of JS Barkats PLLC filed a complaint against us and Shlomo Palas, our Chief Executive Officer, seeking allegedly unpaid legal fees for services rendered from June 9, 2011 through April 23, 2012 in the amount of USD $428,964.70, plus interest for a total of USD $652,000 (the “Barkats Litigation”). The Barkats Litigation was filed as JS Barkats PLLC v. Blue Sphere Corporation and Shlomo Palas with the Supreme Court of the State of New York for the County of New York (the “New York Court”), Index No. 655600/2016.

 

On October 26, 2016, without notice to us or Mr. Palas or an opportunity to be heard, the New York Court issued a Temporary Restraining Order (the “TRO”) in favor of JS Barkats PLLC, prohibiting us and Mr. Palas from “transferring or dissipating their assets … to the extent of $652,000”, pending the return date of JS Barkats PLLC’s asset attachment motion, due November 17, 2016. On October 28, 2016, we received notice of the foregoing. On October 31, 2016, we removed the Barkats Litigation to federal court, filed as JS Barkats PLLC v. Blue Sphere Corporation and Shlomo Palas with the United Stated District Court, Southern District Court of New York, Docket No. 1:16-cv-08404.

 

It is the Company’s position that by operation of law, the TRO expired no later than November 15, 2016. On November 18, 2016, the Company and Mr. Palas moved to compel mediation and arbitration of the dispute. Subsequently, on December 6, 2016, JS Barkats PLLC filed a motion to remand the action to the New York Court and also filed a motion to hold the Company and Mr. Palas in contempt for allegedly violating the TRO. The Company has opposed both motions.

 

We terminated the services of JS Barkats LLC in 2012 and believe the claims brought by JS Barkats PLLC are without merit, that the TRO was improvidently granted, and that JS Barkats PLLC misrepresented, mischaracterized and omitted material facts and the law in seeking the TRO. We intend to vigorously defend against the Barkats Litigation, the TRO and any other attempts to attach the assets of the Company.

 

Prassas Litigation

 

On March 15, 2017, Prassas Capital, LLC, an Arizona limited liability company (“Prassas”), filed a complaint against the Company (the “Prassas Litigation”) alleging breach of contract and further   (a) seeking unpaid fees in the amount of USD $1,601,317.67 plus interest, (b) seeking issuance of an order of prejudgment attachment and garnishment on the Company’s bank accounts, other property held by the Company and all payments owed to the Company for third parties, (c) seeking an injunction restraining the Company from transferring funds or property outside of the court’s jurisdiction or alternatively that the court appoint a receiver to manage, operate, control and take possession of the Company’s assets, and (d) seeking a declaration that Prassas Capital, LLC has been granted a contractual right to purchase 53,847 shares of Common Stock at a price of $6.50 per share (after giving effect to the Reverse Stock Split). The Prassas Litigation was filed as Prassas Capital, LLC v. Blue Sphere Corporation with the United States District Court for the Western District of North Carolina, Civil Action No. 3:17-CV-00131. On March 20, 2017, the Company received notice of the foregoing.

 

On April 10, 2017, the Company filed its answer in the Prassas Litigation, denying the underlying factual allegations contained in the complaint and denying the contention that Prassas is entitled to any relief. In addition to filing its answer, the Company (1) moved for the court to dismiss the Prassas Litigation, because of Prassas’ failure to plead one or more essential elements of its claims, and (2) brought against Prassas claims of fraud, breach of fiduciary duty, constructive fraud, negligence, unjust enrichment and punitive damages. The Company seeks reimbursement of amounts fraudulently or negligently billed by Prassas and paid by the Company of not less than $833,000, pre and post judgement interest, attorney’s fees and costs actually incurred in defending the Prassas Litigation.

 

On May 10, 2017, Prassas filed its answer to the Company’s response, whereby Prassas moved for the court to dismiss the Company’s counterclaims alleging that, among other things, the Company did not plead one or more essential elements of its claims.

 

The Company believes that Prassas is a disgruntled service provider, that the claims brought by Prassas are without merit, that no amounts are owed to Prassas and that amounts, including those previously paid to Prassas, are payable to the Company.  We intend to vigorously defend against the Prassas Litigation and any other attempts to attach the assets of the Company.

 

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MANAGEMENT

 

Executive Officers and Directors

 

The following table sets forth the names and ages of the members of our Board of Directors and our executive officers and the positions held by each. There are no family relationships among any of our directors and executive officers. The officers are appointed by our Board.

 

Name Age Position
Joshua Shoham 66 Chairman of the Board, Class III Director
Shlomo Palas 55 Chief Executive Officer, Class III Director
Yigal Brosh 53 Class II Director
Shimon Erlichman 66 Class I Director
Lyron Bentovim 47 Class II Director
David A. Doctor 66 Class I Director
Roy Amitzur 54 Executive Vice President
Ran Daniel 49 Chief Financial Officer
Elad Kerner 49 Executive Vice President

 

Joshua Shoham – Chairman of the Board Mr. Shoham became our Chairman on March 2, 2012. Mr. Shoham has extensive experience in senior executive management and in international business development in the United States, Europe and China. He has held several General Manager positions and is co-founder of several high-tech startups. Mr. Shoham was also a strategic market development consultant responsible for a range of transactions in the Israeli and Chinese traditional and high-tech industries. He previously served as a director on the board of Bio-Cell (TASE: BCEL), which merged its activities into Protalix Biotherapeutics (AMEX: PLX). Mr. Shoham holds an MBA and a B.A. in Economics, both from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, and an LL.B. degree from the Faculty of Law of Tel-Aviv University. Our Board believes Mr. Shoham’s qualifications to serve as a member of our Board include his extensive experience in senior management and international business development.

 

Shlomo Palas – Chief Executive Officer and Director Mr. Palas became our Chief Executive Officer and a director on March 3, 2010. Mr. Palas is a highly experienced entrepreneur who has held executive positions at a number of leading Israeli firms. From 2005 to 2010, he served as an entrepreneur advising companies in the biodiesel industry. Prior to that he was a senior consultant with Mitzuv, a leading management consulting firm, and has served in a variety of marketing roles. Since 2010, Mr. Palas has specialized in the renewable and clean tech industries. He has gained significant experience in renewable and clean tech manufacturing, off-take contracts with leading petrol companies, legal/financial structuring, and fundraising for these industries. He has also developed a large network in private and government sectors in many cities across China. Mr. Palas previously served as Chief Executive Officer of Becco Biofuels China Ltd., which was a company active in the biofuel industry. Mr. Palas participated in the establishment of the largest commercial algae farm in China together with one of China’s largest electrical utilities. Mr. Palas holds a B.A. in Statistics and Management from Haifa University and an M.S. from Baruch College. Our Board believes Mr. Palas’ qualifications to serve as a member of our Board include his significant experience in renewable and clean tech manufacturing and his management and entrepreneurial experience.

 

Yigal Brosh – Director Mr. Brosh has been a member of our Board since May 2014. Mr. Brosh is a director at Abroker Trading & Securities LTD. and Chairman of the Board at Environmental Services Company Ltd. Environmental Services Company is a government-owned national infrastructure company, established for the purpose of handling all the hazardous waste produced in Israel. The company owns the Ramat Hovav plant for the treatment of hazardous waste, which handles a wide variety of organic, inorganic and solid materials. Mr. Brosh previously served as a director at Analyst Portfolio Management Ltd. and is former Chief Executive Officer, director and partner of Millennium Mutual Funds. Mr. Brosh holds a B.A. in Economics and an MBA (Hebrew University of Jerusalem) and an investment portfolio management license from the Israel Securities Authority (ISA). Our Board believes Mr. Brosh’s qualifications to serve as a member of our Board include his extensive experience in the environmental and waste management industry and his executive experience.

 

Shimon Erlichman – Director – Mr. Erlichman has been a member of our Board since September 2015. Mr. Erlichman previously served as Chief Financial Officer of two Israeli companies traded on the Israeli Stock Exchange and established his own company in 1980, which provides services to local and foreign companies in Israel. Mr. Erlichman holds a B.A. in Accounting and Economics from Bar Ilan University and is a member of the Israeli Institute of Certified Public Accountants. Our Board believes Mr. Erlichman’s qualifications to serve as a member of our Board include his financial expertise and his professional experience.

 

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Lyron Bentovim – Director – Mr. Bentovim has been a member of our Board since August 2016. Mr. Bentovim presently serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of Glimpse Group, and is the founder and Managing Partner of DarkLight Partners, a strategic advisor to small and mid-cap companies. Prior to founding DarkLight Partners, from 2014 to 2015, Mr. Bentovim served as Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer of Top Image Systems (NASDAQ: TISA). Prior to this position he served as Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer of NIT Health from 2013 to 2014. From 2009 until 2012, Mr. Bentovim served as the Chief Operating Officer and the Chief Financial Officer of Sunrise Telecom Inc. Prior to joining Sunrise Telecom Inc., from 2001 until 2009, Mr. Bentovim was a Managing Director for Skiritai Capital LLC. Mr. Bentovim has over 20 years of industry experience, including his experience as a member of the board of directors for public and private companies, including Manhattan Bridge Capital, Inc., RTW Inc., Ault Inc., Top Image Systems, Three-Five Systems Inc., Sunrise Telecom Incorporated, and Argonaut Technologies Inc. Mr. Bentovim has also served in senior and executive positions with WebBrix Inc., USWeb/CKS, the Mitchell Madison Group LLC and McKinsey & Company Inc. Mr. Bentovim has an MBA from Yale School of Management and a Law degree from the Hebrew University. Our Board believes Mr. Bentovim’s qualifications to serve as a member of our Board include his professional executive experience and experience as a strategic advisor.

 

David Doctor – Director – Mr. Doctor has been a member of our Board since December 2016. Mr. Doctor presently serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of E4 Carolinas, Inc., a trade association for over 130 energy companies in North Carolina and South Carolina. In 2012, Mr. Doctor joined the Duke University Energy Initiative, where he served as a Director and Engagement Administrator, and presently serves as an Energy Industry Fellow. In 2009, Mr. Doctor co-founded Datrix World, LLC, and until 2011 served as its Chief Executive Officer. In 2005, Mr. Doctor co-founded Interaction Intelligence Institute, Inc., and until 2009 served as its Chief Executive Officer. From 1997 until 2005, Mr. Doctor served as the University of Louisville’s College of Business Bank One Entrepreneur in Residence. From 2001 through 2003, Mr. Doctor served as Genscape, Inc.’s Chief Executive Officer and on its board of directors. From 1993 through 1997, Mr. Doctor was Chief Executive Officer of a subsidiary of Tenneco, Inc., Tenneco Energy Resources Corporation, a holding company containing 27 energy corporations. In 1994, Mr. Doctor co-founded and served as Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of EnTrade Corporation, a U.S. energy trading company which was sold to Tenneco Energy. Prior to that he served as Director of Strategy for Texas Gas Transmission Corporation. Mr. Doctor has established strategy for two Fortune 500 regulated energy utilities, and has co-founded or led seven companies, most of which have been companies in the energy industry. As a Chief Executive Officer, he has created or led more than a dozen start-ups, including energy trading, online collaboration, retail, energy information, consulting and software-as-a-service companies. Mr. Doctor has served on the boards of directors of seven private corporations. He has been twice named an Inc. Magazine/Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year. Mr. Doctor is a 1974 Summa Cum Laude graduate of the University of Detroit. Our Board believes Mr. Doctor’s qualifications to serve as a member of our Board include his extensive leadership experience in the energy industry and his executive and strategic experience with developing and growing early stage companies.

 

Roy Amitzur – Executive Vice President – Mr. Amitzur has served as our Executive Vice President since August 2011. Since 2008 and prior to joining the Company, Mr. Amitzur served as President of Clean Technologies Group Ltd, a holding and integration company specializing in investment in water technologies and water and waste water project execution. In addition, Mr. Amitzur has previously managed a number of start-up companies, including Bio Pure Technology Ltd., Proxy Aviation Systems, Inc., and Aquarius Technologies Inc. Mr. Amitzur has significant experience in implementing BOT and turn-key projects in water technologies and water and waste water execution around the world.

 

Ran Daniel – Chief Financial Officer – Mr. Daniel has served as our Chief Financial Officer since May 2016. From August 2014 to March 2016, Mr. Daniel served as General Counsel and Head of the Family Office of Elie Tahari Ltd., and from December 2012 to August 2014, he served as Executive Vice President of IDH Properties LLC. Mr. Daniel served as Principal of Daniel Capital Management Inc. from 2009 through December 2012. Mr. Daniel has more than 20 years of financial and business management experience in the United States, Europe and Israel. He has worked with real estate, fashion and high-tech companies as well as high net worth individuals. He has been involved with financing, project management, M&A and real estate transactions. Mr. Daniel is licensed as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in the United States and Israel, admitted to practice law in the State of New York, licensed as a Real Estate Broker in the State of New York and a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA). Mr. Daniel is a member of the CFA Institute, the New York Society of Security Analysts and the New York State Bar Association. Mr. Daniel holds a Bachelor of Economics, a Bachelor of Accounting and an MBA in Finance from the Hebrew University, as well as a Graduate Degree in Law from Bar-Ilan University. Our Board believes Mr. Daniel’s qualifications to serve as our Chief Financial Officer include his extensive chief financial executive experience, his expertise in reporting and finance-related activities for international operations, and his experience in M&A and real estate activities.

 

Dr. Elad Kerner – Executive Vice President Dr. Kerner has served as our Executive Vice President since January 2016. Dr. Kerner has a Ph.D. in law from Bar-Ilan University and brings a wealth of knowledge in economics, finance and management. Dr. Kerner is an expert in commercial transactions, international investment, mergers & acquisitions, corporate finance and corporate governance. Before joining Blue Sphere, Dr. Kerner was General Counsel for Israel Aerospace Industries, Ltd, was the Chief Executive Officer of Toptrio Group and was a Partner in the law firm of Shugol, Ketzef, Ehrlich, Kerner & Co. Dr. Kerner was a Lieutenant Colonel and Military Judge in the Israeli Defense Forces.

  

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

 

Board of Directors

 

We currently have six directors serving on our Board of Directors. A majority of the authorized number of directors constitutes a quorum of the Board for the transaction of business. The directors must be present at the meeting to constitute a quorum. However, any action required or permitted to be taken by the Board may be taken without a meeting if all members of the Board consent in writing to the action.

 

We are not a listed issuer, as such term is defined in Rule 10A-3 of the Exchange Act, and are therefore not subject to director independence standards. However, using the definition of “independent director” from NASDAQ Rule 5605(a)(2), the following directors would be considered independent: Yigal Brosh, Shimon Erlichman, David Doctor and Lyron Bentovim.

 

Our directors are elected by the vote of a majority in interest of the holders of our Common Stock and hold office until the earlier of his or her death, resignation, removal or expiration of the term for which he or she was elected and until a successor has been elected and qualified. The Board may also appoint directors to fill vacancies on the Board created by the death, resignation or removal of any director. Our Board consists of three classes of directors, apportioned as equally as possible, each of which is elected every three years.

 

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On June 17, 2015, our Board approved an amendment to the Company’s bylaws, effective as of such date, (i) to require any stockholder intending to propose business to be conducted at the annual meeting or to nominate any candidate for election to the Board to notify the Company not later than the close of business on the ninetieth (90th) day, nor earlier than the close of business on the one hundred twentieth (120th) day, in advance of the first anniversary of the preceding year’s annual meeting (provided, however, that in the event that the date of the annual meeting is more than thirty (30) days before or more than seventy (70) days after such anniversary date, notice by the stockholder must be so delivered by the tenth (10th) day following the day on which public announcement of the date of such meeting is first made by the Company) and (ii) to require any such stockholder to provide specified information and representations and, if applicable, require director nominees to provide specified information and representations in order to be eligible to be elected as a director.

 

Committees of the Board of Directors 

On October 12, 2015, our Board designated the following three committees of the Board: an Audit Committee, a Finance Committee and an Administration and Management Committee. On November 20, 2016, our Board designated the following two committees of the Board: a Compensation Committee and a Nominations Committee.

 

Shimon Erlichman is the Chairman of the Audit Committee, and Yigal Brosh and Lyron Bentovim are its members. The Audit Committee is responsible for, among other things, overseeing the financial reporting and audit process and evaluating our internal controls over financial reporting. The Board has determined that Yigal Brosh, Shimon Erlichman and Lyron Bentovim would each be considered “independent directors” and “Audit Committee financial experts” within the meaning of the NASDAQ and Exchange Act rules.

 

Lyron Bentovim is the Chairman of the Finance Committee, and Yigal Brosh and Shlomo Palas are its members. The Finance Committee is responsible for, among other things, reviewing our investment policy, annual financing plan and financial structure.

 

The members of the Administration and Management Committee are Shlomo Palas and Joshua Shoham. The Administration and Management Committee is responsible for, among other things, managing and overseeing daily operations and transactions in the ordinary course of our business.

 

Yigal Brosh is the Chairman of the Compensation Committee, and Shimon Erlichman is a member. The Compensation Committee is responsible for, among other things, establishing and overseeing the Company’s executive and equity compensation programs, establishing performance goals and objectives, and evaluating performance against such goals and objectives. The Board has determined that Yigal Brosh and Shimon Erlichman would each be considered “independent directors” within the meaning of the NASDAQ and Exchange Act rules.

 

David Doctor is the Chairman of the Nominations Committee, and Shimon Erlichman and Lyron Bentovim are its members.The Nominations Committee is responsible for, among other things, establishing and overseeing the Company’s director nominations process and procedures, developing and maintaining the Company’s corporate governance policies, and any related matters required by federal securities laws. The Board has determined that David Doctor, Lyron Bentovim and Shimon Erlichman would each be considered “independent directors” within the meaning of the NASDAQ and Exchange Act rules.

 

Current copies of the charters of the Audit Committee, Finance Committee, Compensation Committee and Nominations Committee are available on our corporate website at http://www.bluespherecorporate.com.

 

Code of Ethics 

On April 27, 2016, our Board approved and adopted a code of ethics (the “Code of Ethics”). The Code of Ethics is applicable to all of our directors, officers and employees, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer. The Code of Ethics addresses such individuals’ conduct with respect to, among other things, conflicts of interests; compliance with applicable laws, rules and regulations; rules to promote full, fair, accurate, timely and understandable disclosure; use of Company assets and corporate opportunities; confidentiality; fair dealing; and reporting and enforcement. A current copy of the Code of Ethics is available on our corporate website at http://www.bluespherecorporate.com.

 

Anti-Harassment Policy 

On April 27, 2016, our Board approved and adopted an anti-harassment policy (the “Anti-Harassment Policy”). The Anti-Harassment Policy is applicable to all of our directors, officers and employees and addresses, among other things, fair treatment of individuals in the workplace.

 

Involvement in Legal Proceedings

 

We know of no pending proceedings in which any director, officer, or affiliate is either a party adverse to us, or our subsidiaries, or has a material interest adverse to us or our subsidiaries, except for our Chief executive Officer, Shlomi Palas, who is a co-defendant in the Barkats Litigation as described above.

 

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Stockholder Communications

 

Although we do not have a formal policy regarding communications with the Board, stockholders may communicate with the Board by writing to us at 301 McCullough Drive, 4th Floor, Charlotte, North Carolina 28262, Attention: Stockholder Communication. Stockholders who would like their submission directed to a member of the Board may so specify, and the communication will be forwarded, as appropriate.

 

Certain Relationships and Related Transactions

 

We are currently a party to certain services and employment agreements with our executives and a non-executive member of our Board, which are specifically described under the headings “Narrative Disclosure to Executive Summary Compensation Table” and “Narrative Disclosure to Director Compensation Table” in the “Executive Compensation” section of this prospectus.

 

Unless otherwise stated in this prospectus, none of the following parties has, in our fiscal years ended 2015 and 2016, had any material interest, direct or indirect, in any transaction with us or in any presently proposed transaction that has or will materially affect us:

 

any of our directors or officers;
any person who beneficially owns, directly or indirectly, shares carrying more than 5% of the voting rights attached to our outstanding shares of common stock; or
any member of the immediate family (including spouse, parents, children, siblings and in-laws) of any of the above persons.

 

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EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

 

Executive Summary Compensation Table for Calendar Years 2015 and 2016

 

The table below sets forth, for our last two calendar years, the compensation earned by our named executive officers, Shlomo Palas, our Chief Executive Officer, Roy Amitzur and Elad Kerner, our Executive Vice Presidents.

 

Name and Principal Position   Year (1)   Salary ($)   Bonus
($) (2)
  Stock awards ($) (3)   Option
awards ($) (4)
  Non-equity incentive plan compensation ($)   Non-qualified deferred compensation earnings
($)
  All other compensation ($) (5)   Total
($)
                                     
Shlomo Palas (6)     2016       204,000       180,000       216,386                         36,720       637,106  
(CEO)     2015       183,000             72,354                         4,590       259,944  
                                                                         
                                                                         
Roy Amitzur     2016       180,000       150,000       209,543                         32,400       571,943  
(EVP)     2015       180,000             69,100                         4,050       253,150  
                                                                         
                                                                         
Elad Kerner     2016       201,627             75,650                               277,277  
(EVP)     2015                                                  
                                                                         

 

  (1) The Company changed its fiscal year to end on December 31st each year, effective January 1, 2016. The Company filed an Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2015, thereby previously reporting compensation for such fiscal period.  For the purposes of comparison and clarity, the Company has presented compensation in this table on the basis of a calendar year ending December 31, 2015 and 2016.
  (2)

Specified performance bonuses of $180,000 payable to Shlomo Palas and $150,000 payable to Roy Amitzur were approved by the Board on August 8, 2016 and accrued prior to December 31, 2016. Such bonus amounts have not yet been paid but are payable in connection with the acquisition of the four SPVs by Blue Sphere Pavia and the North Carolina and Rhode Island projects.

  (3) For assumptions made in the valuation of stock awards and option awards, see Note 15 to our Audited Consolidated Financial Statements for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016.
  (4) On February 24, 2015, as previously reported for option award amounts reflected for 2015, the Board granted five-year options to purchase shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $18.20 per share to Messrs. Palas and Amitzur under the 2014 Incentive Plan, but such options were subsequently terminated on November 20, 2016.
  (5) All other compensation includes payment by the Company into specified welfare benefit plans and required insurance payments.
  (6) Shlomo Palas is also a director of the Company. Mr. Palas receives no compensation as a director.

 

Narrative Disclosure to Executive Summary Compensation Table

 

Shlomo Palas 

 

On October 15, 2015, we entered into a service agreement with Mr. Palas to retain him as the Company’s Chief Executive Officer. The service agreement, which was intended to extend the term of a previous service agreement with Mr. Palas, will expire on October 15, 2020, subject to a five-year extension at the option of the Company and Mr. Palas. As Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Palas, among other duties, is responsible for setting our overall corporate direction, including establishing and maintaining budgets and ensuring we have adequate capital for our operations, marketing and general corporate activities. Under the terms of his service agreement, Mr. Palas will receive $204,000 in annual base compensation during the first year of the agreement, subject to an annual increase review, as well as stock grants vesting on each one year anniversary of the agreement to purchase 7,308 shares of Common Stock for a price of $0.01 and on such other terms as provided in the grants. Mr. Palas will also be entitled to participate in any bonus, incentive compensation, savings and retirement and insurance plans of the Company. Mr. Palas’ employment may be terminated with or without cause by the Company, subject to the terms of his service agreement. Pursuant to the service agreement, the Company will pay to Mr. Palas cash or equity compensation for past services provided to the Company through the date of such agreement, in such amount as reported by the Company’s Chief Financial Officer, which equals $175,000 in the aggregate, but as of the date of this prospectus the Company has not made such payment. Mr. Palas received $183,000 in annual base compensation in 2015 and $204,000 in annual base compensation in 2016. Pursuant to his service agreement, Mr. Palas purchased 7,308 shares of Common Stock at a price of $0.01 on December 20, 2016.

 

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On February 24, 2015, Mr. Palas was issued 5,770 shares of Common Stock under the 2010 Incentive Plan. In addition, on February 24, 2015, the Company granted 27,693 shares of Common Stock to Mr. Palas under its 2014 Incentive Plan. The shares vested on a quarterly basis over a two-year period. As of December 31, 2016, 25,385 of such shares had been issued to Mr. Palas, and the final installment of 2,308 shares was issued on March 31, 2017. Also on February 24, 2015, the Board granted options to purchase up to 6,924 shares of Common Stock to Mr. Palas, such options having never been issued and subsequently terminated on November 20, 2016.

 

On August 8, 2016, the Board approved specified performance bonuses to Mr. Palas, as follows: (i) $25,000 payable in connection with the acquisition of the four SPVs by Blue Sphere Pavia; (ii) $80,000 payable in connection with the North Carolina project; and (iii) $75,000 payable in connection with the Rhode Island project. All such specified performance bonuses vested immediately, but as of the date of this prospectus have not been paid to Mr.Palas. The Company intends to pay such amounts, only once the cash flows of the specified projects are sufficient to support the payment.

 

Roy Amitzur

On October 15, 2015, we entered into a service agreement with Roy Amitzur and JLS Advanced Investment Holdings Limited (“JLS”), a company owned by Mr. Amitzur, to retain Mr. Amitzur as the Company’s Executive Vice President. On December 29, 2016, we entered into an addendum to Mr. Amitzur’s service agreement, whereby the parties and Renewable Energy Management Services (“RES”), a wholly owned subsidiary of RR Water Projects Ltd., which is owned and controlled by Mr. Amitzur and his wife, agreed that all compensation and equity paid, issued or granted thereunder will be to REM. The service agreement, which was intended to extend the term of a previous service agreement with Mr. Amitzur, will expire on October 14, 2020, subject to a five-year extension at the option of the Company and Mr. Amitzur. As Executive Vice President, Mr. Amitzur, among other duties, is responsible for developing and managing the Company’s projects and sourcing the required capital for such projects. Under the terms of his service agreement, Mr. Amitzur will receive $180,000 in annual base compensation during the first year of the agreement, subject to an annual increase review, as well as stock grants vesting on each one year anniversary of the agreement to purchase up to 6,539 shares of the Company’s common stock for a price of $0.01 and on such other terms as provided in the grants. Mr. Amitzur will also be entitled to participate in any bonus, incentive compensation, savings and retirement and insurance plans of the Company. Mr. Amitzur’s employment may be terminated with or without cause by the Company, subject to the terms of his service agreement. Mr. Amitzur received $180,000 in annual base compensation in 2015 and in 2016. Pursuant to his service agreement, Mr. Amitzur purchased 6,539 shares of Common Stock at a price of $0.01 on December 30, 2016.

 

On February 24, 2015, Mr. Amitzur was issued 5,193 shares of Common Stock under the 2010 Incentive Plan. In addition, on February 24, 2015 the Company granted 26,924 shares of Common Stock to Mr. Amitzur under its 2014 Incentive Plan. The shares vested on a quarterly basis over a two-year period. As of December 31, 2016, 24,680 of such shares had been issued to Mr. Amitzur, and the final installment of 2,244 shares was issued on March 31, 2017. Also on February 24, 2015, the Board granted options to purchase up to 5,385 shares of Common Stock to Mr. Amitzur, such options having never been issued and subsequently terminated on November 20, 2016. All such shares and options are have been transferred or issued into the name of RES.

 

On August 8, 2016, the Board approved specified performance bonuses to Mr. Amitzur, as follows: (i) $25,000 payable in connection with the acquisition of the four SPVs by Blue Sphere Pavia; (ii) $65,000 payable in connection with the North Carolina project; and (iii) $60,000 payable in connection with the Rhode Island project. All such specified performance bonuses vested immediately, but as of the date of this prospectus have not been paid to Mr.Amitzur. The Company intends to pay such amounts, only once the cash flows of the specified projects are sufficient to support the payment.

 

Elad Kerner

On January 1, 2016, Eastern Sphere, our wholly-owned subsidiary, entered into an employment agreement with Mr. Elad Kerner to retain him as the Company’s Executive Vice President. The service agreement commenced on April 1, 2016 and will expire on April 1, 2021, subject to a five-year extension at the option of the Company and Mr. Kerner. As Executive Vice President, Mr. Kerner, among other duties, is responsible for developing and implementing the finance strategy of the Company. Under the terms of his service agreement, Mr. Kerner will receive $180,000 in annual base compensation during the first year of the agreement, subject to an annual increase review, as well as stock grants vesting upon execution and again on each one year anniversary of the agreement to purchase 6,538 shares of Common Stock for a price of $0.01 and on such other terms as provided in the grants. Mr. Kerner will also be entitled to participate in any bonus, incentive compensation, savings and retirement and insurance plans of the Company. In connection with his business development activity, upon the closing of project acquisitions and/or new projects, Mr. Kerner is entitled to received defined amounts of shares of Common Stock as incentive compensation and cash bonus amounts determined on a case-by-case basis by our Board (which shall never exceed 3% of a project’s total value). Mr. Kerner’s employment may be terminated with or without cause by the Company, subject to the terms of the service agreement. Mr. Kerner received $201,627 in compensation in 2016, of which $180,000 was annual base salary, adjusted up by $21,627 for travel and reimbursable expenses. Pursuant to his service agreement, Mr. Kerner purchased 6,538 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $0.01 on June 13, 2016.

 

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Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End

 

As of December 31, 2016, the following named executive officers had the following unexercised options, stock that has not vested, and equity incentive plan awards (as adjusted for the Reverse Stock Split):

 

    Option Awards   Stock Awards
Name   Number of securities underlying unexercised options (#) exercisable     Number of securities underlying unexercised options (#)
un-exercisable
    Option
exercise
price
  Option
expiration
date
  Number of
shares or
units of stock
that have not
vested
    Market
value of
shares or
units of
stock that
have not
vested ($)
    Equity
incentive plan
awards:
Number of
unearned
shares, units
or other
rights that
have not
vested (#)
    Equity incentive
plan awards:
Market or
payout value of
unearned
shares, units or
other rights that
have not vested
($)
 

Shlomo Palas (1)  

(CEO)

    1,770           74.92     04/30/2018       2,308       20,070              

Roy Amitzur (2)

 (EVP) 

    1,294           74.92     04/30/2018       2,244       19,512              

 

  (1) On April 30, 2013, under the 2010 Incentive Plan, Mr. Palas was granted options to purchase 1,770 shares of Common Stock, which vested quarterly over a two-year period. The options are fully vested and exercisable for 5 years from the date of the grant at an exercise price of $74.92 per share. On February 24, 2015, pursuant to the 2014 Incentive Plan, Mr. Palas was granted 27,693 shares of Common Stock, vesting on a quarterly basis over a two-year period.  As of December 31, 2016, 25,385  of such shares have been issued, with the final installment of 2,308 shares vesting on March 31, 2017.
  (2) On April 30, 2013, under the 2010 Incentive Plan, Mr. Amitzur was granted options to purchase 1,294 shares of Common Stock, which vested quarterly over a two-year period. The options are fully vested and exercisable for 5 years from the date of the grant at an exercise price of $74.92 per share. On February 24, 2015, pursuant to the 2014 Incentive Plan, Mr. Amitzur was granted 26,924 shares of Common Stock, vesting on a quarterly basis over a two-year period.  As of December 31, 2016, 24,680 of such shares have been issued, with the final installment of 2,244 shares vesting on March 31, 2017.

 

Equity Compensation Plan Information

 

On February 24, 2015, our Board approved and adopted the Global Share and Options Incentive Enhancement Plan (2014) (the “2014 Incentive Plan”), pursuant to which the Company may award shares of Common Stock, options to purchase shares of Common Stock and other equity-based awards to eligible participants. The 2014 Incentive Plan replaced the Company’s Global Share Incentive Plan (2010) (the “2010 Incentive Plan”). All options issued and outstanding under the 2010 Incentive Plan are exercisable within five-years of issuance, at an exercise price of $74.92 per share. All options granted under the 2014 Incentive Plan were terminated by the Board of Directors on November 20, 2016.

 

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On August 8, 2016, our Board approved and adopted the Company’s 2016 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2016 Incentive Plan”), pursuant to which the Company may award shares of Common Stock, options to purchase shares of Common Stock and other equity-based awards to eligible participants. On November 23, 2016, the holders of a majority of the issued and outstanding shares of Common Stock approved the 2016 Incentive Plan. The 2016 Incentive Plan replaced the 2014 Incentive Plan. The 2016 Incentive Plan is described in more detail below.

 

The 2010 Incentive Plan, 2014 Incentive Plan and 2016 Incentive Plan are collectively referred to as our “Equity Incentive Plans”.

 

The following table summarizes information as of the close of business on December 31, 2016 concerning our Equity Incentive Plans (as adjusted for the Reverse Stock Split):

 

    Number of securities to be
issued upon exercise of
outstanding options, warrants
and rights
    Weighted-average exercise
price of outstanding options,
warrants and rights
    Securities remaining available
for future issuance under
equity compensation plans
(excluding securities reflected
in column (a))
 
Plan category   (a)     (b)     (c)  
Equity compensation plans approved by security holders (1)     19,575     $       326,579  
                         
Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders     18,767     $ 23.40        
 Total     38,342     $ 11.70       326,579  

 

  (1) The number of securities in column (a) includes 19,575 shares of Common Stock issued in 2017 to members of our Board under our 2016 Incentive Plan pursuant to the Directors Compensation Plan, for services rendered in 2016.

 

The 2016 Incentive Plan

The purpose of the 2016 Incentive Plan is (i) assisting the Company and its affiliates in the recruitment and retention of persons with ability and initiative, (ii) providing an incentive to such persons to contribute to the growth and success of the Company’s businesses by affording such persons equity participation in the Company and (iii) associating the interests of such persons with those of the Company and its affiliates and stockholders.

 

General Provisions of the 2016 Incentive Plan

The Board shall have the sole authority to implement, interpret, and/or administer the 2016 Incentive Plan unless the Board delegates (i) all or any portion of its authority to implement, interpret, and/or administer the 2016 Incentive Plan to a committee of the Board (i.e., the Compensation Committee), or (ii) the authority to grant and administer awards under the 2016 Incentive Plan to an officer of the Company.

 

The 2016 Incentive Plan relates to the issuance of up to 346,154 shares of Common Stock, of which up to 115,385 shares shall be reserved specifically for the issuance of Incentive Stock Options, subject to adjustment as described below, and shall be effective for ten (10) years, unless earlier terminated. No single participant under the 2016 Incentive Plan may receive more than 25% of all options awarded in a single year.

 

Any employee of the Company or an affiliate, a director, or a consultant to the Company or an affiliate may be an “Eligible Person” under the 2016 Incentive Plan. The 2016 Incentive Plan provides Eligible Persons the opportunity to participate in the enhancement of stockholder value by the award of options and Common Stock, granted as stock bonus awards, restricted stock awards, deferred share awards and performance-based awards, under the 2016 Incentive Plan. This further provides for the Company to make payment of bonuses and/or consulting fees to certain Eligible Persons in options and Common Stock, or any combination thereof.

 

Certain options to be granted to employees under the 2016 Incentive Plan are intended to qualify as Incentive Stock Options (“ISOs”) pursuant to Section 422 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), while other options granted under the 2016 Incentive Plan will be nonqualified options not intended to qualify as ISOs (“Nonqualified Options”), either or both as provided in the agreements evidencing the options granted.

 

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Stock Options

The Board or the Compensation Committee shall have sole and absolute discretionary authority (i) to determine, authorize, and designate those persons pursuant to the 2016 Incentive Plan who are to receive options under the 2016 Incentive Plan, (ii) to determine the number of shares of Common Stock to be covered by such options and the terms thereof, (iii) to determine the type of option granted (ISO or Nonqualified Option), and (iv) to determine other such details concerning the vesting, termination, exercise, transferability and payment of such options. The Board or the Compensation Committee shall thereupon grant options in accordance with such determinations as evidenced by a written option agreement. Subject to the express provisions of the 2016 Incentive Plan, the Board or the Compensation Committee shall have discretionary authority to prescribe, amend and rescind rules and regulations relating to the 2016 Incentive Plan, to interpret the 2016 Incentive Plan, to prescribe and amend the terms of the option agreements and to make all other determinations deemed necessary or advisable for the administration of the 2016 Incentive Plan.

 

The exercise price per share for Common Stock or options granted under the 2016 Incentive Plan shall be determined by the Board or the Compensation Committee, but in no case shall be less than one hundred percent (100%) of the fair market value of the Common Stock (determined in accordance with the 2016 Incentive Plan at the time the option is granted), provided that, with respect to ISOs granted to a person who holds ten percent (10%) or more of the total combined voting power of all classes of stock of the Company, the exercise price per share for Common Stock shall not be less than 110% of the fair market value of the Common Stock. The fair market value of the Common Stock with respect to which ISOs may be exercisable for the first time by any Eligible Person during any calendar year under all such plans of the Company and its affiliates shall not exceed $100,000, or such other amount provided in Section 422 of the Code.

 

Bonus and Restricted Stock Awards

The Board or the Compensation Committee may, in its sole discretion, grant awards of Common Stock in the form of bonus awards and restricted stock awards. Each stock award agreement shall be in such form and shall contain such terms and conditions as the Board or the Compensation Committee deems appropriate. The terms and conditions of each stock award agreement may change from time to time and need not be uniform with respect to Eligible Persons, and the terms and conditions of separate stock award agreements need not be identical.

 

Deferred Stock Awards

The Board or the Compensation Committee may authorize grants of shares of Common Stock to be awarded at a future date upon such terms and conditions as the Committee may determine. Such awards shall be conferred upon the Eligible Person as consideration for the performance of services and subject to the fulfillment of specified conditions during the deferral period. Each deferred stock award agreement shall be in such form and shall contain such terms and conditions as the Board or the Compensation Committee deems appropriate. The terms and conditions of each deferred stock award agreement may change from time to time and need not be uniform with respect to Eligible Persons, and the terms and conditions of separate deferred stock award agreements need not be identical.

 

Performance Share Awards

The Board or the Compensation Committee may authorize grants of shares of Common Stock to be awarded upon the achievement of specified performance objectives, upon such terms and conditions as the Board or the Compensation Committee may determine. Such awards shall be conferred upon the Eligible Person upon the achievement of specified performance objectives during a specified performance period, such objectives being set forth in the grant and including a minimum acceptable level of achievement and, optionally, a formula for measuring and determining the number of performance shares to be issued. Each performance share award agreement shall be in such form and shall contain such terms and conditions as the Board or the Compensation Committee deems appropriate. The terms and conditions of each performance share award may change from time to time and need not be uniform with respect to Eligible Persons, and the terms and conditions of separate performance share award agreements need not be identical.

 

Adjustments

If the Company shall effect a subdivision or consolidation of shares or other capital readjustment, the payment of a stock dividend, or other increase or reduction of the number of shares of the Common Stock outstanding, without receiving consideration therefore in money, services or property, then (i) the number, class, and per share price of shares of Common Stock subject to outstanding options and other awards under the 2016 Incentive Plan and (ii) the number of and class of shares then reserved for issuance under the 2016 Incentive Plan and the maximum number of shares for which awards may be granted to an Eligible Person during a specified time period shall be appropriately and proportionately adjusted. The Board or the Compensation Committee shall make such adjustments, and its determinations shall be final, binding and conclusive.

 

Change in Control

If the Company is merged or consolidated with another entity or sells or otherwise disposes of substantially all of its assets to another company while options or stock awards remain outstanding under the 2016 Incentive Plan, unless provisions are made in connection with such transaction for the continuance of the 2016 Incentive Plan and/or the assumption or substitution of such options or stock awards with new options or stock awards covering the stock of the successor company, or parent or subsidiary thereof, with appropriate adjustments as to the number and kind of shares and prices, then all outstanding options and stock awards which have not been continued, assumed or for which a substituted award has not been granted shall, whether or not vested or then exercisable, unless otherwise specified in the stock option or stock award agreement, terminate immediately as of the effective date of any such merger, consolidation or sale.

 

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Withholding of Taxes

Subject to other customary terms, the Company may, prior to certificating any Common Stock, deduct or withhold from any payment pursuant to a stock option or stock award agreement an amount that is necessary to satisfy any withholding requirement of the Company in which it believes, in good faith, is necessary in connection with U.S. federal, state, local or transfer taxes as a consequence of the issuance or lapse of restrictions on such Common Stock.

 

Director Compensation Table

 

The table below sets forth, for our fiscal year ended December 31, 2016, the compensation earned by each of our directors.

 

    Fees earned or
paid in cash
($)
  Stock awards
($) (1)(2)
  Options
awards
($) (1)(3)
  Non-equity
incentive plan
compensation
($)
  Nonqualified
deferred
compensation
earnings
($)
  All other
compensation
($)
  Total ($)
Shlomo Palas (4)                                          
Joshua Shoham (5)           236,846                         362,400       599,246  
Yigal Brosh (6)(7)     20,000       112,714                               132,714  
Shimon Erlichman (6)     20,000       50,000                               70,000  
Itai Haboucha (6)     20,000       50,000                               70,000  
Lyron Bentovim (6)     7,065       17,663                               24,728  
David Doctor (6)     1,033       2,582                               3,615  

 

  (1) Stock awards made pursuant to the Directors Compensation Plan are based on a fixed annual dollar value, with the number of shares issued determined based on the trading price of Common Stock reported on the OTCQB® Venture Marketplace on the date of the grant.  For assumptions made in the valuation of all other stock awards and option awards, see Note 15 to our Audited Consolidated Financial Statements for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016.
  (2) As of December 31, 2016, the aggregate number of stock awards outstanding was  32,352. As of December 31, 2016, awards of Common Stock are outstanding to each of our directors, as follows: 2,308 shares  to Mr. Palas, 2,244 shares to Mr. Shoham, 5,974 shares to Mr. Brosh, 5,750 shares to Mr. Erlichman, 2,031 shares to Mr. Bentovim and  297 to Mr. Doctor.
  (3) As of December 31, 2016, the aggregate number of option awards outstanding was 5,992. As of December 31, 2016, options to purchase shares of Common Stock are outstanding to each of our directors, as follows: to Mr. Palas, options to purchase up to 1,770 shares; and to Mr. Shoham, options to purchase up to 1,566 shares. On February 24, 2015, as previously reported for option award amounts reflected, the Board granted five-year options to purchase shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $18.20 per share to Messrs. Shoham and Brosh under the 2014 Incentive Plan, but such options were terminated on November 20, 2016.
  (4) All the compensation received by Mr. Palas was attributable to his role as Chief Executive Officer of the Company.
  (5) Mr. Shoham received $180,000 in consulting fees pursuant to an advisory agreement and payment by the Company of $32,400 into specified welfare benefit plans and required insurance payments. In addition, he received specified performance bonuses of $150,000, which were approved by the Board on August 8, 2016 and accrued prior to December 31, 2016. Such bonus amounts have not yet been paid but are payable in connection with the acquisition of the four SPVs by Blue Sphere Pavia and the North Carolina and Rhode Island projects.
  (6) Reflects fees and stock awards earned pursuant to the Directors Compensation Plan.
  (7) Stock awards include 2,308 shares of Common Stock granted by our Board on December 20, 2016 as a one-time special award for services performed.

  

Directors Compensation Plan

 

On April 27, 2016, our Board approved the Company’s Non-Employee Directors Compensation Plan, and on February 1, 2017, our Board approved the Company’s Amended and Restated Non-Employee Directors Compensation Plan (as amended, the “Directors Compensation Plan”), applicable to members of the Board who are not employees of the Company (each, an “Eligible Director”). Under the Directors Compensation Plan, beginning on January 1, 2016, each Eligible Director shall be entitled to an annual cash retainer of USD $20,000, paid semi-annually, and a quarterly stock award equal to USD $12,500, determined based on the closing price of a share of Common Stock on the last trading day of such quarter, as reported on the OTCQB® Venture Marketplace. Eligible Directors shall also receive meeting fees equal to (a) USD $1,500 for scheduled quarterly meetings of the Board attended in-person, (b) USD $500 for scheduled quarterly meetings of the Board attended by teleconference, (c) USD $250 for special meetings of the Board, and (d) USD $500 for meetings of the committees of the Board. If an Eligible Director attends a meeting of the Board and one or more meetings of a committee of the Board on the same date, the Eligible Director shall receive the full fee for the meeting of the Board and 50% of the fee for each meeting of a committee of the Board attended.

  

Narrative Disclosure to Director Compensation Table

 

All of the compensation received by Shlomo Palas was attributable to his role as Chief Executive Officer of the Company, as described above under the heading “Executive Summary Compensation Table”. The compensation received by our other directors was in accordance with the Directors Compensation Plan or was individually negotiated, as described below.

 

On October 15, 2015, we entered into an advisory agreement with Joshua Shoham to retain Mr. Shoham as a strategic and business advisor to the Company, in addition to his role as Chairman of the Board. The agreement, which was intended to extend the term of a previous advisory agreement with Mr. Shoham, will expire on October 14, 2020, subject to a five year extension at the option of the Company and Mr. Shoham. Under the terms of his advisory agreement, Mr. Shoham will receive $180,000 in annual base compensation during the first year of the agreement, subject to an annual increase review, as well as stock grants vesting on each one year anniversary of the agreement to purchase up to 6,538 shares of Common Stock for a price of $0.01 and on such other terms as provided in the grants. Mr. Shoham will also be entitled to participate in any bonus, incentive compensation, savings and retirement and insurance plans of the Company. Mr. Shoham’s advisory agreement may be terminated with or without cause by the Company, subject to the terms of such agreement. Mr. Shoham received $180,000 in consulting fees in 2016. Pursuant to his service agreement, Mr. Shoham purchased 6,538 shares of Common Stock at a price of $0.01 on December 20, 2016.

 

50  

 

 

On February 24, 2015, our Board granted 4,616 shares of Common Stock to Mr. Shoham under the 2010 Incentive Plan, and on June 13, 2016 the shares were issued. In addition, on February 24, 2015 the Company granted 26,924 shares of Common Stock to Mr. Shoham under its 2014 Incentive Plan. The shares vested on a quarterly basis over a two-year period. As of December 31, 2016, 24,680 of such shares had been issued to Mr. Shoham, and the final installment of 2,244 shares was issued on March 31, 2017. Also on February 24, 2015, the Board granted options to purchase up to 5,385 shares of Common Stock to Mr. Shoham, such options having never been issued and subsequently terminated on November 20, 2016.

 

On August 8, 2016, the Board approved specified performance bonuses to Mr. Shoham, as follows: (i) $25,000 payable in connection with the acquisition of the four SPVs by Blue Sphere Pavia; (ii) $65,000 payable in connection with the North Carolina project; and (iii) $60,000 payable in connection with the Rhode Island project. All such specified performance bonuses vested immediately, but as of the date of this prospectus have not been paid to Mr.Shoham. The Company intends to pay such amounts, only once the cash flows of the specified projects are sufficient to support the payment.

 

On February 24, 2015, our Board granted 770 shares of Common Stock to Mr. Brosh under the 2010 Incentive Plan, and on June 13, 2016 the shares were issued. In addition, on February 24, 2015 the Company granted 2,693 shares of Common Stock to Mr. Brosh under its 2014 Incentive Plan. The shares vested on a quarterly basis over a two-year period. As of December 31, 2016, 2,468 of such shares had been issued to Mr. Brosh, and the final installment of 225 shares was issued on March 31, 2017. On December 30, 2016, our Board granted 2,308 shares of Common Stock to Mr. Brosh as a one-time special award for services performed. Also on February 24, 2015, the Board granted options to purchase up to 1,347 shares of Common Stock to Mr. Brosh, such options having never been issued and subsequently terminated on November 20, 2016.

 

Indemnification of Officers and Directors

 

Our bylaws provide that we shall indemnify, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, our officers, directors, employees and agents against expenses incurred in connection with actions or proceedings brought against them by reason of their serving or having served as officers, directors, employees, agents or in other capacities.

 

Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act may be permitted to our directors and officers pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, we have been advised that in the opinion of the SEC such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and is, therefore, unenforceable.

 

PRINCIPAL STOCKHOLDERS

 

The following table sets forth certain information with respect to the beneficial ownership of common stock by: (i) each director, (ii) each of the executive officers of the Company, (iii) all current directors and executive officers as a group, and (iv) each person (including any “group” as that term is used in Section 13(d)(3) of the Exchange Act) known to the Company to be the beneficial owner of more than 5% of the outstanding shares of the Company’s common stock. Unless otherwise indicated in the footnotes to the table, all information set forth in the table is as of May 26, 2017.

 

Directors and Named Executive Officers

 

Title of Class   Directors and Named Executive Officers   Amount and Nature of
Beneficial Ownership (1)
    Percent of
Class
(1)
 
Common Stock   Shlomo Palas (2)      51,120       2.31%  
Common Stock   Joshua Shoham (3)      46,764       2.11%  
Common Stock   Yigal Brosh      13,479       0.61%  
Common Stock   Shimon Erlichman      16,379       0.74%  
Common Stock   Lyron L. Bentovim      3,991       0.18%  
Common Stock   David A. Doctor     2,257       0.10%  
Common Stock   Roy Amitzur (4)      48,450       2.19%  
Common Stock   Elad Kerner      6,539       0.30%  
Common Stock   Directors and Officers as a Group (8 persons)     188,979       8.53%  

  

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Stockholders with 5% Beneficial Ownership

 

Title of Class   Name and Address of Beneficial Owner   Amount and Nature of
Beneficial Ownership (1)(2)
    Percent of
Class
(1)(2)
 
Common Stock  

Lazarus Management Company LLC (5)(6)  

3200 Cherry Creek South Drive, Suite 670 

Denver, Colorado 80209 

    645,091       27.50%  
Common Stock  

Auto Transtech Inc. (7) 

8155 N. 76th Street 

Milwaukee, WI 53223 

    205,128       8.87%  
Common Stock  

Justin Keener (8)  

3960 Howard Hughes Parkway  

Las Vegas, NV 89169 

   

340,339

 

      14.24%  

 

  (1) Applicable percentages are based on 2,211,098 shares outstanding, adjusted as required by rules of the SEC. Beneficial ownership is determined under the rules of the SEC and generally includes voting or investment power with respect to securities. Shares of Common Stock subject to options, warrants and convertible notes currently exercisable or convertible, or exercisable or convertible within 60 days are deemed outstanding for computing the percentage of the person holding such securities but are not deemed outstanding for computing the percentage of any other person. Unless otherwise indicated in the footnotes to this table, the Company believes that each of the stockholders named in the table has sole voting and investment power with respect to the shares of Common Stock indicated as beneficially owned by them.
  (2) The 51,120 shares of Common Stock include (i) 49,350 shares currently owned, and (ii) 1,770 shares exercisable pursuant to options awarded under the Company’s 2010 Incentive Plan.
  (3) The 46,764 shares of Common Stock include (i) 45,198 shares currently owned,  and (ii) 1,566 shares exercisable pursuant to options awarded under the Company’s 2010 Incentive Plan.
  (4) The 48,450 shares of Common Stock include (i) 47,156  shares currently owned, and (ii) 1,294 shares exercisable pursuant to options awarded under the Company’s 2010 Incentive Plan.
  (5) Lazarus Management Company LLC beneficially owns 645,091 shares of Common Stock as the investment advisor and general partner of Lazarus Investment Partners LLLP, Lazarus Israel Opportunities Fund LLLP and Lazarus Israel Opportunities Fund II LLLP. Lazarus Investment Partners LLLP beneficially owns 85,179 shares of Common Stock, consisting of  67,696 shares of Common Stock and 17,483 shares of Common Stock issuable upon the exercise of warrants. Lazarus Israel Opportunities Fund LLLP beneficially owns 420,908 shares of Common Stock, consisting of 324,754 shares of Common Stock and 96,154 shares of Common Stock issuable upon the exercise of warrants. Lazarus Israel Opportunities Fund II LLLP beneficially owns 139,005 shares of Common Stock, consisting of 118,026 shares of Common Stock and 20,979  shares of Common Stock issuable upon the exercise of warrants.
  (6) Shares beneficially owned by Lazarus Management Company LLC are aggregated without regard to the “9.99% Blocker”, a provision contained in its warrants, which prevents the Company from effecting a conversion or exercise thereof, to the extent that, as a result of such conversion or exercise, the holder or its affiliates beneficially owns more than 9.99%, in the aggregate, of the issued and outstanding shares of Common Stock calculated immediately after giving effect to the issuance of shares of Common Stock upon the conversion or exercise of such warrants.
  (7) The 205,128 shares of Common Stock consist of 102,564  shares of Common Stock and 102,564  shares of Common Stock issuable upon the exercise of warrants.
  (8) The 340,339 shares of Common Stock consist of (i) 179,493 shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise of the October 2016 SPA Warrants issued on October 25, 2016, December 20, 2016, February 14, 2017, March 14, 2017, April 13, 2017 and May 11, 2017, and (ii) 160,846 shares of Common Stock, as further described in this prospectus as the October 2016 Shares.

 

RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

 

Since the beginning of the last two fiscal years, there has not been any transaction, and currently there is no proposed transaction, in which we were or are going to be a participant and the amount involved exceeds $120,000, in which any related person had or will have a direct or indirect material interest, except as set forth below. A related person is any person who is a director or executive officer of the Company, a holder of 5% or more of our Common Stock, and any immediate family member of the foregoing.

 

We are currently party to certain services and employment agreements with our executives and a non-executive member of our Board, which are specifically described under the headings “Narrative Disclosure to Executive Summary Compensation Table” and “Narrative Disclosure to Director Compensation Table” in the “Executive Compensation” section of this prospectus.

 

In July 2015, in order to finance a portion of the funds necessary to complete the acquisitions of the SPVs by Blue Sphere Pavia, we conducted a private placement of up to $250,000 of our Common Stock at $2.29 per share to certain accredited investors (the “July Offering”). On December 2, 2015, we closed on the July Offering, resulting in gross proceeds to the Company of $225,526, and agreed to issue 166,069 shares of our Common Stock at $1.35 per share, pursuant to certain subscription agreements. All investors in the July Offering were accredited investors and independent of the Company, but were part of a group led by a former member of our Board, Itai Haboucha. Mr. Haboucha did not receive any shares of Common Stock, was not paid any commissions and received no other compensation in connection with the July Offering. On June 2, 2016, the Company issued 107,160 shares of Common Stock in connection with the July Offering and pursuant to subscription agreements dated December 2, 2015, in consideration of $145,526, and on or about December 13, 2016, the Company issued the remaining 58,909 shares of its common stock in connection with the July Offering and pursuant to a subscription agreement dated December 2, 2015, in consideration for $84,000.

  

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On December 18, 2015, we entered into a no-interest bearing €118,000 promissory note with R.S. Palas Management Ltd., an entity owned and controlled by Shlomo Palas. The loan under the promissory note was used to finance a portion of the acquisition of the four SPVs in Italy pursuant to the Italy Projects Agreement. We have since paid back the loan under the promissory note with proceeds from Debenture Offering.

 

DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES

 

We are offering up to [ ] shares of our Common Stock or Pre-Funded Warrants, together with Warrants to purchase up to [ ] shares of Common Stock at a price equal to $[ ] per combination of share (or pre-funded warrant (minus $0.01 per pre-funded warrant)) and warrant for gross proceeds of up to $[ ], before deduction of underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us. The shares of Common Stock, Pre-Funded Warrants and Warrants are immediately separable and will be issued separately. This prospectus also relates to the offering of shares of our Common Stock issuable upon exercise, if any, of the Pre-Funded Warrants and Warrants.

 

Common Stock

 

The following description of our Common Stock is intended as a summary only and is qualified in its entirety by reference to our Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation and bylaws, which are filed as exhibits to the Registration Statement of which this prospectus forms a part.

 

We are authorized to issue 1,750,000,000 shares of common stock, par value $0.001 per share, and 500,000,000 shares of preferred stock, $0.001 par value, in one or more series and with such rights, preferences and privileges as our Board may determine. As of May 26, 2017, there were 2,211,098 shares of our Common Stock issued and outstanding, and no shares of our preferred stock were issued and outstanding. In addition, on the same date, (a) 5,992 shares of our Common Stock are issuable upon the exercise of outstanding options granted under our 2010 Incentive Plan; (b) 620,300 shares of our Common Stock are issuable upon exercise of our currently outstanding warrants, with a weighted average exercise price of $9.36 per share; (c) 197,954 shares of our Common Stock are issuable upon exercise of our currently outstanding convertible notes; (d) up to 753,239 shares of our Common Stock that will become issuable September 24, 2017 upon full conversion of all of our currently outstanding convertible 2015 Debentures, or in the alternative, upon closing of the Debenture Refinance, up to 1,129,858 shares of our Common Stock that would become issuable upon exercise six-months following issuance of the Convertible Debentures, which will be issued following the closing of this Offering upon certain conditions precedent being met (including repayment of the 2015 Debentures), in both cases, based on a conversion price equal to 80% of the average reported closing price of the Common Stock on the OTCQB Venture Marketplace calculated using the five trading days immediately preceding the date above (in the case of the Convertible Debentures, such formula was assumed because an exercise price is currently indeterminable using the Refinance Price Formula); (e) up to 225,000 shares of our Common Stock that would be issuable upon exercise of the Debenture Refinance Warrants, which will be issued following the closing of this Offering upon certain conditions precedent being met; and (f) 53,847 shares of our Common Stock that would be issuable upon exercise of certain warrants that are subject to dispute in the Prassas Litigation, at an exercise price of $6.50 per share.

 

Pre-Funded Warrants

 

The following summary of certain terms and provisions of the Pre-Funded Warrants offered hereby is not complete and is subject to, and qualified in its entirety by the provisions of the form of the Pre-Funded Warrant, which is filed as an exhibit to the Registration Statement of which this prospectus is a part. Prospective investors should carefully review the terms and provisions set forth in the form of Pre-Funded Warrant.

 

Duration and Exercise Price.   Each Pre-Funded Warrant offered hereby will have an initial exercise price per share equal to $0.01. The Pre-Funded Warrants will be immediately exercisable and may be exercised at any time until the Pre-Funded Warrants are exercised in full. The exercise price and number of shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise is subject to appropriate adjustment in the event of stock dividends, stock splits, reorganizations or similar events affecting our Common Stock and the exercise price. The Pre-Funded Warrant will be issued separately from the accompanying Warrants, and may be transferred separately immediately thereafter.

 

Exercisability.   The Pre-Funded Warrant will be exercisable, at the option of each holder, in whole or in part, by delivering to us a duly executed exercise notice accompanied by payment in full for the number of shares of our Common Stock purchased upon such exercise (except in the case of a cashless exercise as discussed below). In lieu of fractional shares, we will either pay the holder an amount in cash equal to the fractional amount multiplied by the exercise price or round up to the next whole share.

 

Limits on Exercise. A holder (together with its affiliates) may not exercise any portion of the Pre-Funded Warrant to the extent that the holder would own more than 9.99% of the outstanding common stock immediately after exercise, except that upon at least 61 days’ prior notice from the holder to us, the holder may increase or decrease the amount of ownership of shares of outstanding Common Stock after exercising the holder’s Pre-Funded Warrants to an amount not to exceed 9.99% of the number of shares of our Common Stock outstanding immediately after giving effect to the exercise, as such percentage ownership is determined in accordance with the terms of the Pre-Funded Warrant. No fractional shares of Common Stock will be issued in connection with the exercise of a Pre-Funded Warrant.

 

Cashless Exercise.   If, at the time a holder exercises its Pre-Funded Warrants, a registration statement registering the issuance of the shares of Common Stock underlying the Pre-Funded Warrants under the Securities Act is not then effective or available and an exemption from registration under the Securities Act is not available for the issuance of such shares, then in lieu of making the cash payment otherwise contemplated to be made to us upon such exercise in payment of the aggregate exercise price, the holder of the Pre-Funded Warrants may utilize the cashless exercise provision in the Pre-Funded Warrants.

 

Transferability.   Subject to applicable laws, a Pre-Funded Warrant may be transferred at the option of the holder upon surrender of the Pre-Funded Warrant to us together with the appropriate instruments of transfer.

 

Rights as a Stockholder . Except by virtue of such holder’s ownership of shares of our Common Stock, the holders of the Pre-Funded Warrants do not have the rights or privileges of holders of our Common Stock, including any voting rights, until they exercise their Pre-Funded Warrants.

 

Fundamental Transactions . The Pre-Funded Warrants will survive an acquisition or similar fundamental change of control transaction. In addition, upon a change of control merger or a non-surviving merger of the Company.

   

 

53  

 

The Warrants

 

The following summary of certain terms and provisions of the Warrants offered hereby is not complete and is subject to, and qualified in its entirety by the provisions of the form of the Warrant, which is filed as an exhibit to the Registration Statement of which this prospectus is a part. Prospective investors should carefully review the terms and provisions set forth in the form of warrant.

 

Exercise Price. The exercise price per share of Common Stock purchasable upon exercise of the Warrants is $[ ]. If we, at any time while the Warrants are outstanding, pay a stock dividend on our Common Stock or otherwise make a distribution on any class of capital stock that is payable in shares of our Common Stock, or subdivide outstanding shares of our Common Stock into a larger number of shares or combine the outstanding shares of our Common Stock into a smaller number of shares, then the number, class and type of shares available under the Warrants and the exercise price will be correspondingly adjusted to give the holder of the Warrant, on exercise for the same aggregate exercise price, the total number, class, and type of shares or other property as the holder would have owned had the Warrant been exercised prior to the event and had the holder continued to hold such shares until the event requiring adjustment. 

 

Exercisability . Warrants may be exercised beginning on the date of original issuance and at any time up to the date that is [ ] years from the initial issuance date.

 

Cashless Exercise . If at any time during the term of the Warrants, the Company is unable to issue the shares of Common Stock upon exercise of the Warrants without a restrictive legend because there is not a currently effective registration statement, or the prospectus therein is not available for use, for the sale or resale of the shares of Common Stock issued upon exercise of the Warrants, the holder of the Warrants may utilize the cashless exercise provision in the Warrant.

 

Rights as a Stockholder . Except by virtue of such holder’s ownership of shares of our Common Stock, the holders of the Warrants do not have the rights or privileges of holders of our Common Stock, including any voting rights, until they exercise their Warrants; provided, however, that if we choose to engage in a rights offering or make a distribution of our assets to our common stockholders as a class, the holders of the Warrants will have the right to participate in such distributions as if they had exercised the warrants.

 

Fundamental Transactions . The Warrants will survive an acquisition or similar fundamental change of control transaction. In addition, upon a change of control merger or a non-surviving merger of the Company, the holders of the Warrants will have the right to require us or our successor to provide such property or securities that the holder would have received if exercised prior to the transaction occurring.

 

Limits on Exercise of Warrants . The holder will not have the right to exercise any portion of the Warrant if the holder, together with its affiliates, would beneficially own in excess of 4.99% (or, upon election of the holder, 9.99%) of the number of shares of our Common Stock (including securities convertible into Common Stock) outstanding immediately after the exercise.

 

Voting Rights

 

The holders of Common Stock are entitled to one vote per share on all matters submitted to a vote of stockholders, including the election of directors. There is no cumulative voting in the election of directors. The holders of Common Stock are entitled to any dividends that may be declared by the Board out of funds legally available for payment of dividends subject to the prior rights of holders of preferred stock and any contractual restrictions we have against the payment of dividends on Common Stock. In the event of our liquidation or dissolution, holders of Common Stock are entitled to share ratably in all assets remaining after payment of liabilities and the liquidation preferences of any outstanding shares of preferred stock. Holders of Common Stock have no preemptive rights and have no right to convert their Common Stock into any other securities.

 

Dividends

 

We have not paid dividends on our Common Stock since inception and do not plan to pay dividends on our Common Stock in the foreseeable future.

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

On June 17, 2015, our Board approved a share repurchase program (the “Share Repurchase Program”). Under the Share Repurchase Program, we are authorized to repurchase up to $500,000 worth of our Common Stock. We may purchase shares of our Common Stock on the open market or through privately negotiated transactions from time-to-time and in accordance with applicable laws, rules and regulations. We are not obligated to make any purchases, including at any specific time or in any particular situation. The Share Repurchase Program may be limited or terminated at any time without prior notice.

 

We had no share repurchase activity during the twelve months ended December 31, 2016.

 

Anti-Takeover Provisions and Laws

 

Our amended and restated bylaws, effective as of June 17, 2015 (our “Bylaws”), and certain provisions of Nevada law, which are summarized below, could discourage takeovers, coercive or otherwise. These provisions are also designed, in part, to encourage persons seeking to acquire control of us to negotiate first with our board of directors. We believe that the benefits of increased protection of our potential ability to negotiate with an unfriendly or unsolicited acquirer outweigh the disadvantages of discouraging a proposal to acquire us.

 

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Our Bylaws

 

Our Bylaws contain the following provisions that could have the effect of delaying, deferring, or discouraging another party from acquiring control of us.

 

Requirements for Advance Notification of Stockholder Nominations and Proposals .   

Our Bylaws (a) require any stockholder intending to propose business to be conducted at the annual meeting or to nominate any candidate for election to the Board of Directors to notify the Company not later than the close of business on the 90th day, nor earlier than the close of business on the 120th day, in advance of the first anniversary of the preceding year’s annual meeting (provided, however, that in the event that the date of the annual meeting is more than 30 days before or more than 70 days after such anniversary date, notice by the stockholder must be so delivered by the 10th day following the day on which public announcement of the date of such meeting is first made by the Company) and (b) require any such stockholder to provide specified information and representations and, if applicable, require director nominees to provide specified information and representations in order to be eligible to be elected as a director. These advance notice procedures may have the effect of precluding the conduct of certain business at a meeting if the proper procedures are not followed and may also discourage or deter a potential acquirer from conducting a solicitation of proxies to elect its own slate of directors or otherwise attempt to obtain control of our company.

 

Staggered Board

Our Board is divided into three classes. The directors in each class will serve for a three-year term, one class being elected each year by our stockholders. This system of electing and removing directors may tend to discourage a third party from making a tender offer or otherwise attempting to obtain control of us because it generally makes it more difficult for stockholders to replace a majority of the directors. While each of our directors have been designated into one of the three classes, the effects of the staggered board will not go into effect until the next annual meeting of the stockholders.

 

Applicability of Nevada Law.

In addition, when we amended our Bylaws on June 17, 2015, we eliminated the Company’s election not to be governed by Sections 78.378 through 78.3793 and Sections 78.411 through 78.444 of the Nevada Revised Statutes, as discussed in more detail below.

  

Nevada Anti-Takeover Laws

 

We are incorporated in Nevada. Certain provisions of the Nevada Revised Statutes could delay or make more difficult a change of control transaction or other business combination.

 

Combinations with Interested Stockholders

Sections 78.411 through 78.444 of the Nevada Revised Statutes provide that specified persons who, together with affiliates and associates, own, or within three years did own, 10% or more of the outstanding voting stock of a Nevada corporation with at least 200 stockholders cannot engage in specified business combinations with the corporation for a period of three years after the date on which the person became an interested stockholder, unless the combination or the transaction by which the person first became an interested stockholder is approved by the corporation’s board of directors before the person first became an interested stockholder.

 

Combinations with Interested Stockholders

Sections 78.378 to 78.3793 of the Nevada Revised Statutes, designed to protect corporations from takeovers, contain provisions governing acquisition of controlling interests in a Nevada corporation. These sections provide that persons who acquire a “controlling interest”, as defined in Section 78.3785 of the Nevada Revised Statutes, in a company may only be given full voting rights in their shares if such rights are conferred by the disinterested stockholders of the company at an annual or special meeting. However, any disinterested stockholder that does not vote in favor of granting such voting rights is entitled to demand that the company pay fair value for their shares, if the acquiring person has acquired at least a majority of all of the voting power of the company. As such, persons acquiring a controlling interest may not be able to vote their shares.

 

Sections 78.378 to 78.3793 of the Nevada Revised Statutes are applicable only to shares of a Nevada corporation which has 200 or more stockholders, with at least 100 of such stockholders being both stockholders of record and residents of Nevada and does business in Nevada directly or indirectly through an affiliated corporation. At this time, we do not have 100 stockholders of record resident of Nevada. Therefore, the provisions of Sections 78.378 to 78.3793 of the Nevada Revised Statutes do not apply to acquisitions of our shares of Common Stock, but could in the future.

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Other Securities of the Company, Not Included in the Offering

 

December 2015 Debenture Offering; May 2017 Debenture Refinance

 

On December 23, 2015, the Company completed the only closing of an offering (the “Debenture Offering”) with six accredited investors of up to $3,000,000 of our Senior Debentures (the “2015 Debentures”) and warrants to purchase up to 61,544 shares of our Common Stock, in proportion pro rata to each subscriber’s subscription amount relative to the total Debenture Offering amount, with 50% of the warrants exercisable at a price per share of $6.50 and the other 50% of the warrants exercisable at price per share of $9.75. On March 24, 2017, the Company and five of the six holders of the 2015 Debentures, representing an aggregate principal balance of $2,000,000, entered into a First Amendment to Senior Debenture, thereby amending the 2015 Debentures to provide that some or all of the principal balance, and accrued but unpaid interest thereon, is convertible into shares of Common Stock at the holders’ election, beginning on September 24, 2017. The conversion price of the 2015 Debentures will be (a) equal to 80% of the average reported closing price of the Common Stock on The NASDAQ Capital Market, calculated using the five (5) trading days immediately following the up-list to The NASDAQ Capital Market, or (b) if the up-list has not occurred, equal to 80% of the average reported closing price of the Common Stock on the OTCQB Venture Marketplace, calculated using the five (5) trading days immediately preceding the date of the conversion notice. The 2015 Debentures were secured by a pledge agreement between the Company and each investor, whereby we pledged as collateral up to 49% of our shares of common stock in Eastern Sphere, Ltd., our wholly-owned subsidiary.

 

On May 26, 2017, we entered into an agreement to refinance of all 2015 Debentures (the “Debenture Refinance”), whereby we entered into a Debenture Refinance and Purchase Agreement (the “Debenture Refinance Agreement”) with Mstead Ltd (“Mstead”), all holders of the 2015 Debentures, and Cliffordale Capital, LLC (“Cliffordale”), individually and as one of the holders of the 2015 Debentures. Pursuant to the Debenture Refinance Agreement, Mstead will prepay five of the 2015 Debentures having an aggregate principal balance of $2,000,000 and the Company will pay all outstanding interest to the holders thereof, and in exchange, Mstead will receive from the Company (i) a Convertible Senior Debenture having a principal balance of $2,000,000, maturing on December 31, 2018 and bearing interest at eleven percent (11%) per annum (the “Mstead Debenture”), convertible into shares of Common Stock on or after the six-month anniversary of the issuance date at a conversion price that is the lesser of (a) 80% of the price of the combined Shares or Pre-Funded Warrants and Warrants in this Offering, less the closing price of the Warrants on the first day that our securities are listed on The NASDAQ Capital Market, and (b) 80% of the volume weighted average price (VWAP), calculated using the five (5) trading days immediately following the first day that our securities are listed on The NASDAQ Capital Market (the “Refinance Price Formula”); and (ii) a five-year warrant to purchase up to 150,000 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price using the Refinance Price Formula (the “Mstead Warrant”).

 

Also pursuant to the Debenture Refinance Agreement, Cliffordale’s Debenture will terminate, and in exchange Cliffordale will receive (i) a Convertible Senior Debenture having a principal balance of $1,000,000 and otherwise containing the Refinance Price Formula and having same terms as the Mstead Debenture (the “Cliffordale Debenture” and together with the Mstead Debenture, the “Convertible Debentures”), and (2) a five-year warrant to purchase up to 75,000 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price using the Refinance Price Formula (the “Cliffordale Warrant” and together with the Mstead Warrant, the “Debenture Refinance Warrants”).

 

The Debenture Refinance Agreement further provides that Mstead and Cliffordale will have the right (i) to participate, on a pro rata basis, in any future equity, convertible or equity linked financings up to an aggregate maximum of thirty-three percent of any such financing until such time that either no longer holds our securities, and (ii) to have the shares of Common Stock underlying the Convertible Debentures and Debenture Refinance Warrants registered within six months from the date of purchase, unless such shares are freely tradable at such time pursuant to the provisions of Rule 144. In addition, Mstead will have the right to designate a member of our Board, provided that such right of designation shall terminate if Mstead’s beneficial ownership in the Company, on a fully-diluted basis, falls below five percent. As of the date of this prospectus, Mstead has not designated a member to our Board.

 

The Convertible Debentures will be secured by a pledge agreement between the Company and each of Mstead and Cliffordale, whereby we pledged as collateral up to 49% of our shares of common stock in Eastern Sphere, Ltd., our wholly-owned subsidiary (the “Pledge Agreement”). The Pledge Agreement further provides that our obligations under the Convertible Debentures rank senior to all other indebtedness of Blue Sphere Corporation, but are subordinate to all indebtedness and liabilities of our subsidiaries and project-level operating entities.

 

All payments, issuances of securities and other obligations contemplated above in connection with the Debenture Refinance Agreement will be made at a closing, to occur within two (2) business days of the conditions set forth in the Debenture Refinance Agreement, including, but not limited to, completion of the up-list to The NASDAQ Capital Market and receipt by the Company of at least $12 million in capital, pursuant to this Offering.

 

February 2016 Stock Offering

 

In February 2016, we conducted an offering (the “February Stock Offering”) consisting of (a) up to USD $1,925,000 of our shares of our Common Stock (the “February Offering Shares”), priced at the closing price for shares of our Common Stock as reported on the OTCQB® Venture Marketplace on the trading day prior to the closing of the February Stock Offering, and (b) five-year warrants to purchase shares of our Common Stock in an amount equal to 50% of the number of shares of our Common Stock so purchased by the subscriber (the “February Offering Warrants”).

 

The securities in the February Stock Offering were offered pursuant to securities subscription agreements with each investor (the “February Subscription Agreements”). Subject to other customary terms, the February Offering Warrants are exercisable for 5 years from the date of issuance at $13.00 per share and include an option by which the holder may exercise the February Offering Warrant by means of a cashless exercise. The February Offering Warrants also include customary weighted-average price adjustment and anti-dilution terms.

 

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On February 15, 2016, the Company completed the only closing of the February Stock Offering, representing aggregate gross proceeds to the Company of USD $1,925,000. In connection with the closing, the Company and subscribers entered into February Subscription Agreements for an aggregate of (a) 269,231 shares of our Common Stock at $7.15 per share and (b) February Offering Warrants to purchase, in the aggregate, up to 134,616 shares of our Common Stock at an exercise price of $13.00 per share.

 

June 2016 Stock Offering

 

In June and July 2016, we conducted an offering (the “June Stock Offering”) consisting of (a) up to USD $3,000,000 of our shares of our Common Stock (the “June Offering Shares”), priced at the closing price for shares of Common Stock as reported on the OTCQB® Venture Marketplace on the trading day prior to each respective closing of the June Stock Offering, and (b) five-year warrants to purchase shares of our Common Stock in an amount equal to one hundred percent (100%) of the number of shares of Common Stock so purchased by the subscriber, with an exercise price equal to the per share price of our Common Stock or $1.43 per share, whichever is greater (the “June Offering Warrants”). The June Stock Offering consisted of two closings, with the last closing occurring on July 22, 2016.

 

The securities in the June Stock Offering were offered pursuant to subscription agreements with each subscriber (the “June Subscription Agreement”). In addition to other customary provisions, each June Subscription Agreement also provides that if, during the period beginning on the date of the first closing of the June Stock Offering and ending on the six month anniversary thereof, the Company completes (a) a subsequent closing of the June Stock Offering or (b) a public or private offering and sale of USD $1,000,000 or more of Common Stock or warrants to purchase Common Stock, where such subsequent closing or offering, as applicable, provides for material deal terms and conditions more favorable than are contained in such June Subscription Agreement, then the June Subscription Agreement will be deemed modified to provide the applicable subscriber with the more favorable deal terms and conditions, and the Company will take all reasonable steps necessary to amend the securities and/or issue new securities to the applicable subscriber reflecting such more favorable material deal terms and conditions. Subject to other terms and conditions, the June Offering Warrants are exercisable for five years from the date of issuance, include an option by which the holder may exercise the June Offering Warrant by means of a cashless exercise, and include customary weighted-average price adjustment and anti-dilution terms.

 

In connection with closings on July 7, 2016 and July 26, 2016, the Company received aggregate gross proceeds of USD $1,370,000. In connection with the closings, the Company and subscribers entered into June Subscription Agreements for (a) an aggregate of 140,513 shares of our Common Stock at $9.75 per share and (b) June Offering Warrants to purchase, in the aggregate, up to 140,513 shares of our Common Stock at an exercise price of $14.30 per share.

  

Registration Rights

 

Each February Subscription Agreement entered into by the Company in the February Stock Offering provides that the Company will use its reasonable commercial efforts to register all February Offering Shares, including all shares of our Common Stock underlying the February Offering Warrants, within 60 days of the closing of the February Stock Offering, and will use its reasonable commercial efforts to cause the registration statement to be declared effective as promptly as possible after filing. The subscriber in the February Stock Offering agreed to extend the date for filing.

 

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Each June Subscription Agreement entered into by the Company in the June Stock Offering provides that the Company will use its reasonable commercial efforts to register all June Offering Shares, including all shares of our Common Stock underlying the June Offering Warrants, within 20 days of the final closing of the June Stock Offering, and will use its reasonable commercial efforts to cause the registration statement to be declared effective as promptly as possible after filing.

 

The Company filed a registration statement covering the February Offering Shares and June Offering Shares, including all shares of our Common Stock underlying the February Offering Warrants and June Offering Warrants, on August 15, 2016, which was declared effective by the SEC on September 14, 2016.

 

October 2016 Financing

 

On October 25, 2016, the Company completed a private placement of its securities (the “October 2016 Financing”) to JMJ Financial, an accredited investor (the “October 2016 Investor”). Pursuant to the October 2016 Financing, the Company entered into a Securities Purchase Agreement, as amended (the “October 2016 SPA”) with the October 2016 Investor thereby agreeing to issue to the October 2016 Investor shares of Common Stock, notes and warrants, in exchange for up to USD $1,000,000 (the “October 2016 Note Principal”) in accordance with the following payment schedule: USD $500,000 paid at closing, USD $250,000 in guaranteed financing upon the achievement of certain milestones, and up to an additional USD $250,000 in financing upon the mutual agreement of the October 2016 Investor and the Company.

 

Pursuant to the terms of the October 2016 Financing, as amended, the Company agreed to issue to the October 2016 Investor (i) restricted shares of Common Stock equal to twenty-five percent (25%) of the October 2016 Note Principal paid to the Company to be issued no later than June 2, 2017, as amended (the “October 2016 Shares”); provided that, if this Offering is not completed by June 2, 2017, as amended, the pricing of such shares shall reset to the pricing of the subsequent offering if such pricing results in a higher number of shares, (ii) a non-interest bearing six (6) month promissory note in the amount of the October 2016 Note Principal plus an amount equal to approximately five percent (5%) of the actual October 2016 Note Principal, for a total of USD $1,053,000 (the “October 2016 Note”), and (iii) a five (5) year warrant to purchase up to 51,283 shares of Common Stock (the “October 2016 Warrant”). In connection with the closing on October 25, 2016, the Company issued the October 2016 Shares, the October 2016 Note and the October 2016 Warrant.

 

We entered into Amendment No. 2 to the October 2016 SPA and October 2016 Note with the October 2016 Investor on March 14, 2017, to increase the principal loan under the October 2016 SPA and the October 2016 Note by USD $500,000, to an aggregate principal amount of up to USD $1,500,000 (the “Amended October 2016 Note Principal”). In addition, we agreed to (i) increase the number of October 2016 Shares proportionately up to the Amended October 2016 Note Principal; (ii) amend the October 2016 Note to reflect the Amended October 2016 Note Principal, plus an aggregate “origination fee” of USD $79,500, for a total October 2016 Note balance of up to USD $1,579,500; and (iii) issue warrants to purchase shares of Common Stock equal to 100% coverage upon receipt of each payment made by the Investor toward the Amended October 2016 Note Principal.

 

We entered into Amendment No. 5 to the October 2016 SPA and October 2016 Note with the October 2016 Investor on May 10, 2017, to increase the principal loan under the October 2016 SPA and the October 2016 Note by $500,000, to an aggregate principal amount of up to $2,000,000 (the “Second Amended October 2016 Note Principal”). In addition, we agreed to (i) increase the number of October 2016 Shares proportionately up to the Second Amended October 2016 Note Principal; (ii) amend the October 2016 Note to reflect the Second Amended October 2016 Note Principal, plus an aggregate “origination fee” of $26,500, for a total October 2016 Note balance of up to $2,106,000; and (iii) issue warrants to purchase shares of common stock equal to 100% coverage upon receipt of each payment made by the Investor toward the Second Amended October 2016 Note Principal.

 

On December 20, 2016, we received the second installment under the October 2016 Note in the amount of USD $250,000 upon achieving certain milestones, and issued a five (5) year warrant to purchase up to 25,642 shares of Common Stock in accordance with the October 2016 SPA (the “December 2016 Warrant”).

 

On February 14, 2017, we received the third installment under the October 2016 Note in the amount of USD $250,000 upon achieving certain milestones, and issued a five (5) year warrant to purchase up to 25,642 shares of Common Stock in accordance with the October 2016 SPA (the “February 2017 Warrant”). On March 14, 2017, we received the fourth installment under the October 2016 Note in the amount of USD $250,000 and issued a five (5) year warrant to purchase up to 25,642 shares of Common Stock in accordance with the October 2016 SPA (the “March 2017 Warrant”). On April 13, 2017, we received the fifth installment under the October 2016 Note in the amount of USD $250,000 and issued a five (5) year warrant to purchase up to 25,642 shares of Common Stock in accordance with the October 2016 SPA (the “April 2017 Warrant”). On May 11, 2017, we received the sixth installment under the October 2016 Note in the amount of $250,000 and issued a five-year warrant to purchase up to 25,642 shares of common stock in accordance with the October 2016 SPA (together with the October 2016 Warrant, the December 2016 Warrant, the February 2017 Warrant, the March 2017 Warrant and the April 2017 Warrant, the “October 2016 SPA Warrants”). As of May 26, 2017, the outstanding balance of the October 2016 Note is $1,842.750.

 

By letter agreement or amendment, the Company and the October 2016 Investor agreed to extend certain milestone dates contained in the October 2016 SPA, October 2016 Note and the October 2016 SPA Warrants, as follows:

 

By letter agreement on March 1, 2017, the parties agreed to extend (i) the date to receive conditional approval from The NASDAQ Capital Market to March 31, 2017 and (ii) the date upon which a reverse split of our Common Stock will become effective to April 15, 2017.
     
By letter agreement on April 4, 2017 in substantially the same form as the March 1, 2017 letter agreement, the parties agreed to further extend the date to receive conditional approval from The NASDAQ Capital Market to April 28, 2017.
     
By entering into Amendment No. 3 to the October 2016 SPA and October 2016 Note on April 13, 2017, the parties agreed to extend (i) the maturity date of the October 2016 Note, (ii) the date the October 2016 Shares are issuable and (iii) the date the pricing of the October 2016 Shares shall reset, in all cases, to May 1, 2017.
     
By entering into Amendment No. 4 to the October 2016 SPA, October 2016 Note and the October 2016 SPA Warrants on April 28, 2017, the parties agreed to extend (i) the maturity date of the October 2016 Note, (ii) the date the October 2016 Shares are issuable, (iii) the date the pricing of the October 2016 Shares shall reset and (iv) the date to receive conditional approval from The NASDAQ Capital Market, in all cases, to May 19, 2017.
     
  By entering into Amendment No. 6 to the October 2016 SPA, October 2016 Note and the October 2016 SPA Warrants on May 18, 2017, the parties agreed to extend (i) the maturity date of the October 2016 Note, (ii) the date the October 2016 Shares are issuable, (iii) the date the pricing of the October 2016 Shares shall reset and (iv) the date to receive conditional approval from The NASDAQ Capital Market, in all cases, to June 2, 2017.

 

In addition, in each of the foregoing letter agreements or amendments, the October 2016 Investor conditionally agreed to waive any default in connection with the original dates, except to the extent of damages, fees, penalties, liquidated damages, or other amounts or remedies otherwise resulting from such a default, if we trigger an event of default or breach any terms of the October 2016 SPA, October 2016 Note and the October 2016 SPA Warrants, as the case may be, subsequent to the letter agreement or amendment.

 

The Company may exercise its right to repay the October 2016 Note at any time on or before its maturity date, which is the earlier of June 2, 2017 or the third business day after the closing of this Offering, and the October 2016 Note is convertible into shares of Common Stock upon default of repayment or upon an issuance of a variable security by the Company. The October 2016 SPA Warrants are exercisable for five (5) years from the date of issuance, includes an option by which the holder may exercise the October 2016 SPA Warrants by means of a cashless exercise, and includes weighted-average price adjustment and anti-dilution terms. The exercise price per share of Common Stock under the October 2016 SPA Warrants will be the lesser of (i) 80% of the per share price of Common Stock in this Offering, (ii) $9.75 per share (the deemed aggregate exercise price), (iii) 80% of the unit price offering price in this Offering, or (iv) the exercise price of any warrants issued in this Offering. The October 2016 Shares are issuable on the fifth trading day after the pricing of this Offering, but in no event later than June 2, 2017.

 

February 2017 Promissory Note

 

On February 7, 2017, we issued a demand Promissory Note to Viskoben Limited for the principal sum of $200,000, bearing interest at an absolute rate of ten percent (10.0%) through maturity, or a thirty percent (30.0%) rate of interest calculated annually.  Principal and interest under the Viskoben Note became due on May 7, 2017, and will become payable within fifteen (15) days of demand by the holder. Upon an event of default, which in addition to other standard provisions, includes the Company’s failure to make payment under the Viskoben Note within 15 days of such payment being demanded by Viskoben Limited, the principal balance and all accrued interest shall immediately become due and payable. As of the date hereof, the holder has not demanded payment and has agreed to withhold its demand until such time as the parties can enter into an amendment to extend the Viskoben Note, which the holder has verbally agreed to do.

 

Placement Agent Securities Issued in the Debenture Offering, February Stock Offering June Stock Offering, and October 2016 Financing

 

The Company engaged Maxim Group LLC (“Maxim”) to assist in the Debenture Offering, February Stock Offering, the June Stock Offering and the October 2016 Financing. Pursuant to the terms of an engagement letter, as amended, between Maxim and the Company, Maxim received (a) commissions equal to (i) 7% of the gross proceeds raised from Maxim investors and (ii) 3.5% of the gross proceeds raised from Company directed investors, and (b) common stock purchase warrants for a number of securities equal to (i) 8% of the total amount of securities sold to Maxim investors and (ii) 4% of the total amount of securities sold to Company directed investors, at a price per share equal to 110% of the price of the securities paid by investors (the “Maxim Warrants”). Pursuant to the letter of engagement between Maxim and the Company, Maxim was entitled to, and did, elect to have the Maxim Warrants issued into the names of its affiliates. Pursuant to the Debenture Offering, the Company issued Maxim Warrants to purchase 34,462 shares of our Common Stock at $8.94 per share. Pursuant to the February Stock Offering, the Company issued Maxim Warrants to purchase (a) 21,540 shares of our Common Stock at $7.87 per share and (b) 10,770 shares of our Common Stock at $14.30 per share. Pursuant to the June Stock Offering, the Company issued Maxim Warrants to purchase (a) 7,140 shares of our Common Stock at $10.73 per share and (b) 7,140 shares of our Common Stock at $15.73 per share. Prior to the October 2016 Financing, Maxim and the Company agreed to amend their engagement letter, providing that, in pertinent part, Maxim would receive (y) commissions equal to 1% of the gross proceeds raised from Company directed investors and (z) Maxim Warrants for a number of securities equal to 3.5% of the total amount of securities sold to Company directed investors. Cash fees and Maxim Warrants are owed to Maxim, but have not yet been paid or issued, in connection with the October 2016 Financing, however Maxim has waived its right to such cash and fees. 

 

Each Maxim Warrant issued by the Company provides that the Company may, in its discretion, file a registration statement covering the shares of Common Stock underlying the Maxim Warrants. However, if the Company does not timely file all reports and other documents with the SEC, and as a result Rule 144 is unavailable to the holder, then the holder is entitled to one “demand” registration right at the Company’s expense, and an additional “demand” registration right at the holder’s expense.

 

Disputed Claim for Warrants

 

On March 15, 2017, Prassas Capital, LLC filed a complaint against the Company alleging, among other things, that it is entitled to a warrant to purchase up to 53,847 shares of Common Stock at a price of $6.50 per share (after giving effect to the Reverse Stock Split). The Company disputes the allegations and claims set forth in the Prassas Litigation, and believes that such claims are without merit, including the claim for warrants. For more details on the Prassas Litigation, see the section entitled “Litigation.”

  

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UNDERWRITING

 

Maxim Group LLC (“Maxim” or the “Representative”) is acting as the sole book running manager of the Offering and as representative of the underwriters. Subject to the terms and conditions of the underwriting agreement, dated as of the date of this prospectus, the underwriters set forth below have agreed to purchase, and we have agreed to sell to them, the number of shares of Common Stock, Pre-Funded Warrants and Warrants at the public offering price, less the underwriting discounts and commissions, as set forth on the cover page of this prospectus and as indicated below:

 

Underwriter   Number of Shares       Number of
Pre-Funded Warrants
    Number of Warrants
Maxim Group LLC                
Chardan Capital Markets, LLC                

 

The underwriting agreement provides that the obligations of the underwriters to pay for and accept delivery of the Shares, Pre-Funded Warrants and Warrants offered by this prospectus are subject to the approval of certain legal matters by its counsel and to other conditions. The underwriters are obligated to take and pay for all of the Shares, Pre-Funded Warrants and Warrants offered by this prospectus if any such Shares, Pre-Funded Warrants and Warrants are taken, other than those Shares, Pre-Funded Warrants and Warrants covered by the over-allotment option described below.

  

Commissions

 

We (i) have agreed to pay the underwriters a cash fee equal to eight percent (8%) of the aggregate gross proceeds raised in this offering and (ii) have agreed to pay the Representative share purchase warrants (the “Representative’s Warrants”) covering a number of shares of Common Stock equal to up to three and one-half percent (3.5%) of the total number of shares of Common Stock and Pre-Funded Warrants being sold in the Offering, including pursuant to the over-allotment option. The Representative’s Warrants will be non-exercisable for six (6) months after the date of the Closing and will expire three (3) years after such date. The Representative’s Warrants will be exercisable at a price equal to 125.0% of the public offering price in connection with the Offering. The Representative’s Warrants shall not be redeemable. The Representative’s Warrants will be subject to FINRA Rule 5110(g)(1) in that, except as otherwise provided by FINRA rules, for a period of 180 days following the effective date of the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part, the Representative’s Warrants shall not be (a) sold, transferred, assigned, pledged or hypothecated, or (b) the subject of any hedging, short sale, derivative, put or call transaction that would result in the effective economic disposition of the securities by any person, except as otherwise permitted by FINRA Rule 5110(g)(2). The Representative’s Warrants may be exercised as to all or a lesser number of shares of Common Stock, and will provide for cashless exercise. The Representative’s Warrants shall provide for the same anti-dilution protection and price adjustment rights received by investors in the Offering.

 

The Representative has advised us that the underwriters propose to offer the Shares, Pre-Funded Warrants and Warrants directly to the public at the public offering price set forth on the cover of this prospectus. In addition, the underwriters may offer some of the Shares, Pre-Funded Warrants and Warrants to other securities dealers at such price less a concession of up to $[ ] per combination of share (or pre-funded warrant) and warrant. After the offering to the public, the offering price and other selling terms may be changed by the underwriters without changing the proceeds we will receive from the underwriters.

 

The following table summarizes the public offering price, underwriting commissions and proceeds before expenses to us assuming both no exercise and full exercise of the underwriters’ over-allotment option. The underwriting commissions are equal to the public offering price per share (or pre-funded warrant) less the amount per share or warrant the underwriter pays us for the Shares, Pre-Funded Warrants and Warrants.

  

    Per Share (or Pre-Funded Warrant) and Warrant     Total without overallotment   Total with full exercise of overallotment
Public offering price $   [ ] $ [ ]   $ [ ]
Underwriting discounts and commissions $   [ ] $ [ ]   $ [ ]
Proceeds, before expenses, to us $   [ ] $ [ ]   $ [ ]

 

(1) The fees shown do not include the Representative’s Warrant.

 

In addition, we have agreed to reimburse the Representative for its out-of-pocket expenses in connection with the Offering, subject to a cap of $130,000 in the aggregate, including but not limited to the fees (not to exceed $70,000) of its legal counsel. We have provided the Representative an advance in the amount of $10,000 to be applied towards reasonable out-of-pocket expenses, including legal fees, background search firm fees, and road show expenses, incurred in connection with the Offering, provided that any funds provided under such advance shall be applied solely towards the Representative’s reasonable out-of-pocket expenses in connection with the Offering. We estimate that the total expenses of the Offering, including registration, filing and listing fees, printing fees and legal and accounting expenses, but excluding underwriting discounts and commissions, will be approximately $530,000, all of which are payable by us.

 

59  

 

 

Over-Allotment Option

 

We have granted the underwriters an option for a period of 45 days following the closing of the Offering to purchase up to an additional number of shares of Common Stock equal to 15% of the total number of Shares and Pre-Funded Warrants and/or up to an additional number of Warrants equal to 15% of the Warrants sold in the Offering at the public offering price, less the underwriting discounts and commissions. To the extent the option is exercised and the conditions of the underwriting agreement are satisfied, we will be obligated to sell to the underwriters, and the underwriters will be obligated to purchase, these additional Shares, Pre-Funded Warrants and/or Warrants.

 

Indemnification

 

Pursuant to the underwriting agreement, we have agreed to indemnify the underwriters against certain liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act, or to contribute to payments that the underwriters or such other indemnified parties may be required to make in respect of those liabilities.

 

Right of First Refusal

 

We have granted the Representative a right of first refusal for 12 months following the closing of the Offering to act as lead or co-lead managing underwriter and book runner or lead or co-lead placement agent with at least 80% of the economics for any and all future public or private equity, or equity-linked, or convertible security offerings during such 12 month period of Blue Sphere Corporation, not including any commercial debt financing, equipment financing, or seller financing in connection with any acquisition by the Company relating to the Company’s project level financings or other project level activities.

 

Electronic Distribution

 

A prospectus in electronic format may be made available on the websites maintained by the underwriters or selling group members, if any, participating in the Offering and the underwriter may distribute prospectuses electronically. The underwriters may agree to allocate a number of shares to underwriters and selling group members for sale to their online brokerage account holders. Internet distributions will be allocated by the underwriters and selling group members that will make internet distributions on the same basis as other allocations. Other than the prospectus in electronic format, the information on these websites is not part of, nor incorporated by reference into, this prospectus or the Registration Statement of which this prospectus forms a part, has not been approved or endorsed by us or any underwriter in its capacity as underwriter, and should not be relied upon by investors. 

 

Lock-Up Agreements

 

The Company is using its best efforts to cause the Company’s directors, officers and certain beneficial owners of 5% or more of the outstanding shares of Common Stock of the Company as of the effective date of the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part to enter into customary “lock-up” agreements in favor of the Representative pursuant to which such persons and entities will agree that, for a period of 180 days after the Offering is completed, they shall neither offer, issue, sell, contract to sell, encumber, grant any option for the sale of or otherwise dispose of any securities of the Company without the Representative’s prior written consent, including the issuance of shares of Common Stock upon the exercise of currently outstanding options approved by the Representative.

 

Determination of the Offering Price

 

There is a limited public market for our Common Stock and no public market for the Pre-Funded Warrants or the Warrants. The public offering price was determined through negotiations between us and the Representative, and does not necessarily bear any relationship to the value of our assets, our net worth, revenues or other established criteria of value, and should not be considered indicative of the actual value of the Securities. In addition to prevailing market conditions, the factors considered in determining the public offering price included the following:

 

the information included in this prospectus;
the current market price of our Common Stock, trading prices of our Common Stock over time, and the illiquidity and volatility of our Common Stock;
the valuation multiples of publicly traded companies that the underwriters believe to be comparable to us;
our financial information;
our prospects and the history and the prospects of the industry in which we compete;
an assessment of our management, its past and present operations, and the prospects for, and timing of, our projects’ future revenues;
the present state of our development; and
the above factors in relation to market values and various valuation measures of other companies engaged in activities similar to ours.

  

60  

 

 

Price Stabilization, Short Positions and Penalty Bids

 

In connection with the Offering, the underwriters may engage in stabilizing transactions, over-allotment transactions, syndicate covering transactions and penalty bids in accordance with Regulation M under the Exchange Act. Stabilizing transactions permit bids to purchase the underlying security so long as the stabilizing bids do not exceed a specified maximum.

 

Over-allotment involves sales by the underwriters of shares in excess of the number of shares the underwriters are obligated to purchase, which creates a syndicate short position. The short position may be either a covered short position or a naked short position. In a covered short position, the number of shares over-allotted by the underwriters is not greater than the number of shares that they may purchase in the over-allotment option. In a naked short position, the number of shares involved is greater than the number of shares in the over-allotment option. The underwriters may close out any covered short position by either exercising the over-allotment option and/or purchasing shares in the open market.

 

Syndicate covering transactions involve purchases of Common Stock in the open market after the distribution has been completed in order to cover syndicate short positions. In determining the source of shares to close out the short position, the underwriters will consider, among other things, the price of shares available for purchase in the open market as compared to the price at which they may purchase shares through the over-allotment option. A naked short position occurs if the underwriters sell more shares than could be covered by the over-allotment option. This position can only be closed out by buying shares in the open market. A naked short position is more likely to be created if the underwriters are concerned that there could be downward pressure on the price of the shares in the open market after pricing that could adversely affect investors who purchase in the Offering.

 

Penalty bids permit the underwriters to reclaim a selling concession from a syndicate member when shares of the common stock originally sold by the syndicate member is purchased in a stabilizing or syndicate covering transaction to cover syndicate short positions.

 

These stabilizing transactions, over-allotment transactions, syndicate covering transactions and penalty bids may have the effect of raising or maintaining the market price of our Common Stock or preventing or retarding a decline in the market price of the common stock. As a result, the price of our Common Stock may be higher than the price that might otherwise exist in the open market. These transactions may be discontinued at any time.

 

Neither we nor the underwriters make any representation or prediction as to the direction or magnitude of any effect that the transactions described above may have on the price of our shares of common stock. In addition, neither we nor the underwriters make any representation that the underwriters will engage in these transactions or that any transaction, if commenced, will not be discontinued without notice.

  

Other Relationships

 

We have agreed to bear the cost of all actual expenses related to this Offering, including without limitation all filing fees and communication expenses relating to the registration of the Securities to be sold in this offering. In addition, we have agreed to reimburse the Representative for its out-of-pocket expenses in connection with the Offering, subject to a cap of $130,000 in the aggregate, including but not limited to the fees (not to exceed $70,000) of its legal counsel. We have provided the Representative an advance in the amount of $10,000 to be applied towards reasonable out-of-pocket expenses, including legal fees, background search firm fees, and road show expenses, incurred in connection with the Offering, provided that any funds provided under such advance shall be applied solely towards the Representative’s reasonable out-of-pocket expenses in connection with the Offering. The Representative will return to us any remaining portion of the advance to the extent such monies were not used for its out-of-pocket accountable expenses and legal expenses actually incurred.

 

Pursuant to an engagement letter dated May 21, 2015, between the Company and Maxim, whereby Maxim provided general financial advisory and investment banking services to us, we paid Maxim an aggregate cash fee of approximately $80,000 and issued Maxim an aggregate of 26,727 shares of our Common Stock. We and Maxim ceased performing under this agreement in August 2016.

 

In connection with the Debenture Offering, the February Stock Offering and the June Stock Offering, we paid Maxim an aggregate cash fee, including fees paid to Maxim’s counsel, of $470,650 and issued the Maxim Warrants to purchase shares of our Common Stock as follows: (a) pursuant to the Debenture Offering, the Company issued Maxim Warrants to purchase 34,462 shares of our Common Stock at $8.94 per share; (b) pursuant to the February Stock Offering, the Company issued Maxim Warrants to purchase 21,540 shares of our Common Stock at $7.87 per share and 10,770 shares of our Common Stock at $14.30 per share; and (c) pursuant to the June Stock Offering, the Company issued Maxim Warrants to purchase 7,140 shares of our Common Stock at $10.73 per share and 7,140 shares of our Common Stock at $15.73 per share. Maxim has waived its right to the cash fees and Maxim Warrants owed to Maxim in connection with the October 2016 Financing.

 

The Maxim Warrants will be subject to FINRA Rule 5110(g)(1) in that, except as otherwise provided by FINRA rules, for a period of 180 days following the effective date of the registration statement on which the shares underlying the Maxim Warrants are registered, the Maxim Warrant shall not be (a) sold, transferred, assigned, pledged or hypothecated, or (b) the subject of any hedging, short sale, derivative, put or call transaction that would result in the effective economic disposition of the securities by any person except as permitted by FINRA Rule 5110(g)(2). We also reimbursed Maxim for its out of pocket expenses in an aggregate amount of $9,305 relating to the Debenture Offering, the February Stock Offering and the June Stock Offering, and granted a right of first refusal for a period of 12 months to act as lead book running underwriter and book runner for any and all future public and private equity offerings.

 

In connection with the Refinance Agreement and upon closing of the Debenture Refinance, we will pay to Maxim an aggregate cash fee of $150,000.

 

61  

 

 

LEGAL MATTERS

 

The validity of the securities offered hereby will be passed upon for us by Thompson Hine LLP, New York, New York. Harter Secrest & Emery LLP is acting as counsel for the underwriter in this Offering.

 

EXPERTS

 

The audited consolidated financial statements appearing in this prospectus and Registration Statement for the years ended December 31, 2016 and September 30, 2015 and for the three-month period ended December 31, 2015, have been audited by Brightman Almagor Zohar & Co., a member firm of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, an independent registered public accounting firm, as set forth in their report appearing elsewhere herein, and are included in reliance upon such report given on the authority of such firm as experts in accounting and auditing.

  

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

 

We have filed the Registration Statement on Form S-1 of which this prospectus forms a part under the Securities Act with the SEC with respect to the Securities to be sold in the Offering. This prospectus, which is part of the Registration Statement, does not contain all the information set forth in the Registration Statement. For further information with respect to us and the Securities to be sold in the Offering, we make reference to the Registration Statement. Whenever we make reference in this prospectus to any of our contracts, agreements or other documents, the references are not necessarily complete, and you should refer to the exhibits filed with the Registration Statement for copies of the actual contract, agreement or other document.

 

We are required to file annual, quarterly and current reports and other information with the SEC. You can read and copy any of this information at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549 on official business days during the hours of 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. You may obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. This information is also available from the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov.

 

62  

 

 

APPENDIX A - FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION  

 

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2016

IN U.S. DOLLARS  

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

  Page
   
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM F-2
   
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS:  
Consolidated Balance sheets as of December 31, 2016, and 2015 F-3
Consolidated Statements of operations for the year ended December 31, 2016 and the year ended September 30, 2015 and for the three months period ended December 31, 2015 F-4
Statements of changes in stockholders’ equity (deficit) for the year ended December 31, 2016 and the year ended September 30, 2015 and for the three months period ended December 31, 2015 F-6
   
Consolidated Statements of cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2016 and the year ended September 30, 2015 and for the three months period ended December 31, 2015 F-8
Notes to consolidated financial statements F-10

 

F- 1  

 

 

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

 

 

  

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of

Blue Sphere Corporation.

 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Blue Sphere Corporation and its subsidiaries (“the Company”) as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 and the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive loss, changes in stockholders’ deficit, and cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2016, for the year ended September 30, 2015 and for the three month period ended December 31, 2015. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s Board of Directors and management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial statements based on our audits.

 

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States).  Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting.  Our audits included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.  Accordingly, we express no such opinion.  An audit also includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.  We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Blue Sphere Corporation and its subsidiaries as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 and the results of their operations and their cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2016, for the year ended September 30, 2015 and for the three month period ended December 31, 2015, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

 

The accompanying financial statements have been prepared assuming that the Company will continue as a going concern. As discussed in Note 1b to the consolidated financial statements, the Company has incurred recurring losses from operations that raises substantial doubt about its ability to continue as a going concern. Management’s plans concerning these matters are also described in Note 1b. The accompanying consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of this uncertainty.

 

 

/s/ Brightman Almagor Zohar & Co.

Brightman Almagor Zohar & Co.

Certified Public Accountants

Member of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited

 

Tel Aviv, Israel

February 14, 2017

(except for Note 18, as to which the date is March 24, 2017)

 

 

 

F- 2  

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION 

 

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS 

(Amounts in thousands except share and per share data) 

 

                 
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
 
Assets                
CURRENT ASSETS:                
Cash and cash equivalents   $ 416     $ 1,888  
Related Parties     1,408       1,378  
Other current assets     81       37  
Total current assets     1,905       3,303  
                 
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT, net of accumulated depreciation     50       30  
INVESTMENTS IN NOCONSOLIDATED AFFILIATES     10,137       7,570  
                 
INVESTMENTS IN NONCONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES     4,429       4,993  
                 
Total assets   $ 16,521     $ 15,896  
                 
Liabilities and Stockholders’ Deficit                
CURRENT LIABILITIES:                
Current maturities of Debentures and long term loan   $ 2,988     $ 549  
Short term loan     280        
Accounts payables     557       124  
Other accounts payable     2,091       1,083  
Deferred revenues from nonconsolidated affiliates      5,658       9,052  
Total current liabilities     11,574       10,808  
                 
ACCRUED SEVERANCE PAY      11        
                 
LONG TERM BANK LOAN     112       127  
                 
LONG TERM LOANS AND LIABILITIES     5,003       5,543  
                 
DEBENTURES           2,360  
                 
WARRANTS LIABILITY     2,045       544  
                 
                 
COMMITMENTS AND CONTIGENCIES (Note 10)                
                 
TOTAL LIABILITIES     18,745       19,382  
                 
STOCKHOLDERS’ DEFICIT:                
Common shares of $0.001 par value each:                

Authorized: 1,750,000,000 shares at December 31, 2016 and 2015. Issued and outstanding: 2,147,383 shares and 1,388,481 shares at December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.

    2       1  
Proceeds on account of shares           165  
Treasury shares     (28 )     (28 )
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income      33        
Additional paid-in capital    

44,262

     

41,068

 
Accumulated deficit     (46,493 )     (44,692 )
Total Stockholders’ Deficit     (2,224 )     (3,486 )
Total liabilities and Stockholders’ Deficit   $ 16,521     $ 15,896  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

F- 3  

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS 

(Amounts in thousands except share and per share data) 

   

    Year ended     Three Months ended  
    December 31, 2016     September 30, 2015     December 31, 2015  
Revenue from Services   $ 588     $     $  
                         
OPERATING EXPENSES -                        
General and administrative expenses     (7,516)       (5,317 )     (1,106
                         
OPERATING LOSS     (6,928 )     (5,317 )     (1,106 )
                         
Financial Expense (Income), net     1,728       2,145       (75 )
                         
Loss (gain) from Change in Fair Value of Warrants Liability       (1,390           219  
                         
                         
NET LOSS BEFORE INCOME TAXES AND EQUITY EARNINGS (LOSSES)     (7,266 )     (7,462 )     (1,250 )
                         
                         
Income Taxes     (52            
                         
Equity Earnings in Nonconsolidated Affiliates     5,961              
                         
Equity Losses in Nonconsolidated Subsidiaries     (444           (38
                         
NET LOSS   $ (1,801 )   $ (7,462 )   $ (1,288 )
                         
Net loss per common share - basic and diluted   $ (0.99 )   $ (11.39 )   $ (0.95 )
                         
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding
during the period - basic and diluted
   

1,814,668

     

654,859

     

1,361,628

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

F- 4  

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION 

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE LOSS

(Amounts in thousands except share and per share data)

             
    Year ended     Three Months ended  
    December 31, 2016     September 30, 2015     December 31, 2015  
                   
NET LOSS   $ 1,801     $ 7,462     $ 1,288  
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax:                        
                         
Currency translation adjustments     (33 )            
                         
TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE LOSS   $ 1,768     $ 7,462     $ 1,288  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

F- 5  

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION  

 

STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY (DEFICIT) 

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data) 

                                           
                Proceeds                          
                on                       Total  
          account           Additional           Stockholders’  
    Common Stock     of     Treasury     paid-in     Accumulated     Equity  
    Shares     Amount     shares     Shares     Capital     deficit     (deficit)  
                                                         
BALANCE AT SEPTEMBER 30, 2014     385,455     $ 1     $ 20     $     $ 36,231     $ (35,942 )   $ 310  
Share based compensation                             558             558  
Issuance of common stock, net of issuance cost     71,836                       347             347  
Issuance of common stock in respect of issuance of convertible notes     581,019                         1,525             1,525  
Issuance of shares for services     254,743                         1,574             1,574  
Issuance of convertible debentures                             482             482  
Treasury shares purchases     (1,109 )                 (28 )                 (28 )
Net loss                                   (7,462 )     (7,462 )
BALANCE AT SEPTEMBER 30, 2015     1,291,944     $ 1     $ 20       (28 )   $ 40,717     $ (43,404 )   $ (2,694 )
                                                         
Issuance of shares for services     18,731                         136             136  
Issuance of common stock, net of issuance cost     77,806                         215             215  
Proceeds on account of shares                 145                         145  
Net loss                                   (1,288 )     (1,288 )
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 2015     1,388,481     $ 1     $ 165     $ (28 )   $ 41,068     $ (44,692 )   $ (3,486 )

 

 

F- 6  

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION  

 

STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY (DEFICIT) 

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

                                                 
                Proceeds                                
                on                 Accumulated           Total  
          account           Additional     other           Stockholders’  
    Common Stock     of     Treasury     paid-in     comprehensive     Accumulated     Equity  
    Shares     Amount     shares     Shares     Capital     income     deficit     (deficit)  
                                                 
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 2015     1,388,481     $ 1     $ 165     $ (28 )   $ 41,068     $     $ (44,692 )   $ (3,486 )
                                                                 
Extinguish of liability upon shares issuance     161,051                         1,527                   1,527  
Issuance of common stock, net of issuance cost     427,552       1       (20 )           736                   717  
Issuance of shares for services     57,754                         745                   745  
Issuance of shares with respect to proceeds on account of shares        107,160             (145)             145                    
Exercise of warrants     5,385                         41                     41  
Comprehensive loss                                   33       (1,801 )     (1,768 )
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 2016     2,147,383     $ 2     $       (28 )   $ 44,262     $ 33     $ (46,493 )   $ (2,224 )

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

F- 7  

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION

  

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data) 

 

    Year ended  
    December  31,
2016
    September 30,
2015
 
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:                
Net loss for the period   $ (1,801 )   $ (7,462 )
Adjustments required to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities:                
Share based payment     1,181       558  
Depreciation     17       6  
Capital loss from disposal of property, plant and equipment     12        
Expenses in respect of Convertible notes and loans     162       1,949  
Equity earnings in Nonconsolidated Affiliates     (5,961 )      
Equity losses in nonconsolidated subsidiary     444        
Issuance of shares for services     745       1,574  
Changes in Warrants Liability     (1,338 )      
Amortization of projects cost           469  
Expenses in respect of severance pay     11        
Impairment of Investment           (22 )
                 
Decrease in related parties     (80 )      
Decrease (increase) in other current assets     (33     244  
Increase in deferred revenues from Nonconsolidated Affiliates           1,482  
Increase in accounts payables     439       46  
Increase in other account payables     1,383       338  
Net cash used in operating activities     (4,819 )     (818 )
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:                
Purchase of property and equipment     (60 )     (37 )
Net cash used in investing activities     (60 )     (37 )
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:                
                 
Proceeds from Short Term Loans     750        
Proceeds from issuance of debenture           625  
Proceeds from loans     50       859  
Proceeds from exercise of warrants     41          
Repayment of loans and convertible debentures     (449 )     (1,081 )
Proceeds from issuance of shares and warrants     3,001       315  
Net cash provided by financing activities     3,393       718  
                 
DECREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS     (1,486 )     (137 )
                 
EFFECT OF CHANGES IN EXCHANGE RATES ON CASH BALANCES IN FOREIGN CURRENCIES     14        
                 
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT BEGINNING OF PERIOD     1,888       298  
                 
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF PERIOD   $ 416     $ 161  
                 
NON-CASH TRANSACTION:                
Increase in investments in nonconsolidated affiliates against deferred revenues   $ 2,133     $ 4,952  
Extinguish of debt upon shares issuance   $ 373     $  
Issuance expense paid through Common Stock   $ 225     $  
Proceeds on account of shares exercised into Common Stock   $ 229     $  
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:                
Cash paid during the period for:                
Interest   $ 621     $ 172  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

F- 8  

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION  

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

 (Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

    Three months ended
December 31,
 
    2015  
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:        
Net loss for the period   $ (1,288 )
Adjustments required to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities:        
Depreciation     1  
Equity losses in nonconsolidated subsidiary     38  
Expenses in respect of convertible notes and loans     26  
Changes in Warrants Liability     219  
Issuance of shares for services     136  
         
Increase in related parties     (1,378 )
Increase in other current assets     (16 )
Increase in accounts payables     66  
Increase in other account payables     71  
Net cash used in operating activities     (2,125 )
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:        
Investment in nonconsolidated subsidiary     (2,143 )
Net cash used in investing activities     (2,143 )
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:        
Proceeds from loans received     3,183  
Proceeds from issuance of debenture and warrants     2,672  
Repayment of loans     (5 )
Proceeds on account of shares     145  
Net cash provided by financing activities     5,995  
         
INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS     1,727  
         
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT BEGINNING OF PERIOD     161  
         
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF PERIOD   $ 1,888  
         
NON-CASH TRANSACTION:        
Increase in investments in nonconsolidated affiliates against deferred revenues   $ 2,618  
Loans exercised into Common Stock   $ 188  
Increase Investment in nonconsolidated subsidiary in consideration of Long Term Loan   $ 4,236  
         
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:        
Cash paid during the period for:        
Interest   $ 4  

 

  

F- 9  

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION  

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

NOTE 1 – GENERAL

 

a. General

 

Blue Sphere Corporation (the “Company”), together with its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Eastern Sphere Ltd. (“Eastern”), BinoSphere LLC (“Binosphere”), Bluesphere Pavia S.r.l (“Bluesphere Pavia”, formerly called Bluesphere Italy S.r.l.), Sustainable Energy Ltd. (“SEL”), and Blue Sphere Brabant B.V. (“BSB”), is focused on project integration in the clean energy production and waste to energy markets. The Company was incorporated in the state of Nevada on July 17, 2007 and was originally in the business of developing and promoting automotive internet sites. On February 17, 2010, the Company conducted a reverse merger, name change and forward split of its common stock, and in March 2010 current management took over operations, at which point the Company changed its business focus to become a project integrator in the clean energy production and waste to energy markets. On May 12, 2015, the Company formed Bluesphere Pavia, a subsidiary of Eastern, in order to acquire certain biogas plants located in Italy (see note 5 below). On September 19, 2016, the Company formed BSB in order to commence operations in the Netherlands. As of December 31, 2016, SEL had not commenced operations. On January 31, 2017, we dissolved Johnstonsphere LLC, which had no operations since inception.

  

b. Going concern consideration

 

The accompanying financial statements have been prepared assuming that the Company will continue as a going concern. As of December 31, 2016, the Company had approximately $416 thousand in cash, a negative working capital of approximately $9,669 thousand, a stockholders’ deficit of approximately $2,224 thousand and an accumulated deficit of approximately $46,493 thousand. Management anticipates their business will require substantial additional investments that have not yet been secured. The Company anticipates that the existing cash will not be sufficient to continue its operations through the next 12 months. Management is continuing in the process of fund raising in the private equity and capital markets as the Company will need to finance future activities and general and administrative expenses. These conditions raise substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. Company’s ability to continue as a going concern is dependent upon raising capital from financing transactions and revenue from operations.

  

These financial statements do not include any adjustments that may be necessary should the Company be unable to continue as a going concern. The Company’s continuation as a going concern is dependent on its ability to obtain additional financing as may be required and ultimately to attain profitability.

   

NOTE 2 – SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

a. Functional currency

 

The functional currency of the company is U.S dollar. The functional currency of the subsidiaries is also U.S dollar, except for Blue Sphere Pavia. Accordingly, all monetary assets, liabilities, expenses and equity earnings of the foreign subsidiary are re-measured into U.S. dollars at the exchange rates in effect at the reporting date. The foreign currency translation adjustments are included as a component in the stockholders’ Deficit in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet as a component of accumulated other Comprehensive Loss.

 

b. Basis of Presentation

 

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (“GAAP”) and includes the accounts of the Company and its wholly owned subsidiaries. All intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation.

 

F- 10  

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION  

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

NOTE 2 – SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

 

c. Cash equivalents

 

Cash equivalents are short-term highly liquid investments which include short term bank deposit (up to three months from date of deposit), that are not restricted as to withdrawals or use that are readily convertible to cash with maturities of three months or less as of the date acquired.

 

d. Fair Value of Financial Instruments

 

The Company records its financial assets and liabilities at fair value. The accounting guidance for fair value provides a framework for measuring fair value, clarifies the definition of fair value, and expands disclosures regarding fair value measurements. Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in an orderly transaction between market participants at the reporting date. The accounting guidance establishes a three-tiered hierarchy, which prioritizes the inputs used in the valuation methodologies in measuring fair value:

 

Level 1 – Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

 

Level 2 – Inputs other than Level 1 that are observable, either directly or indirectly, such as quoted prices in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities.

 

Level 3 – Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value of the assets or liabilities.

 

The Company recognizes transfers among Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 classifications as of the actual date of the events or change in circumstances that caused the transfers.

 

The Company’s financial instruments, including cash equivalents, accounts payable and accrued liabilities have carrying amounts which approximate fair value due to the short-term maturity of these instruments.

 

e. Property, plant and equipment

 

Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost, less accumulated depreciation. Assets are depreciated using the straight-line method over their estimated useful lives.

 

Annual rates of depreciation are as follows:

 

    %
Computers, electronic equipment and software     33  
Vehicles     15  
Office furniture and equipment     15  

 

F- 11  

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION  

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

NOTE 2 – SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

 

f. Investment in nonconsolidated affiliates

 

Investments in companies in which the Company has the ability to exert significant influence over operating and financial policies (generally 20% to 50% ownership), but which the Company does not control, are accounted for using the equity method. Under the equity method, investments are initially recorded at cost and adjusted for dividends and undistributed earnings and losses.  The Company evaluates its investments in nonconsolidated Affiliates for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of such investments may have experienced a decline in value. When there is evidence of loss in value that is other than temporary, the Company compares the estimated fair value of the investment to the carrying value of the investment to determine whether impairment has occurred. If the estimated fair value is less than the carrying value, the excess of the carrying value over the estimated fair value is recognized as an impairment loss. 

 

g. Use of estimates

 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of expenses during the reporting period. Actual results may differ from those estimates. On an on-going basis, management evaluates its estimates, judgments and assumptions. Those estimates and assumptions affect including investments in nonconsolidated affiliates, investments in nonconsolidated subsidiaries, deferred revenue from nonconsolidated affiliates, contingencies and litigation, income taxes and determination of fair value of stock-based compensation. These estimates are based available as of the date of the consolidated financial statements; therefore, actual results could differ from management’s estimates. 

 

h. Loss per share

 

Net loss per share, basic and diluted, is computed on the basis of the net loss for the period divided by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted net loss per share is based upon the weighted average number of common shares and of common shares equivalents outstanding when dilutive. Common share equivalents include: (i) outstanding stock options under the Company’s share incentive plan and warrants which are included under the treasury share method when dilutive, and (ii) common shares to be issued under the assumed conversion of the Company’s outstanding convertible notes, which are included under the if-converted method when dilutive. The computation of diluted net loss per share for the years ended December 31, 2016 and September 30, 2015 and for the three months period ended December 31, 2015 does not include common share equivalents, since such inclusion would be anti-dilutive.

 

i. Income taxes

 

The Company account for income taxes using the asset and liability method, which requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in Company’s consolidated financial statements or in our tax returns. Estimates and judgments occur in the calculation of certain tax liabilities and in the determination of the recoverability of certain deferred income tax assets, which arise from temporary differences and carryforwards. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are measured using the currently enacted tax rates that apply to taxable income in effect for the years in which those tax assets are expected to be realized or settled. Management regularly assess the likelihood that deferred tax assets will be recovered from future taxable income and, to the extent that management believe, based upon the weight of available evidence, that it is more likely than not that all or a portion of deferred tax assets will not be realized, a valuation allowance is established through an adjustment to income tax expense. The factors used to assess the likelihood of realization of our deferred tax assets include the Company’s forecast of future taxable income and available tax planning strategies that could be implemented to realize the net deferred tax assets. Assumptions represent management’s best estimates and involve inherent uncertainties and the application of management’s judgment. The Company account for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in the Company’s consolidated financial statements by regularly reviewing our tax positions and benefits to be realized. The Company’s recognize tax liabilities based upon management’s estimate of whether, and the extent to which, additional taxes will be due when such estimates are more-likely-than-not to be sustained. An uncertain income tax position will not be recognized if it has less than a 50% likelihood of being sustained upon examination by taxing authorities. The provision for income taxes includes the effects of any resulting tax reserves, or unrecognized tax benefits, that are considered appropriate as well as the related net interest and penalties.

 

j. Comprehensive loss

 

Comprehensive income (loss) consists of net income (loss) and other gains and losses affecting equity that under US GAAP are excluded from net income (loss). For the Company, such items consist of translation adjustments.

 

F- 12  

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION  

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

NOTE 2 – SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

 

k. Revenues from Services

 

The Company recognizes revenues from Development Fees in accordance with ASC Topic 605-20 Revenue Recognition from Services.

 

l. Treasury shares

 

Treasury shares are held by the Company and presented as a reduction of the Company shareholders’ deficit and carried at their cost to the Company, under treasury shares. 

 

m. Stock-based compensation

 

The Company recognizes the estimated fair value of share-based awards under stock-based compensation cost. The Company measures compensation expense for share-based awards based on estimated fair values on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. This option pricing model requires estimates as to the option’s expected term and the price volatility of the underlying stock. The Company measures compensation expense for the shares based on the market value of the underlying stock at the date of grant, less an estimate of dividends that will not accrue to the shares holders prior to vesting. The Company elected to recognize compensation cost for awards that have a graded vesting schedule using the straight-line approach. Share-based payments to non-employees are measured at the fair value of the goods or services received or the fair value of the equity instruments issued if it is determined the fair value of the goods or services cannot be reliably measured, and are recorded at the date the goods or services are received. The amount recognized as an expense is adjusted to reflect the number of awards expected to vest. The fair value of equity awards is charged to the statement of operations over the service period. The offset to the recorded cost is to additional Paid in Capital. Consideration received on the exercise of stock options is recorded as capital stock and the related share-based payments reserve is transferred to share capital.

 

n. Contingencies

 

The Company is involved in various commercial and other legal proceedings that arise from time to time in the ordinary course of business. Except for income tax contingencies or contingent consideration or other contingent liabilities incurred or acquired in a business combination, the Company records accruals for these types of contingencies to the extent that Company concludes their occurrence is probable and that the related liabilities are reasonably estimated. When accruing these costs, the Company will recognize an accrual in the amount within a range of loss that is the best estimate within the range. When no amount within the range is a better estimate than any other amount, the Company accrues for the minimum amount within the range. Legal costs are expensed as incurred. Contingent consideration and other contingent liabilities incurred or acquired in a business combination are recorded at a probability weighted assessment of their fair value and monitored on an ongoing basis for changes in that value. 

 

F- 13  

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION  

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

NOTE 2 – SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

 

o. Newly issued accounting pronouncements

 

In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606), which supersedes the revenue recognition requirements in Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 605, Revenue Recognition. The new revenue recognition standard requires entities to recognize revenue in a way that depicts the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled to in exchange for those goods or services. In August 2015, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2015-14, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Deferral of the Effective Date, or ASU 2015-14. This amendment defers the effective date of the previously issued Accounting Standards Update ASU 2014-09, until the interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017. Earlier application is permitted for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016. 

 

In August 2015, the FASB has issued Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2015-15, Interest - Imputation of Interest (Subtopic 835-30): Presentation and Subsequent Measurement of Debt Issuance Costs Associated with Line-of-Credit Arrangements - Amendments to SEC Paragraphs Pursuant to Staff Announcement at June 18, 2015 EITF Meeting . This ASU adds SEC paragraphs pursuant to the SEC Staff Announcement at the June 18, 2015, Emerging Issues Task Force meeting about the presentation and subsequent measurement of debt issuance costs associated with line-of-credit arrangements. Given the absence of authoritative guidance within ASU 2015-03 for debt issuance costs related to line-of-credit arrangements, the SEC staff would not object to an entity deferring and presenting debt issuance costs as an asset and subsequently amortizing the deferred debt issuance costs ratably over the term of the line-of-credit arrangement, regardless of whether there are any outstanding borrowings on the line-of-credit arrangement. The Company does not expect this update will have a material impact on the presentation of the Company’s consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

  

In November 2015, the FASB has issued Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2015-17, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes, which changes how deferred taxes are classified on organizations’ balance sheets. The ASU eliminates the current requirement for organizations to present deferred tax liabilities and assets as current and noncurrent in a classified balance sheet. Instead, organizations will be required to classify all deferred tax assets and liabilities as noncurrent. The amendments apply to all organizations that present a classified balance sheet. For public companies, the amendments are effective for financial statements issued for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016, and interim periods within those annual periods. The Company does not expect this update will have a material impact on the presentation of the Company’s consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

 

F- 14  

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION  

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

NOTE 3 - FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT

 

The Company’s financial assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis by level within the fair value hierarchy are as follows (in thousands):

  

    As of December 31, 2016  
    Level 1     Level 2      Level 3      Total  
Liabilities:                                
Obligation to issue shares of Common Stock   $ 187     $     $     $ 187  
Deferred payment due to the acquisition of the SPVs   $     $     $ 2,685     $ 2,685  
Warrants Liability   $     $     $ 2,045     $ 2,045  
Total liabilities   $ 187     $     $ 4,730     $ 4,917  

 

    Balance as of December 31, 2015,   
    Level 1     Level 2      Level 3      Total  
Liabilities:                                
Deferred payment due to the acquisition of the SPVs   $     $     $ 2,910     $ 2,910  
Warrants liability   $     $     $ 544     $ 544  
Total liabilities   $     $     $ 3,454     $ 3,454  

   

Deferred payment due to the acquisition of the SPVs - Represents the remaining balance of fifty percent (50%) of the Purchase Price that is due to the Sellers on the third anniversary of the closing date. The fair value measurement of the fair market value of the Deferred Payment is based on significant inputs not observed in the market and thus represents a Level 3 measurement, which reflects the Company’s own assumptions in measuring fair value. The Company estimated the fair value of the Deferred Payment using the discounted cash flow model. Key assumptions include the level and timing of the expected future payment and discount rate consistent with the level of risk and economy in general. The Deferred payment due to the acquisition of the SPVs is included in long term loans and Liabilities in the consolidated Balance Sheets and the change in fair value of remaining balance is included in interest expenses in the consolidated statements of income. 

  

    Deferred payment due to the acquisition of the SPVs
Balance at January 1, 2015   $
Increase due to acquisition of the SPVs     2,910  
Balance at December 31, 2015   $ 2,910  
Changes in fair value, interest expense and translation adjustments     (225)  
Balance at December 31, 2016   $ 2,685  

 

Warrant Liability—The estimated fair values of outstanding warrant liability were measured using Black-Scholes valuation models. These valuation models involved using such inputs as the estimated fair value of the underlying stock at the measurement date, risk-free interest rates, expected dividends on stock and expected volatility of the price of the underlying stock. Due to the nature of these inputs, the valuation of the warrants was considered a Level 3 measurement.

 

As of December 31, 2016, and 2015, the Level 3 liabilities consisted of the Company’s warrant liability.

   

    Warrants
Liability
Balance at January 1, 2015   $  
      Issuance of warrants     325  
      Changes in fair value     219  
Balance at December 31, 2015   $ 544  
Issuance of warrants     2,839  
Changes in fair value     1,338  
Balance at December 31, 2016   $ 2,045  

 

F- 15  

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION  

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

NOTE 4 – INVESTMENTS IN NONCONSOLIDATED AFFILIATES 

 

Investment in nonconsolidated affiliates consists of the following: 

 

    December 31, 2016   December 31, 2015
    Carrying Value
(In thousands)
  Ownership
Percentage
  Carrying Value
(In thousands)
  Ownership
Percentage
Investment in Concord Energy Partners, LLC   $ 5,960       25.00 %   $ 4,795       25.00 %
Rhode Island Energy Partners LLC   $ 4,177       22.75 %   $ 2,775       22.75 %
Total   $ 10,137             $ 7,570          

 

Deferred revenues from nonconsolidated affiliates consists of the following: 

 

    December 31, 2016   December 31, 2015
    Carrying Value
(In thousands)
  Ownership
Percentage
  Carrying Value
(In thousands)
  Ownership
Percentage
Deferred revenues from Concord Energy Partners, LLC   $       25.00 %   $ 4,795       25.00 %
Deferred revenues from Rhode Island Energy Partners LLC   $ 4,177       22.75 %   $ 2,776       22.75 %
Deferred Revenue from Services from Rhode Island Energy Partners LLC   $ 1,481       22.75 %   $ 1,481       22.75 %
Total   $ 5,658             $ 9,052          

 

Deferred revenues represent payment that were received by the Company in connection of those projects but were not recognized as revenue and increase in the affiliate’s membership interest accounted by the Company using the step-by-step basis in accordance with ASC 323-10-35-15. Such deferred revenues will be recorded to the Income statement upon the commencement of the commercial operations of the plant and fulfillment of all the Company’s obligation under the above agreements. 

  

F- 16  

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION  

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

NOTE 4 – INVESTMENTS IN NONCONSOLIDATED AFFILIATES (continued)

 

North Carolina Project

 

On January 30, 2015, the Company, Concord Energy Partners, LLC (“Concord”) and York Renewable Energy Partners LLC (“York”) entered a development and indemnification agreement (the “Concord Development and Indemnification Agreement”), pursuant to which the Company will own 25% of the membership interest of Concord and York will pay the Company $1,250 in consideration of the Company’s Project Development Services. York also agreed to pay the Company two equal installments of $587 upon the commencement of the commercial operation and mechanical completion of the North Carolina project.

 

The Company’s right to receive distributions from Concord are subject to certain priorities in favor of York, as follows: 

  

  (a) The unpaid rate of return, equal to nine percent (9%) per annum and compounded annually, of unrecovered capital contributions outstanding, will be paid to York;
  (b) The unpaid and unrecovered capital contributions outstanding will be paid to York;
  (c) The amount of any excess profits from “feedstock tipping fees” shall be distributed with twenty percent (20%) will be paid to York, and the balance to the Company;
  (d) The amount of any excess profits from “thermal energy” shall be distributed equally between the Company and York; and
  (e) Any amount remaining will be distributed pro-rata between the Company and York in proportion to the respective ownership Concord.

 

In addition, the Company’s right to receive distributions upon a liquidation event of Concord are subject to certain priorities in favor of York, as follows: 

 

  (a) The unpaid rate of return, equal to nine percent (9%) per annum and compounded annually, of unrecovered capital contributions outstanding, will be paid to York;
  (b) The unpaid and unrecovered capital contributions outstanding will be paid to York; and
  (c) Any amount remaining will be distributed pro-rata to the Company and York in proportion to the respective ownership in Concord.

  

On November 18, 2016, The North Carolina Project commenced commercial operations and started to provide its output to Duke Energy pursuant to the Purchase Power Agreement with Duke. The commencement of the commercial operations includes the gradual intake of waste from the Facility’s feedstock suppliers, increasing the parasitic load to the digesters, completing the waste-water-treatment resources and completing all other mechanical features needed for the Facility to operate at full capacity. The Company estimates that construction of the facility will be fully completed by March 31, 2017. 

 

F- 17  

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION  

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

NOTE 4 – INVESTMENTS IN NONCONSOLIDATED AFFILIATES (continued)

  

Rhode Island Project

 

On April 8, 2015, the Company, Rhode Island Energy Partners LLC (“Rhode Island”) and York entered into a development and indemnification agreement (the “Rhode Island Development and Indemnification Agreement”), pursuant to which the Company will own 22.75% of the membership interest of Rhode Island and York will pay the Company $1,482 in consideration of the Company’s Project Development Services. Pursuant to this agreement York also agreed to pay the Company three equal installments of $563 upon the signing of the Rhode Island Development and Indemnification Agreement, the commencement of the commercial operation and mechanical completion of the Rhode Island project.

 

The company’s right to receive distributions from Rhode Island are subject to certain priorities in favor of York, as follows:

 

  (a) The amount of any excess profits from “feedstock tipping fees” shall be distributed with twenty percent (20%) going to York, and eighty percent (80%) going to us;
  (b) The amount of any excess profits from “thermal energy” shall be distributed equally between the Company and York; and
  (c) Any amount remaining will be distributed pro-rata to us and York in proportion to York and our respective ownership in the Rhode Island project.

 

The company’s right to receive distributions upon a liquidation event of Concord are subject to certain priorities in favor of York, as follows:  

 

  (a) The unpaid guaranteed obligation return will be paid to York;
  (b) The unpaid rate of return, equal to nine percent (9%) per annum and compounded annually, of unrecovered capital contributions outstanding, will be paid to York;
  (c) The unpaid and unrecovered capital contributions outstanding will be paid to York; and
  (d) Any amount remaining will be distributed pro-rata to the Company and York in proportion to York and our respective ownership in the Rhode Island project.

 

On January 13, 2017, the Company and Orbit Energy, Inc., a former partner of the Company in both projects entered into an agreement to reduce certain of the Company’s past obligations in consideration of Two Hundred Thousand Dollars ($200) which will be paid in twelve monthly equal installments starting January 27, 2017. Any amount not paid when due will accrue interest at the simple annual rate of eight per cent (8%) from the date due until the date fully paid. The Company accrued the full settlement amount at December 31, 2016.

 

The tables set forth below summarize the combined financial information related to the nonconsolidated affiliates that are accounted for under the equity method as of December 31, 2016, and December 31, 2015.

 

 

    December 31, 2016  
(Dollars in thousands)   Concord     Rhode Island  
Assets:                
Restricted Cash   $ 500     $ 751  
Property, Plant and Equipment, net of accumulated depreciation     26,169       19,230  
Total assets   $ 26,669     $ 19,981  
                 
Current liabilities   $ 652     $ 142  
Membership Interest     26,017       19,839  
Total liabilities and Membership Interest   $ 26,669     $ 19,981  

 

    December 31, 2015  
(Dollars in thousands)   Concord     Rhode Island  
Assets:                
Property, Plant and Equipment, net of accumulated depreciation   $ 22,878       15,901  
Other assets     17        
Total assets   $ 22,895     $ 15,901  
Current liabilities   $ 2,127     $ 2,224  
Membership Interest     20,768       13,677  
Total liabilities and Membership Interest   $ 22,895     $ 15,901  

 

F- 18  

 

   

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

NOTE 5 – INVESTMENTS IN NONCONSOLIDATED SUBSIDAIRIES         

 

In 2015, The Company acquired one hundred percent (100%) of the share capital of Agricerere S.r.l., Agrielektra S.r.l., Agrisorse S.r.l. and Gefa S.r.l (each, an “SVP” and collectively, the “SVPs”) in consideration of $5,647 (€5,200) (“Purchase Price”). Each SVP owns and operates an anaerobic digestion biogas plant for the production and sale of electricity to Gestore del Servizi Energetici GSE, S.p.A., a state-owned utility company, pursuant to a power purchase agreement. The Company to paid 50% of the Purchase Price on the closing date (December 14, 2015) and the remaining balance will be paid on the third anniversary of the closing date. The remaining balance bears interest at an annual rate of two percent (2%). The Purchase Price is subject to certain adjustments and to the difference between the actual EBITDA results in the 18 months following the closing date divided by 1.5 and € 935, per the following mechanism: 

 

(i)        If the actual EBITDA results in the 18 months following the closing date divided by 1.5 is greater than € 935 then the deferred payment shall be increased by the amount equal to 50% (fifty per cent) of this difference.

 

(ii)       If the actual EBITDA results in the 18 months following the closing date divided by 1.5 is lesser than € 935 then the deferred payment shall be reduced by the amount of the amount necessary to maintain Purchase Price that yields an Equity IRR of 25%, but not more than 35% of the remaining balance. 

 

The Company also agreed to reimburse the sellers the VAT amount that was claimed by the SPVs through the closing date. The reimbursed amount will not exceed € 1,160 and will be refunded to the Sellers only after the amount will be refunded to the Company by the VAT authorities in Italy.

 

In 2015, the Company entered into an EBITDA Guarantee Agreement (“EBITDA Guarantee Agreement”) with Austep S.p.A. (“Austep”). Austep specializes in design, construction, operation and servicing of anaerobic digestion plants. Pursuant to the EBITDA Guarantee Agreement, Austep will operate, maintain and supervise the Company’s biogas plants in consideration to a monthly guaranteed EBITDA of $204 (€188) during the initial six months following the Closing Date and an annual guaranteed EBITDA of $4,083 (€3,760) then after. Pursuant to the terms of the agreements with Austep, the Company will receive the guaranteed levels of EBITDA and Austep will receive ninety percent (90%) of the revenue in excess of these levels.

 

The Company applies the equity method because the EBITDA Guarantee Agreement whereby Austep operates, maintains and supervises each plant, prevents the Company from exercising a controlling influence over operating policies of the plants. Under this method, the equity investment is reflected as an investment in nonconsolidated subsidiaries on our Balance Sheets and the net earnings or losses of the investments is reflected as equity in net earnings of nonconsolidated subsidiaries on the Company’s consolidated statements of operations. The Company’s investment in the SPV’s carrying value exceeded its proportionate share of the net assets of the SPVs by $19. This Premium was recognized as part of the carrying value in the Company’s equity investment in the SPVs. 

 

Investment in nonconsolidated subsidiaries included the following activity during the years:  

 

    Year ended December 31,  
    2016     2015  
Balance at beginning of period   $ 4,993     $  
Investment in nonconsolidated subsidiaries           5,031  
Equity in losses of nonconsolidated subsidiaries     (444 )     (38 )
Translation adjustment     (120 )      
Balance at end of period   $ 4,429     $ 4,993  

 

F- 19  

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

NOTE 5 – INVESTMENTS IN NONCONSOLIDATED SUBSIDAIRIES    (continued)

 

The table set forth below summarize the combined financial information related to our nonconsolidated subsidiaries that are accounted for under the equity method as of December 31, 2016, and December 31, 2015.  

 

  

       
  (Dollars in thousands)   December 31, 2016     December 31, 2015  
Assets:                
Current Assets   $ 2,735     $ 2,753  
Property, Plant and Equipment, net of accumulated depreciation     16,167       18,109  
Other Non-Current Assets     7,970       6,054  
Total assets   $ 26,872     $ 26,916  
Liabilities and Shareholder’s Deficit:                
Current liabilities   $ 8,221     $ 4,697  
Long Term Liabilities     14,282       17,286  
                 
Total liabilities     22,503       21,983  
                 
Shareholder’s Equity     4,369       4,933  
                 
Total Shareholder’s Equity     4,369       4,933  
                 
Total liabilities and Shareholder’s Equity     $ 26,872     $ 26,916  

  

F- 20  

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

  

NOTE 6 – CURRENT MATURITIES OF DEBENTURES AND LONG TERM LOANS

 

Current Maturities of Debentures and Long Term Loans consisted of the following:

 

    Interest rate as of
December 31,
2016
  December 31,
2016
  December 31,
2015
Debentures       11%     $ 2,658     $  
Current Maturities  portion of Loan from Helios     14.5%       289       517  
Current Maturities  Long Term Loan from Bank     1.8-6%       41       32  
Total Current Maturities of Debentures and Long Term Loans           $ 2,988     $ 549  

 

NOTE 7 – SHORT TERM LOAN

 

On October 25, 2016, the Company completed a private placement of its securities (the “October Financing”) to an accredited investor (the “Investor”). Pursuant to the October Financing, the Company agreed to issue to the Investor shares of the Company’s common stock, notes and warrants, in exchange for up to $1,000 in accordance with the following payment schedule: $500 paid at closing, $250 in guaranteed financing upon the achievement of certain milestones, and up to an additional $250 in financing upon the mutual agreement of the Investor and the Company.

 

The balance as of December 31, 2016, represents a six (6) month promissory note in the amount of $750, accrued interest in the amount of $39 less the unamortized amount of fair value of the issued warrants using the Black-Scholes in the amount of $322 and a balance of $188 that represents the Company’s obligation to issue shares of Common Stock equal to twenty-five percent (25%) of the Note Principal to the Investor.

 

Per the SPA the Company may exercise its right to repay the Note at any time on or before its maturity date. The Note is convertible into shares of the Common Stock only upon default event as set forth in the agreement of repayment at a price per share equal to the lesser of (i) USD $9.75, or (ii) a sixty percent (60%) discount to the lowest trade price in the twenty five (25) trading days prior to the conversion.

 

F- 21  

 

  

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

NOTE 8 – ACCRUED SEVERANCE PAY

 

The Israeli labor laws generally require severance payments upon dismissal of an employee or upon termination of employment in certain other circumstances. The following principal plans relate to the Company’s employees in Israel:

 

Severance pay liability with respect to Israeli employees’ is calculated pursuant to Israeli Severance Pay Law based on the most recent salary of the employees multiplied by the number of years of employment as of the balance sheet date. The Company records an expense for the increase in its severance liability, net of earnings (losses) from the related severance pay fund. The liability is presented on the undiscounted basis as a long-term liability. Severance pay expenses were $24 thousand and $2 thousand for the years ended December 31, 2016 and September 30, 2015, respectively. Severance pay expenses were $1 thousand for the three months’ period ended December 31, 2015, respectively. The Company’s liability for its Israeli employees is covered for by monthly deposits with severance pay funds. The value of the deposited funds is based on the cash surrender value of these policies and includes profits (or loss) accumulated through the balance sheet date. The deposited funds may be withdrawn only upon the fulfillment of the obligations pursuant to Israeli Severance Pay Law or labor agreements.

  

NOTE 9 – LONG TERM LOANS AND LIABILITIES

Long-term loans and liabilities consisted of the following:

 

    Interest rate as of
December 31,
2016
  December 31,
2016
  December 31,
2015
Deferred payment due to the acquisition of the SPVs (1)     2%     $ 2,685     $ 2,910  
Long Term portion of Loan from Helios (2)     14.5%       2,607       3,149  
Total Long-term loans and liabilities           $ 5,292     $ 6,059  
                         
Less: current maturities of Long Term portion of Loan from Helios (2)     14.5%       289       516  
            $ 5,003     $ 5,543  

 

(1)       

Represents the remaining balance of fifty percent (50%) of the Purchase Price that is due to the Sellers on the third anniversary of the closing date. This amount will be adjusted to the variation of EBITDA as described above and is promised by a note to each Seller, to be paid on the third anniversary of the closing, along with interest on the unpaid balance due at an annual rate of two percent (2%). The fair value measurement of the fair market value of the remaining balance is based on significant inputs not observed in the market and thus represents a Level 3 measurement, which reflects the Company’s own assumptions in measuring fair value. The Company estimated the fair value of the remaining balance using the discounted cash flow model. Key assumptions include the level and timing of the expected future payment and discount rate consistent with the level of risk and economy in general. The balance of the Deferred payment due to the acquisition of the SPVs is included in long term loans and Liabilities in the consolidated Balance Sheets and the change in fair value of remaining balance is included in interest expenses in the consolidated statements of income.

(2)

In 2015, the Company entered into a Long Term Mezzanine Loan Agreement (the “Helios Loan Agreement”) with Helios Italy Bio-Gas 1 L.P. (“Helios”) to finance the acquisition of the SPVs. Under the Helios Loan Agreement, the Company borrowed €2,900 ($3,149) at annual interest rate of fourteen and one-half percent (14.5%), paid quarterly. Helios is also entitled to an annual operation fee of one and one-half percent (1.5%), paid quarterly. The final payment of the loan will become due no later than the earlier of (a) thirteen and one half years from the date such loan was made available to the Company, and (b) the date that the Feed in Tariff license granted to the relevant SVP expires. Pursuant to the Helios Loan Agreement, the Company pledged all its shares in Eastern and Bluesphere Pavia to secure the outstanding balance under the Helios Loan Agreement.

 

F- 22  

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

NOTE 10 – DEBENTURES

 

Beginning in November 2015, the Company conducted an offering of up to $3,000 of the Company’s Senior Debentures and warrants to purchase up to 61,544 shares of Common Stock, in proportion pro rata to each Subscriber’s subscription amount relative to the total offering amount, with 50% of the Debenture Offering Warrants exercisable at a price per share of $6.5 and the other 50% of the Debenture Offering Warrants exercisable at price per share of $9.75. The Debenture Offering Securities were offered pursuant to subscription agreements with each investor (the “Debenture Offering Subscription Agreement”). Pursuant to the Debenture Offering Subscription Agreements, the investors in the Debenture Offering shall have the right to collectively designate one observer or member to the Company’s Board of Directors. On December 23, 2015, the Company completed the Debenture Offering and entered into Debenture Offering Subscription Agreements with investors representing aggregate gross proceeds to the Company of $3,000.

 

During the year ended December 31, 2016, the Company recorded amortization expenses in the amounts of $298, in respect of the discounts recorded on the debentures. During the year ended December 31, 2015, the Company recorded amortization expenses in the amounts of $11, in respect of the discounts recorded on the debentures.

 

NOTE 11 – WARRANTS LIABILITY

 

At each balance sheet date, the Company had the following warrants to purchase common stock outstanding:

 

            Fair value       Fair value
        Warrants   of Warrants   Warrants   of Warrants
        outstanding   Liabilities as of   outstanding   Liabilities as of
        as of   December 31, 2016   as of   December 31, 2015
        December 31, 2016   (in thousands)   December  31, 2015   (in thousands)
May 1, 2014 Warrants ($13.00 per share)         11,539     $ 26       11,539     $  
November 2015 Warrants ($6.5 per share)   (1)     30,772       155       30,772       175  
November 2015 Warrants ($9.75 per share)   (1)     30,772       128       30,772       174  
November 2015 Warrants ($8.94 per share)   (1)     34,462       150       34,462       195  
February 3, 2016 Warrants ($7.80 per share)   (2)     11,540       42              
February 2016 Offering ($13.00 per share)   (3)     134,617       485              
February 2016 Offering ($7.87 per share)   (3)     21,540       101              
February 2016 Offering ($14.30 per share)   (3)     10,770       36              
July 2016 Offering ($14.30 per share)   (4)     140,515       512              
July 2016 Offering ($15.73 per share)   (4)     7,140       25              
July 2016 Offering ($10.73 per share)   (4)     7,140       30              
October 2016 Offering ($9.75 per shares)   (5)     76,925       353              
Total         517,732     $ 2,045       107,545     $ 544  
Average date to maturity (in years)         4.25               4.78          
Average exercise price       $ 11.72             $ 8.90          

 

  (1) Pursuant to the November 2015 Offering, the Company sold warrants to purchase up to 30,772 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price per share of $6.5 and warrants to purchase up to 30,772 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price per share of $9.75. The Warrants are exercisable until December 22, 2020 and were accounted for as derivative liabilities. The Company has estimated the fair value of such warrants at a value of $209 at the date of issuance using the Black-Scholes option pricing model using the following assumptions:

 

      %  
  Dividend yield     0 %
  Risk-free interest rate     1.74 %
  Expected term (years)     5  
  Volatility     202 %

 

F- 23  

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

NOTE 11 – WARRANTS LIABILITY (continued)

 

The Company engaged Maxim Group LLC (“Maxim”) to assist in the Debenture Offering. Pursuant to the terms of the engagement Maxim received warrants to purchase 34,462shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $8.94 per share. The Warrants are exercisable until December 22, 2020 and were accounted for as derivative liabilities. The Company has estimated the fair value of such warrants at a value of $117 at the date of issuance using the Black-Scholes option pricing model using the following assumptions:

 

      %  
  Dividend yield     0 %
  Risk-free interest rate     1.74 %
  Expected term (years)     5  
  Volatility     202 %

 

  (2) On February 3, 2016, the Company issued warrants to purchase up to 11,540shares of our common stock of the Company at an exercise price of $7.80 per share, in full satisfaction of certain obligations of the Company. The Warrants are exercisable until February 2, 2019 and were accounted for as derivative liabilities. The Company has estimated the fair value of such warrants at a value of $87 at the date of issuance using the Black-Scholes option pricing model using the following assumptions:
      %  
  Dividend yield     0 %
  Risk-free interest rate     1.20 %
  Expected term (years)     3  
  Volatility     203 %

 

  (3) Pursuant to the February 2016 Offering, the Company sold warrants to purchase up to 134,617shares of Common Stock at an exercise price per share of $13.00. The Warrants are exercisable until February 14, 2021 and were accounted for as derivative liabilities. The Company has estimated the fair value of such warrants at a value of $847 at the date of issuance using the Black-Scholes option pricing model using the following assumptions:
      %  
  Dividend yield     0 %
  Risk-free interest rate     1.20 %
  Expected term (years)     5  
  Volatility     203 %

 

F- 24  

 

  

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

NOTE 11 – WARRANTS LIABILITY (continued)

 

The Company engaged Maxim Group LLC to assist in the February 2016 Offering. Pursuant to the terms of the engagement Maxim received warrants to purchase 21,540shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $7.87 per share and warrants to purchase 10,770 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $14.30 per share. The Warrants are exercisable until February 14, 2021 and were accounted for as derivative liabilities. The Company has estimated the fair value of such warrants at a value of $204 at the date of issuance using the Black-Scholes option pricing model using the following assumptions:

 

      %  
  Dividend yield     0  
  Risk-free interest rate     1.20 %
  Expected term (years)     5  
  Volatility     203 %

 

  (4) Pursuant to the July 2016 Offering, the Company sold warrants to purchase up to 140,515 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price per share of $14.30. The Warrants are exercisable until July 25, 2021 and were accounted for as derivative liabilities. The Company has estimated the fair value of such warrants at a value of $1,140 at the date of issuance using the Black-Scholes option pricing model using the following assumptions:

 

      %  
  Dividend yield     0 %
  Risk-free interest rate     1.00 %
  Expected term (years)     5  
  Volatility     147 %

   

The Company engaged Maxim Group LLC to assist in the July 2016 Offering. Pursuant to the terms of the engagement Maxim received warrants to purchase 7,140 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $10.73 per share and warrants to purchase 7,140 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $15.73 per share. The Warrants are exercisable until July 25, 2021 and were accounted for as derivative liabilities. The Company has estimated the fair value of such warrants at a value of $117 at the date of issuance using the Black-Scholes option pricing model using the following assumptions:

 

      %  
  Dividend yield     0  
  Risk-free interest rate     1.00 %
  Expected term (years)     5  
  Volatility     147 %

 

  (5) Pursuant to the October 2016 Offering, the Company sold warrants to purchase up to 76,925 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price per share of $9.75. 51,283 Warrants are exercisable until October 24, 2021 and the balance are exercisable until December 19, 2021. The warrants were accounted for as derivative liabilities. The Company has estimated the fair value of such warrants at a value of $504 at the date of issuances using the Black-Scholes option pricing model using the following assumptions:

 

      %  
  Dividend yield     0 %
  Risk-free interest rate     1.75-2.04 %
  Expected term (years)     5  
  Volatility     77-89 %

 

F- 25  

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

NOTE 12 – RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

 

On December 18, 2015, The Company entered into a no-interest bearing $129 promissory note with R.S. Palas Management Ltd., an entity owned and controlled by Shlomo Palas. The loan under the promissory note was used to finance a portion of the acquisition of the four SPVs in Italy pursuant to the Italy Projects Agreement. The Company paid back the loan under the promissory note with proceeds from the debentures offering that was completed in December, 2015.

   

In July 2015, in order to finance a portion of the funds necessary to complete the acquisitions of the SPVs by Bluesphere Pavia, we conducted a private placement of up to $250 of our Common Stock at $2.288 per share to certain accredited investors. On December 2, 2015, we closed on the July Offering, resulting in gross proceeds to the Company of $225 and agreed to issue 166,069 shares of our Common Stock at $1.352 per share, pursuant to certain subscription agreements. All investors in the July Offering were accredited investors and independent of the Company, but were part of a group led by a former member of our Board, Itai Haboucha. Mr. Haboucha did not receive any shares of Common Stock, was not paid any commissions and received no other compensation in connection with the July Offering. On June 2, 2016 the Company issued 107,160 shares of Common Stock in consideration of $146. On December 14, 2016 the Company issued 58,909 shares of Common Stock in consideration of $84.

 

F- 26  

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

   

NOTE 13 – CONTINGENT AND COMMITMENTS

 

From time to time the Company may be a party to commercial and litigation matters involving claims against the Company. None of the Company’s directors, officers, nonconsolidated affiliates, or any owner of record or beneficially of more than five percent of the Company’s Common Stock, is involved in a material proceeding adverse to the Company and its subsidiaries or has a material interest adverse to the Company or its subsidiaries. The Company accrues a liability for such matters when it is probable that future expenditures will be made and such expenditures can be reasonably estimated. In management’s opinion, there are no current matters that would have a material effect on the Company’s financial position or results of operations and no contingent liabilities requiring accrual as of December 31, 2016. 

 

On October 22, 2016, the law firm of JS Barkats PLLC filed a complaint against the Company and its Chief Executive Officer, seeking allegedly unpaid legal fees for services rendered from June 9, 2011 through April 23, 2012 in the amount of $428 thousands, plus interest for a total of $652 thousands. This Litigation was filed as JS Barkats PLLC v. Blue Sphere Corporation and Shlomo Palas with the Supreme Court of the State of New York for the County of New York , Index No. 655600/2016. On October 26, 2016, without notice to the Company or its Chief Executive Officer or an opportunity to be heard, the New York Court issued a Temporary Restraining Order (the “TRO”) in favor JS Barkats PLLC, prohibiting the Company and Mr. Palas from transferring or dissipating any assets up to $652. On October 31, 2016, the Company removed the Barkats Litigation to federal court, filed as JS Barkats PLLC v. Blue Sphere Corporation and Shlomo Palas with the United Stated District Court, Southern District Court of New York, Docket No. 1:16-cv-08404, and on December 6, 2016, Mr. Barkats filed a motion to remand to the New York Court and request for oral argument. The Company terminated the services of JS Barkats LLC in 2012 and management believe the claims brought by JS Barkats PLLC are without merit, that the TRO was improvidently granted, and that JS Barkats PLLC misrepresented, mischaracterized and omitted material facts and the law in seeking the TRO. The Company intend to vigorously defend against this Litigation, the TRO and any other attempts to attach the assets of the Company. 

 

F- 27  

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

NOTE 14 – COMMON SHARES

 

Common Stock Reserved for Future Issuance

 

The Company had shares of common stock reserved for issuance as follows:

 

    Year ended December 31,  
    2016     2015  
Outstanding warrants to purchase common stock     517,732       107,545  
Outstanding Options to purchase common stock     5,992       5,992  
Approved but not Outstanding Options to purchase common stock           24,429  
Unvested Common Stock under the 2014 Incentive Plan     7,406       56,282  
Common Stock reserved under the 2016 Incentive Plan     230,769        
Option to purchase Common Stock reserved under the 2016 Incentive Plan     115,385        
Common Stock reserved under the October 2016 Offering     438,461        
Total shares reserved for issuance     1,315,745       194,248  

 

Issuances

 

On October 28, 2014, the Company issued 2,577 shares of the Company’s common stock, in connection with the May 1, 2014 service agreement.

 

During October, 2014, an investor converted $42 principal amount out of the April 11, 2014 notes for 3,631 shares of the Company’s common stock.

 

On December 8, 2014, the Company issued 2 shares of the Company’s common stock to Carter Terry.

 

On October 3, 2014, the Company signed a consulting agreement with a consultant according to which the consultant would provide investor relation and public relations services for a period of one year. The Company agreed to grant the consultant 15,385 shares of the Company and additional 3,846 options to purchase Company’s shares at an exercise price of $0.13 per shares. Such shares were issued on March 19, 2015. In addition, on the same date the Company issued the consultant 3,846 shares of the Company for the exercised of the options granted. The Company has estimated the fair value of such shares and options, and recorded an expense of $217.

 

On January 5, 2015, the Company signed a consulting agreement with Dr. Borenstein Ltd according to which the company issued the consultant 7,692 options to purchase 7,692 shares of common stock of the Company at an exercise price of $0.13 for one year commencing the date of the agreement. The Consultant exercised such options at May 27, 2015. The Company has estimated the fair value of such options, and recorded an expense of $158.

 

On February 28, 2015 and March 19, 2015, the Company issued 47,037 shares of the Company to a consultant in respect of his September 2014 consulting investor relation and public relations services agreement with the Company. The Company has estimated the fair value of such shares, and recorded an expense of $738.

 

On March 12, 2015, the Company issued 839 shares of the Company for an investor pursuant to the exercise of his options granted at May 2014. The Company has estimated the fair value of such shares, and recorded an expense of $14.

 

In May and June 2015, the Company issued 28,962 shares of the Company to a consultant in respect of his investor relations and public relations services pursuant to a consulting agreement with the Company. The Company has estimated the fair value of such shares, and recorded an expense of $150.

 

In May 2015, the Company issued 25,000 shares of the Company to a consultant in respect of his investor relations and public relations services pursuant to a consulting agreement with the Company. The Company has estimated the fair value of such shares, and recorded an expense of $136.

 

On June 15, 2015 the Company issued consultant 11,538 shares of common stock of the Company in mutual agreement for termination of his June 2014 consulting agreement. The Company has estimated the fair value of such shares, and recorded an expense of $34. 

 

F- 28  

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

NOTE 14 – COMMON SHARES (continued)

 

From July through September 2015, the Company issued 61,808 shares of common stock to a consultant in respect of his investor relations and public relations services consulting agreement with the Company. The Company has estimated the fair value of such shares, and recorded an expense of $199.

 

In August 2015, the Company issued 26,726 shares of the Company to Maxim Group LLC in respect of its financial advisor and investment banker agreement with the Company. The shares have been valued and recorded at $34.

 

In August 2015, the Company issued 8,679 shares of the Company to a non-U.S. person in respect of its financial advisor and investment banker settlement agreement with the Company. The Company has estimated the fair value of such shares, and recorded an expense of $13.

 

On April 13, 2015, the Company entered into a subscription agreement with a non-U.S. person pursuant to which the Company issued 3,205 shares of common stock in exchange for $25.

 

On April 15, 2015, the Company entered into a Subscription Agreement with Dr. Borenstein Ltd. (the “April Borenstein Subscription Agreement”) pursuant to which the Company agreed to sell 12,538 shares of common stock of the Company for the aggregate purchase price of $48. 

 

On June 12, 2015, the Company entered into a Subscription Agreement with Dr. Borenstein Ltd. (the “June Borenstein Subscription Agreement”) pursuant to which the Company agreed to sell 65,268 shares of common stock of the Company for the aggregate purchase price of $140.  

 

On July 1, 2015, the Company entered into a subscription agreement with a non-U.S. person pursuant to which the Company issued 15,384 shares of common stock in exchange for $32.

 

On July 6, 2015, the Company entered into a subscription agreement with several non-U.S. entity pursuant to which the Company issued 18,681 shares of common stock in exchange for $51.  

 

On July 17, 2015, the Company entered into a subscription agreement with several non-U.S. personnel pursuant to which the Company issued 17,832 shares of common stock in exchange for $39.

 

From February through August 2015, convertible promissory notes holders representing an aggregate principal amount of $1,480,716 converted their notes into 577,387 shares of the Company’s common stock.

 

On January 26, 2016, the Company issued 7,692 shares of Common Stock, pursuant to a subscription agreement dated June 12, 2015.

 

On February 1, 2016, the Company issued 4,153 shares Common Stock to a consultant in respect of his consulting services for the Company. The Company has estimated the fair value of such shares, and recorded an expense of $108.

 

F- 29  

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

NOTE 14 – COMMON SHARES (continued)

 

In February 2016, the Company conducted an offering (the “February 2016 Offering”) consisting of (a) up to $1,925 of the Company’s shares of Common Stock, priced at the closing price for shares of Common Stock, as reported on the OTCQB Venture Marketplace, on the trading day prior to the closing of the February Offering, and (b) 5-year warrants to purchase shares of Common Stock in an amount equal to 50% of the number of shares of Common Stock so purchased by the. The Securities have been offered pursuant to subscription agreements with each investor. In addition to other customary provisions, each Subscription Agreement provides that the Company will use its reasonable commercial efforts to register all shares of Common Stock sold in the February Offering, including all shares of Common Stock underlying the February Warrants, within 60 days of the closing of the February Offering. The February Warrants are exercisable for 5 years from the date of issuance at $13.00 per share, include an option by which the holder may exercise the Warrant by means of a cashless exercise, and include customary weighted-average price adjustment and anti-dilution terms. On February 15, 2016, the Company completed the only closing of the February Offering, representing aggregate gross proceeds to the Company of $1,925. In connection with the closing, the Company and subscribers entered into (a) February Subscription Agreements for, in the aggregate, 269,231 shares of Common Stock at $7.15 per share, and (b) February Warrants to purchase, in the aggregate, up to 134,617 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $13.00 per share.

 

The Company engaged Maxim to assist in the February 2016 Offering. Pursuant to the terms of an engagement letter between Maxim and the Company, Maxim received commissions equal to 7% of the gross proceeds raised by Maxim in the February Offering, warrants to purchase, in the aggregate, up to 21,540 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $7.87 per share and to purchase, in the aggregate, up to 10,770 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $14.30 per share.

 

On March 15, 2016, the Company issued 654 shares of Common Stock to a consultant in respect of his consulting services for the Company. The Company has estimated the fair value of such shares, and recorded an expense of $5,685.

 

On April 13, 2016, the Company issued 7,692 shares of Common Stock to a consultant in consideration for corporate finance, investor communications and financial and investor public relations services. The Company has estimated the fair value of such shares, and recorded an expense of $73 in second fiscal quarter of 2016 and $10 in first fiscal quarter of 2016. On June 13, 2016 and per the consulting agreement the Company issued an additional 7,692 shares of common stock as a service bonus since the agreement was not terminated prior to June 9, 2016. The Company has estimated the fair value of such shares, and recorded an expense of $89.

 

On April 13, 2016, the Company issued an aggregate of 6,731 shares of Common Stock to a consultant, pursuant to consulting agreements dated September 1, 2015 and March 1, 2016, in consideration for investor relations and communications services. The Company has estimated the fair value of such shares, and recorded an expense of $42.

 

F- 30  

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

NOTE 14 – COMMON SHARES (continued)

 

On May 18, 2016, a 1.5-year warrant to purchase shares of Common Stock, dated May 4, 2015, was exercised into 5,385 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $7.54 per share, for total consideration of $41. 

 

On June 2, 2016, the Company issued 107,160 shares of the Company’s Common Stock in consideration of $146 pursuant to the July 2015 Offering Subscription Agreements.

 

On June 13, 2016, the Company issued 54,642 shares of Common Stock to several officers, directors, employees and/or consultants of the Company. All shares were issued pursuant to the Company’s Global Share and Options Incentive Enhancement Plan (2014). The Company has estimated and recorded the fair value of such shares as an expense of $632 which was recorded through 2015 and the 2016.

 

On June 26, 2016, the Company issued 3,846 shares of Common Stock in order to complete its obligations under the Share Purchase Agreement from 2015.

 

On July 14, 2016, the Company cancelled 654 shares of Common Stock that were issued in error.

 

In June and July 2016, The Company conducted an offering (the “June 2016 Offering”) consisting of (a) up to $3,000 of shares of Common Stock, priced at the closing price for shares of Common Stock, as reported on the OTCQB Venture Marketplace on the trading day prior to each respective closing of the June Offering, and (b) five-year warrants (the “June Warrants”, together with the shares of Common Stock subscribed for, the “June Securities”) to purchase shares of Common Stock in an amount equal to one hundred percent (100%) of the number of shares of Common Stock so purchased by the subscriber, with an exercise price equal to the per share price of the Common Stock or $14.30 per share, whichever is greater. The June Securities were offered pursuant to subscription agreements with each subscriber (the “June Subscription Agreement”). In addition to other customary provisions, each June Subscription Agreement provides that the Company will use its reasonable commercial efforts to register all shares of Common Stock sold in the June Offering, including all shares of Common Stock underlying the June Warrants, within twenty (20) days of the final closing of the June Offering. Each June Subscription Agreement also provides that if, during the period beginning on the date of the first closing of the June Offering and ending on the six month anniversary thereof, the Company completes (a) a subsequent closing of the June Offering or (b) a public or private offering and sale of $1,000 or more of Common Stock or warrants to purchase Common Stock, where such subsequent closing or offering, as applicable, provides for material deal terms and conditions more favorable than are contained in such June Subscription Agreement, then the June Subscription Agreement will be deemed modified to provide the applicable subscriber with the more favorable deal terms and conditions, and the Company will take all reasonable steps necessary to amend the June Securities and/or issue new securities to the applicable subscriber reflecting such more favorable material deal terms and conditions (the “June MFN Rights”). The June Warrants are exercisable for five years from the date of issuance, include an option by which the holder may exercise the June Warrant by means of a cashless exercise, and include customary weighted-average price adjustment and anti-dilution terms. On July 26, 2016, the Company completed closings of the June Offering, both such closings representing aggregate gross proceeds to the Company of $1,370. In connection with both closings, the Company and subscribers entered into (a) June Subscription Agreements for 140,515 shares of Common Stock at $9.75 per share, and (b) June Warrants to purchase up to 140,515 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $14.30 per share. The subscriber in the July 7, 2016 closing received an adjustment to its June Securities pursuant to its June MFN Rights. The warrants were accounted for as derivative liabilities.  

 

F- 31  

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

  

NOTE 14 – COMMON SHARES (continued)

 

The Company engaged Maxim to assist in the June Offering. Pursuant to the terms of an engagement letter between Maxim and the Company, in connection with both closings, Maxim received commissions equal to 4.44% of the gross proceeds raised, warrants to purchase up to 7,140 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $10.73 per share, and warrants to purchase up to 7,140 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $15.73 per share.

 

On August 7, 2016, the Company issued 1,100 shares of Common Stock, in consideration for past capital advisory services rendered to the Company. The Company has estimated the fair value of such shares, and recorded an expense of $11.

 

On August 16, 2016, the Company issued 3,077 shares of Common Stock in satisfaction of debt of $24.

 

On September 15, 2016, the Company issued 3,846 shares of Common Stock to a consultant in consideration for communications and investor relations services. The Company has estimated the fair value of such shares, and recorded an expense of $20.

 

On September 15, 2016, the Company issued 3,846 shares of Common Stock to a consultant in consideration for communications and investor relations services. The Company has estimated the fair value of such shares, and recorded an expense of $34.

 

On October 25, 2016, the Company completed a private placement of its securities to JMJ Financial, an accredited investor. Pursuant to the financing, the Company entered into a Securities Purchase Agreement with the investor thereby agreeing to issue shares of Common Stock, notes, and warrants to purchase shares of Common Stock, in exchange for $500 paid at closing and an additional $250 which were paid at December 20, 2016 after the achievement of certain milestones, as well as up to an additional $250 in financing upon the mutual agreement of the Investor and the Company.

 

Pursuant to the terms of such financing, the Company agreed to issue to the investor (i) restricted shares of Common Stock equal to twenty-five percent (25%) of the note principal paid to the Company by the Investor, subject to certain adjustments, (ii) a six (6) month promissory note covering the note principal plus an amount equal to approximately five percent (5%) of the actual note principal, in total $1,053, and (iii) a five (5) year warrant to purchase 76,925 shares of Common Stock with an aggregate exercise amount of $750.

 

On December 14, 2016, the Company issued 58,909 shares of Common Stock in consideration of $84 pursuant to the July 2015 Offering Subscription Agreement.

 

On December 20, 2016, the Company issued 7,308 shares of Common Stock to the CEO of the Company and 6,538 shares of Common Stock to the Chairman of the Board of the Company under their service agreements with the Company. The Company has estimated and recorded the fair value of such shares as an expense of $50 which was recorded through 2016. 

 

F- 32  

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

NOTE 14 – COMMON SHARES (continued)

 

On December 30, 2016, the Company issued 6,538 shares of Common Stock to an EVP of the under his service agreement with the Company. The Company has estimated and recorded the fair value of such shares as an expense of $24 which was recorded through 2016.

 

On December 30, 2016, the Company issued 44,423 shares of Common Stock to several officers, directors, employees and/or consultants of the Company. All shares were issued pursuant to the Company’s Global Share and Options Incentive Enhancement Plan (2014). The Company has estimated and recorded the fair value of such shares as an expense of $386.

 

On December 30, 2016, the Company issued 2,308 shares of Common Stock, in consideration for past services rendered a member of the Board of Directors to the Company. The Company has estimated the fair value of such shares, and recorded an expense of $20.

 

Share Repurchase Program

 

On June 17, 2015, the Company’s Board of Directors approved a share repurchase program (the “Share Repurchase Program”). Under the Share Repurchase Program, the Company is authorized to repurchase up to $500 worth of its common stock, which, based on the value of the Company’s common stock on December 31, 2016, equates to approximately 57,491 shares of common stock. However, the total number of shares could differ based on the ultimate price per share paid by the Company. Further, the Company’s shares of common stock may be purchased on the open market or through privately negotiated transactions from time-to-time and in accordance with applicable laws, rules and regulations. The Company is not obligated to make any purchases, including at any specific time or in any particular situation. The program may be limited or terminated at any time without prior notice. As of December 31, 2016, the Company had not repurchased any shares under the Share Repurchase Program. On June 23, 2015, the Company repurchased 1,109 shares from a shareholder for $28 as part of a settlement with such shareholder. This repurchase was not pursuant to the Share Repurchase Program. 

  

F- 33  

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

    

NOTE 15 – STOCK OPTIONS AND STOCK INCENTIVE PLANS

 

On February 24, 2015, the Board of Directors approved a grant of up to 19,813 shares of common stock to certain of its managers, directors and key employees under the 2010 Plan, of which 19,813 shares were issued as of December 31, 2016.

 

On February 24, 2015, the Company’s Board of Directors approved and adopted the Global Share and Options Incentive Enhancement Plan (2014) (the “2014 Plan”), pursuant to which the Company may award shares of its common stock, options to purchase shares of its common stock and other equity-based awards to eligible participants. The 2014 Plan replaced the Company’s Global Share Incentive Plan (2010). Subject to the terms and conditions of the 2014 Plan, the Board of Directors has full authority in its discretion, from time to time and at any time, to determine (i) eligible participants in the 2014 Plan, (ii) the number of options or shares to be covered by an award, (iii) the time or times at which an award shall be granted, (iv) the vesting schedule and other terms and conditions of an award, (v) the form(s) of written agreements applicable to an award, and (vi) any other matter which is necessary or desirable for, or incidental to, the administration of the 2014 Plan and the granting of awards thereunder. The 2014 Plan permits the grant of up to 100,775 shares of common stock and up to 24,423 options to purchase shares of common stock to certain of its managers, directors and key employees. The shares will vest on a quarterly basis over a two-year period, and the options will vest on a quarterly basis over a two-year period with an exercise price of $18.20 per share. As of December 2016, 82,564 shares granted under the 2016 Incentive Plan have been issued. 

 

On August 8, 2016, the Company’s Board of Directors approved and adopted the Global Share and Options Incentive Enhancement Plan (2016) (the “2016 Plan”), pursuant to which the Company may award shares of its common stock, options to purchase shares of its common stock and other equity-based awards to eligible participants. The 2016 Plan replaced the 2014 Plan. Subject to the terms and conditions of the 2016 Plan, the Board of Directors has full authority in its discretion, from time to time and at any time, to determine (i) eligible participants in the 2016 Plan, (ii) the number of options or shares to be covered by an award, (iii) the time or times at which an award shall be granted, (iv) the vesting schedule and other terms and conditions of an award, (v) the form(s) of written agreements applicable to an award, and (vi) any other matter which is necessary or desirable for, or incidental to, the administration of the 2016 Plan and the granting of awards thereunder. The 2016 Plan permits the grant of up to 230,769 shares of common stock and up to 115,384 options to purchase shares of common stock to certain of its managers, directors and key employees. The shares will vest on a quarterly basis over a two-year period, and the options will vest on a quarterly basis over a two-year period with an exercise price that shall not be less than the Fair Market Value on the date of grant. As of December 31, 2016, all shares and options granted under the 2016 Incentive Plan have not yet been issued. As December 31, 2016 and 2015 5,922 options were outstanding and exercisable all of which with a weighted average exercise price of $74.92 and an intrinsic value of $9.

  

F- 34  

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

    

NOTE 15 – STOCK OPTIONS (continued)

 

The following table summarizes information about options to employees, officers and directors outstanding at December 31, 2016 under the plans:

 

        Options Outstanding     Vested and Exercisable  
                             
 

Exercise Price  

    Number of
Option
    Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (Years)     Number of
Option
    Weighted Average Exercise Price  
  $74.92       5,992       1.33       5,992       $74.92  

 

As of December 31, 2016, the aggregated intrinsic value for the options vested and exercisable was $9 thousand with a weighted average remaining contractual life of 1.33 years.

 

NOTE 16 – INCOME TAXES

 

US resident companies are taxed on their worldwide income for corporate income tax purposes at a statutory rate of 35%. No further taxes are payable on this profit unless that profit is distributed. If certain conditions are met, income derived from foreign subsidiaries is tax exempt in the US under applicable tax treaties to avoid double taxation.

 

Taxable income of Israeli companies is subject to tax at the rate of 26.5% in the year 2015, 25% in the year 2016, 24% in the year 2017 and 23% in the year 2018.

 

The Company accounts for income taxes using the liability method, which requires the determination of deferred tax assets and liabilities based on the differences between the financial and tax bases of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which differences are expected to reverse. Deferred tax assets are adjusted by a valuation allowance, if, based on the weight of available evidence, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized.

 

Deferred income taxes reflect the net effects of temporary differences between the amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. The breakdown of the deferred tax asset as of December 31 2016, and 2015 is as follows:

 

    2016   2015
    U.S. dollars in thousands
Deferred tax assets:                
Net operating loss carry-forward   $ 9,259     $ 6,768  
Valuation allowance     (9, 259 )     (6,768 )
    $     $  

 

A valuation allowance is provided when it is more likely than not that some portion of the deferred tax asset will not be realized. Management has determined, based on its recurring net losses, lack of a commercially viable product and limitations under current tax rules, that a full valuation allowance is appropriate.

 

     

U.S. dollars  

in thousands

 
Valuation allowance, December 31, 2015     $ 6,768  
Increase       2,491  
Valuation allowance, December 31, 2016     $ 9,259  

 

Carry forward losses of the Company are approximately $20,635 at December 31, 2016 and available throughout 2036.

 

F- 35  

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

    

NOTE 16 – INCOME TAXES (continued)

 

Carry forward losses of the Israeli subsidiary are approximately $4,114 at December 31, 2016 and have no expiration date.

 

Reconciliation between the theoretical tax expense, assuming all income is taxed at the statutory tax rate applicable to income of the Company and the actual tax expense as reported in the Statement of Operations, is as follows:

 

    Year ended December 31,
    2016   2015
Loss before taxes, as reported in the consolidated statements of operations   $ 7,266     $ 7,462  
                 
Federal statutory rate     35 %     35 %
                 
Theoretical tax benefit on the above amount at federal statutory tax rate     2,543       2,611  
                 
Losses and other items for which a valuation allowance Was provided or benefit from loss carry forward     (2,491)       (2,611 )
                 
Actual tax expense     52        

 

F- 36  

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

NOTE 17 – TRANSITION PERIOD FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

In 2016, the Company changed its fiscal year to end on December 31st each year, effective January 1, 2016. The following table presents selected financial data for the transition period, the three months ended and as of December 31, 2015, and three months ended and as of December 31, 2014, (in thousands, except per share data): 

             
    Three Month Ended December 31,  
    2015     2014  
          (unaudited)  
Consolidated Statement of Operations data:                
General and administrative expenses   $ 1,106     $ 827  
Other losses           19  
Financial expenses. net     144       468  
Equity Losses in Nonconsolidated Subsidiaries     38        
Net Loss   $ 1,288     $ 1,314  
                 
Net loss per common share – basic and diluted   $ (0.95 )   $ (3.35 )
Weighted average shares outstanding during the period (basic and diluted)    

1,361,628

     

392,552

 

  

Consolidated Balance Sheet (as of December 31, 2014, Unaudited):              
Total Current Assets   $ 404          
Total Non-Current Assets     509          
Total Assets   $ 913          
                 
Total Current liabilities   $ 1,234          
Long Tern Bank Loan     126          
Total stockholders’ equity     (447 )        
Total Liabilities and stockholders’ deficit   $ 913           

 

NOTE 18 – SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

 

On January 31, 2017, the Company issued 3,109 shares of Common Stock to the Former Chief Financial Officer (Israel) of the Company and 2,692 shares of Common Stock to Former Chief Financial Officer (U.S.) of the Company under their departure settlement agreements with the Company. The fair market value of the shares at grant date was $41.

 

On January 31, 2017, the Company dissolved Johnstonsphere, LLC.

 

On February 1, 2017, the Board of Directors approved the Company’s Amended and Restated Non-Employee Director Compensation Policy, applicable to members of the Board who are not employees of the Company. Under the Amended Director Compensation Policy, beginning on January 1, 2016 each Eligible Director shall be entitled to an annual cash retainer of USD $20, paid semi-annually, and a quarterly stock awards equal to $13, determined based on the closing price of a share of Common Stock on the last trading day of such quarter, as reported on the OTCQB® Venture Marketplace. Eligible Directors shall also receive meeting fees equal to (a) $1.5 for scheduled quarterly meetings of the Board attended in-person, (b) $0.5 for scheduled quarterly meetings of the Board attended by teleconference, (c) USD $0.25 for special meetings of the Board, and (d) $0.5 for meetings of the committees of the Board. If an Eligible Director attends a meeting of the Board and one or more meetings of a committee of the Board on the same date, the Eligible Director shall receive the full fee for the meeting of the Board and 50% of the fee for each meeting of a committee of the Board attended. 

 

On February 7, 2017, the Company entered into a 90 days Loan Agreement with Viskoben Limited to borrow $200 at a quarterly interest rate of ten percent (10.0%).

 

On February 14, 2017, the Company received an additional $250 under the October Financing and issued warrants to purchase up to 25,642 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price equal to the lesser of (i) 80% of the per share price of Common Stock in the Public Offering, (ii) $9.75 per share (the deemed aggregate exercise price), (iii) 80% of the unit price offering price in the Public Offering, or (iv) the exercise price of any warrants issued in the Public Offering, pursuant to the amendment of the October Financing.  (See also, Note 7)    On February 21, 2017, the Company issued 19,576 shares of its common stock to four Directors of the Company and a former Director of the Company for services that were rendered in 2016 and pursuant to the Company’s Amended and Restated Non-Employee Directors Compensation Plan. The fair market value of the shares at grant date was $110.  On March 2, 2017, the Company issued 17,949 shares of its common stock to a former consultant pursuant to a letter agreement dated August 8, 2014, whereby the Company had agreed to issue $350,000 of common stock, determined based on the closing price per share on the OTCQB Venture Marketplace on November 25, 2014, which was $19.5 per share. The letter agreement evidenced a bonus granted by the Company for investor relation and advisory services provided in 2014.  In connection with the issuance, on March 1, 2017, the consultant provided to the Company a release and waiver of any and all claims. The fair market value of the shares at grant date was $85.

 

On March 14, 2017, the Company amended the terms of the October Financing, thereby agreeing to issue to the Investor shares of the Company’s common stock, notes and warrants, in exchange for up to $1,500 (an increase of $500). On the same date, the Company received an additional $250 and issued warrants to purchase up to 25,642 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price equal to the lesser of (i) 80% of the per share price of Common Stock in the Public Offering, (ii) $9.75 per share (the deemed aggregate exercise price), (iii) 80% of the unit price offering price in the Public Offering, or (iv) the exercise price of any warrants issued in the Public Offering, pursuant to the amendment of the October Financing. (See also, Note 7)

On March 15, 2017, Prassas Capital, LLC, an Arizona limited liability company, filed a complaint against the Company alleging breach of contract and seeking (a) unpaid fees in the amount of $1,601 plus interest, (b) issuance of an order of prejudgment attachment and garnishment on the Company’s bank accounts, other property held by the Company and all payments owed to the Company from third parties, (c) an injunction restraining the Company from transferring funds or property outside of the court’s jurisdiction or alternatively that the court appoint a receiver to manage, operate, control and take possession of the Company’s assets, and (d) a declaration that Prassas Capital, LLC has been granted a contractual right to purchase 53,847 shares of Common Stock at a price of $6.50 per share (after giving effect to the reverse stock split described below). This litigation was filed as Prassas Capital, LLC v. Blue Sphere Corporation with the United States District Court for the Western District of North Carolina, Civil Action No. 3:17-CV-00131. The Company disputes the allegations and claims, and intends to rigorously defend against this litigation.  

On March 24, 2017, the Company and five of the six holders of the Debentures, representing an aggregate principal balance of $2,000,000, entered into a First Amendment to Senior Debenture (the “Debenture Amendment”), thereby amending the Debentures to provide that some or all of the principal balance, and accrued but unpaid interest thereon, is convertible into shares of Common Stock at the holders’ election, with such right to convert beginning on the six (6) month anniversary of the Debenture Amendment and ending ten (10) days prior to the date the Debenture matures. The conversion price shall be (a) equal to 80% of the average reported closing price of the Common Stock on The NASDAQ Capital Market, calculated using the five (5) trading days immediately following the up-list to The NASDAQ Capital Market, or (b) if the up-list has not occurred, equal to 80% of the average reported closing price of the Common Stock on the OTCQB Venture Marketplace, calculated using the five (5) trading days immediately preceding the date of the conversion notice.   

On March 24, 2017, the Company completed a reverse stock split of its common stock. As a result of the reverse stock split, the following changes have occurred (i) every one hundred and thirty shares of common stock have been combined into one share of common stock; (ii) the number of shares of common stock underlying each common stock option or common stock warrant have been proportionately decreased on a 130-for-1 basis, and the exercise price of each such outstanding stock option and common warrant has been proportionately increased on a 130-for-1 basis. Accordingly, all option numbers, share numbers, warrant numbers, share prices, warrant prices, exercise prices and losses per share have been adjusted within these consolidated financial statements, on a retroactive basis, to reflect this 130-for-1 reverse stock split.

 

  F- 37  
 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION

 

INTERIM CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

AS OF MARCH 31, 2017

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

    Page
CONDENSED INTERIM CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS:    
Balance Sheets as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016   F-39
Statements of Operations for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016   F-40
Statements of Comprehensive Loss for the period of three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016   F-41
Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Deficiency for the period of three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016   F-42
Statements of Cash Flows for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016   F-43
Notes to Condensed Interim Consolidated Financial Statements   F-44

 

F-38

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(U.S. dollars in thousands except share and per share data)

 

             
    March 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
 
    Unaudited     Audited  
Assets            
CURRENT ASSETS:                
Cash and cash equivalents   $ 242     $ 416  
Related Parties     1,493         1,408  
Other current assets      76       81  
Total current assets      1,811       1,905  
                 
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT, net of accumulated depreciation     48       50  
                 
INVESTMENTS IN NON-CONSOLIDATED AFFILIATES      10,734       10,137  
INVESTMENTS IN NON-CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES      4,563       4,429  
                 
Total assets   $ 17,156     $ 16,521  
Liabilities and Stockholders’ Deficiency                
CURRENT LIABILITIES:                
Current maturities of Debentures and long term loan   $  3,701     $ 2,988  
Short Term Loans      1,370       280  
Accounts payables     847       557  
Other accounts payable and liabilities     2,085       2,091  
Deferred revenues from joint ventures      5,888       5,658  
Total current liabilities      13,891       11,574  
                 
ACCRUED SEVERANCE PAY      13       11  
                 
LONG TERM BANK LOANS      125       112  
                 
LONG TERM LOANS AND LIABILITIES     5,049       5,003  
                 
WARRANTS LIABILITY     1,889       2,045  
STOCKHOLDERS’ DEFICIENCY:                
Common shares of $0.001 par value each:                
Authorized: 1,750,000,000 shares at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016. Issued and outstanding: 2,201,963 shares and 2,147,383 shares at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively     2       2  
Treasury shares     (28 )     (28 )
Accumulated other comprehensive income     27       33  
Additional paid-in capital     44,662       44,262  
Accumulated deficit     (48,474 )     (46,493 )
Total Stockholders’ Deficiency    

(3,811

)     (2,224 )
Total liabilities and Stockholders’ Deficiency   $    17,156     $ 16,521  

  

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

F-39  

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION 

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS 

(U.S. dollars in thousands except share and per share data)

 

    Three months ended
March 31
 
    2017     2016  
    (Unaudited)     (Unaudited)  
OPERATING EXPENSES                
General and administrative expenses     1,194       2,082  
Other income           (102 )
OPERATING LOSS     1,194       1,980  
FINANCIAL EXPENSES, net     940       41  
LOSS FROM EXTINGUISHMENT OF DEBENTURE     615        
LOSS (GAIN) FROM CHANGE IN FAIR VALUE OF WARRANTS LIABILITY       (337 )     1,190  
NET LOSS BEFORE EQUITY INCOME (LOSSES)     2,412       3,211  
                 
EQUITY INCOME IN NON-CONSOLIDATED AFFILIATES      367        
EQUITY INCOME (LOSS) IN NON-CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES     64       (670 )
                 
NET LOSS FOR THE PERIOD   $ 1,981     $ 3,881  
                 
Net loss per common share - basic and diluted   $ (0.91 )   $ (2.59 )
                 
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period - basic and diluted     2,165,433       1,497,375 *

  

(*) Retrospectively adjusted to reflect the 130-for-1 reverse stock split

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

F-40  

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE LOSS 

(U.S. dollars in thousands except share and per share data)

 

       
    Three months ended
March 31
 
    2017     2016  
    (Unaudited)     (Unaudited)  
NET LOSS   $ 1,981     $ 3,881  
Other comprehensive (income) loss, net of tax:                
Currency translation adjustments     6       (4 )
TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE LOSS   $ 1,987     $ 3,877  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

F-41  

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION

STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ DEFICIENCY (UNAUDITED) 

(U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

      Common Stock,
$0.001
Par Value
                               
    Shares     Amount     Treasury Shares     Accumulated other comprehensive income     Additional paid-in Capital     Accumulated deficit     Total Stockholders’
deficiency
 
                                                         
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 2016 (Audited)     2,147,383     $ 2       (28 )   $ 33     $ 44,262     $ (46,493 )   $ (2,224 )
CHANGES DURING THE PERIOD OF THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2017 (Unaudited):                                                        
Issuance of shares for services     27,598       *                   132             132  
Extinguish of liability upon shares issuance     7,406       *                   47             47  
Share based compensation     19,576       *                   221             221  
Comprehensive loss                       (6 )           (1,981 )     (1,987 )
BALANCE AT MARCH 31, 2017 (Unaudited)     2,201,963     $ 2     (28 )   $ 27     $ 44,662     $ (48,474 )   $ (3,811 )

 

  

                                           
      Common Stock,
$0.001
Par Value**
                                     
    Shares     Amount     Proceeds on amount of Shares     Treasury Shares     Accumulated other comprehensive income     Additional paid-in Capital     Accumulated deficit     Total Stockholders’
deficiency
 
                                                                 
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 2015 (Audited)     1,388,481     $ 1     $ 165       (28 )    $     $ 41,068     $ (44,692 )   $ (3,486 )
CHANGES DURING THE PERIOD OF THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2016 (Unaudited):                                                                
Issuance of shares for services     4,808       *                               385               385  
Issuance of common stock, net of issuance costs     276,924       *       (20 )                     614               594  
Comprehensive loss                                     4               (3,881 )     (3,877 )
BALANCE AT MARCH 31, 2016 (Unaudited)     1,670,211     $ 1     $ 145     (28 )   $ 4     $ 42,067     $ (48,573 )   $ (6,384 )

 

* less than $1
**  Retrospectively adjusted to reflect the 130-for-1 reverse stock split

  

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

F-42  

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(U.S. dollars in thousands)

 

    Three months ended
March 31
 
    2017     2016  
    (Unaudited)     (Unaudited)  
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:                
Net loss for the period   $ (1,981 )   $ (3,881 )
Adjustments required to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities:                
Share based payments     221        
Depreciation     2       4  
Extinguish of liability upon shares issuance     47        
Equity losses (income) in non-consolidated subsidiaries     (64 )     670  
Equity income in non-consolidated affiliates     (367 )      
Expense in respect of convertible notes and loans     680       172  
Loss from extinguishment of debenture     615        
Changes in warrants liability     (337 )     1,190  
Expenses in respect of severance pay     2        
Issuance of shares for services     132       385  
                 
Increase in related parties     (60 )     (126 )
Decrease (increase) in other current assets     5       (43 )
Increase in other long term assets           (9 )
Increase (decrease) in accounts payables     288       (249 )
Increase in other account payables     ( 36 )     293  
Net cash used in operating activities     (853 )     (1,594 )
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:                
Purchase of property and equipment           (60 )
Net cash used in investing activities           (60 )
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:                
Proceeds from short term loans     750       50  
Repayment of loans     (68 )     (288 )
Proceeds from issuance of shares and warrants           1,752  
Net cash provided by financing activities     682       1,514  
                 
DECREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS     (171 )     (140 )
                 
EFFECT OF CHANGES IN EXCHANGE RATES ON CASH BALANCES IN FOREIGN CURRENCIES     (3 )     5  
                 
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT BEGINNING OF PERIOD     416       1,888  
                 
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF PERIOD   $ 242     $ 1,753  
NON-CASH TRANSACTION:                
                 
Issuance expense paid through warrants issuance           225  
Increase in investments in nonconsolidated affiliates against deferred revenues     230       411  
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:                
Cash paid during the period for:                
                 
Interest   $ 203     $ 25  

   

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

F-43  

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION

 

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (unaudited)

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

NOTE 1 – BASIS OF PRESENTATION

 

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared on the same basis as the audited annual consolidated financial statements and, in the opinion of management, reflect all adjustments, which include only normal recurring adjustments, necessary to present fairly the financial position and results of operations of Blue Sphere Corporation (the “Company”). These condensed consolidated financial statements and notes thereto are unaudited and should be read in conjunction with the Company’s audited financial statements included in its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016, as filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The results of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2017 are not necessarily indicative of results that could be expected for the entire fiscal year.

 

NOTE 2 – GENERAL

 

Blue Sphere Corporation (the “Company”), together with its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Eastern Sphere Ltd. (“Eastern”), BinoSphere LLC (“Binosphere”), Bluesphere Pavia S.r.l (“Bluesphere Pavia”, formerly called Bluesphere Italy S.r.l.), and Blue Sphere Brabant B.V. (“BSB”), is focused on project integration in the clean energy production and waste to energy markets. The Company was incorporated in the state of Nevada on July 17, 2007 and was originally in the business of developing and promoting automotive internet sites. On February 17, 2010, the Company conducted a reverse merger, name change and forward split of its common stock, and in March 2010 current management took over operations, at which point the Company changed its business focus to become a project integrator in the clean energy production and waste to energy markets. On May 12, 2015, the Company formed Bluesphere Pavia, a subsidiary of Eastern, in order to acquire certain biogas plants located in Italy (see note 5 below). On September 19, 2016, the Company formed BSB in order to commence operations in the Netherlands. On January 31, 2017, the Company dissolved Johnstonsphere LLC, which had no operations since inception.

 

F-44  

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION

 

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (unaudited)

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

NOTE 3 – CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements as of March 31, 2017 and for the three months then ended have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States relating to the preparation of financial statements for interim periods. Accordingly, they do not include all the information and footnotes required for annual financial statements. In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included. Operating results for the three months ended March 31, 2017 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending December 31, 2017.

 

The March 31, 2017 Condensed Balance Sheet data was derived from audited financial statements, but does not include all disclosures required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and notes thereto contained in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016.

 

F-45  

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION

 

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (unaudited)

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

NOTE 4 – SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

  A. Unaudited Interim Financial Statements

 

The accompanying unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all the information and footnotes required by generally accepted accounting principles for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, all adjustments considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included (consisting only of normal recurring adjustments except as otherwise discussed).

 

For further information, reference is made to the consolidated financial statements and footnotes thereto included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016.

 

Operating results for the three months ended March 31, 2017, are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ended December 31, 2017.

 

  B. Significant Accounting Policies

 

The significant accounting policies followed in the preparation of these unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements are identical to those applied in the preparation of the latest annual financial statements.

 

  C. Recent Accounting Standards

 

In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-01, Business Combinations (Topic 805): Clarifying the Definition of a Business. This guidance narrows the definition of a business. This standard provides guidance to assist entities with evaluating when a set of transferred assets and activities is a business. This guidance is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, and early adoption is permitted. This guidance must be applied prospectively to transactions occurring within the period of adoption. The Company expects to adopt this guidance effective January 1, 2018. The Company does not expect the adoption of this guidance to have a material impact on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

 

In January 2017, the Financial Accounting Standards Board, or FASB, issued Accounting Standards Update, or ASU, 2017-04, Intangibles-Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment. This guidance eliminates Step 2 from the goodwill impairment test, instead requiring an entity to recognize a goodwill impairment charge for the amount by which the goodwill carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value. This guidance is effective for interim and annual goodwill impairment tests in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, and early adoption is permitted. This guidance must be applied on a prospective basis. The Company expects to adopt this guidance for interim and annual goodwill impairment tests performed on testing dates after January 1, 2017. The Company does not expect the adoption of this guidance to have a material impact on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

 

  D. Use of Estimates

 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

 

  F-46  
 

 

NOTE 5 – FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT

 

The Company’s financial assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis by level within the fair value hierarchy are as follows (in thousands):

 

    Balance as of March 31, 2017   
    Level 1     Level 2      Level 3      Total  
Liabilities:                                
Obligation to issue shares of Common Stock   $ 312     $     $     $ 312  
Deferred payment due to the acquisition of the SPVs   $     $     $ 2,756     $ 2,756  
Warrants liability   $     $     $ 1,889     $ 1,889  
Total liabilities   $ 312     $     $ 4,645     $ 4,957  

 

    As of December 31, 2016  
    Level 1     Level 2      Level 3      Total  
Liabilities:                                
Obligation to issue shares of Common Stock   $ 187     $     $     $ 187  
Deferred payment due to the acquisition of the SPVs   $     $     $ 2,685     $ 2,685  
Warrants Liability   $     $     $ 2,045     $ 2,045  
Total liabilities   $ 187     $     $ 4,730     $ 4,917  

      

Deferred payment due to the acquisition of the SPVs - represents the remaining balance of fifty percent (50%) of the purchase price that is due to the sellers on the third anniversary of the closing date (the “Deferred Payment”). The fair value measurement of the fair market value of the Deferred Payment is based on significant inputs not observed in the market and thus represents a Level 3 measurement, which reflects the Company’s own assumptions in measuring fair value. The Company estimated the fair value of the Deferred Payment using the discounted cash flow model. Key assumptions include the level and timing of the expected future payment and discount rate consistent with the level of risk and economy in general. The Deferred Payment due to the acquisition of the SPVs is included in long term loans and Liabilities in the consolidated Balance Sheets and the change in fair value of remaining balance is included in interest expenses in the consolidated statements of income. 

 

    Deferred payment due to the acquisition of the SPVs  
Balance at December 31, 2016   $ 2,685  
Changes in fair value, interest expense and translation adjustments     71  
Balance at March 31, 2017   $ 2,756  

  

Warrant Liability - the estimated fair values of outstanding warrant liability were measured using Black-Scholes valuation models. These valuation models involved using such inputs as the estimated fair value of the underlying stock at the measurement date, risk-free interest rates, expected dividends on stock and expected volatility of the price of the underlying stock. Due to the nature of these inputs, the valuation of the warrants was considered a Level 3 measurement.

  

As of March 31, 2017, and December 31, 2016, the Level 3 liabilities consisted of the Company’s warrant liability.

   

    Warrants
Liability
 
Balance at December 31, 2016   $ 2,045  
Issuance of warrants     181  
Changes in fair value     (337 )
Balance at March 31, 2017   $ 1,889  

  

F-47  

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION

 

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (unaudited)

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

NOTE 6 – GOING CONCERN

 

The accompanying financial statements have been prepared assuming that the Company will continue as a going concern. As of March 31, 2017, the Company had approximately $242 in cash and cash equivalents, approximately $12,080 in negative working capital, a stockholders’ deficit of approximately $3,811 and an accumulated deficit of approximately $48,474. These factors, among others, raise substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. Management anticipates their business will require substantial additional investments that have not yet been secured. Management is continuing in the process of fund raising in the private equity and capital markets as the Company will need to finance future activities. Company’s ability to continue as a going concern is dependent upon raising capital from financing transactions and revenue from operations. These financial statements do not include any adjustments that may be necessary should the Company be unable to continue as a going concern. The Company’s continuation as a going concern is dependent on its ability to obtain additional financing as may be required and ultimately to attain profitability.  

 

NOTE 7 – SHORT TERM LOAN AND DEBENTURES

 

On February 7, 2017, the Company entered into a 90 day Loan Agreement with Viskoben Limited to borrow $200 at a quarterly interest rate of ten percent (10.0%), or thirty percent (30.0%) if calculated annually (the “Viskoben Note”).

 

On February 14, 2017, the Company received an additional $250 under its private placement of securities closed on October 25, 2016 (the “October Financing”) and issued warrants to purchase up to 25,642 shares of its common stock at an exercise price equal to the lesser of (i) 80% of the per share price of the Company’s common stock in a public offering of up to $15 million of its securities (the “Public Offering”), (ii) $9.75 per share (the deemed aggregate exercise price), (iii) 80% of the unit price offering price in the Public Offering, or (iv) the exercise price of any warrants issued in the Public Offering, pursuant to the amendment of the October Financing.  On March 14, 2017, the Company amended the terms of the October Financing, thereby agreeing to issue to the investor shares of the Company’s common stock, notes and warrants, in exchange for up to $1,500 (an increase of $500). On the same date, the Company received an additional $250 and issued warrants to purchase up to 25,642 shares of its common stock at an exercise price equal to the lesser of (i) 80% of the per share price of its common stock in the Public Offering, (ii) $9.75 per share (the deemed aggregate exercise price), (iii) 80% of the unit price offering price in the Public Offering, or (iv) the exercise price of any warrants issued in the Public Offering, pursuant to the amendment of the October Financing.

 

On March 24, 2017, the Company and five of the six holders of the Debentures, representing an aggregate principal balance of $2,000, entered into a First Amendment to Senior Debenture (the “Debenture Amendment”), thereby amending the Debentures to provide that some or all of the principal balance, and accrued but unpaid interest thereon, is convertible into shares of the Company’s common stock at the holders’ election, with such right to convert beginning on the six (6) month anniversary of the Debenture Amendment and ending ten (10) days prior to the date the Debenture matures. The conversion price shall be (a) equal to 80% of the average reported closing price of the Company’s common stock on The NASDAQ Capital Market, calculated using the five (5) trading days immediately following the up-list to The NASDAQ Capital Market, or (b) if the up-list has not occurred, equal to 80% of the average reported closing price of the Company’s common stock on the OTCQB Venture Marketplace, calculated using the five (5) trading days immediately preceding the date of the conversion notice.   

 

NOTE 8 – CONTINGENT

 

On March 15, 2017, Prassas Capital, LLC, an Arizona limited liability company, filed a complaint against the Company alleging breach of contract and seeking (a) unpaid fees in the amount of $1,601 plus interest, (b) issuance of an order of prejudgment attachment and garnishment on the Company’s bank accounts, other property held by the Company and all payments owed to the Company from third parties, (c) an injunction restraining the Company from transferring funds or property outside of the court’s jurisdiction or alternatively that the court appoint a receiver to manage, operate, control and take possession of the Company’s assets, and (d) a declaration that Prassas Capital, LLC has been granted a contractual right to purchase 53,847 shares of the Company’s common stock at a price of $6.50 per share (after giving effect to the reverse stock split described below). This litigation was filed as Prassas Capital, LLC v. Blue Sphere Corporation with the United States District Court for the Western District of North Carolina, Civil Action No. 3:17-CV-00131. The Company disputes the allegations and claims, and intends to rigorously defend against this litigation.

 

F-48  

 

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION

 

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (unaudited)

(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

NOTE 9 – COMMON SHARES

 

On March 24, 2017, the Company completed a reverse stock split of its common stock. As a result of the reverse stock split, the following changes have occurred (i) every one hundred and thirty shares of common stock have been combined into one share of common stock; (ii) the number of shares of common stock underlying each common stock option or common stock warrant have been proportionately decreased on a 130-for-1 basis, and the exercise price of each such outstanding stock option and common warrant has been proportionately increased on a 130-for-1 basis. Accordingly, all option numbers, share numbers, warrant numbers, share prices, warrant prices, exercise prices and losses per share have been adjusted within these consolidated financial statements, on a retroactive basis, to reflect this 130-for-1 reverse stock split.

 

On January 31, 2017, the Company issued 3,109 shares of its common stock to the Former Chief Financial Officer (Israel) of the Company and 2,692 shares of its common stock to Former Chief Financial Officer (U.S.) of the Company under their departure settlement agreements with the Company. The fair market value of the shares at grant date was $41.

 

On February 14, 2017 and March 14, 2017, the Company issued warrants in connection with two (2) separate installments of $250,000 each under the October Financing, with each such five-year warrant providing its holder with the right to purchase up to 25,642 shares of our common stock. (See Note 7).

  

On February 21, 2017, the Company issued 19,576 shares of its common stock to four Directors of the Company and a former Director of the Company for services that were rendered in 2016 and pursuant to the Company’s Amended and Restated Non-Employee Directors Compensation Plan. The fair market value of the shares at grant date was $170.

 

On March 2, 2017, the Company issued 17,949 shares of its common stock to a former consultant pursuant to a letter agreement dated August 8, 2014, whereby the Company had agreed to issue $350 of common stock, determined based on the closing price per share on the OTCQB Venture Marketplace on November 25, 2014, which was $19.50 per share. The letter agreement evidenced a bonus granted by the Company for investor relation and advisory services provided in 2014.  In connection with the issuance, on March 1, 2017, the consultant provided to the Company a release and waiver of any and all claims. The fair market value of the shares at grant date was $87.

 

On March 13, 2017, the Company issued 3,847 shares of its common stock to a consultant, pursuant to a consulting agreement dated September 1, 2016, in consideration for financial advisory and consulting services. The fair market value of the shares at grant date was $6.

 

On March 31, 2017, the Company issued 7,406 shares of its common stock to several officers, directors, employees and/or consultants of the Company. All shares issued vested on March 31, 2017 pursuant to grants dated February 24, 2015 under the Company’s Global Share and Options Incentive Enhancement Plan (2014). The fair market value of the shares at grant date was $47.

 

NOTE 10 – SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

 

On April 13, 2017 the Company received an additional $250 and issued warrants to purchase up to 25,642 shares of its common stock at an exercise price equal to the lesser of (i) 80% of the per share price of its common stock in the Public Offering, (ii) $9.75 per share (the deemed aggregate exercise price), (iii) 80% of the unit price offering price in the Public Offering, or (iv) the exercise price of any warrants issued in the Public Offering, pursuant to the amendment of the October Financing. On April 28, 2017, the Company extended the maturity date from the earlier of May 1, 2017 or the third business day after the closing of a public offering to the earlier of May 19, 2017 or the third business day after the closing of a public offering.

  

On April 17, 2017, the Company issued 7,840 shares of our common stock to four Directors of the Company for services that were rendered in the first quarter of 2017, pursuant to the Company’s Amended and Restated Non-Employee Directors Compensation Plan. The fair market value of the shares at grant date was $50.

 

On April 30, 2017, the Company dissolved Sustainable Energy Ltd.

 

On May 10, 2017, the Company amended the terms of the October Financing, thereby agreeing to issue to the investor shares of the Company’s common stock, notes and warrants, in exchange for up to $2,000 (an increase of $500). On May 11,2017 the Company received an additional $250 and issued warrants to purchase up to 25,642 shares of its common stock at an exercise price equal to the lesser of (i) 80% of the per share price of the Company’s common stock in the Public Offering, (ii) $9.75 per share (the deemed aggregate exercise price), (iii) 80% of the unit price offering price in the Public Offering, or (iv) the exercise price of any warrants issued in the Public Offering, pursuant to the amendment of the October Financing.

 

The Viskoben Note matured on May 7, 2017, and the Company will be in default thereunder if it does not pay the unpaid principal and interest balance within fifteen (15) days after such payment is demanded; as of the date hereof, the holder has not demanded payment and has agreed to withhold its demand until such time as the parties can enter into an amendment to extend the Viskoben Note, which the holder has verbally agreed to do.

 

F-49  

 

 

 

[BACK COVER]

 

This prospectus is part of a Registration Statement we filed with the SEC. You should rely only on the information or representations contained in this prospectus. We have not authorized anyone to provide information other than that provided in this prospectus. We are not making an offer of these securities in any jurisdiction or state where the offer is not permitted. You should not assume that the information in this prospectus is accurate as of any date other than the date on the front of the document.

 

(BLUESPHERE LOGO)

 

$12,000,000

 

Up to [ ] Shares of Common Stock and/or

Pre-funded Warrants to Purchase Shares of Common Stock and

Warrants to Purchase up to [ ] Shares of Common Stock

 

PRELIMINARY PROSPECTUS

 

Maxim Group LLC

Sole Book-Running Manager

 

Chardan

Co-Manager

  

 

________ , 2017

 

 

 

 

 

PART II

INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS

 

Item 13. Other Expenses of Issuance and Distribution.

 

The following table sets forth the costs and expenses payable by Blue Sphere Corporation (the “Registrant”, the Company”, “we” or “us”) in connection with the issuance and distribution of the securities being registered hereunder. No expenses shall be borne by the selling security holder.

         
SEC registration fees*   $ 5,000  
Printing expenses*   $ 5,000  
Accounting fees and expenses*   $ 15,000  
Legal fees and expenses*   $ 250 ,000  
Representative’s Out-of-Pocket Expenses and Fees   $ 130,000  
NASDAQ Listing Fee   $ 75,000  
Miscellaneous*   $ 50,000  
Total*   $ 530,000  

* Estimate

 

Item 14. Indemnification of Directors and Officers.

 

Our bylaws provide that our directors and officers will be indemnified to the fullest extent permitted by the General Corporation Law of the State of Nevada. Specifically, our bylaws require the Company to indemnify any person who is or was, or has agreed to become, a director or officer of the Company (hereinafter, a “director” or “officer”) and who is or was made or threatened to be made a party to or is involved in any threatened, pending or completed action, suit, arbitration, alternative dispute mechanism, inquiry, investigation, hearing or other proceeding (hereinafter, a “proceeding”), including an action by or in the right of the Company to procure a judgment in its favor and an action by or in the right of any other corporation of any type or kind, domestic or foreign, or any partnership, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise, which such person is serving, has served or has agreed to serve in any capacity at the request of the Company, by reason of the fact that he or she is or was, or has agreed to become, a director or officer of the Company, or, while a director or officer of the Company, is or was serving, or has agreed to serve, such other corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise in any capacity, against (i) judgments, fines, amounts paid or to be paid in settlement, taxes or penalties, and (ii) costs, charges and expenses, including attorneys’ fees (hereinafter, “expenses”), incurred in connection with such proceeding. However, a director and/or officer is not entitled to indemnification if a judgment or other final adjudication adverse to the director or officer and from which there is no further right to appeal establishes that (i) his or her acts were committed in bad faith or were the result of active and deliberate dishonesty and, in either case, were material to the cause of action so adjudicated, or (ii) he or she personally gained in fact a financial profit or other advantage to which he or she was not legally entitled. The Company is required to indemnify a director or officer in connection with any suit (or part thereof) initiated by a director or officer only if such suit (or part thereof) was authorized by the Board.

 

Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act may be permitted to directors, officers or persons controlling the Company pursuant to the foregoing provisions, we have been informed that in the opinion of the SEC, such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and is therefore unenforceable.

 

Item 15. Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities.

 

Each of the below transactions were exempt from the registration requirements of the Securities Act in reliance upon Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act, Regulation D promulgated under the Securities Act and, in the case of sales to investors who are non-US persons, Regulation S promulgated under the Securities Act.

 

In the past three years, the Company issued and/or sold the following unregistered securities (after giving effect to the Reverse Stock Split):

 

On January 9, 2014, pursuant to grants by the Company’s Board of Directors made on December 13, 2013, the Company issued of 3,268 shares of the Company to its Chief Executive Officer, 2,723 shares to the Chairman of the Board, 2,723 shares to its Executive Vice-President and 2,179 shares to the Chief Carbon Officer and general counsel of the Company.

  

 

 

 

On January 9, 2014, the Company issued 1,539 shares of its common stock to a consultant providing investor relation services pursuant to an agreement dated December 15, 2013. The agreement provided for two additional tranches of 200,000 shares of common stock, but the Company terminated the agreement prior to such shares vesting.
On January 9, 2014, the Company issued 2,043 shares of its common stock to an investor for proceeds of $25,000.
On January 9, 2014, the Company issued 137 shares of its common stock in exchange for consulting services, with an estimated fair value of $4,602.
On January 9, 2014, the Company issued 2,655 shares of its common stock in exchange for consulting services, with an estimated fair value of $89,734.
On February 7, 2014, the Company issued an aggregate of 9,231 shares of its common stock to an investor and financial engineering service provider pursuant to a service agreement, in exchange for (a) an investment of $77,000 (for which the provider received 2,962 shares of common stock) and (b) the provision of financial engineering services (for which the provider received 6,270 shares of common stock).
On March 5, 2014, Eastern Institutional Funding, LLC purchased $68,750 of the Company’s 20% notes due one (1) year from such date and convertible into shares of the Company’s common stock at a discount of 50% from the lowest trade price over the last 20 days from the date of conversion. On March 21, 2014, Capitoline Ventures II, LLC purchased $68,750 of the Company’s 20% notes due one year from such date that are convertible into shares of the Company’s common stock at a discount of 50% from the lowest trade price over the last 20 days from the date of conversion. In June and July 2014, the Company issued 49,493 shares of its common stock in respect of both notes.
On March 10, 2014, the Board of Directors of the Company approved and the Company thereafter issued shares of common stock of the Company to certain executives as follows: 1,924 shares to its Chief Executive Officer, 1,693 shares to the Chairman of the Board, 1,539 shares to its Executive Vice-President, and 1,385 shares to the Chief Carbon Officer and general counsel of the Company.
On May 2, 2014, the Company signed an agreement with a consultant according to which the consultant would provide investor relations services for a period of 12 months. Based on the agreement, the Company issued the consultant 1,624 shares of its common stock, with an estimated fair value of $41,518.
On May 25, 2014, the Company signed an agreement with a consultant according to which the consultant would provide investor relations services for a period of 6 months. Pursuant to the agreement, the Company issued the consultant 2,693 shares of its common stock and six (6) month warrants to purchase up to 2,692 shares of its common stock at an exercise price of $26.00 per share. In addition, the Company agreed to issue 1,154 additional shares of its common stock after six (6) months from the date of the agreement and warrants to purchase up to 1,154 shares of its common stock for $26.00 per share. The Company evaluated the fair value of the 2,308 shares at $54,600 and the warrants at $28,310.
On June 1, 2014, the Company signed an investment agreement with a third party according to which the Company issued 1,385 shares of its common stock for proceeds of $28,874. In addition, the investor received options to purchase 1,385 shares of common stock of the Company for an exercise price of $32.50 per share.
In April and June 2014, the Company signed three agreements with a non-US investor who provided the Company with several loans amounting to $78,400, according to which the investor converted the balance of loans into 6,161 shares of common stock of the Company. In addition, the Company issued the same non-US investor 2,926 shares of common stock of the Company for total proceeds of $69,000.
In July 2014, the Company issued a non-US investor 1,462 shares of its common stock pursuant to a convertible loan dated June 2013.
On July 3, 2014, the Company issued 9,616 shares of its common stock to an investor for proceeds of $75,000.
On July 10, 2014, a loan in the amount of $24,000 was converted into 885 shares of the Company’s common stock. In addition, the Company issued the investor an additional 577 shares for granting the loan.
On July 10, 2014, the Company issued 577 shares vested to an accredited investor pursuant to an agreement, dated June 18, 2014, to serve on the Company’s advisory board for one (1) year. The agreement was terminated prior to completion of the services, and no other compensation vested. The Company evaluated the fair value of the shares and warrants and recorded an expense of $52,800.
On July 29, 2014, the Company issued 1,109 shares of its common stock to an investor for proceeds of $34,522. In addition, the investor received options to purchase up to 1,109 shares of common stock of the Company for an exercise price of $13.00 per share. In April 2015, the investor exercised the option and the Company issued 1,109 shares of its common stock to the investor.
On January 26, 2014, the Company signed a subscription agreement with an investor for an investment of, in the aggregate $400,000, in exchange for 13,378 shares of common stock, subject to upward adjustment if, six months from the date of the agreement the investor’s ownership in the Company would be reduced below 12.3% of the shares issued and outstanding and, if on the first anniversary of the agreement, the share price of the Company common stock was $29.90 per share or less. On September 17, 2014, the Company issued 22,048 shares of its common stock to the investor pursuant to the subscription agreement.
On September 17, 2014, the Company issued a convertible promissory note to an accredited investor in an aggregate principal amount of $75,000. The note matured one (1) year from the date of issuance and accrued interest at a rate of 8% per annum. The note was convertible into shares of our common stock at a conversion price equal to a 42% discount to our lowest trade or closing prices during periods in proximity to the time of conversion, subject to further discounts in the case of certain events of default.

 

 

 

 

On September 21, 2014, the Company issued 371 shares of its common stock for proceeds of $11,557. In addition, the investor received options to purchase up to 371 shares of common stock of the Company for an exercise price of $41.60 per share.
On September 21, 2014, the Company issued 882 and 2,158 shares of its common stock to accredited investors, for total proceeds of $83,107.
On May 1, 2014, the Company signed an agreement with an investor according to which the company would issue 21,685 shares of its common stock and warrants to purchase up to 9,177 shares of its common stock at an exercise price of $13.00 per share. On September 22, 2014, the Company issued the consultant 19,108 shares of common stock of the Company pursuant to the agreement. In addition, on September 22, 2014, the Company issued 7,408 shares of common stock of the Company to the consultant, for total proceeds of $52,708. On May 1, 2014, the Company signed an agreement with the consultant according to which the consultant would provide investor relations services for a period of 12 months. Based on the agreement, the Company issued the consultant 2,308 shares of its common stock and five (5) year options to purchase up to 11,539 shares of its common stock at an exercise price of $13.00 per share. In addition, the Company agreed to issue 3,847 shares of its common stock upon the fulfillment of other conditions set in the agreement. The Company evaluated the fair value of the 2,308 shares and 11,539 options issued at $90,000 and $151,434, respectively.
On September 22, 2014, the Company issued a convertible promissory note to an accredited investor in an aggregate principal amount of $250,000 for an aggregate purchase price of $225,000, including an original issue discount of $25,000. The note matured one (1) year from the date of issuance. The note was convertible into shares of common stock of the Company at a conversion price equal to a 37% discount to the Company’s lowest trade or closing prices during periods in proximity to the time of conversion, subject to further discounts in the case of certain events of default.
On August 28, 2014, the Company issued 8,168 shares of its common stock to a non-US investor.
In the third quarter of 2014, the Company issued 30,769 shares of its common stock in connection with a one (1) year consulting services agreement, dated April 22, 2014, with a non-US person, in exchange for consulting services including advice on investor relations, public relations, transaction structuring, ongoing introductions to investors and strategic initiatives. The Company also issued to the same consultant 25,532 shares of its common stock pursuant to an August 21, 2014 consulting services agreement. The Company estimated the fair value of such shares and recorded an expense of $1,583,273.
During the third quarter of 2014, the Company signed investment agreements according to which the Company issued 6,770 shares of its common stock for total proceeds of $109,721. In addition, the investors received options to purchase up to 6,327 shares of common stock of the Company for an exercise price of $13.00 per share.
During the third quarter of 2014, the Company signed investment agreements pursuant to which the Company issued 5,839 shares of its common stock for total proceeds of $77,127. In addition, the investors received options to purchase up to 5,839 shares of common stock of the Company for an exercise price of $13.00 per share, and 5,839 shares of common stock of the Company for an exercise price of $16.90 per share.
During the third quarter of 2014, the Company signed investment agreements according to which the Company issued 2,714 shares of its common stock for total proceeds of $98,784. In addition, the investors received options to purchase up to 2,714 shares of common stock of the Company for an exercise price of $78.00 per share.
During the third quarter of 2014, the Company signed several investment agreements according to which the Company issued 1,532 shares of its common stock for total proceeds of $19,904. In addition, the investors received options to purchase up to 1,532 shares of common stock of the Company for an exercise price of $16.90 per share, and 1,532 shares of common stock of the Company for an exercise price of $20.80 per share.
During July through September 2014, the Company issued 16,747 shares of its common stock to a consultant, pursuant to consulting agreements dated September 10, 2013 and April 22, 2014. The Company estimated the fair value of such shares and recorded an expense of $481,810.
On October 3, 2014, the Company signed a consulting agreement with a non-US person according to which the consultant would provide investor relations and public relations services for a period of one year. The Company agreed to grant the consultant 15,385 shares of the Company’s common stock and additional options to purchase up to 3,847 shares of the Company’s common stock at an exercise price of $0.13 per share. Such shares were issued on March 19, 2015. In addition, on the same date, the Company issued the consultant 3,847 shares of the Company’s common stock for the exercise of the options granted. The Company estimated the fair value of such shares and options, and recorded an expense of $216,828.
On October 28, 2014, the Company issued 2,577 shares of the its common stock to a consultant, pursuant to a service agreement dated May 1, 2014.
During October, 2014, a noteholder converted its April 11, 2014 note, with a principal balance of $42,500, into 3,631 shares of the Company’s common stock.
On December 8, 2014, the Company issued 1,609 shares of its common stock to a registered broker-dealer in the United States, as compensation for arranging a private placement of the Company’s securities.

 

 

 

 

On January 5, 2015, the Company signed a consulting agreement with Dr. Borenstein Ltd, according to which the Company issued the consultant one (1) year options to purchase up to 7,693 shares of its common stock at an exercise price of $0.13. The Consultant exercised such options at May 27, 2015. The Company estimated the fair value of such options, and recorded an expense of $158,024.
On February 28, 2015 and March 19, 2015, the Company issued 47,038 shares of its common stock to a consultant in respect of a September 2014 consulting agreement for investor and public relations services. The Company estimated the fair value of such shares and recorded an expense of $738,353.
On March 12, 2015, the Company issued 839 shares of its common stock to an investor, pursuant to the exercise of options granted in May 2014. The Company estimated the fair value of such shares and recorded an expense of $14,103.
On April 13, 2015, the Company entered into a subscription agreement with a non-U.S. person, pursuant to which the Company issued 3,206 shares of its common stock in exchange for $25,000.
On April 15, 2015, the Company entered into a Subscription Agreement with Dr. Borenstein Ltd., pursuant to which the Company issued 12,539 shares of its common stock for the aggregate purchase price of $48,000.
In April 2015, a non-U.S. investor exercised warrants to purchase shares of common stock of the Company for total consideration of $48,549.
On May 27, 2015, the Company issued 1,385 shares of its common stock to a consultant in respect of a September 2014 consulting agreement for investor and public relations services. The Company estimated the fair value of such shares and recorded an expense of $7,560.
In May 2015, the Company issued 25,000 shares of its common stock to a consultant, pursuant to a consulting agreement with the Company for investor relations and public relations services. The Company estimated the fair value of such shares and recorded an expense of $136,500.
On July 6, 2015, the Company entered into a subscription agreement with several non-U.S. entities, pursuant to which the Company issued 18,682 shares of its common stock in exchange for $51,000.
On June 12, 2015, the Company entered into a Subscription Agreement with Dr. Borenstein Ltd., pursuant to which the Company issued 65,269 shares of its common stock for the aggregate purchase price of $140,000.
On June 15, 2015, the Company issued 11,539 shares of its common stock to a consultant, in mutual agreement of the termination of the consultant’s June 2014 consulting agreement. The Company estimated the fair value of such shares and recorded an expense of $34,500.
On June 17, 2015, the Company’s Board of Directors approved a share repurchase program (the “Share Repurchase Program”). Under the Share Repurchase Program, the Company is authorized to repurchase up to $500,000 worth of its common stock, which, based on the value of the Company’s common stock on September 30, 2015, equates to approximately 128,206 shares of common stock. However, the total number of shares could differ based on the ultimate price per share paid by the Company. Further, the Company’s shares of common stock may be purchased on the open market or through privately negotiated transactions from time-to-time and in accordance with applicable laws, rules and regulations. The Company is not obligated to make any purchases, including at any specific time or in any particular situation. The program may be limited or terminated at any time without prior notice. On June 23, 2015, the Company repurchased 1,109 shares from a stockholder for $28,328 as part of a settlement with such stockholder.
In May and June 2015, the Company issued 28,962 shares of the Company to a consultant in respect of his investor relations and public relations services, pursuant to a consulting agreement with the Company. The Company estimated the fair value of such shares and recorded an expense of $150,118.
On July 1, 2015, the Company entered into a subscription agreement with a non-U.S. person, pursuant to which the Company issued 15,385 shares of its common stock in exchange for $32,000.
On July 17, 2015, the Company entered into a subscription agreement with several non-U.S. persons, pursuant to which the Company issued 17,833 shares of its common stock in exchange for $39,394.
In July 2015, in order to finance a portion of the funds necessary to complete the acquisitions of the projects by Blue Sphere Pavia, the Company conducted a private placement of up to $250,000 of its common stock. On December 2, 2015, the Company closed on the offering, resulting in gross proceeds of $225,526. On June 2, 2016, the Company issued 107,160 shares of its common stock in consideration of $145,525 of proceeds pursuant to all but one of the investors, and on or about December 13, 2016, the Company issued the remaining 58,909 shares of its common stock, in consideration for $83,949 of proceeds.
In August 2015, the Company issued 26,727 shares of its common stock to two affiliate entities of Maxim Group LLC, pursuant to a financial advisor and investment banking agreement with the Company. The Company estimated the fair value of such shares and recorded an expense of $34,397.
In August 2015, the Company issued 8,679 shares of its common stock to a non-U.S. person, pursuant to a financial advisor and investment banking settlement agreement with the Company. The Company estimated the fair value of such shares and recorded an expense of $13,088.
Between February and August 2015, the Company issued 577,390 shares of its common stock to holders of convertible promissory notes representing an aggregate principal amount of $1,480,716.
In August 2015, the Company issued 26,727 shares of its common stock to Maxim Group LLC, pursuant to a financial advisor and investment banker agreement with the Company. The Company estimated the fair value of such shares and recorded an expense of $34,397.
In August 2015, the Company issued 8,679 shares of its common stock to a non-U.S. person, pursuant to a financial advisor and investment banker settlement agreement with the Company. The Company estimated the fair value of such shares and recorded an expense of $13,088.

 

 

 

 

Between July and September 2015, the Company issued 61,808 shares of its common stock to a consultant, pursuant to an investor relations and public relations services consulting agreement with the Company. The Company estimated the fair value of such shares and recorded an expense of $198,614.
On October 12, 2015, the Company issued 2,885 shares of its common stock to a consultant, pursuant to a general advisory services and strategic planning consulting agreement with the Company. The Company estimated the fair value of such shares and recorded an expense of $22,586.
On October 21, 2015, the Company issued 12,539 and 65,269 shares of its common stock to Dr. Borenstein Ltd., pursuant to subscription agreements dated April 15, 2015 and June 12, 2015, for an aggregate purchase price of $48,000 and $140,000, respectively.
On October 26, 2015, the Company issued 5,308 shares of its common stock to a consultant, pursuant to a consulting agreement with the Company. The Company estimated the fair value of such shares and recorded an expense of $25,803.
On December 2, 2015, the Company issued 4,808 shares of its common stock to a consultant, pursuant to a consulting agreement with the Company. The Company estimated the fair value of such shares and recorded an expense of $43,411.
On December 2, 2015, the Company issued 5,731 shares of its common stock to a consultant, pursuant to a consulting agreement with the Company. The Company estimated the fair value of such shares and recorded an expense of $16,544.
Beginning in November 2015, the Company conducted a private offering of up to $3,000,000 of the Company’s Senior Debentures and warrants to purchase up to 61,539 shares of its common stock in proportion to each subscriber’s subscription amount relative to the total offering amount, with 50% of the warrants exercisable at a price per share of $6.50 and the other 50% of the warrants exercisable at price per share of $9.75. On December 23, 2015, the Company completed the closing of the offering and entered into subscription agreements with investors representing aggregate gross proceeds to the Company of $3,000,000. The Company engaged Maxim Group LLC to assist in the private offering, pursuant to which Maxim Group LLC received commissions equal to 7% of the gross proceeds it raised in the offering and warrants to purchase, in the aggregate, up to 34,462 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $8.94 per share. The Company estimated the fair value of such warrants at a value of $116,599 at the date of issuance.
On January 26, 2016, the Company issued 7,693 shares of its common stock in connection with a private offering to one investor pursuant to a subscription agreement dated June 12, 2015.
On February 1, 2016, the Company issued 4,154 shares its common stock to a consultant, pursuant to a consulting service agreement with the Company. The Company estimated the fair value of such shares and recorded an expense of $108,327.
On February 3, 2016, the Company issued three (3) year warrants to three private investors to purchase up to 11,539 shares of its common stock at an exercise price of $7.80 per share, in full satisfaction of certain obligations of the Company.
On February 15, 2016, the Company completed a private offering representing aggregate gross proceeds to the Company of $1,925,000, pursuant to which the Company issued (a) 269,231 shares of its common stock priced at $7.15 per share, the closing price for shares of its common stock reported by the OTCQB Venture Marketplace on the trading day prior to the closing of the offering, and (b) five (5) year warrants to purchase up to 134,616 shares of its common stock at an exercise price of $13.00 per share, which was equal to 50% of the shares purchased in the offering. The Company engaged Maxim Group LLC to assist in the offering, pursuant to which Maxim received five (5) year warrants to purchase (i) up to 21,539 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $7.87 per share and (ii) up to 10,770 shares of its common stock at an exercise price of $14.30 per share.
On March 15, 2016, the Company issued 654 shares of its common stock to a consultant, pursuant to a consulting services agreement with the Company. The Company estimated the fair value of such shares and recorded an expense of $5,685.
On April 13, 2016, the Company issued 7,692 shares of its common stock to a consultant, pursuant to a consulting agreement dated March 9, 2016, in consideration for corporate finance, investor communications and financial and investor public relations services. The Company thereafter issued an additional 7,692 shares of common stock as a service bonus because the consulting agreement was not terminated prior to June 9, 2016.
On April 13, 2016, the Company issued an aggregate of 6,731 shares of its common stock to a consultant, pursuant to consulting agreements dated September 1, 2015 and March 1, 2016, in consideration for investor relations and communications services. The Company estimated the fair value of such shares and recorded an expense of $42,467.
On May 18, 2016, the Company issued 5,385 shares of its common stock upon exercise of a warrant to purchase shares of common stock, dated May 4, 2015, at an exercise price of $7.54 per share, for total proceeds of $40,235.

 

 

 

 

On June 13, 2016, the Company issued 54,643 shares of common stock of the Company to several officers, directors, employees and/or consultants of the Company. All shares were issued pursuant to the Company’s Global Share and Options Incentive Enhancement Plan (2014) and the Company’s Global Share Incentive Plan (2010). The Company estimated and recorded the fair value of such shares as an expense of $632,208 which was recorded through the vesting periods.
On June 26, 2016, the Company issued 3,847 shares of its common stock, in full satisfaction of certain obligations under a prior subscription agreement.

In June and July 2016, the Company conducted an offering consisting of (a) up to USD $3,000,000 of shares of its common stock, priced at the closing price for shares of its common stock, as reported on the OTCQB Venture Marketplace on the trading day prior to each respective closing of the offering, and (b) five (5) year warrants to purchase shares of its common stock in an amount equal to one hundred percent (100%) of the number of shares of common stock so purchased by the subscriber, with an exercise price equal to the per share price of the common stock, or $1.43 per share, whichever is greater. On July 7, 2016 and July 26, 2016, the Company completed closings of the offering, both such closings representing aggregate gross proceeds to the Company of $1,370,000. In connection with both closings, the Company and subscribers entered into subscription agreements and issued (i) 140,513 shares of common stock at $9.75 per share and (ii) warrants to purchase up to 140,513 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $1.43 per share. The Company engaged Maxim Group LLC to assist in the offering, pursuant to which, Maxim Group LLC received commissions equal to 4.44% of the gross proceeds raised, warrants to purchase up to 7,139 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $10.73 per share, and warrants to purchase up to 7,139 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $15.73 per share. 

On August 7, 2016, the Company issued 1,100 shares of its common stock, in consideration for past capital advisory services rendered to the Company. The Company estimated the fair value of such shares and recorded an expense of $11,440.
On August 16, 2016, the Company issued 3,077 shares of its common stock in satisfaction of debt of $24,000.
On September 15, 2016, the Company issued 7,693 shares of its common stock to a consultant in consideration for communications and investor relations services. The Company estimated the fair value and recorded an expense of $19,983 for half of the shares, and of $34,450 for the other half of the shares.
On October 25, 2016, the Company completed a private placement of its securities to JMJ Financial, a Nevada sole proprietorship and an accredited investor. Pursuant to the October Financing, the Company entered into a Securities Purchase Agreement with the investor thereby agreeing to issue shares of its common stock, notes and warrants, in exchange for up to USD $1,000,000 in accordance with the following payment schedule: $500,000 paid at closing, $250,000 in guaranteed financing upon the achievement of certain milestones, and up to an additional $250,000 in financing upon the mutual agreement of the investor and the Company. Pursuant to the terms of the financing, the Company agreed to issue to the investor (a) restricted shares of its common stock equal to twenty-five percent (25%) of the note principal paid to the Company by the investor, subject to certain adjustments, (b) a six (6) month promissory note covering the note principal plus an amount equal to approximately five percent (5%) of the actual note principal, in total $1,053,000, and (c) a five-year warrant to purchase up to 51,283 shares of common stock with an aggregate exercise amount of USD $500,000. The Company entered into Amendment No. 2 to the Securities Purchase Agreement and the note on March 14, 2017, to increase the principal loan under the Securities Purchase Agreement and the note to an aggregate principal amount of up to $1,500,000. In addition, the Company agreed to (i) increase the number of restricted shares proportionately up to the increased note principal; (ii) amend the note to reflect the increase note principal amount plus an aggregate “origination fee” of $79,500, for a total balance of up to $1,579,500; and (iii) issue warrants to purchase shares of common stock equal to 100% coverage upon receipt of each payment made by the investor toward the note principal amount. The Company entered into Amendment No. 5 to the Securities Purchase Agreement and the note on May 10, 2017, to increase the principal loan under the Securities Purchase Agreement and the note by $500,000 to an aggregate principal amount of up to $2,000,000. In addition, the Company agreed to (x) increase the number restricted shares proportionately up to the increased note principal; (y) amend the note to reflect the increase note principal amount plus an aggregate “origination fee” of $106,000, for a total balance of up to $2,106,000; and (z) issue warrants to purchase shares of common stock equal to 100% coverage upon receipt of each payment made by the investor toward the note principal amount. Pursuant to subsequent loans under the note, the Company issued five (5) additional five-year warrants, each to purchase up to 25,642 shares of the Company’s common stock, on December 20, 2016, February 14, 2017, March 14, 2017, April 13, 2017, and May 11, 2017.
On December 20, 2016, the Company issued 7,308 shares of its common stock to its Chief Executive Officer and 6,538 shares of its common stock to its Chairman of the Board of Directors, pursuant to their respective service agreements with the Company. The Company has estimated and recorded the fair value of such shares as an expense of $50,025, which was recorded through the vesting periods.
On December 30, 2016, the Company issued 6,538 shares of its common stock to an executive under his service agreement with the Company. The Company has estimated and recorded the fair value of such shares as an expense of $23,623 which was recorded through the vesting period.
On December 30, 2016, the Company issued 44,424 shares of its common stock to several officers, directors, employees and/or consultants of the Company. All shares were issued pursuant to the Company’s Global Share and Options Incentive Enhancement Plan (2014) and the Company’s Global Share Incentive Plan (2010). The Company has estimated and recorded the fair value of such shares as an expense of $386,347, which was recorded through the vesting periods.
On December 30, 2016, the Company issued 2,308 shares its common stock in consideration for past services rendered by a member of our Board of Directors. The Company has estimated the fair value of such shares, and recorded an expense of $19,770.
On January 31, 2017, the Company issued 3,109 shares of its common stock to the Former Chief Financial Officer (Israel) of the Company and 2,693 shares of its common stock to the Former Chief Financial Officer (U.S.) of the Company under their departure settlement agreements with the Company.
On February 21, 2017, the Company issued 19,576 shares of its common stock to four Directors of the Company and a former Director of the Company for services that were rendered in 2016 and pursuant to the Company’s Amended and Restated Non-Employee Directors Compensation Plan.
On March 2, 2017, the Company issued 17,949 shares of its common stock to a former consultant pursuant to a letter agreement dated August 8, 2014, whereby the Company had agreed to issue $350,000 of common stock, determined based on the  closing price per share on the OTCQB Venture Marketplace on November 25, 2014, which was $19.50 per share. The letter agreement evidenced a bonus granted by the Company for investor relation and advisory services provided in 2014.  In connection with the issuance, on March 1, 2017, the consultant provided to the Company a release and waiver of any and all claims.
On March 13, 2017, the Company issued 3,847 shares of its common stock to a consultant, pursuant to a consulting agreement dated September 1, 2016, in consideration for financial advisory and consulting services.
On March 31, 2017, the Company issued 7,406 shares of its common stock to several officers, directors, employees and/or consultants of the Company. All shares issued vested on March 31, 2017 pursuant to grants dated February 24, 2015 under the Company’s Global Share and Options Incentive Enhancement Plan (2014).

On April 17, 2017, the Company issued 7,840 shares of its common stock to four Directors of the Company for services that were rendered in the first quarter of 2017, pursuant to the Company’s Amended and Restated Non-Employee Directors Compensation Plan.

On May 26, 2017, the Company entered into an agreement to refinance certain of its convertible and non-convertible debentures, pursuant to which the Company will issue two (2) debentures maturing on December 31, 2018 and having an aggregate principal balance of $3,000,000, both of which will be convertible into shares of the Company’s common stock, and two (2) five-year warrants to purchase up to 225,000 shares of the Company’s common stock. In connection with the refinancing, six (6) debentures of the Company having a principal balance of $3,000,000 and maturing on December 22, 2017 will be repaid in full.

 

Except as noted, none of the foregoing transactions involved any underwriters, underwriting discounts or commissions, or any public offering, and the Company believes each transaction was exempt from the registration requirements of the Securities Act as stated above. All recipients of the foregoing transactions either received adequate information about the Company or had access, through their relationships with the Company, to such information. Furthermore, the Company affixed appropriate legends to the share certificates and instruments issued in each of the foregoing transactions setting forth that the securities had not been registered and the applicable restrictions on transfer. 

 

 

 

Item 16. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules.

 

No.   Description   Note (s)

 

1.1  

Form of Underwriting Agreement

  **
         
3.1   Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation, dated November 22, 2013.   (1)
         
3.2  

Certificate of Amendment No. 2 to our Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation 

  *
         
3.3   Amended and Restated Bylaws, dated June 17, 2015.   (2)
         
4.1   Form of Common Stock Certificate.   (16)
         
5.1   Opinion of Thompson Hine LLP regarding the legality of the securities being registered.   **
         
10.1   Orbit Energy Rhode Island LLC Membership Interest Purchase Agreement, dated April 8, 2015.   (3)
         
10.2   Rhode Island Energy Partners LLC Development and Indemnification Agreement, dated April 8, 2015.   (3)

 

 

 

 

10.3   Amended and Restated Rhode Island Energy Partners LLC Agreement, dated April 8, 2015.   (3)
         
10.4   Orbit Energy Charlotte, LLC Letter Agreement dated January 29, 2015.   (4)
         
10.5   Orbit Energy Charlotte, LLC Membership Interest Purchase Agreement, dated January 30, 2015.   (5)
         
10.6   Concord Energy Partners, LLC Development and Indemnification Agreement, dated January 30, 2015.   (4)
         
10.7   Amended and Restated Concord Energy Partners LLC Agreement, dated January 30, 2015.   (4)
         
10.8   Ori Ackerman Loan Agreement, dated March 15, 2015.   (6)
         
10.9   Share Purchase Agreement by and among Bluesphere Italy S.r.l. and Volteo Energie S.p.A., Agriholding S.r.l. and Overland S.r.l., dated May 14, 2015.   (7)
         

10.10

 

 

Amendment to the Share Purchase Agreement Dated May 14, 2015, by and among Bluesphere Italy S.r.l. and Volteo Energie S.p.A., Agriholding S.r.l. and Overland S.r.l., dated December 14, 2015.

  *
         
10.11   Framework EBITDA Guarantee Agreement dated July 17, 2015.   (5)
         
10.12   Long Term Mezzanine Loan Agreement by and among Blue Sphere Corp., Eastern Sphere Ltd., Bluesphere Italy S.r.l., and Helios Italy Bio-Gas 1 L.P., dated August 18, 2015.   (8)
         
10.13   Service Agreement between Blue Sphere Corporation and Shlomo Palas, dated October 15, 2015.   (9) #
         
10.14  

Service Agreement by and among Blue Sphere Corporation, JLS Advanced Investment Holdings Limited, and Roy Amitzur, dated October 15, 2015. 

  (9) #
         
10.15   Advisory Agreement between Blue Sphere Corporation and Joshua Shoham, dated October 15, 2015.   (9) #
         
10.16   Form of Subscription Agreement from Debenture Offering.   (10)
         
10.17   Form of Senior Debenture from Debenture Offering.   (10)
         
10.18   Form of Warrants from Debenture Offering.   (10)
         
10.19   Form of Pledge Agreement from Debenture Offering.   (10)
         
10.20   Form of Securities Subscription Agreement from February Stock Offering.   (11)
         
10.21   Form of Offering Warrant from February Stock Offering.   (11)
         
10.22   Services Agreement, dated May 1, 2016, between the Company and Ran Daniel.   (12)
         
10.23   Form of February 3, 2016 Warrant.   (13)
         
10.24   Form of July Offering Subscription Agreements, entered into December 2, 2015.   (13)
         
10.25   Form of Securities Subscription Agreement from June Stock Offering.   (14)
         
10.26   Form of Offering Warrant from June Stock Offering.   (14)
         
10.27   2016 Stock Incentive Plan.   (15)
         
10.28   Form of Maxim Warrant.   (15)
         
10.29   Form of Securities Purchase Agreement from the October 2016 Financing.   (17)
         
10.30   Form of Promissory Note from the October 2016 Financing.   (17)
         
10.31   Form of Common Stock Purchase Warrant from the October 2016 Financing.   (17)

 

 

 

 

10.32   Organic Waste Delivery Agreement, dated October 13, 2016.   *
         
10.33   2010 Stock Incentive Plan.   (19)
         
10.34   2014 Stock Incentive Plan.   (6)
         
10.35   Form of Warrant for the Offering.   **
         
10.36   Service, Maintenance and Operation Agreement, dated June 5, 2014, between Orbit Energy Charlotte, LLC, Austep USA Inc. and Austep S.p.A.   *
         
10.37   Acceptance Letter of Grant Application from Rijksdienst voor Ondernemend Nederland, dated December 8, 2016.    (20)
         
10.38  

Addendum No. 1 to Service Agreement dated December 29, 2016, between the Company, Mr. Amitzur, JLS Advanced Investment Holdings Limited and Renewable Energy Management Services. 

 

* #

         
10.39  

Service and Consulting Agreement dated May 30, 2013, between the Company and Efim Monsov.

 

 * #

         
10.40  

Personal Employment Agreement dated January 1, 2016, between Eastern Sphere and Elad Kerner.

   * #
         
10.41  

Amended and Restated Non-Employee Director Compensation Plan.

 

* #

         
10.42   Amended and Restated Turnkey Agreement for the Design, Construction and Delivery of a Biogas Plant, dated June 5, 2014, between Orbit Energy Charlotte, LLC and Auspark LLC.   *
         
10.43   Amended and Restated Turnkey Agreement for the Design, Construction and Delivery of a Biogas Plant, dated April 7, 2015 between Orbit Energy Rhode Island, LLC and Auspark LLC.   *
         
10.44   Form of SPV Management Agreement.   *
         
10.45   Amended and Restated Lease Agreement, dated April 8, 2015, between Orbit Energy Rhode Island, LLC and Shelby Realty, Inc.   *
         
10.46   Form of Plant EBITDA Guarantee Agreement entered into with Austep S.p.A. in connection with each SPV.   *
         
10.47  

Letter Agreement, dated March 1, 2017, between JMJ Financial and Blue Sphere Corporation.

  *
         
10.48  

Amendment #2 to the Securities Purchase Agreement and to the $1,053,000 Promissory Note, dated March 14, 2017, by and between Blue Sphere Corporation and JMJ Financial.

  (21)
         
10.49   Form of First Amendment to Senior Debenture.   (22)
         
10.50   Letter Agreement, dated April 4, 2017, between JMJ Financial and Blue Sphere Corporation.   (23)
         
10.51   Form of Representative’s Warrant for the Offering.   **
         
10.52   Amendment #3 to the Securities Purchase Agreement and to the $1,579,500 Promissory Note, dated April 13, 2017, by and between Blue Sphere Corporation and JMJ Financial.   (23)
         
10.53   Amendment #4 to the Securities Purchase Agreement, the $1,579,500 Promissory Note, and the Common Stock Purchase Warrants, dated April 28, 2017, by and between Blue Sphere Corporation and JMJ Financial.   (23)
         
10.54   Amendment #5 to the Securities Purchase Agreement and to the $1,579,500 Promissory Note, dated May 11, 2017, by and between Blue Sphere Corporation and JMJ Financial.   (23)
         
10.55   Amendment #6 to the Securities Purchase Agreement, the $2,106,000 Promissory Note, and the Common Stock Purchase Warrants, dated May 18, 2017, by and between Blue Sphere Corporation and JMJ Financial.   **
         
10.56   Form of Pre-Funded Warrant for the Offering.   **
         
10.57   Debenture Refinance and Purchase Agreement, dated May 26, 2017.   (24)
         
10.58   Form of Pledge Agreement used in connection with the Debenture Refinance.   (24)
         
10.59   Form of Convertible Senior Debenture used in connection with the Debenture Refinance.   (24)
         
10.60   Form of Warrant used in connection with the Debenture Refinance.   (24)
         
10.61   Power Purchase Agreement, dated May 26, 2011 and amended on April 11, 2013, December 9, 2013, January 9, 2015 and May 27, 2016, between Orbit Energy Rhode Island, LLC and The Narragansett Electric Company d/b/a National Grid   **
         
10.62   Second Amended and Restated Renewable Energy Purchase Agreement, dated September 30, 2016, between Orbit Energy Charlotte, LLC and Duke Energy Carolinas, LLC.   **
         
14.1   Code of Ethics and Anti-Harassment Policy of the Company.   (18)
         
21.1   Subsidiaries of Registrant.   **
         
23.1   Consent of Thompson Hine LLP (Form of included in Exhibit 5.1).   **
         
23.2   Consent of Brightman Almagor Zohar & Co.   **
         
99.1   Charter of the Audit Committee.   *
         
99.2   Charter of the Finance Committee.   *
         
99.3   Charter of the Nominations Committee.   *
         
99.4   Charter of the Compensation Committee.   *
#   Indicates management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.
*   Previously filed.
**   Filed herewith.

 

(1)   Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on December 3, 2013.
(2)   Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on June 17, 2015.
(3)   Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on April 14, 2015.
(4)   Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on February 5, 2015.
(5)   Incorporated by reference to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed with the SEC on August 14, 2015.
(6)   Incorporated by reference to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed with the SEC on May 15, 2015.
(7)   Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on May 18, 2015.
(8)   Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on August 24, 2015.
(9)   Incorporated by reference to our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on January 13, 2016.
(10)   Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on December 28, 2015.
(11)   Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on February 17, 2016.
(12)   Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on May 4, 2016.
(13)   Incorporated by reference to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q/A filed with the SEC on June 13, 2016.
(14)   Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on July 8, 2016.
(15)   Incorporated by reference to our Registration Statement on Form S-1 filed with the SEC on August 15, 2016.
(16)   Incorporated by reference to Amendment No. 1 to our Registration Statement on Form S-1/A filed with the SEC on September 1, 2016.
(17)   Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on October 31, 2016.
(18)   Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on April 29, 2016.
(19)   Incorporated by reference to our Amendment to Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on March 9, 2011.
(20)   Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on December 13, 2016.
(21)  

Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on March 20, 2017. 

(22)  

Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on March 24, 2017. 

(23)   Incorporated by reference to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed with the SEC on May 15, 2017.
(24)   Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on May 26, 2017.

 

 

 

 

Item 17. Undertakings

 

(a)           The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes:

(1)          To file, during any period in which offers or sales are being made, a post-effective amendment to this registration statement:

i.           To include any prospectus required by Section 10(a)(3) of the Securities Act of 1933;

ii.          To reflect in the prospectus any facts or events arising after the effective date of the registration statement (or the most recent post-effective amendment thereof) which, individually or in the aggregate, represent a fundamental change in the information set forth in the registration statement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, any increase or decrease in volume of securities offered (if the total dollar value of securities offered would not exceed that which was registered) and any deviation from the low or high end of the estimated maximum offering range may be reflected in the form of prospectus filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “Commission”) pursuant to Rule 424(b) if, in the aggregate, the changes in volume and price represent no more than 20 percent change in the maximum aggregate offering price set forth in the “Calculation of Registration Fee” table in the effective registration statement;

iii.         To include any material information with respect to the plan of distribution not previously disclosed in the registration statement or any material change to such information in the registration statement.

(2)          That, for the purpose of determining any liability under the Securities Act of 1933, each such post-effective amendment shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.

(3)          To remove from registration by means of a post-effective amendment any of the securities being registered which remain unsold at the termination of the offering.

(4)          That, for the purpose of determining liability under the Securities Act of 1933 to any purchaser, each prospectus filed pursuant to Rule 424(b) as part of a registration statement relating to an offering, other than registration statements relying on Rule 430B or other than prospectuses filed in reliance on Rule 430A, shall be deemed to be part of and included in the registration statement as of the date it is first used after effectiveness. Provided, however, that no statement made in a registration statement or prospectus that is part of the registration statement or made in a document incorporated or deemed incorporated by reference into the registration statement or prospectus that is part of the registration statement will, as to a purchaser with a time of contract of sale prior to such first use, supersede or modify any statement that was made in the registration statement or prospectus that was part of the registration statement or made in any such document immediately prior to such date of first use.

(5)          Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act of 1933 may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of the registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, the registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act of 1933 and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by the registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling person of the registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer or controlling person in connection with the securities being registered, the registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act of 1933 and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.

 

(b)  Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of the registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, the registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities, other than the payment by the registrant of expenses incurred and paid by a director, officer or controlling person of the registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding, is asserted by such director, officer or controlling person in connection with the securities being registered hereby, the registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.

 

(c)  The undersigned Registrant hereby undertakes that it will:

 

(1)   for determining any liability under the Securities Act, treat the information omitted from the form of prospectus filed as part of this registration statement in reliance upon Rule 430A and contained in a form of prospectus filed by the registrant under Rule 424(b)(1), or (4) or 497(h) under the Securities Act as part of this registration statement as of the time the Commission declared it effective.

 

(2)   for determining any liability under the Securities Act, treat each post-effective amendment that contains a form of prospectus as a new registration statement for the securities offered in the registration statement, and that offering of the securities at that time as the initial bona fide offering of those securities.

 

 

 

 

SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized on May 30, 2017.

       
  BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION
       
  By: /s/ Shlomo Palas  
    Shlomo Palas  
    President, Chief Executive Officer and Director  

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

         
Signatures   Title   Date
         
/s/ Shlomo Palas   President, Chief Executive Officer and Director   May 30, 2017
Shlomo Palas   (Principal Executive Officer)    
         
/s/ Ran Daniel   Chief Financial Officer   May 30, 2017
Ran Daniel   (Principal Accounting Officer and Principal Financial Officer)    
         
/s/ Joshua Shoham   Director, Chairman   May 30, 2017
Joshua Shoham        
         
/s/ Yigal Brosh   Director   May 30, 2017
Yigal Brosh        
         
/s/ Shimon Erlichman   Director   May 30, 2017
Shimon Erlichman        
         
/s/ Lyron Bentovim   Director   May 30, 2017
Lyron Bentovim        
         
/s/ David Doctor   Director   May 30, 2017
David Doctor      

 

 

 

 

EXHIBIT INDEX

 

No.   Description   Note (s)

 

1.1   Form of Underwriting Agreement   **
         
3.1   Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation, dated November 22, 2013.   (1)
         
3.2  

Certificate of Amendment No. 2 to our Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation 

  *
         
3.3   Amended and Restated Bylaws, dated June 17, 2015.   (2)
         
4.1   Form of Common Stock Certificate.   (16)
         
5.1   Opinion of Thompson Hine LLP regarding the legality of the securities being registered .   **
         
10.1   Orbit Energy Rhode Island LLC Membership Interest Purchase Agreement, dated April 8, 2015.   (3)
         
10.2   Rhode Island Energy Partners LLC Development and Indemnification Agreement, dated April 8, 2015.   (3)
         
10.3   Amended and Restated Rhode Island Energy Partners LLC Agreement, dated April 8, 2015.   (3)
         
10.4   Orbit Energy Charlotte, LLC Letter Agreement dated January 29, 2015.   (4)
         
10.5   Orbit Energy Charlotte, LLC Membership Interest Purchase Agreement, dated January 30, 2015.   (5)
         
10.6   Concord Energy Partners, LLC Development and Indemnification Agreement, dated January 30, 2015.   (4)
         
10.7   Amended and Restated Concord Energy Partners LLC Agreement, dated January 30, 2015.   (4)
         
10.8   Ori Ackerman Loan Agreement, dated March 15, 2015.   (6)
         
10.9   Share Purchase Agreement by and among Bluesphere Italy S.r.l. and Volteo Energie S.p.A., Agriholding S.r.l. and Overland S.r.l., dated May 14, 2015.   (7)
         

10.10

 

Amendment to the Share Purchase Agreement Dated May 14, 2015, by and among Bluesphere Italy S.r.l. and Volteo Energie S.p.A., Agriholding S.r.l. and Overland S.r.l., dated December 14, 2015.

  *
         
10.11   Framework EBITDA Guarantee Agreement dated July 17, 2015.   (5)
         
10.12   Long Term Mezzanine Loan Agreement by and among Blue Sphere Corp., Eastern Sphere Ltd., Bluesphere Italy S.r.l., and Helios Italy Bio-Gas 1 L.P., dated August 18, 2015.   (8)
         
10.13   Service Agreement between Blue Sphere Corporation and Shlomo Palas, dated October 15, 2015.   (9) #
         
10.14   Service Agreement by and among Blue Sphere Corporation, JLS Advanced Investment Holdings Limited, and Roy Amitzur, dated October 15, 2015.   (9) #
         
10.15   Advisory Agreement between Blue Sphere Corporation and Joshua Shoham, dated October 15, 2015.   (9) #
         
10.16   Form of Subscription Agreement from Debenture Offering.   (10)
         
10.17   Form of Senior Debenture from Debenture Offering.   (10)
         
10.18   Form of Warrants from Debenture Offering.   (10)
         
10.19   Form of Pledge Agreement from Debenture Offering.   (10)
         
10.20   Form of Securities Subscription Agreement from February Stock Offering.   (11)
         
10.21   Form of Offering Warrant from February Stock Offering.   (11)
         
10.22   Services Agreement, dated May 1, 2016, between the Company and Ran Daniel.   (12)
         
10.23   Form of February 3, 2016 Warrant.   (13)

 

 

 

 

10.24   Form of July Offering Subscription Agreements, entered into December 2, 2015.   (13)
         
10.25   Form of Securities Subscription Agreement from June Stock Offering.   (14)
         
10.26   Form of Offering Warrant from June Stock Offering.   (14)
         
10.27   2016 Stock Incentive Plan.   (15)
         
10.28   Form of Maxim Warrant.   (15)
         
10.29   Form of Securities Purchase Agreement from the October 2016 Financing.   (17)
         
10.30   Form of Promissory Note from the October 2016 Financing.   (17)
         
10.31   Form of Common Stock Purchase Warrant from the October 2016 Financing.   (17)
         
10.32   Organic Waste Delivery Agreement, dated October 13, 2016.   *
         
10.33   2010 Stock Incentive Plan.   (19)
         
10.34   2014 Stock Incentive Plan.   (6)
         
10.35   Form of Warrant for the Offering.   **
         
10.36   Service, Maintenance and Operation Agreement, dated June 5, 2014, between Orbit Energy Charlotte, LLC, Austep USA Inc. and Austep S.p.A.   *
         
10.37   Acceptance Letter of Grant Application from Rijksdienst voor Ondernemend Nederland, dated December 8, 2016.   (20)
         
10.38  

Addendum No. 1 to Service Agreement dated December 29, 2016, between the Company, Mr. Amitzur, JLS Advanced Investment Holdings Limited and Renewable Energy Management Services. 

 

* #

         
10.39  

Service and Consulting Agreement dated May 30, 2013, between the Company and Efim Monsov.

 

 * #

         
10.40  

Personal Employment Agreement dated January 1, 2016, between Eastern Sphere and Elad Kerner.

  * #
         
10.41  

Amended and Restated Non-Employee Director Compensation Plan.

  * #
         
10.42   Amended and Restated Turnkey Agreement for the Design, Construction and Delivery of a Biogas Plant, dated June 5, 2014, between Orbit Energy Charlotte, LLC and Auspark LLC.   *
         
10.43   Amended and Restated Turnkey Agreement for the Design, Construction and Delivery of a Biogas Plant, dated April 7, 2015, between Orbit Energy Rhode Island, LLC and Auspark LLC.   *
         
10.44   Form of SPV Management Agreement.   *
         
10.45   Amended and Restated Lease Agreement, dated April 8, 2015, between Orbit Energy Rhode Island, LLC and Shelby Realty, Inc.   *
         
10.46   Form of Plant EBITDA Guarantee Agreement entered into with Austep S.p.A. in connection with each SPV.   *
         
10.47  

Letter Agreement, dated March 1, 2017, between JMJ Financial and Blue Sphere Corporation.

  *
         
10.48  

Amendment #2 to the Securities Purchase Agreement and to the $1,053,000 Promissory Note, dated March 14, 2017, by and between Blue Sphere Corporation and JMJ Financial. 

  (21)
         
10.49  

Form of First Amendment to Senior Debenture.

  (22)
         
10.50   Letter Agreement, dated April 4, 2017, between JMJ Financial and Blue Sphere Corporation.   (23)
         
10.51   Form of Representative’s Warrant for the Offering.   **
         
10.52  

Amendment #3 to the Securities Purchase Agreement and to the $1,579,500 Promissory Note, dated April 13, 2017, by and between Blue Sphere Corporation and JMJ Financial.

  (23)
         
10.53   Amendment #4 to the Securities Purchase Agreement, the $1,579,500 Promissory Note, and the Common Stock Purchase Warrants, dated April 28, 2017, by and between Blue Sphere Corporation and JMJ Financial.   (23)
         
10.54   Amendment #5 to the Securities Purchase Agreement and to the $1,579,500 Promissory Note, dated May 11, 2017, by and between Blue Sphere Corporation and JMJ Financial.   (23)
         
10.55   Amendment #6 to the Securities Purchase Agreement, the $2,106,000 Promissory Note, and the Common Stock Purchase Warrants, dated May 18, 2017, by and between Blue Sphere Corporation and JMJ Financial.   **
         
10.56   Form of Pre-Funded Warrant for the Offering .   **
         
10.57   Debenture Refinance and Purchase Agreement, dated May 26, 2017.   (24)
         
10.58   Form of Pledge Agreement used in connection with the Debenture Refinance.   (24)
         
10.59   Form of Convertible Senior Debenture used in connection with the Debenture Refinance.   (24)
         
10.60   Form of Warrant used in connection with the Debenture Refinance.   (24)
         
  10.61   Power Purchase Agreement, dated May 26, 2011 and amended on April 11, 2013, December 9, 2013, January 9, 2015 and May 27, 2016, between Orbit Energy Rhode Island, LLC and The Narragansett Electric Company d/b/a National Grid.   **  
         
10.62   Second Amended and Restated Renewable Energy Purchase Agreement, dated September 30, 2016, between Orbit Energy Charlotte, LLC and Duke Energy Carolinas, LLC.   **
         
14.1   Code of Ethics and Anti-Harassment Policy of the Company.   (18)
         
21.1   Subsidiaries of Registrant.   **
         
23.1   Consent of Thompson Hine LLP (Form of included in Exhibit 5.1).   **
         
23.2  

Consent of Brightman Almagor Zohar & Co.  

  **
         
99.1   Charter of the Audit Committee.   *
         
99.2   Charter of the Finance Committee.   *
         
99.3   Charter of the Nominations Committee.   *
         
99.4   Charter of the Compensation Committee.   *
 
#   Indicates management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.
*   Previously filed.
**   Filed herewith.
     
(1)   Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on December 3, 2013.
(2)   Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on June 17, 2015.
(3)   Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on April 14, 2015.
(4)   Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on February 5, 2015.
(5)   Incorporated by reference to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed with the SEC on August 14, 2015.
(6)   Incorporated by reference to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed with the SEC on May 15, 2015.
(7)   Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on May 18, 2015.
(8)   Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on August 24, 2015.
(9)   Incorporated by reference to our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on January 13, 2016.
(10)   Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on December 28, 2015.

 

 

 

 

(11)   Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on February 17, 2016.
(12)   Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on May 4, 2016.
(13)   Incorporated by reference to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q/A filed with the SEC on June 13, 2016.
(14)   Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on July 8, 2016.
(15)   Incorporated by reference to our Registration Statement on Form S-1 filed with the SEC on August 15, 2016.
(16)   Incorporated by reference to Amendment No. 1 to our Registration Statement on Form S-1/A filed with the SEC on September 1, 2016.
(17)   Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on October 31, 2016.
(18)   Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on April 29, 2016.
(19)   Incorporated by reference to our Amendment to Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on March 9, 2011.
(20)  

Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on December 13, 2016.

(21)  

Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on March 20, 2017. 

(22)   Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on March 24, 2017.
(23)   Incorporated by reference to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed with the SEC on May 15, 2017.
(24)   Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on May 26, 2017.

 

 

 

 

  Blue Sphere Corporation S-1/A

 

Exhibit 1.1

 

[__________] Shares of Common Stock and

 

[__________] Warrants to Purchase Shares of Common Stock

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION

 

UNDERWRITING AGREEMENT

 

[__], 2017

 

Maxim Group LLC

405 Lexington Avenue

New York, NY 10174

 

Acting severally on behalf of itself

and as representative of the several Underwriters

named on Schedule I annexed hereto.

 

Ladies and Gentlemen:

 

Blue Sphere Corporation, a Nevada corporation (the “ Company ”), hereby confirms its agreement, subject to the terms and conditions contained in this underwriting agreement (this “ Agreement ”), to sell to you and the other underwriters named on Schedule I to this Agreement (the “ Underwriters ”), for whom Maxim Group LLC (“ Maxim ”) is acting as Representative (the “ Representative, ” “ you ” or similar terminology), an aggregate of [__________] shares (the “ Shares ”) of the Company’s common stock, par value $0.001 per share (the “ Common Stock ”), [__________] pre-funded warrants (the “ Pre-Funded Warrants ”) with the right to purchase one share of Common Stock at an exercise price of $0.01 per share, and [__________] warrants (the “ Warrants ” and, together with the Shares and the Pre-Funded Warrants, the “ Securities ”) with the right to purchase one share of Common Stock at an exercise price of $[___] per share. The respective numbers of Securities to be purchased by each of the several Underwriters are set forth opposite their names on Schedule I hereto. In addition, the Company proposes to grant to the Representative, on behalf of the several Underwriters, an option to purchase up to an additional number of shares of Common Stock equal to fifteen percent (15%) of the Shares and Pre-Funded Warrants, or [__________] shares of Common Stock (the “ Option Shares ”), and/or up to an additional number of Warrants equal to fifteen percent (15%) of the Warrants, or [__________] Warrants (the “ Option Warrants ” and, together with the Option Shares, the “ Option Securities ”), from the Company; provided, however, that the aggregate number of Option Securities shall not exceed fifteen percent (15%) of the aggregate number of Securities. The Securities and the Option Securities are collectively referred to herein as the context requires as the “ Transaction Securities. ” The public offer and sale of the Transaction Securities contemplated by this Agreement is referred to herein as the “ Offering ”.

 

1.        Sale, Purchase, Delivery and Payment for Securities . On the basis of the representations, warranties and agreements contained in, and subject to the terms and conditions of, this Agreement:

 

(a)       The Company agrees to issue and sell to each of the Underwriters, and each of the Underwriters agrees, severally and not jointly, to purchase from the Company, at a purchase price of $[_____] per share of Common Stock, $[____] per Pre-Funded Warrant and $[_____] per Warrant, representing an 8.0% discounted price from the price the Underwriters shall sell the Securities to the public, the number of Securities set forth opposite the name of such Underwriter under the column “Number of Securities to be Purchased” on Schedule I to this Agreement, subject to adjustment in accordance with Section 8 hereof. The Shares, Pre-Funded Warrants and Warrants will be separately tradable and transferable immediately following the Effective Date (as hereinafter defined).

 

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(b)       For purposes of covering any over-allotments in connection with the distribution and sale of the Securities, the Company hereby grants to the Representative, on behalf of the several Underwriters, an option for up to 45 days from the Securities Closing Date (as defined below) to purchase, severally and not jointly, all or any part of the Option Shares at a price per share equal to $[_____], and/or all or any part of the Option Warrants at $[_____] per Warrant. The purchase price, net of the discount, to be paid for each Option Share will be the same purchase price, net of the discount, to be paid for each Share. The purchase price, net of the discount, to be paid for each Option Warrant will be the same as the purchase price, net of the discount, to be paid for each Warrant. The number of Option Securities to be purchased from time to time by the Representative, attributable to each Underwriter, shall in the aggregate together with such prior purchases not exceed the same percentage (adjusted by the Representative to eliminate fractions) of the total number of Option Securities to be purchased by the Underwriters as such Underwriter is purchasing of Securities. Such option may be exercised in whole or in part at any time on or before 12:00 noon, Eastern Standard Time (“ EST”) , on the business day before the Securities Closing Date, and from time to time thereafter within 45 days after the Securities Closing Date, in each case upon written, electronic or facsimile notice by the Representative to the Company no later than 12:00 noon, EST, on the business day before the Securities Closing Date or at least three business days before the Option Securities Closing Date (as defined below), as the case may be, setting forth the number of Option Shares and Option Warrants to be purchased and the applicable Closing Date (which shall not be earlier than the Securities Closing Date nor later than the tenth business day after the date of the notice to the Company).

 

(c)       For a period of twelve (12) months from the Securities Closing Date, the Company, any subsidiary of the Company or any successor to the Company grants the Representative the right of first refusal to act as lead managing underwriter and book runner or minimally as a co-lead manager and co-book runner and/or co-lead placement agent with at least 80.0% of the economics for any and all future public or private equity, or equity-linked, or convertible security offerings during such twelve (12) month period (the “ ROFR ”). The ROFR will not apply to any commercial debt financing, equipment financing or seller financing in connection with any acquisition by the Company relating to the Company’s project level financings or other project level activities.

 

(d)       Payment of the purchase price for, and delivery of the Securities as provided for in Section 1(e) hereof, shall be made at the offices of Maxim Group LLC, 405 Lexington Avenue, New York, NY 10174 or at such other place as shall be agreed upon by the Representative and the Company, at 10:00 a.m., EST, on the third (or if Securities are priced, as contemplated by Rule 15c6-1(c) under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “ Exchange Act ”), after 4:30 p.m., EST, on the fourth) business day following the date of this Agreement (such time and date of delivery and payment are called the “ Securities Closing Date ”). In addition, in the event that any or all of the Option Securities are purchased by the Underwriters, payment of the purchase price for, and delivery of such Option Securities, shall be made at the above-mentioned offices, or at such other place as shall be agreed upon by the Representative and the Company, on each date of delivery as specified in the notice from the Representative to the Company (such time and date of delivery and payment are called the “ Option Securities Closing Date ”). The Securities Closing Date and any Option Securities Closing Date are called, individually, a “ Closing Date ” and, together, the “ Closing Dates.

 

(e)       Payment shall be made to the Company by wire transfer of immediately available funds to the accounts specified by the Company against delivery of the securities comprising the Transaction Securities to the Representative for the respective accounts of the Underwriters of the Transaction Securities to be purchased by them.

 

(f)        If certificates evidencing the Transaction Securities are requested by the Representative for delivery on a Closing Date, such certificates shall be registered in such names and shall be in such denominations as the Representative shall request in writing at least two full business days before the Securities Closing Date or, in the case of Option Securities, on the day of notice of exercise of the option as described in Section 1(b). If no certificates are so requested, the Transaction Securities shall be delivered on the Securities Closing Date (or the Option Securities Closing Date in the case of Option Securities) by or on behalf of the Company to the Representative through the full fast transfer facilities of the Depository Trust Company (“ DTC ”) for the account of each Underwriter. If certificates are so requested, the Company will cause the certificates representing the Transaction Securities to be made available for checking and packaging, at such place as is designated by the Representative, on the business day before the Securities Closing Date (or the Option Securities Closing Date in the case of the Option Securities).

 

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(g)       The Company hereby agrees to issue to the Representative (and/or its respective designees) on each Closing Date, Warrants (the “ Representative’s Warrants ”) to purchase up to an aggregate number of shares of Common Stock equal to three and one-half percent (3.5%) of the total number of shares of Common Stock and Pre-Funded Warrants, including any Option Shares, sold on such Closing Date. The Representative’s Warrants shall be exercisable, in whole or in part, commencing 180 days from the applicable Closing Date at an initial exercise price of $[_____] per share of Common Stock, which is equal to one hundred and twenty five percent (125%) of the initial public offering price of the Common Stock, and shall expire on the three-year anniversary of the applicable Closing Date.

 

2.        Representations and Warranties of the Company . The Company represents and warrants to each Underwriter as of the date hereof, as of the Securities Closing Date and as of each Option Securities Closing Date (if any), as follows:

 

(a)       The Company has prepared and filed in conformity with the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “ Securities Act ”), and the published rules and regulations thereunder (the “ Rules ”) adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “ Commission ”), a Registration Statement (as defined below) on Form S-1 (No. 333-215110), including a Preliminary Prospectus (as defined below), relating to the Transaction Securities, the Representative’s Warrants (as defined below), and the Common Stock underlying the Pre-Funded Warrants, the Option Warrants, and the Representative’s Warrants (collectively, the “ Warrant Shares ”), and such amendments thereof as may have been required to the date of this Agreement. Copies of such Registration Statement (including all amendments thereof), and of the related Preliminary Prospectus have heretofore been delivered by the Company to the Underwriters. The term “ Preliminary Prospectus ” means any preliminary prospectus included at any time as a part of the Registration Statement or filed with the Commission by the Company pursuant to Rule 424(a) under the Securities Act. The term “ Registration Statement ” as used in this Agreement means the initial registration statement (including all exhibits, financial schedules and all documents and information deemed to be a part thereof through incorporation by reference or otherwise), as amended at the time and on the date it is declared effective by the Commission (the “ Effective Date ”), including the information (if any) contained in the form of final prospectus filed with the Commission pursuant to Rule 424(b) under the Securities Act and deemed to be part thereof at the time of effectiveness pursuant to Rule 430A under the Securities Act. If the Company has filed an abbreviated registration statement to register additional Transaction Securities pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Rules (the “ 462(b) Registration Statement ”), then any reference herein to the Registration Statement shall also be deemed to include such 462(b) Registration Statement. The term “ Prospectus ” as used in this Agreement means the prospectus in the form included in the Registration Statement at the time of effectiveness or, if Rule 430A under the Securities Act is relied on, the term Prospectus shall also include the final prospectus filed with the Commission pursuant to and within the time limits described in Rule 424(b) under the Securities Act.

 

The Company understands that the Underwriters propose to make a public Offering of the Transaction Securities, as set forth in and pursuant to the Statutory Prospectus (as defined below) and the Prospectus, as soon after the Effective Date and the date of this Agreement as the Representative deems advisable. The Company hereby confirms that the Underwriters and dealers have been authorized to distribute or cause to be distributed each Preliminary Prospectus, and each Issuer Free Writing Prospectus (as hereinafter defined), if any, and are authorized to distribute the Prospectus (as from time to time amended or supplemented if the Company furnishes amendments or supplements thereto to the Underwriters).

 

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(b)       On the Effective Date, the Registration Statement complied, and on the date of the Prospectus, the date any post-effective amendment to the Registration Statement becomes effective, the date any supplement or amendment to the Prospectus is filed with the Commission, the Securities Closing Date, and each Option Securities Closing Date (if any), the Registration Statement and the Prospectus (and any amendments thereof or supplements thereto) will comply, in all material respects, with the requirements of the Securities Act and the Rules. At the Effective Date, the Registration Statement and any post-effective amendment thereto did not and will not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading. Each of (i) the General Disclosure Package (as defined below) as of the Applicable Time and at the Securities Closing Date and on each Option Closing Date (if any), and (ii) the Prospectus, as amended or supplemented, as of its date, at the time of filing pursuant to Rule 424(b) under the Securities Act and at the Securities Closing Date and on each Option Securities Closing Date (if any), did not and will not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein, in the light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading. Notwithstanding the foregoing or anything herein to the contrary, none of the representations and warranties set forth above in this Section 2(b) shall apply to statements in, or omissions from, the Registration Statement , the General Disclosure Package any Preliminary Prospectus or the Prospectus made in reliance upon, and in conformity with, information herein or otherwise furnished in writing by the Representative on behalf of the several Underwriters specifically for use in the Registration Statement , the General Disclosure Package any Preliminary Prospectus or the Prospectus, as the case may be. With respect to the preceding sentence, the Company acknowledges that the only information furnished in writing by the Representative on behalf of the several Underwriters for use in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package, any Preliminary Prospectus or the Prospectus consists solely of the names of the several Underwriters and the disclosure contained in the “Electronic Distribution” and “Price Stabilization, Short Position and Penalty Bids” subsections of the “Underwriting” section of the Prospectus (the “ Underwriter Information ”). Each Preliminary Prospectus delivered to the Underwriters for use in connection with the Offering and the Prospectus was or will be identical to the electronically transmitted copies thereof filed with the Commission pursuant to EDGAR, except to the extent permitted by Regulation S-T. The Prospectus, any Preliminary Prospectus and any supplement thereto or prospectus wrapper prepared in connection therewith, at their respective times of issuance and at the Securities Closing Date and at each Option Securities Closing Date (if any), complied and will comply in all material respects with any applicable laws or regulations of foreign jurisdictions in which the Prospectus and such Preliminary Prospectus, as amended or supplemented, if applicable, are distributed in connection with the offer and sale of Securities.

 

As used in this Section and elsewhere in this Agreement:

 

Applicable Time ” means [___] a.m. EST on the date of this Underwriting Agreement.

 

“General Disclosure Package” means the Statutory Prospectus and each Issuer Free Writing Prospectus.

 

Marketing Materials ” means any electronic road show or investor presentation (including without limitation any “bona fide electronic road show” as defined in Rule 433(h)(5) under the Securities Act) delivered to and approved by the Underwriters for use in connection with the marketing of the Offering.

 

Statutory Prospectus ” means the Preliminary Prospectus relating to the Transaction Securities that is included in the Registration Statement immediately prior to the Applicable Time.

 

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Issuer Free Writing Prospectus ” means each “ free writing prospectus ” (as defined in Rule 405 of the Rules) prepared by or on behalf of the Company or used or referred to by the Company in connection with the Offering, each of which is listed on Schedule II hereto.

 

(c)       Other than the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package, Preliminary Prospectus and the Prospectus, the Company has not prepared, used, authorized, approved or referred to – and will not prepare, use, authorize, approve or refer to – any “ written communication ” (as defined in Rule 405 under the Securities Act) that constitutes an offer to sell or solicitation of an offer to buy Securities other than (i) any document not constituting a prospectus pursuant to Section 2(a)(10)(a) of the Securities Act or Rule 134 under the Securities Act or (ii) the documents listed on Schedule II hereto, the Marketing Materials and any other written communications approved in writing in advance by the Representative.

 

(d)       The Registration Statement is effective under the Securities Act and no stop order preventing or suspending the effectiveness of the Registration Statement or suspending or preventing the use of any Preliminary Prospectus, the Prospectus or any “free writing prospectus”, as defined in Rule 405 under the Rules, has been issued by the Commission and, to the knowledge of the Company, no proceedings for that purpose have been instituted or are threatened under the Securities Act. Any required filing of any Preliminary Prospectus and/or the Prospectus and any supplement thereto pursuant to Rule 424(b) of the Rules has been or will be made in the manner and within the time period required by such Rule 424(b) (without reliance on Rule 424(b)(8)). Any material required to be filed by the Company pursuant to Rule 433(d) or Rule 163(b)(2) of the Rules has been or will be made in the manner and within the time period required by such Rules.

 

(e)       Each Issuer Free Writing Prospectus, as of its issue date and at all subsequent times through the completion of the public offer and sale of Securities or until any earlier date that the Company notified or notifies the Representative as described in the next sentence, did not, does not and will not include any information that conflicted, conflicts or will conflict in any material respect, with the information contained in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package or the Prospectus.

 

If at any time following issuance of an Issuer Free Writing Prospectus there occurred or occurs an event or development as a result of which such Issuer Free Writing Prospectus conflicted or would conflict in any material respect with the information contained in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package or the Prospectus or included or would include an untrue statement of a material fact or omitted or would omit to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary in order to make the statements therein, in the light of the circumstances prevailing at the subsequent time, not misleading, the Company has promptly notified or will promptly notify the Representative and has promptly amended or will promptly amend or supplement, at its own expense, such Issuer Free Writing Prospectus to eliminate or correct such conflict, untrue statement or omission.

 

Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Company makes no representation or warranty in this Section 2(e) with respect to any statements or omissions made in reliance upon and in conformity with the Underwriter Information.

 

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(f)        The consolidated financial statements of the Company and its subsidiaries (including all notes and schedules thereto) included or incorporated by reference in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package or the Prospectus comply in all material respects with the requirements of the Securities Act and the Exchange Act, and present fairly the financial position of such entities at the dates indicated and the statement of operations, stockholders’ equity and cash flows of, or such other permitted financial statements for, such entities for the periods specified, and the related schedules and notes thereto, and the unaudited financial information filed with the Commission as part of the Registration Statement, have been prepared in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles, consistently applied throughout the periods involved, except (i) in the case of unaudited financials, which are subject to normal year-end adjustments and do not contain certain footnotes or (ii) as stated in the notes thereto. Any pro forma financial statements and the related notes thereto included in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package or the Prospectus present fairly in all material respects the information shown therein, have been prepared in all material respects in accordance with the Commission’s rules and guidelines with respect to pro forma financial statements and have been properly compiled on the bases described therein, and subject to such rules and guidelines, the Company believes the assumptions used in the preparation thereof are reasonable and the adjustments used therein are appropriate to give effect to the transactions and circumstances referred to therein. The other financial tables and data included in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus present fairly in all material respects as of the dates indicated and for the periods specified the information included therein and have been prepared on a basis consistent with that of the financial statements included in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus and the books and records of the entities whose information is presented therein. Except as included therein, no historical or pro forma financial statements or supporting schedules are required to be included or incorporated by reference in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package or the Prospectus under the Securities Act or the Rules promulgated thereunder.

 

(g)       Brightman Almagor Zohar & Co. (“ Auditor ”), whose reports are filed with the Commission as a part of the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, is and, during the periods covered by its reports, was, to the knowledge of the Company, an independent registered public accounting firm with respect to the Company as required by the Securities Act, the Rules and the rules and regulations of the Public Accounting Oversight Board, and, to the knowledge of the Company, not in violation of the auditor independence requirements of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and all rules and regulations promulgated thereunder or implementing the provisions thereof (the “ Sarbanes-Oxley Act ”).

 

(h)       The interactive data in eXtensible Business Reporting Language included in the Registration Statement fairly presents the information called for in all material respects and has been prepared in accordance with the Commission’s rules and guidelines applicable thereto.

 

(i)        (i) At the earliest time after the filing of the Registration Statement that the Company or other offering participant made a bona fide offer (within the meaning of Rule 164(h)(2) of the Securities Act) and (ii) at the date of this Agreement, the Company was not and is not an “ineligible issuer”, as defined in Rule 405, including (x) the Company or any other subsidiary in the preceding three years not having been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor or having been made the subject of a judicial or administrative decree or order as described in Rule 405 and (y) the Company or any of its subsidiaries in the preceding three years not having been the subject of a bankruptcy petition or insolvency or similar proceeding, not having had a registration statement be the subject of a proceeding under Section 8 of the Securities Act and not being the subject of a proceeding under Section 8A of the Securities Act in connection with the offering of the Securities, all as described in Rule 405.

 

(j)        The Company does not own or control, directly or indirectly, and holds no ownership or other interest, nominal or beneficial, direct or indirect, in any corporation, association or other entity other than the subsidiaries listed in Exhibit 21 to the Registration Statement (as used herein, the “ subsidiaries ”).

 

(k)       The Company has been duly organized and is validly existing as a corporation in good standing under the laws of the State of Nevada, and has corporate power and authority to own, lease, and operate its properties and to conduct its business as described in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package or the Prospectus and to enter into and perform its obligations under this Agreement and the various other agreements required hereunder and thereunder to which it is a party; and the Company is duly qualified as a foreign corporation to transact business and is in good standing in each other jurisdiction in which its ownership or lease of property or conduct of its business requires such qualification, except for such jurisdictions where the failure to be in good standing or to be so qualified, individually or in the aggregate, would not have a material adverse effect on the (i) assets, properties, condition (financial or otherwise), results of operations, business affairs or stockholders’ equity (as described in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus) of the Company and its subsidiaries considered as a whole, (ii) the long-term debt or capital stock of the Company, or (iii) the consummation of the Offering or consummation of any of the other transactions contemplated by this Agreement (any such effect being a “ Material Adverse Effect ”).

 

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(l)        Each subsidiary of the Company has been duly organized and is validly existing in good standing under the laws of the jurisdiction of its incorporation or organization and has corporate or similar power and authority to own, lease and operate its properties and to conduct its business as described in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package or the Prospectus; and each subsidiary of the Company is duly qualified to transact business and is in good standing in each jurisdiction in which its ownership or lease of property or conduct of its business requires such qualification, except where the failure to be in good standing or to be so qualified would not have a Material Adverse Effect. Except as otherwise disclosed in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, all of the issued and outstanding capital stock or equity interests of each subsidiary has been duly authorized and validly issued, is fully paid and non-assessable and is owned by the Company, directly or through subsidiaries, free and clear of any material security interest, mortgage, pledge, lien, encumbrance, claim or equity. None of the outstanding shares of capital stock or equity interests of any subsidiary was issued in violation of any preemptive or similar rights of any securityholder of such subsidiary.

 

(m)      The authorized, issued and outstanding shares of capital stock of the Company are as set forth in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus under the caption “Description of Securities.” The outstanding shares of capital stock of the Company have been duly authorized and validly issued and are fully paid and non-assessable. None of the outstanding shares of capital stock of the Company was issued in violation of any preemptive or other similar rights of any securityholder of the Company. Except as disclosed in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus: other than with respect to (x) any shares reserved pursuant to the Company’s equity incentive plan as disclosed in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, and (y) the Warrant Shares, (i) no shares of capital stock of the Company are reserved for any purpose, (ii) no outstanding securities are convertible into or exchangeable for any shares of capital stock of the Company, and (iii) there are no outstanding options, rights (preemptive or otherwise) or warrants to purchase or subscribe for shares of capital stock or any other securities of the Company.

 

(n)       All necessary corporate action has been duly and validly taken by the Company to authorize the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement, the Pre-Funded Warrants, the Warrants, the Option Warrants and the Representative’s Warrants and the issuance and sale of the Transaction Securities and the Warrant Shares. This Agreement has been duly authorized, executed and delivered by the Company and the Pre-Funded Warrants, Warrants, Option Warrants and Representative’s Warrants, upon issuance, will have been duly authorized, executed and delivered by the Company.

 

(o)       When issued, the Pre-Funded Warrants, Warrants, Option Warrants and the Representative’s Warrants will constitute valid and binding obligations of the Company to issue and sell, upon exercise thereof and payment of the respective exercise prices therefor, the number and type of securities of the Company called for thereby in accordance with the terms thereof and such Pre-Funded Warrants, Warrants, Option Warrants and Representative’s Warrants are enforceable against the Company in accordance with their respective terms, except: (i) as such enforceability may be limited by applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, fraudulent conveyance, reorganization, moratorium and similar laws relating to or affecting creditors’ rights and remedies generally; (ii) as enforceability of any indemnification or contribution provision may be limited under foreign, federal and state securities laws; and (iii) that the remedy of specific performance and injunctive and other forms of equitable relief may be subject to the equitable defenses and to the discretion of the court before which any proceeding therefor may be brought.

 

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(p)       The Transaction Securities have been duly authorized for issuance and sale to the Underwriters or their nominees pursuant to this Agreement, and the Representative’s Warrants have been duly authorized for issuance and sale to the Representative pursuant to this Agreement, and when the Transaction Securities and the Representative’s Warrants have been issued and delivered by the Company pursuant to this Agreement against payment of the consideration set forth herein, such securities will be validly issued and fully paid and non-assessable; and the issuance of the Transaction Securities and the Representative’s Warrants is not subject to any preemptive or other similar rights of any securityholder of the Company. The Transaction Securities and the Representative’s Warrants conform in all material respects to all statements relating thereto contained in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus and such description conforms in all material respects to the rights set forth in the instruments defining the same. The certificates, if any, to be used to evidence the securities comprising Transaction Securities or Representative’s Warrants will, at the Closing Date, be in due and proper form and will comply in all material respects with all applicable legal requirements, the requirements of the charter and by-laws of the Company and the requirements of the NASDAQ Capital Market.

 

(q)       The Warrant Shares have been duly authorized for issuance, conform in all material respects to the description thereof in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus and have been validly reserved for future issuance and will, upon exercise of the Pre-Funded Warrants, Warrants, the Option Warrants and/or the Representative’s Warrants and payment of the exercise price thereof, be duly and validly issued, fully paid and non-assessable and will not be subject to any preemptive or other similar rights of any securityholder of the Company. The certificates, if any, to be used to evidence the Warrant Shares, will be in due and proper form and will comply in all material respects with all applicable legal requirements, the requirements of the charter and by-laws of the Company and the requirements of The NASDAQ Capital Market.

 

(r)        (i) The Company and each of its subsidiaries has all requisite corporate power and authority, and all necessary authorizations, approvals, consents, orders, licenses, certificates and permits of and from all governmental or regulatory bodies or any other person or entity (collectively, the “ Permits ”), to own, lease and license its assets and properties and conduct its business as presently conducted, all of which are valid and in full force and effect, and (ii) the Company and each of its subsidiaries have fulfilled and performed in all material respects all of their respective obligations with respect to such Permits and no event has occurred that allows, or after notice or lapse of time would allow, revocation or termination thereof or results in any other material impairment of the rights of such entity thereunder, except, in the case of the foregoing clauses (i) and (ii), as would not have, individually or in the aggregate, a Material Adverse Effect. Except as may be required under the Securities Act, state and foreign Blue Sky laws and the rules of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“ FINRA ”) and The NASDAQ Capital Market, no other Permits are required to enter into, deliver and perform the obligations of the Company under this Agreement, the Warrants, the Option Warrants or the Representative’s Warrants and for the Company to issue and sell the Transaction Securities and the Representative’s Warrants.

 

(s)       The Company and each of its subsidiaries owns or possesses legally enforceable rights to use all patents, patent rights, inventions, trademarks, trademark applications, trade names, service marks, copyrights, copyright applications, licenses, know-how and other similar rights and proprietary knowledge (collectively, “ Intellectual Property ”) necessary for the conduct of their respective businesses, except where the failure to own or possess legally enforceable rights to use such Intellectual Property would not have a Material Adverse Effect. To the knowledge of the Company, neither the sale or use of any product or service offered by the Company or any of its subsidiaries infringes, misappropriates or violates any Intellectual Property of a third party.

 

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(t)        Subsequent to the respective dates as of which information is given in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package or the Prospectus: (i) there has not been any event which would reasonably be expected to result in a Material Adverse Effect; and (ii) neither the Company nor any of its subsidiaries has sustained any loss or interference with its assets, businesses or properties (whether owned or leased) from fire, explosion, earthquake, flood or other calamity, whether or not covered by insurance, or from any labor dispute or any court or legislative or other governmental action, order or decree which would reasonably be expected to materially affect the financial results or financial condition of the Company or any of its subsidiaries. Except as disclosed in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, since the date of the latest balance sheet included in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, neither the Company nor any of its subsidiaries has (A) issued any securities or incurred any liability or obligation, direct or contingent, for borrowed money, except such liabilities or obligations incurred in the ordinary course of business, (B) entered into any transaction not in the ordinary course of business or (C) declared or paid any dividend or made any distribution on any shares of its stock or redeemed, purchased or otherwise acquired or agreed to redeem, purchase or otherwise acquire any shares of its capital stock.

 

(u)       There is no document, contract or other agreement required to be described in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package or the Prospectus or to be filed as an exhibit to the Registration Statement which is not described or filed as required by the Securities Act or Rules. Each description of a contract, document or other agreement in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package or the Prospectus accurately reflects in all material respects the terms of the underlying contract, document or other agreement. Each contract, document or other agreement described in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package or the Prospectus or filed as exhibits to the Registration Statement is, or upon consummation of the Offering will be, in full force and effect and is valid and enforceable in all material respects by and against the Company or any of its subsidiaries, as the case may be, in accordance with its terms, except (i) such contracts or other agreements that have terminated or expired in accordance with their terms as disclosed in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, and (ii) as enforceability may be limited by applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, fraudulent conveyance, reorganization, moratorium and similar laws relating to or affecting creditors’ rights and remedies generally, and subject, as to enforceability, to general principles of equity and, with respect to equitable relief, the discretion of the court before which any proceeding therefor may be brought (regardless of whether enforcement is sought in a proceeding at law or in equity), and with respect to indemnification thereunder, except as rights may be limited by applicable law or policies underlying such law. Neither the Company nor any of its subsidiaries is in default in the observance or performance of any term or obligation to be performed by it under any such agreement, and no event has occurred which with notice or lapse of time or both would constitute such a default. No default exists, and no event has occurred which with notice or lapse of time or both would constitute a default, in the due performance and observance of any term, covenant or condition, by the Company or any of its subsidiaries, if a subsidiary is a party thereto, of any other agreement or instrument to which it is a party or by which it or its properties or business may be bound or affected which default or event, individually or in the aggregate, would reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.

 

(v)       The statistical, operating and market related data included in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package or the Prospectus are based on or derived from sources that the Company believes to be reliable and accurate. The Company had a reasonable basis for, and made in good faith, each “forward - looking statement” (within the meaning of Section 27A of the Act or Section 21E of the Exchange Act) contained or incorporated by reference in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package, the Prospectus or the Marketing Materials.

 

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(w)      Neither the Company nor any of its subsidiaries (i) is in violation of its certificate or articles of incorporation, by-laws, certificate of limited partnership, agreement of limited partnership, certificate of formation, operating agreement or other organizational documents, (ii) is in default under, and no event has occurred that, with notice or lapse of time, or both, would constitute a default under, or result in the creation or imposition of any lien, charge, mortgage, pledge, security interest, claim, limitation on voting rights, equity, trust or other encumbrance, preferential arrangement, defect or restriction of any kind whatsoever, upon, any property or assets of the Company or any of its subsidiaries pursuant to, any bond, debenture, note, indenture, mortgage, deed of trust, loan agreement or other agreement or instrument to which it is a party or by which it is bound or to which any of its properties or assets is subject or (iii) is in violation of any statute, law, rule, regulation, ordinance, directive, judgment, decree or order of any judicial, regulatory or other legal or governmental agency or body, foreign or domestic, in each case, applicable to the Company or any of its subsidiaries, except (in the case of clauses (ii) and (iii) above) for violations or defaults that would not (individually or in the aggregate) reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.

 

(x)       Neither the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement, the Pre-Funded Warrants, Warrants, the Option Warrants or the Representative’s Warrants by the Company nor the consummation of any of the transactions contemplated hereby or thereby (including, without limitation, the issuance and sale by the Company of the Transaction Securities and the Representative’s Warrants) will give rise to a right to terminate or accelerate the due date of any payment due under, or conflict with or result in the breach of any term or provision of, or constitute a default (or an event which with notice or lapse of time or both would constitute a default) under, or require any consent or waiver under, or result in the execution or imposition of any lien, charge or encumbrance upon any properties or assets of the Company or any of its subsidiaries pursuant to the terms of: (i) any indenture, mortgage, deed of trust or other agreement or instrument to which either of the Company or any of its subsidiaries is a party or by which the Company or any of its subsidiaries or any of their properties or businesses is bound, or any franchise, license, permit, judgment, decree, order, statute, rule or regulation applicable to either of the Company or any of its subsidiaries, or (ii) violate any provision of certificate or articles of incorporation, by-laws, certificate of limited partnership, agreement of limited partnership, certificate of formation, operating agreement or other organizational documents of either of the Company or any of its subsidiaries, except (A) in the case of clause (i) above, for violations or defaults that would not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect, and (B) for such consents or waivers which have already been obtained and are in full force and effect.

 

(y)       Except as otherwise set forth in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, no holder of any security of the Company has any right, which has not been waived or satisfied prior to the date hereof, to have any security owned by such holder included in the Registration Statement or to demand registration of any security owned by such holder. Each director and executive officer of the Company and each stockholder of the Company listed on Schedule III hereto has delivered to the Representative his, her or its written lock-up agreement in the form attached to this Agreement as Exhibit A hereto (“ Lock-Up Agreement ”).

 

(z)       Except as disclosed in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, there are no legal or governmental proceedings pending to which either of the Company or any of its subsidiaries is a party or of which any property of the Company or any of its subsidiaries is the subject; and, to the knowledge of the Company, no such proceedings are threatened or contemplated by governmental authorities or threatened by others.

 

(aa)     Neither the Company nor any of its subsidiaries is involved in any labor dispute or, to the knowledge of the Company, is any such dispute threatened. The Company is not aware of any existing or imminent labor disturbance by the employees of any of its or its subsidiaries, principal suppliers or contractors. The Company is not aware of any threatened or pending litigation between either of the Company or any of its subsidiaries and any of its or their executive officers and has no reason to believe that such officers will not remain in the employment of the Company or its subsidiaries, as the case may be.

 

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(bb)    No transaction has occurred between or among either of the Company, its subsidiaries and any of its or their officers or directors, or five percent stockholders or any affiliate or affiliates of any such officer or director or five percent stockholders that is required to be described in and is not described in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus. There are no outstanding loans, advances (except normal advances for business expenses in the ordinary course of business) or guarantees of indebtedness extended by the Company to or for the benefit of any of the officers or directors of the Company or any of their respective family members, except as described in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus.

 

(cc)     No director or officer of the Company is subject to any non-competition agreement or non-solicitation agreement with any employer or prior employer that could materially affect such person’s ability to act in such person’s respective capacity on behalf of the Company.

 

(dd)    [Reserved].

 

(ee)     Neither the Company nor any of its subsidiaries has taken, nor will it take, directly or indirectly, any action designed to or which might reasonably be expected to cause or result in, or which has constituted or which might reasonably be expected to constitute, the stabilization or manipulation of the price of the Common Stock or any other security of the Company to facilitate the sale or resale of any of the Transaction Securities.

 

(ff)       Except as provided on Schedule (ff), the Company and its subsidiaries have filed all federal, state, local and foreign tax returns which are required to be filed through the date hereof, which returns are true and correct in all material respects, or have received timely extensions thereof, and have paid all taxes shown on such returns and all assessments received by them to the extent that the same are material and have become due. To the Company’s knowledge, there are no material tax audits or investigations pending, nor are there any material proposed additional tax assessments against either the Company or its subsidiaries.

 

(gg)     The Transaction Securities (other than the Pre-Funded Warrants) and the Warrant Shares have been duly authorized for listing on The NASDAQ Capital Market. A registration statement in respect of the Common Stock and the Warrants has been filed on Form 8-A pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Exchange Act, which registration statement complies in all material respects with the Exchange Act, and the Company has taken no action designed to, or which to its knowledge is likely to have the effect of, terminating the registration of the Common Stock and the Warrants under the Exchange Act nor has the Company received any notification that the Commission is contemplating terminating such registration. The Company is in material compliance with the provisions of the rules and regulations promulgated by The NASDAQ Capital Market and has no reason to believe that it will not in the foreseeable future continue to be, in compliance with all such listing and maintenance requirements (to the extent applicable to the Company as of the date hereof, the Securities Closing Date and each Option Securities Closing Date, if any, as applicable; and subject to all exemptions and exceptions from the requirements thereof as are set forth therein, to the extent applicable to the Company). Without limiting the generality of the foregoing and subject to the qualifications above: (i) all members of the Company’s board of directors who are required to be “independent” (as that term is defined under applicable laws, rules and regulations), including, without limitation, all members of each of the audit committee, compensation committee and nominating committee of the Company’s board of directors, meet the qualifications of independence as set forth under such laws, rules and regulations, and (ii) the audit committee of the Company’s board of directors has at least one member who is an “audit committee financial expert” (as that term is defined under such laws, rules and regulations).

 

(hh)     The Company has not taken any action designed to, or likely to have the effect of, terminating the listing of the Transaction Securities (other than the Pre-Funded Warrants) and the Warrant Shares on The NASDAQ Capital Market, nor has the Company received any notification that The NASDAQ Capital Market is contemplating terminating such listing.

 

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(ii)       The books, records and accounts of the Company and its subsidiaries, taken as a whole, accurately and fairly reflect, in all material respects, the transactions in, and dispositions of, the assets of, and the results of operations of, the Company and its subsidiaries. Except as disclosed in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, the Company and its subsidiaries maintain a system of internal accounting controls sufficient to provide reasonable assurances that (i) transactions are executed in accordance with management’s general or specific authorizations, (ii) transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and to maintain asset accountability, (iii) access to assets is permitted only in accordance with management’s general or specific authorization and (iv) the recorded accountability for assets is compared with the existing assets at reasonable intervals and appropriate action is taken with respect to any differences.

 

(jj)       The section entitled “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Critical Accounting Policies” in the Registration Statement, General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus truly, accurately and completely in all material respects describes (i) accounting policies which the Company believes are the most important in the portrayal of the Company’s financial condition and results of operations and which require management’s most difficult, subjective or complex judgments (“ Critical Accounting Policies ”), (ii) judgments and uncertainties affecting the application of Critical Accounting Policies and (iii) the likelihood that materially different amounts would be reported under different conditions or using different assumptions.

 

(kk)     The Company is not aware of (i) any material weakness or significant deficiency in the design or operation of internal controls which could adversely affect the Company’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial data or any material weaknesses in internal controls, except as disclosed in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus; or (ii) any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a role in the Company’s internal controls.

 

(ll)       Except as described in the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus and as preapproved in accordance with the requirements set forth in Section 10A of the Exchange Act, the Auditor has not been engaged by the Company to perform any “prohibited activities” (as defined in Section 10A of the Exchange Act).

 

(mm)   Except as described in the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, there are no material off-balance sheet arrangements (as defined in Item 303 of Regulation S-K) that have or are reasonably likely to have a material current or future effect on the Company’s financial condition, revenues or expenses, changes in financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources.

 

(nn)     The Company’s Board of Directors has validly established an audit committee whose composition satisfies, and upon completion of the Offering will satisfy, the requirements of Rule 5605 of The NASDAQ Stock Market Listing Rules and the Board of Directors and/or the audit committee of the Board of Directors has adopted a charter that satisfies the requirements of Rule 5605 of The NASDAQ Stock Market Listing Rules.

 

(oo)     The Company’s Board of Directors has validly established a compensation committee whose composition satisfies, and upon completion of the Offering will satisfy, the requirements of Rule 5605 of The NASDAQ Stock Market Listing Rules and the Board of Directors and/or the compensation committee of the Board of Directors has adopted a charter that satisfies the requirements of Rule 5605 of The NASDAQ Stock Market Listing Rules.

 

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(pp)     The Company has taken all necessary actions to ensure that, at the time of effectiveness of the Registration Statement, it will be in compliance in all material respects with all provisions of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act that are then in effect and with which the Company is required to comply as of the effectiveness of the Registration Statement. Except as described in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, the Company has not, directly or indirectly, including through any subsidiary, extended credit, arranged to extend credit, or renewed any extension of credit, in the form of a personal loan, to or for any executive officer of the Company or any of its subsidiaries, or to or for any family member or affiliate of any director or executive officer of the Company or any of its subsidiaries.

 

(qq)     The Company and its subsidiaries carry or are entitled to the benefits of insurance, with financially sound and reputable insurers, in such amounts and covering such risks as is generally maintained by companies of established repute engaged in the same or similar business, and all such insurance is in full force and effect. The Company does not have any reason to believe that it or any of its subsidiaries will not be able (A) to renew, if desired, its existing insurance coverage as and when such policies expire or (B) to obtain comparable coverage from similar institutions as may be necessary or appropriate to conduct its business as now conducted and not at a cost that is materially more significant. Neither the Company nor any of its subsidiaries has been denied any insurance coverage that it has sought or for which it has applied.

 

(rr)      Except for this Agreement, there are no claims, payments, issuances, arrangements or understandings for services in the nature of a finder’s, consulting or origination fee with respect to the introduction of the Company to the Underwriters or the sale of Transaction Securities hereunder or any other arrangements, agreements, understandings, payments or issuances with respect to the Company that may affect the Underwriters’ compensation, as determined by FINRA.

 

(ss)     Except as disclosed in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, the Company has not made any direct or indirect payments (in cash, securities or otherwise) to: (i) any person, as a finder’s fee, investing fee or otherwise, in consideration of such person raising capital for the Company or introducing to the Company persons who provided capital to the Company, (ii) any FINRA member, or (iii) any person or entity that, to the Company’s knowledge, has any direct or indirect affiliation or association with any FINRA member within the 12-month period prior to the date on which the Registration Statement was filed with the Commission (“ Filing Date ”) or thereafter.

 

(tt)      None of the net proceeds of the Offering will be paid by the Company to any participating FINRA member or any affiliate or associate of any participating FINRA member, except as specifically authorized herein.

 

(uu)     To the knowledge of the Company, no: (i) officer or director of the Company or its subsidiaries, (ii) owner of 5% or more of the Company’s unregistered securities or (iii) owner of any amount of the Company’s unregistered securities acquired within the 180-day period prior to the Filing Date, has any direct or indirect affiliation or association with any FINRA member. The Company will advise the Underwriters and their counsel if it becomes aware that any officer, director or stockholder of the Company or its subsidiaries is or becomes an affiliate or associated person of a FINRA member participating in the Offering.

 

(vv)     Except as disclosed in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus: (i) the Company and each of its subsidiaries is in compliance in all material respects with all rules, laws and regulation relating to the use, treatment, storage and disposal of toxic substances and protection of health or the environment (“ Environmental Law ”) which are applicable to its business; (ii) neither the Company nor any of its subsidiaries has received any notice from any governmental authority or third party of an asserted claim under Environmental Laws; (iii) the Company and each of its subsidiaries has received all material permits, licenses or other approvals required of it under applicable Environmental Laws to conduct its business and is in compliance in all material respects with all terms and conditions of any such permit, license or approval; (iv) to the knowledge of the Company, no facts currently exist that will require either the Company or its subsidiaries to make future material capital expenditures to comply with Environmental Laws; and (v) no property which is or has been owned, leased or occupied by either of the Company or its subsidiaries has been designated as a “Superfund site” pursuant to the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation of Liability Act of 1980, as amended (42 U.S.C. Section 9601, et. seq.) (“ CERCLA ”), or otherwise designated as a contaminated site under applicable state or local law. Neither the Company nor its subsidiaries has been named as a “potentially responsible party” under CERCLA.

 

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(ww)   The Company is not and, after giving effect to the Offering, the sale of the Transaction Securities and the application of proceeds thereof as described in the General Disclosure Package or the Prospectus, will not be an “investment company” within the meaning of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.

 

(xx)      Neither the Company nor, to the knowledge of the Company, any other person associated with it or acting on its behalf including, without limitation, any director, officer, agent or employee of the Company or its subsidiaries, has, directly or indirectly, while acting on behalf of the Company or its subsidiaries: (i) used any corporate funds for unlawful contributions, gifts, entertainment or other unlawful expenses relating to political activity; (ii) made any unlawful payment to foreign or domestic government officials or employees or to foreign or domestic political parties or campaigns from corporate funds; or (iii) violated any provision of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977, as amended.

 

(yy)     The operations of the Company and its subsidiaries are and have been conducted at all times in compliance with applicable financial recordkeeping and reporting requirements of the Currency and Foreign Transactions Reporting Act of 1970, as amended, the money laundering statutes of all jurisdictions where the Company or any of its subsidiaries conduct business, the rules and regulations thereunder and any related or similar rules, regulations or guidelines, issued, administered or enforced by any governmental agency (collectively, the “ Money Laundering Laws ”) and no action, suit or proceeding by or before any court or governmental agency, authority or body or any arbitrator involving the Company and its subsidiaries with respect to the Money Laundering Laws is pending, or to the knowledge of the Company, threatened.

 

(zz)      Neither the Company nor any of its subsidiaries, nor, to the knowledge of the Company, any director, officer, agent, employee or affiliate of the Company or its subsidiaries is currently subject to any U.S. sanctions administered by the Office of Foreign Assets Control of the U.S. Treasury Department (“ OFAC ”); and the Company will not directly or indirectly use the proceeds of the Offering, or lend, contribute or otherwise make available such proceeds to its subsidiaries or any joint venture partner or other person or entity, for the purpose of financing the activities of any person currently subject to any U.S. sanctions administered by OFAC.

 

(aaa)   Neither the Company nor, to the knowledge of the Company, any of its directors ,officers agents, employees, affiliates or other persons acting on behalf of the Company has engaged in any activities sanctionable under the Comprehensive Iran Sanctions, Accountability, and Divestment Act of 2010, the Iran Sanctions Act of 1996, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2012, the Iran Threat Reduction and Syria Human Rights Act of 2012 or any Executive Order relating to any of the foregoing (collectively, and as each may be amended from time to time, the “ Iran Sanctions ”); and the Company will not directly or indirectly use the proceeds of the Offering, or lend, contribute or otherwise make available such proceeds to any subsidiary, joint venture partner or other person or entity, for the purpose of engaging in any activities sanctionable under the Iran Sanctions.

 

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(bbb)  Except as described in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, the Company has not sold or issued any shares of Common Stock during the three-year period preceding the date of the Prospectus, including any sales pursuant to Rule 144A under, or Regulations D or S of, the Securities Act, other than shares issued pursuant to employee benefit plans, qualified stock options plans or other employee compensation plans or pursuant to outstanding options, rights or warrants. Neither the Company nor any of its affiliates (as such term is defined under Rule 144 of the Securities Act) has, prior to the date hereof, made any offer or sales of any securities which are required to be “integrated” pursuant to the Securities Act or the Rules with the offer and sale of the Transaction Securities pursuant to the Registration Statement.

 

(ccc)   The Company fulfilled its obligations, if any, under the minimum funding standards of Section 302 of the U.S. Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (“ ERISA ”) and the regulations and published interpretations thereunder with respect to each “plan” as defined in Section 3(3) of ERISA and such regulations and published interpretations in which its employees are eligible to participate and each such plan is in compliance in all material respects with the presently applicable provisions of ERISA and such regulations and published interpretations. No “Reportable Event” (as defined in Section 4043(c) of ERISA) has occurred with respect to any “Pension Plan” (as defined in ERISA) for which the Company could have any liability. The execution of this Agreement, the Warrants, the Option Warrants, the Representative’s Warrants or consummation of the Offering does not constitute a triggering event under any plan or any other employment contract, whether or not legally enforceable, which (either alone or upon the occurrence of any additional or subsequent event) will or may result in any payment (of severance pay or otherwise), acceleration, increase in vesting, or increase in benefits to any current or former participant, employee or director of the Company or any of its subsidiaries.

 

(ddd)  The statements in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package or the Prospectus under the headings “Tax Considerations,” “Market for Common Stock and Shares Eligible for Future Sale,” “Executive Compensation,” “Related Party Transactions,” “Description of Securities” and “Underwriting” and under the subsections “Our United States Projects” and “Our Italy Projects” under the heading “Description of Business”, insofar as such statements summarize legal matters, agreements, documents or proceedings discussed therein, are accurate and fair summaries of such legal matters, agreements, documents or proceedings in all material respects.

 

(eee)   The Company has not become aware of any information that would cause the information disclosed in the questionnaires completed by the directors and officers of the Company and provided to the Representative to become inaccurate and incorrect.

 

(fff)     The Company and its subsidiaries own or lease all such properties as are necessary to the conduct of its business as presently operated and as proposed to be operated as described in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package or the Prospectus. The Company and its subsidiaries have good and marketable title to all personal property owned by them, free and clear of all liens except such as are described in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus or such as do not (individually or in the aggregate) materially affect the business or prospects of the Company or its subsidiaries. Any real property and buildings held under lease or sublease by the Company and its subsidiaries are held by them under valid, subsisting and enforceable leases with such exceptions as are not material to, and do not interfere with, the use made and proposed to be made of such property and buildings by the Company and its subsidiaries. Neither the Company nor any of its subsidiaries has received any notice of any claim adverse to its ownership of any real or personal property or of any claim against the continued possession of any real property, whether owned or held under lease or sublease by the Company or its subsidiaries.

 

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(ggg)  In connection with any offer and sale of Transaction Securities to Company-directed investors outside the United States, each Preliminary Prospectus, the Prospectus, any prospectus wrapper and any amendment or supplement thereto, at the time it was delivered to such persons, complied and will comply throughout such offer and sale outside of the United States in all material respects with any applicable laws or regulations of foreign jurisdictions where such Preliminary Prospectus, Prospectus, prospectus wrapper or amendment or supplement was distributed. No authorization, approval, consent, license, order, registration or qualification of or with any government, governmental instrumentality or court, other than such as have been obtained, is necessary under the securities laws and regulations of foreign jurisdictions in which such Transaction Securities are offered outside the United States.

 

(hhh)  As used in this Agreement, the term “ knowledge of the Company ” (or similar language) shall mean the knowledge of the officers and directors of the Company who are named in the Prospectus, with the assumption that such officers and directors shall have made reasonable and diligent inquiry of the matters presented (with reference to what is customary and prudent for the applicable individuals in connection with the discharge by the applicable individuals of their duties as officers, directors or managers of the Company).

 

3.        Conditions of the Underwriters’ Obligations . The obligations of the Underwriters under this Agreement are several and not joint. The respective obligations of the Underwriters to purchase the Transaction Securities are subject to each of the following terms and conditions:

 

(a)       The Registration Statement has become effective and the Prospectus shall have been timely filed with the Commission in accordance with Section 4(a) of this Agreement, and any material required to be filed by the Company pursuant to Rule 433(d) under the Securities Act shall have been timely filed with the Commission in accordance with such rule.

 

(b)       No order preventing or suspending the use of any Preliminary Prospectus, the Prospectus or any Issuer Free Writing Prospectus shall have been or shall be in effect and no order suspending the effectiveness of the Registration Statement shall be in effect and no proceedings for such purpose shall be pending before or threatened by the Commission, and any requests for additional information on the part of the Commission (to be included in the Registration Statement or the Prospectus or otherwise) shall have been complied with to the satisfaction of the Commission and the Representative. If the Company has elected to rely upon Rule 430A, Rule 430A information previously omitted from the effective Registration Statement pursuant to Rule 430A shall have been filed with the Commission pursuant to Rule 424(b) within the prescribed time period (without reliance on Rule 424(b)(8)) and the Company shall have provided evidence satisfactory to the Representative of such timely filing, or a post-effective amendment providing such information shall have been promptly filed and declared effective in accordance with the requirements of Rule 430A.

 

(c)       The representations and warranties of the Company contained in this Agreement and in the certificates delivered pursuant to Section 3(e) shall be true and correct when made and on and as of each Closing Date as if made on such date. The Company shall have performed in all material respects all covenants and agreements and satisfied all the conditions contained in this Agreement required to be performed or satisfied by it at or before such Closing Date.

 

(d)       The Representative shall not have reasonably determined, and advised the Company, that the Registration Statement or the Prospectus, or any amendment thereof or supplement thereto contains any untrue statement of fact which, in the Representative’s reasonable opinion, is material, or omits to state a fact which, in the Representative’s reasonable opinion, is material and is required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading.

 

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(e)       The Representative shall have received on each Closing Date a certificate, addressed to the Representative and dated such Closing Date, of the chief executive officer and chief financial officer of the Company to the effect that: (i) the representations, warranties and agreements of the Company in this Agreement were true and correct when made and are true and correct as of such Closing Date; (ii) the Company has performed in all material respects all covenants and agreements and satisfied all conditions contained herein; (iii) they have carefully examined the Registration Statement, the Prospectus, the General Disclosure Package, and any individual Issuer Free Writing Prospectus and, in their opinion (A) as of the Effective Date, the Registration Statement and Prospectus did not include, and as of the Applicable Time, neither (x) the General Disclosure Package, nor (y) any individual Issuer Free Writing Prospectus, when considered together with the General Disclosure Package, included, any untrue statement of a material fact and did not omit to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein, in light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading, and (B) since the Effective Date no event has occurred which should have been set forth in a supplement or otherwise required an amendment to the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package or the Prospectus; (iv) the Transaction Securities (other than the Pre-Funded Warrants) and the Warrant Shares have been approved for listing on The NASDAQ Capital Market; (v) no stop order suspending the effectiveness of the Registration Statement has been issued and, to their knowledge, no proceedings for that purpose have been instituted or are pending under the Securities Act; and (vi) subsequent to the respective dates as of which information is given in the Registration Statement and the Prospectus there has not been any Material Adverse Effect or any event that is reasonably likely to result in a Material Adverse Effect, whether or not arising from transactions in the ordinary course of business.

 

(f)        The Representative shall have received on each Closing Date a certificate, addressed to the Representative and dated such Closing Date, of the secretary of the Company to the effect that: (i) attached to such certificate is a true and complete copy of the certificate of incorporation of the Company, together with all amendments thereto, and that such certificate of incorporation has not been modified since the date shown on the attached certificate of incorporation and such certificate of incorporation is in full force and effect as of the date thereof; (ii) attached to such certificate is a true and complete copy of the bylaws of the Company, together with all amendments thereto, and that such bylaws have not been modified since the date shown on the attached bylaws and such bylaws are in full force and effect as of the date thereof; (iii) attached to such certificate are true, complete and correct copies of the resolutions duly and validly adopted by the board of directors of the Company approving and authorizing the Offering, that such resolutions have not been amended, suspended, modified, rescinded or revoked, and remain in full force and effect as of the date thereof, and such resolutions are the only resolutions adopted by the Company’s board of directors relating to the Offering; (iv) attached to such certificate are true and correct certificates of good standing or equivalent certificates of the Company and its subsidiaries in such jurisdictions as the Representative shall reasonably request; and (v) such officer certifies the signatures of the officers of the Company executing documents in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement and the signatures appearing opposite their respective names are the true and genuine signatures of such officers as of the date thereof.

 

(g)       The Representative shall have received: (i) simultaneously with the execution of this Agreement a signed letter from the Auditor addressed to the Representative and dated the date of this Agreement, in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Representative, containing statements and information of the type ordinarily included in accountants’ “comfort letters” to underwriters with respect to the financial statements and certain financial information contained in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package or the Prospectus, and (ii) on each Closing Date, a signed letter from the Auditor addressed to the Representative and dated the date of such Closing Date, in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Representative containing statements and information of the type ordinarily included in accountants’ “comfort letters” to underwriters with respect to the financial statements and certain financial information contained in the Registration Statement and the Prospectus.

 

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(h)       On each Closing Date, the Representative shall have received the favorable opinion, dated as of such Closing Date, of Thompson Hine LLP, as counsel to the Company, and addressed to the Underwriters, in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to counsel for the Underwriters.

 

(i)        On each Closing Date, there shall have been furnished to the Underwriters the negative assurance letter of Harter Secrest & Emery LLP, as counsel to the Underwriters, dated as of such Closing Date, and addressed to the Underwriters, in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Underwriters.

 

(j)        Each item required to be delivered in accordance with this Section 3 shall be reasonably satisfactory in form and substance to the Representative and their counsel.

 

(k)       The Representative shall have received copies of the Lock-up Agreements in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to counsel for the Underwriters executed by each entity or person listed on Schedule III hereto.

 

(l)        The Transaction Securities (other than the Pre-Funded Warrants) and the Warrant Shares shall have been approved for listing on The NASDAQ Capital Market and satisfactory evidence of such action shall have been provided to the Representative. The Company shall have taken no action designed to, or likely to have the effect of terminating the registration of the Common Stock and Warrants under the Exchange Act or delisting or suspending from trading the Transaction Securities (other than the Pre-Funded Warrants) or the Warrant Shares from The NASDAQ Capital Market, nor has the Company received any information suggesting that the Commission or The NASDAQ Capital Market is contemplating terminating such registration or listing. The Transaction Securities and the Warrant Shares shall be DTC eligible.

 

(m)       Subsequent to the execution and delivery of this Agreement or, if earlier, the dates as of which information is given in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package or the Prospectus: (i) there shall not have been any material change in the capital stock of the Company or any material change in the long-term debt of the Company or its subsidiaries, (ii) except as set forth or contemplated by the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, no material oral or written agreement or other transaction shall have been entered into by the Company that is not in the ordinary course of business or that could reasonably be expected to result in a material reduction in the future earnings of the Company, (iii) no loss or damage (whether or not insured) to the property of the Company shall have been sustained that had or could reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect, (iv) no legal or governmental action, suit or proceeding affecting the Company or any of its properties that is material to the Company or that affects or could reasonably be expected to affect the transactions contemplated by this Agreement shall have been instituted or threatened and (v) there shall not have been any material change in the assets, properties, condition (financial or otherwise), results of operations, business affairs, business prospects or stockholders’ equity of the Company or its subsidiaries considered as a whole that makes it impractical or inadvisable in the Representative’s judgment to proceed with the purchase or offering of Transaction Securities as contemplated hereby.

 

(n)       FINRA shall have confirmed that it has not raised any objection with respect to the fairness and reasonableness of the underwriting terms and agreements in connection with the Offering.

 

(o)       The Company shall have furnished or caused to be furnished to the Representative such further customary certificates or documents as the Representative shall have reasonably requested.

 

If any of the conditions specified in this Section 3 shall not have been fulfilled when and as required by this Agreement, or if any of the certificates, opinions, written statements or letters furnished to the Representative or to counsel to the Underwriters pursuant to this Section 3 shall not be reasonably satisfactory in form and substance to the Representative and counsel to the Underwriters, then the obligations of the Underwriters to consummate the Closing hereunder may be cancelled by the Representative at, or at any time prior to, the consummation of the Closing. Notice of such cancellation shall be given to the Company in writing or orally. Any such oral notice will be confirmed promptly thereafter by written, electronic or facsimile notice.

 

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4.        Covenants and Other Agreements of the Company .

 

(a)       The Company covenants and agrees as follows:

 

(i)        The Registration Statement and any amendments thereto have been declared effective. The Company shall prepare the Prospectus in a form approved by the Representative and file such Prospectus pursuant to Rule 424(b) under the Securities Act not later than the Commission’s close of business on the second business day following the execution and delivery of this Agreement, or, if applicable, such earlier time as may be required by the Rules. The Company will file with the Commission all Issuer Free Writing Prospectuses in the time and manner required under Rules 433(d) or 163(b)(2), as the case may be.

 

(ii)       The Company shall cause to be prepared and delivered to the Representative, at its expense, within two (2) business days from the date of this Agreement, an Electronic Prospectus to be used by the Underwriters in connection with the Offering. As used herein, the term “ Electronic Prospectus ” means a form of prospectus, and any amendment or supplement thereto, that meets each of the following conditions: (i) it shall be encoded in an electronic format, satisfactory to the Representative, that may be transmitted electronically by the Underwriters to offerees and purchasers of the Transaction Securities for at least the period during which a prospectus relating to the Transaction Securities is required to be delivered under the Securities Act or the Exchange Act; (ii) it shall disclose the same information as the paper prospectus and prospectus filed pursuant to EDGAR, except to the extent that graphic and image material cannot be disseminated electronically, in which case such graphic and image material shall be replaced in the electronic prospectus with a fair and accurate narrative description or tabular representation of such material, as appropriate; and (iii) it shall be in or convertible into a paper format or an electronic format, satisfactory to the Representative, that will allow recipients thereof to store and have continuously ready access to the prospectus at any future time, without charge to such recipients (other than any fee charged for subscription to the Internet as a whole and for online time).

 

(iii)      If the Company elects to rely on Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, the Company will both file a Rule 462(b) Registration Statement with the Commission in compliance with Rule 462(b) and pay the applicable fees in accordance with Rule 111 of the Securities Act.

 

(iv)      The Company shall promptly advise the Representative in writing (A) when any post-effective amendment to the Registration Statement shall have become effective or any supplement to the Prospectus shall have been filed, (B) of the receipt of any comments of, or any request by the Commission for any amendment of the Registration Statement or the Prospectus or for any additional information, (C) of the issuance by the Commission of any stop order suspending the effectiveness of the Registration Statement or of any order preventing or suspending the use of any Preliminary Prospectus or any “free writing prospectus”, as defined in Rule 405 of the Rules, or the institution or threatening of any proceeding for that purpose and (D) of the receipt by the Company of any notification with respect to the suspension of the qualification of the Transaction Securities for sale in any jurisdiction or the initiation or threatening of any proceeding for such purpose. The Company shall not file any amendment of the Registration Statement or supplement to the Prospectus or any Issuer Free Writing Prospectus unless the Company has furnished the Representative a copy for its review at least forty eight (48) prior to filing and shall not file any such proposed amendment or supplement to which the Representative reasonably objects. The Company shall use its best efforts to prevent the issuance of any such stop order and, if issued, to obtain as soon as possible the withdrawal thereof.

 

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(v)       If, at any time when a prospectus relating to the Transaction Securities (or, in lieu thereof, the notice referred to in Rule 173(a) of the Rules) is required to be delivered under the Securities Act, any event occurs as a result of which the Prospectus as then amended or supplemented would include any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state any material fact necessary to make the statements therein in the light of the circumstances under which they were made not misleading, or if it shall be necessary to amend or supplement the Prospectus to comply with the Securities Act or the Rules, the Company promptly shall prepare and file with the Commission, subject to the second sentence of Section 4(a)(iv), an amendment or supplement which shall correct such statement or omission or an amendment which shall effect such compliance.

 

(vi)      If at any time following issuance of an Issuer Free Writing Prospectus there occurs an event or development as a result of which such Issuer Free Writing Prospectus would conflict with the information contained in the Registration Statement or would include an untrue statement of a material fact or would omit to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary in order to make the statements therein, in the light of the circumstances prevailing at the subsequent time, not misleading, the Company will promptly notify the Representative and will promptly amend or supplement, at its own expense, such Issuer Free Writing Prospectus to eliminate or correct such conflict, untrue statement or omission.

 

(vii)     The Company will make generally available to its security holders as soon as practicable, but in any event not later than 15 months after the end of the Company’s current fiscal quarter, an earnings statement (which need not be audited) covering a 12-month period that shall satisfy the provisions of Section 11(a) of the Securities Act and Rule 158 of the Rules; provided that the Company will be deemed to have furnished such statement to its security holders to the extent it is filed on the EDGAR system.

 

(viii)    The Company shall furnish to the Representative and counsel for the Underwriters, without charge, signed copies of the Registration Statement (including all exhibits thereto and amendments thereof) and to each other Underwriter a copy of the Registration Statement (without exhibits thereto) and all amendments thereof and, so long as delivery of a prospectus by an Underwriter or dealer may be required by the Securities Act or the Rules, as many copies of any Issuer Free Writing Prospectus and the Prospectus and any amendments thereof and supplements thereto as the Representative may reasonably request. If applicable, the copies of the Registration Statement, any Issuer Free Writing Prospectus and Prospectus and each amendment and supplement thereto furnished to the Underwriters will be identical to the electronically transmitted copies thereof filed with the Commission pursuant to EDGAR, except to the extent permitted by Regulation S-T.

 

(ix)       The Company shall use its best efforts to maintain the effectiveness of the Registration Statement and a current Prospectus relating thereto for as long as the Pre-Funded Warrants, Warrants, the Option Warrants and the Representative’s Warrants remain outstanding. During any period when the Company fails to have maintained an effective Registration Statement or a current Prospectus relating thereto and a holder of a Pre-Funded Warrant, Warrant, Option Warrant or Representative’s Warrant desires to exercise such warrant and, in the opinion of counsel to the holder, Rule 144 is not available as an exemption from registration for the resale of the Warrant Shares, the Company shall immediately file a registration statement registering the resale of the Warrant Shares and use its best efforts to have it declared effective by the Commission within forty five (45) days.

 

(x)       The Company shall cooperate with the Representative and counsel for the Underwriters in endeavoring to qualify the Transaction Securities for offer and sale in connection with the Offering under the laws of such jurisdictions as the Representative may designate and shall maintain such qualifications in effect so long as required for the distribution of the Transaction Securities; provided, however, that the Company shall not be required in connection therewith, as a condition thereof, to qualify as a foreign corporation or to execute a general consent to service of process in any jurisdiction or subject itself to taxation as doing business in any jurisdiction.

 

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(xi)       The Company, during the period when the Prospectus (or in lieu thereof, the notice referred to in Rule 173(a) of the Rules) is required to be delivered under the Securities Act and the Rules or the Exchange Act or while any Warrants, Option Warrants or Representative’s Warrants remain outstanding, will file all reports and other documents required to be filed with the Commission pursuant to Section 13, 14 or 15 of the Exchange Act within the time periods required by the Exchange Act and the regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

(xii)      The Company shall, during the term of the Lock-Up Agreements, enforce the terms thereof and impose stop-transfer restrictions on any sale or other transfer or disposition of Company securities in violation of the Lock-Up Agreements.

 

(xiii)    On or before completion of this Offering, the Company shall make all filings required under applicable securities laws and by The NASDAQ Capital Market (including any required registration under the Exchange Act).

 

(xiv)    The Company will issue no press release or other communications directly or indirectly and hold no press conference with respect to the Company, its condition, financial or otherwise, or its earnings, business affairs or business prospects, or the Offering for a period of time ending on the first business day following the fortieth (40 th ) day following the Securities Closing Date, without the prior written consent of the Representative other than normal and customary releases issued in the ordinary course of the Company’s business or as required by law.

 

(xv)     The Company will apply the net proceeds from the Offering in the manner set forth under “Use of Proceeds” in the Prospectus.

 

(xvi)    The Company will use its best efforts to effect and maintain the listing of the Transaction Securities (other than the Pre-Funded Warrants) and the Warrant Shares on The NASDAQ Capital Market for at least three years after the Closing Date.

 

(xvii)   Except with respect to (x) the issuance of securities pursuant to the exercise or conversion of outstanding options or warrants or other rights to receive securities of the Company that exist as of the Closing Date; or (y) the issuance of securities pursuant to an equity incentive plan, during the ninety (90) days following the Closing Date, the Company will not undertake any public or private offerings of any equity securities of the Company without the prior written consent of the Representative, which consent will not be unreasonably withheld.

 

(xviii)  The Company will not take, and will cause its affiliates (as such term is defined by Rule 144 of the Securities Act) not to take, directly or indirectly, any action which constitutes or is designed to cause or result in, or which could reasonably be expected to constitute, cause or result in, the stabilization or manipulation of the prices of any security to facilitate the sale or resale of the Transaction Securities.

 

(xix)     For so long as it is legally required to do so, the Company will use its best efforts to comply in all material respects with all applicable provisions of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act that are in effect.

 

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(b)       The Company agrees to pay, whether or not the transactions contemplated hereby are consummated or this Agreement is terminated, all costs and expenses incident to the Offering, including the reimbursement of the Representative for its out-of-pocket expenses in connection with the Offering, subject to a cap of $130,000 in the aggregate, including but not limited to the fees (not to exceed $70,000) of the Underwriter’s legal counsel, Harter Secrest & Emery LLP, and the performance of the obligations of the Company under this Agreement including those relating to: (i) the preparation, printing, reproduction filing and distribution of the Registration Statement including, but not limited to, all exhibits thereto, each Preliminary Prospectus, the Prospectus, any Issuer Free Writing Prospectus, all amendments and supplements thereto, and the printing, filing and distribution of this Agreement; (ii) the preparation and delivery of certificates for the Transaction Securities to the Underwriters, if any; (iii) the registration or qualification of the Transaction Securities, the Representative’s Warrants and/or the Warrant Shares for offer and sale under the securities or Blue Sky laws of the various requisite jurisdictions, including the reasonable fees and disbursements of counsel for the Underwriters in connection with such registration and qualification and the preparation, printing, distribution and shipment of preliminary and supplementary Blue Sky memoranda; (iv) the furnishing (including costs of shipping and mailing) to the Representative and to the Underwriters of copies of each Preliminary Prospectus, the Prospectus and all amendments or supplements to the Prospectus, any Issuer Free Writing Prospectus, and of the several documents required by this Section to be so furnished, as may be reasonably requested for use by the Underwriters or by dealers to whom Transaction Securities may be sold in connection with the Offering; (v) the filing fees of FINRA in connection with its review of the terms of the Offering and reasonable fees and disbursements of counsel for the Underwriters in connection with such review; and (vi) inclusion of the Transaction Securities (other than the Pre-Funded Warrants) and the Warrant Shares for listing on The NASDAQ Capital Market. The Company has provided the Representative (but no other Underwriter) an advance in the amount of $10,000 to be applied towards reasonable out-of-pocket expenses, including legal fees, background search firm fees, and road show expenses, incurred in connection with the Offering (collectively, the “ Advance ”), provided that any funds provided under the Advance shall be applied solely towards the Representative’s reasonable out-of-pocket expenses in connection with the Offering. Any unused portion of the Advance shall be returned to the Company upon the termination of the “Engagement Period” (as defined in the engagement letter agreement between the Company and the Representative dated September 23, 2016, as amended from time to time). The Advance and the reimbursement of expenses described in this Section 4(b) shall be in addition to the fees in Section 1. For the avoidance of doubt, the Advance is not a separate item of compensation and any expenditures under the Advance shall be credited against the reimbursement of expenses described in this Section 4(b). Except to the extent otherwise expressly provided for in this Section 4(b), each Underwriter shall pay its own costs and expenses, including the fees and expenses of legal counsel in connection with the Offering. For purposes of clarity, the Underwriters’ counsel fees and expenses in connection with the FINRA review as referenced in clause (v) of this Section 4(b) are included in the Advance and are not an additional item of value.

 

(c)       [Reserved.]

 

(d)       The Company represents and agrees that, unless it obtains the prior written consent of the Representative, and the Representative and each Underwriter represents and agrees that, unless it obtains the prior written consent of the Company, it has not made and will not make any offer relating to the Transaction Securities that would constitute an “issuer free writing prospectus,” as defined in Rule 433 under the Securities Act, or that would otherwise constitute a “free writing prospectus,” as defined in Rule 405 under the Securities Act, required to be filed with the Commission; provided that the prior written consent of the parties hereto shall be deemed to have been given in respect of the free writing prospectuses included in Schedule II . Any such free writing prospectus consented to by the Company and the Representative is hereinafter referred to as a “Permitted Free Writing Prospectus.” Each of the Company and the Representative represents that it has treated or agrees that it will treat each Permitted Free Writing Prospectus as an “issuer free writing prospectus,” as defined in Rule 433, and has complied and will comply with the requirements of Rule 433 applicable to any Permitted Free Writing Prospectus, including timely Commission filing where required, legending and record keeping.

 

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(e)       During a period of ninety (90) days from the date of the Prospectus, the Company will not, without the prior written consent of the Representative, (i) directly or indirectly, offer, pledge, sell, contract to sell, sell any option or contract to purchase, purchase any option or contract to sell, grant any option, right or warrant to purchase or otherwise transfer or dispose of any share of Common Stock or any securities convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for Common Stock or file any registration statement under the Securities Act with respect to any of the foregoing or (ii) enter into any swap or any other agreement or any transaction that transfers, in whole or in part, directly or indirectly, the economic consequence of ownership of the Common Stock, whether any such swap or transaction described in clause (i) or (ii) above is to be settled by delivery of Common Stock or such other securities, in cash or otherwise. The foregoing sentence shall not apply to (A) the Transaction Securities to be sold hereunder, (B) any shares of Common Stock issued by the Company upon the exercise of an option or warrant or the conversion of a security outstanding on the date hereof and referred to in the Registration Statement or the General Disclosure Package, or (C) any shares of Common Stock issued or options to purchase Common Stock granted pursuant to existing equity incentive plans or employee benefit plans of the Company referred to in the Registration Statement or the General Disclosure Package provided that such options shall not be vested and exercisable within the ninety (90) day period referred to above (unless such shares are subject to a Lock-Up Agreement).

 

5.        Indemnification .

 

(a)       Subject to the conditions set forth below, the Company agrees to indemnify, defend and hold harmless the Underwriters, their respective affiliates, directors and officers and employees, and each person, if any, who controls such Underwriter within the meaning of Section 15 of the Securities Act or Section 20 of the Exchange Act, from and against any losses, claims, damages or liabilities to which the Underwriters or such persons may become subject, under the Securities Act or otherwise (including in settlement of any litigation if such settlement is effected with the written consent of the Company), insofar as such losses, claims, damages or liabilities (or actions in respect thereof) arise out of or are based upon: (i) an untrue statement or alleged untrue statement of a material fact contained in the Registration Statement, including the information deemed to be a part of the Registration Statement at the time of effectiveness and at any subsequent time pursuant to Rules 430A and 430B of the Rules and Regulations, or arise out of or are based upon the omission from the Registration Statement, or alleged omission to state therein, a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, or (ii) an untrue statement or alleged untrue statement of a material fact contained in the General Disclosure Package, the Prospectus, or any amendment or supplement thereto (including any documents filed under the Exchange Act and deemed to be incorporated by reference into the Registration Statement or the Prospectus), any Issuer Free Writing Prospectus, or the Marketing Materials, or arise out of or are based upon the omission or alleged omission to state therein a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein, in light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading, and will reimburse the Underwriter and such persons for their reasonable legal or other out of pocket expenses reasonably incurred and documented by them in connection with evaluating, investigating or defending against such loss, claim, damage, liability or action; provided, however, that (y) the Company will only be obligated to reimburse the Underwriters for the cost and expense of one counsel (in addition to any local counsel) and provided further that the Company will not be liable in any such case to the extent that any such loss, claim, damage, liability or action arises out of or is based upon an untrue statement or alleged untrue statement or omission or alleged omission made in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package, the Prospectus, or any amendment or supplement thereto or any Issuer Free Writing Prospectus, in reliance upon and in conformity with the Underwriter Information; and (z) with respect to any untrue statement or omission or alleged untrue statement or omission made in the Preliminary Prospectus, if any, the indemnity agreement contained in this Section 5(a) shall not inure to the benefit of an Underwriter to the extent that any losses, claims, damages or liabilities of such Underwriter results from the fact that a copy of the Preliminary Prospectus was not given or sent to the person asserting any such loss, claims, damage or liability at or prior to the written confirmation of sale of Securities to such person as required by the Securities Act and the rules and regulations thereunder, and if the untrue statement or omission has been corrected in the Prospectus, unless such failure to deliver the Prospectus was a result of non-compliance by the Company with its obligations under this Agreement. This indemnity agreement will be in addition to any liability which the Company may otherwise have.

 

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(b)       Each Underwriter, severally and not jointly, agrees to indemnify and hold harmless (i) the Company, and each person, if any, who controls the Company within the meaning of Section 15 of the Securities Act or Section 20 of the Exchange Act and (ii) each director of the Company, and each officer of the Company who signs the Registration Statement, against any losses, claims, damages or liabilities to which such party may become subject, under the Securities Act or otherwise, insofar as such losses, claims, damages or liabilities (or actions in respect thereof) arise out of or are based upon an untrue statement or alleged untrue statement of a material fact contained in any Preliminary Prospectus, the Registration Statement or the Prospectus, or any amendment or supplement thereto, or arise out of or are based upon the omission or alleged omission to state therein a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, in each case to the extent, but only to the extent, that such untrue statement or alleged untrue statement or omission or alleged omission was made in any Preliminary Prospectus, the Registration Statement or the Prospectus or any such amendment or supplement in reliance upon and in conformity with the Underwriter Information and will reimburse the Company for any legal or other expenses reasonably incurred by the Company in connection with evaluating, investigating or defending any such action or claim as such expenses are incurred; provided, however, that the obligation of each Underwriter to indemnify the Company (including any controlling person, director or officer thereof) shall be limited to the amount of the underwriting discount and commissions applicable to Securities to be purchased by such Underwriter hereunder.

 

(c)       Any party that proposes to assert the right to be indemnified under this Section will, promptly after receipt of notice of commencement of any action, suit or proceeding against such party in respect of which a claim is to be made against an indemnifying party or parties under this Section, notify each such indemnifying party of the commencement of such action, suit or proceeding, enclosing a copy of all papers served. No indemnification provided for in Section 5(a) or 5(b) shall be available to any party who shall fail to give notice as provided in this Section 5(c) if the party to whom notice was not given was unaware of the proceeding to which such notice would have related and was materially prejudiced by the failure to give such notice but the omission so to notify such indemnifying party of any such action, suit or proceeding shall not relieve it from any liability that it may have to any indemnified party for contribution or otherwise than under this Section. In case any such action, suit or proceeding shall be brought against any indemnified party and it shall notify the indemnifying party of the commencement thereof, the indemnifying party shall be entitled to participate in, and, to the extent that it shall wish, jointly with any other indemnifying party similarly notified, to assume the defense thereof, with one firm of legal counsel reasonably satisfactory to such indemnified party, and after notice from the indemnifying party to such indemnified party of its election so to assume the defense thereof and the approval by the indemnified party of such counsel, the indemnifying party shall not be liable to such indemnified party for any legal or other expenses, except as provided below and except for the reasonable costs of investigation subsequently incurred by such indemnified party in connection with the defense thereof. The indemnified party shall have the right to employ its counsel in any such action, but the fees and expenses of such counsel shall be at the expense of such indemnified party unless (i) the employment of counsel by such indemnified party has been authorized in writing by the indemnifying parties, (ii) the indemnified party shall have been advised by counsel that there may be one or more legal defenses reasonably available to it which are different from or in addition to those available to the indemnifying party (in which case the indemnifying parties shall not have the right to direct the defense of such action on behalf of the indemnified party) or (iii) the indemnifying parties shall not have employed counsel to assume the defense of such action within a reasonable time after notice of the commencement thereof, in each of which cases the fees and expenses of not more than one counsel shall be at the expense of the indemnifying parties. An indemnifying party shall not be liable for any settlement of any action, suit, and proceeding or claim effected without its written consent, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed. No indemnifying party shall, without the written consent of the indemnified party, effect the settlement or compromise of, or consent to the entry of any judgment with respect to, any pending or threatened action or claim in respect of which indemnification or contribution may be sought hereunder (whether or not the indemnified party is an actual or potential party to such action or claim) unless such settlement, compromise or judgment (i) includes an unconditional release of the indemnified party from all liability arising out of such action or claim and (ii) does not include a statement as to or an admission of fault, culpability or a failure to act, by or on behalf of any indemnified party.

 

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6.        Contribution . In order to provide for just and equitable contribution in circumstances in which the indemnification provided for in Section 5(a) or 5(b) is due in accordance with its terms but for any reason is unavailable or insufficient to hold harmless an indemnified party in respect to any losses, liabilities, claims, damages or expenses referred to therein, then each indemnifying party shall contribute to the aggregate losses, liabilities, claims, damages and expenses (including any investigation, legal and other expenses reasonably incurred in connection with, and any amount paid in settlement of, any action, suit or proceeding or any claims asserted, but after deducting any contribution received by any person entitled hereunder to contribution from any person who may be liable for contribution) incurred by such indemnified party, as incurred, in such proportion as is appropriate to reflect the relative benefits received by the Company, on the one hand, and the Underwriters, on the other hand, from the Offering pursuant to this Agreement or, if such allocation is not permitted by applicable law, in such proportion as is appropriate to reflect not only the relative benefits referred to above but also the relative fault of the Company, on the one hand, and the Underwriters, on the other hand, in connection with the statements or omissions which resulted in such losses, liabilities, claims, damages or expenses, as well as any other relevant equitable considerations. The Company and the Underwriters agree that it would not be just and equitable if contribution pursuant to this Section 6 were determined by pro rata allocation (even if the Underwriters were treated as one entity for such purpose) or by any other method of allocation which does not take account of the equitable considerations referred to above. The aggregate amount of losses, liabilities, claims, damages and expenses incurred by an indemnified party and referred to above shall be deemed to include any reasonable legal or other expenses reasonably incurred by such indemnified party in investigating, preparing or defending against any litigation, or any investigation or proceeding by any governmental agency or body, commenced or threatened, or any claim whatsoever based upon any such untrue or alleged untrue statement or omission or alleged omission. Notwithstanding the provisions of this Section 6, no Underwriter (except as may be provided in the agreement among Underwriters) shall be required to contribute any amount in excess of the underwriting discounts and commissions applicable to Securities purchased by such Underwriter. No person guilty of fraudulent misrepresentation (within the meaning of Section 11(f) of the Securities Act) shall be entitled to contribution from any person who was not guilty of such fraudulent misrepresentation. For purposes of this Section 6, each person, if any, who controls an Underwriter within the meaning of Section 15 of the Securities Act or Section 20 of the Exchange Act shall have the same rights to contribution as such Underwriter, and each director or partner of the Company, each officer of the Company who signed the Registration Statement, and each person, if any, who controls the Company within the meaning of the Section 15 of the Securities Act or Section 20 of the Exchange Act, shall have the same rights to contribution as the Company. Any party entitled to contribution will, promptly after receipt of notice of commencement of any action, suit or proceeding against such party in respect of which a claim for contribution may be made against another party or parties under this Section 6, notify such party or parties from whom contribution may be sought, but the omission so to notify such party or parties from whom contribution may be sought shall not relieve the party or parties from whom contribution may be sought from any other obligation it or they may have hereunder or otherwise than under this Section 6. No party shall be liable for contribution with respect to any action, suit, proceeding or claim settled without its written consent. The Underwriters’ obligations to contribute pursuant to this Section 6 are several in proportion to their respective underwriting commitments and not joint.

 

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7.        Termination .

 

(a)       This Agreement may be terminated with respect to Transaction Securities to be purchased on a Closing Date by the Representative by notifying the Company at any time at or before a Closing Date if: (i) any domestic or international event or act or occurrence has materially disrupted, or in the reasonable opinion of the Representative will in the immediate future materially disrupt, the market for the Company’s securities or securities in general; (ii) there has occurred any outbreak or material escalation of hostilities or acts of terrorism or other calamity or crisis the effect of which on the financial markets of the United States is such as to make it, in the reasonable judgment of the Representative, inadvisable or impracticable to market Transaction Securities or enforce contracts for the sale of Transaction Securities; (iii) trading in any securities of the Company has been suspended or materially limited by the Commission or The NASDAQ Capital Market or trading generally on the New York Stock Exchange, the NYSE MKT or The NASDAQ Capital Market has been suspended or materially limited, or minimum or maximum ranges for prices for securities shall have been fixed, or maximum ranges for prices for securities have been required, by any of said exchanges or by such system or by order of the Commission, FINRA, or any other governmental or regulatory authority; (iv) a banking moratorium has been declared by any state or Federal authority; or (v) in the reasonable judgment of the Representative, there has been, since the time of execution of this Agreement or since the respective dates as of which information is given in the Prospectus, a Material Adverse Effect, whether or not arising in the ordinary course of business, such as to make it, in the reasonable judgment of the Representative, inadvisable or impracticable to market the Transaction Securities or enforce contracts for the sale of the Transaction Securities.

 

(b)       If this Agreement is terminated pursuant to any of its provisions, the Company will not be under any liability to any Underwriter, and no Underwriter shall be under any liability to the Company, except that (y) the Company will reimburse the Representative only for its actual out-of-pocket expenses in connection with the Offering, subject to a cap of $130,000 in the aggregate, including but not limited to the fees (not to exceed $70,000) of Harter Secrest & Emery LLP, its counsel) as allowed by FINRA Rule 5110 reasonably incurred by the Representative in connection with the proposed purchase and sale of the Transaction Securities or in contemplation of performing its obligations hereunder (for purposes of clarity, in the event this Agreement is terminated, the amount of the out-of-pocket expenses that the Company will reimburse to the Representative will be reduced by the amount of the Advance, which includes all of the advances made to the Representative for out-of-pocket expenses), and (z) no Underwriter who shall have failed or refused to purchase Transaction Securities agreed to be purchased by it under this Agreement, without some reason sufficient hereunder to justify cancellation or termination of its obligations under this Agreement, shall be relieved of liability to the Company, or to the other Underwriters for damages occasioned by its failure or refusal. Further, the ROFR granted to the Representative in Section 1(c) shall survive the termination of this Agreement unless this Agreement is terminated by the Company for cause, which includes the Underwriters’ material failure to provide the underwriting services contemplated in this Agreement, and the Company’s exercise of this right for termination for cause eliminated any obligations with respect to the ROFR.

 

(c)       Any notice of termination pursuant to this Section 7 shall be in writing.

 

8.          Substitution of Underwriters .

 

(a)       If any Underwriter or Underwriters shall default in its or their obligation to purchase Shares, Pre-Funded Warrants and Warrants hereunder, and if the Securities with respect to which such default relates (the “ Default Securities ”) do not (after giving effect to arrangements, if any, made by the Representative pursuant to subsection (b) below) exceed in the aggregate 10% of the number of Shares, Pre-Funded Warrants and Warrants, each non-defaulting Underwriter, acting severally and not jointly, agrees to purchase from the Company that number of Default Securities that bears the same proportion to the total number of Default Securities then being purchased as the number of Shares, Pre-Funded Warrants and Warrants set forth opposite the name of such Underwriter on Schedule I hereto bears to the aggregate number of Shares, Pre-Funded Warrants and Warrants set forth opposite the names of the non-defaulting Underwriters; subject, however, to such adjustments to eliminate fractional shares as the Representative in its sole discretion shall make.

 

26  

 

 

(b)       In the event that the aggregate number of Default Securities exceeds 10% of the number of Shares, Pre-Funded Warrants and Warrants, the Representative may in its discretion arrange for itself or for another party or parties (including any non-defaulting Underwriter or Underwriters who so agree) to purchase the Default Securities on the terms contained herein. In the event that within five (5) calendar days after such a default the Representative does not arrange for the purchase of the Default Securities as provided in this Section 8, this Agreement shall thereupon terminate, without liability on the part of the Company with respect thereto (except in each case as provided in Sections 4(b), 5, 6, 7, and 9(a)) or the Underwriters, but nothing in this Agreement shall relieve a defaulting Underwriter or Underwriters of its or their liability, if any, to the other Underwriters and the Company for damages occasioned by its or their default hereunder.

 

(c)       In the event that any Default Securities are to be purchased by the non-defaulting Underwriters, or are to be purchased by another party or parties as aforesaid, the Representative or the Company shall have the right to postpone the Closing Date for a period, not exceeding five (5) business days, in order to effect whatever changes may thereby be necessary in the Registration Statement or the Prospectus or in any other documents and arrangements, and the Company agrees to file promptly any amendment or supplement to the Registration Statement or the Prospectus which, in the reasonable opinion of counsel to the Underwriters, may be necessary or advisable. The term “Underwriter” as used in this Agreement shall include any party substituted under this Section 8 with like effect as if it had originally been a party to this Agreement with respect to such Shares, Pre-Funded Warrants and Warrants.

 

9.        Miscellaneous .

 

(a)       The respective agreements, representations, warranties, indemnities and other statements of the Company and the several Underwriters, as set forth in this Agreement or made by or on behalf of them pursuant to this Agreement, shall remain in full force and effect, regardless of any investigation (or any statement as to the results thereof) made by or on behalf of any Underwriter or the Company, or any of their respective officers, directors or controlling persons referred to in Sections 5 and 6 hereof, and shall survive delivery of and payment for the Transaction Securities, the Representative’s Warrants and the Warrant Shares. In addition, the provisions of Sections 4(b), 5, 6, 7, and 9(a) shall survive the termination or cancellation of this Agreement to the extent they are in compliance with FINRA Rule 5110(f)(2)(D).

 

(b)       This Agreement has been and is made for the benefit of the Underwriters, the Company, and their respective successors and assigns, and, to the extent expressed herein, for the benefit of persons controlling any of the Underwriters, or the Company, and directors and officers of the Company, and their respective successors and assigns, and no other person shall acquire or have any right under or by virtue of this Agreement. The term “successors and assigns” shall not include any purchaser of Transaction Securities from any Underwriter merely because of such purchase.

 

(c)       All notices and communications hereunder shall be in writing and mailed or delivered or by email if subsequently confirmed in writing, (a) if to the Representative, c/o Maxim Group LLC, 405 Lexington Avenue, New York, New York 10174, Attention: Equity Capital Markets, with copies (which shall not constitute notice) to Maxim Group LLC, 405 Lexington Avenue, New York, New York 10174, Attention: General Counsel, and to Harter Secrest & Emery LLP, 1600 Bausch & Lomb Place, Rochester, NY 14604, Attention: Alexander R. McClean, and (b) if to the Company, to the Company’s agent for service as such agent’s address appears on the cover page of the Registration Statement with a copy to Thompson Hine LLP, 335 Madison Avenue, 12 th Floor, New York, New York 10017, Attention: Peter Gennuso.

 

27  

 

 

(d)        This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York, without regard for conflict of laws principles . Each of the parties hereto hereby submits to the non-exclusive jurisdiction of the Federal and state courts in the Borough of Manhattan in the City of New York in any suit or proceeding arising out of or relating to this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby. Each of the parties irrevocably and unconditionally waives any objection to the laying of venue of any suit or proceeding arising out of or relating to this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby in Federal and state courts in the Borough of Manhattan in the City of New York and irrevocably and unconditionally waives and agrees not to plead or claim in any such court that any such suit or proceeding in any such court has been brought in an inconvenient forum. The parties agree, to the extent permitted by law, to waive their rights to a jury trial in any proceeding arising out of this Agreement.

 

(e)       In connection with this Agreement, the Representative will act for and on behalf of the several Underwriters, and any action taken under this Agreement by the Representative, will be binding on all the Underwriters.

 

(f)        The Company hereby acknowledges that the Underwriters are acting solely as underwriters in connection with the offering of the Transaction Securities. The Company further acknowledges that the Underwriters are acting pursuant to a contractual relationship created solely by this Agreement entered into on an arm’s-length basis and in no event do the parties intend that the Underwriters act or be responsible as a fiduciary to the Company, its management, shareholders, creditors or any other person in connection with any activity that the Underwriters may undertake or have undertaken in furtherance of the offering of the Transaction Securities, either before or after the date hereof. The Underwriters hereby expressly disclaim any fiduciary or similar obligations to the Company, either in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement or any matters leading up to such transactions, and the Company hereby confirms its understanding and agreement to that effect. The Company hereby further confirms its understanding that no Underwriter has assumed an advisory or fiduciary responsibility in favor of the Company with respect to the Offering contemplated hereby or the process leading thereto, including, without limitation, any negotiation related to the pricing of the Transaction Securities; and the Company has consulted its own legal and financial advisors to the extent it has deemed appropriate in connection with this Agreement and the Offering. The Company and the Underwriters agree that they are each responsible for making their own independent judgments with respect to any such transactions, and that any opinions or views expressed by the Underwriters to the Company regarding such transactions, including but not limited to any opinions or views with respect to the price or market for the Company’s securities, do not constitute advice or recommendations to the Company. The Company hereby waives and releases, to the fullest extent permitted by law, any claims that the Company may have against the Underwriters with respect to any breach or alleged breach of any fiduciary or similar duty to the Company in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement or any matters leading up to such transactions.

 

(g)       If any term or provision of this Agreement or the performance thereof will be invalid or unenforceable to any extent, such invalidity or unenforceability shall not affect or render invalid or unenforceable any other provisions of this Agreement and this Agreement will be valid and enforced to the fullest extent permitted by law.

 

(h)       The failure of any of the parties hereto to at any time enforce any of the provisions of this Agreement shall not be deemed or construed to be a waiver of any such provision, nor to in any way effect the validity of this Agreement or any provision hereof or the right of any of the parties hereto to thereafter enforce each and every provision of this Agreement. No waiver of any breach, non-compliance or non-fulfillment of any of the provisions of this Agreement shall be effective unless set forth in a written instrument executed by the party or parties against whom or which enforcement of such waiver is sought; and no waiver of any such breach, non-compliance or non-fulfillment shall be construed or deemed to be a waiver of any other or subsequent breach, non-compliance or non-fulfillment.

 

28  

 

 

(i)         This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement of the parties to this Agreement and supersedes all prior or contemporaneous written or oral agreements, understandings, promises and negotiations with respect to the subject matter hereof.

 

(j)         In this Agreement, the masculine, feminine and neuter genders and the singular and the plural include one another. The section headings in this Agreement are for the convenience of the parties only and will not affect the construction or interpretation of this Agreement.

 

(k)       This Agreement may be amended or modified, and the observance of any term of this Agreement may be waived, only by a writing signed by the Company and the Representative.

 

(l)        This Agreement may be signed in any number of counterparts, each of which shall be an original, with the same effect as if the signatures thereto and hereto were upon the same instrument. Such counterparts may be delivered by facsimile or by e-mail delivery of a “pdf” format data file, which counterparts shall be valid as if original and which delivery shall be valid delivery thereof.

 

[Signature Page Follows]

 

29  

 

 

 

Please confirm that the foregoing correctly sets forth the agreement among us.

 

  Very truly yours,
   
  BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION
   
   
  By:  
  Name:   Shlomo Palas
  Title: Chief Executive Officer

 

Agreed to and confirmed

 

REPRESENTATIVE

(acting severally on behalf of itself and as representative of the several Underwriters named on Schedule I annexed hereto.):

 

MAXIM GROUP LLC
 
By:  
Name:   
Title:  

 

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Schedule I

 

Underwriters

 

Name

Number of Securities to be Purchased

   
  Common Stock Pre-Funded Warrants Warrants
Maxim Group LLC      
Chardan Capital Markets, LLC      
       
       
Total      

 

 

 

  Blue Sphere Corporation S-1/A

 

Exhibit 5.1

(GRAPHIC)

 

FORM OF LEGAL OPINION, FINAL TO BE FILED BY AMENDMENT

 

__________, 2017

 

Blue Sphere Corporation

301 McCullough Drive, 4th Floor

Charlotte, NC 28262

 

Re: Form S-1 Registration Statement

 

Ladies and Gentlemen:

 

We have acted as counsel to Blue Sphere Corporation, a Nevada corporation (the “Company”), in connection with the preparation and filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission of a Registration Statement on Form S-1 (the “Registration Statement”) relating to the sale by the Company of up to [ ] shares of the Company’s common stock, par value $0.001 (“Common Stock”), and warrants to purchase up to [ ] shares of Common Stock (“Warrants”).

 

With respect to factual matters, we have relied upon statements and certificates of officers of the Company. We have also reviewed such other matters of law and examined and relied upon such other documents, records and certificates as we have deemed relevant hereto. In such examinations, we have assumed the genuineness of all signatures, the legal capacity of all natural persons, the authenticity of all documents submitted to us as originals, the conformity to original documents of all documents submitted to us as certified, conformed or photostatic copies and the authenticity of the originals of such latter documents.

 

Based on the foregoing, we are of the opinion that the Common Stock and Warrants, when sold by the Company, will be validly authorized, legally issued, fully paid and non-assessable, and that the Common Stock underlying the Warrants, when issued upon such conversion or exercise and payment of the exercise price, if any, will be validly authorized, legally issued, fully paid and non-assessable. We are also of the opinion that the Warrants will be a binding obligation of the Company under the laws of the State of Nevada.

 

Except as explicitly set forth above, we express no opinion as to the effect or application of any laws or regulations other than Chapter 78 of the Nevada Revised Statutes and the Federal laws of the United States, in each case as currently in effect.

 

The information set forth herein is as of the date hereof. We assume no obligation to supplement this opinion letter if any applicable law changes after the date hereof or if we become aware of any fact that might change the opinion expressed herein after the date hereof. Our opinion is expressly limited to the matters set forth above, and we render no opinion, whether by implication or otherwise, as to any other matters relating to the Company, the Common Stock, the Warrants, the Registration Statement or the prospectus included therein.

 

We hereby consent to the filing of this opinion as an exhibit to the Registration Statement and being named in the prospectus included in the Registration Statement under the heading “Legal Matters”. In giving this consent, we do not thereby admit that we are within the category of persons whose consent is required under Section 7 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the rules and regulations of the Commission promulgated thereunder.

 

Very truly yours,

 

/s/ Thompson Hine LLP

 

 

 

Blue Sphere Corporation S-1/A

Exhibit 10.35

 

WARRANT AGREEMENT

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION

 

and

 

[_____________________]

 

WARRANT AGREEMENT

 

Dated as of [__], 2017

 

THIS WARRANT AGREEMENT (this “ Agreement ”), dated as of Aril [__], 2017 (the “ Issuance Date ”), is by and between Blue Sphere Corporation, a Nevada corporation (the “ Company ”), and [______________], a [___________] corporation, as warrant agent (the “ Warrant Agent ”).

 

WHEREAS, pursuant to the terms of that certain Underwriting Agreement, dated [___], 2017, between the Company and Maxim Group LLC, as representative of the underwriters set forth therein, the Company is engaged in a public offering (the “ Offering ”) of the Company’s Common Stock (as defined below) together with Warrants (as defined below) to purchase Common Stock and, in connection therewith, has determined to issue and deliver up to [__________] Warrants (including up to [__________] Warrants subject to an over-allotment option granted to the underwriters by the Company) to investors in the Offering (the “ Warrants ”), with each such Warrant representing the right of the holder thereof to purchase one share of common stock of the Company, par value $0.001 per share (the “ Common Stock ”), for $[___] per share, subject to adjustment as described herein, plus applicable fees, charges and taxes; and

 

WHEREAS, the Company has filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “ Commission ”) a Registration Statement (No. 333-215110) on Form S-1 (as the same may be amended from time to time, the “ Registration Statement ”) for the registration, under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “ Securities Act ”), of, among other securities, the Warrants and the shares of Common Stock underlying the Warrants (the “ Warrant Shares ”), and such Registration Statement was declared effective on [__________], 2017; and

 

WHEREAS, the Company desires the Warrant Agent to act on behalf of the Company, and the Warrant Agent is willing to so act, in connection with the issuance, registration, transfer, exchange, redemption and exercise of the Warrants; and

 

WHEREAS, the Company desires to provide for the provisions of the Warrants, the terms upon which they shall be issued and exercised, and the respective rights, limitation of rights, and immunities of the Company, the Warrant Agent, and the holders of the Warrants; and

 

WHEREAS, all acts and things have been done and performed which are necessary to make the Warrants, when executed on behalf of the Company and countersigned by or on behalf of the Warrant Agent, as provided herein, the valid, binding and legal obligations of the Company, and to authorize the execution and delivery of this Agreement.

 

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NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual agreements herein contained, the parties hereto agree as follows:

 

1.            Appointment of Warrant Agent . The Company hereby appoints the Warrant Agent to act as agent for the Company with respect to the Warrants, and the Warrant Agent hereby accepts such appointment and agrees to perform the same in accordance with the express terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement.

 

2.            Warrants .

 

2.1        Form of Warrant . The Warrants shall be registered securities and shall initially be evidenced by a global certificate (“ Global Certificate ”) in substantially the form of Exhibit A hereto, which shall be deposited on behalf of the Company with a custodian for The Depository Trust Company (“ DTC ”) and registered in the name of Cede & Co., a nominee of DTC. If DTC subsequently ceases to make its book-entry settlement system available for the Warrants, the Company may instruct the Warrant Agent regarding making other arrangements for book-entry settlement. In the event that the Warrants are not eligible for, or it is no longer necessary to have the Warrants available in, book-entry form, the Company may instruct the Warrant Agent to provide written instructions to DTC to deliver to the Warrant Agent for cancellation the Global Certificate, and the Company shall instruct the Warrant Agent to deliver to DTC separate certificates evidencing Warrants (“ Definitive Certificates ” and, together with the Global Certificate, “ Warrant Certificates ”) registered as requested through the DTC system.

 

2.2        Issuance and Registration of Warrants .

 

2.2.1 Warrant Register . The Warrant Agent shall maintain books (the “ Warrant Register ”) for the registration of original issuance and the registration of transfer of the Warrants.
     
2.2.2 Issuance of Warrants . Upon the initial issuance of the Warrants, the Warrant Agent shall issue the Global Certificate and deliver the Warrants in the DTC book-entry settlement system in accordance with written instructions delivered to the Warrant Agent by the Company. Ownership of security entitlements in the Warrants shall be shown on, and the transfer of such ownership shall be effected through, records maintained (i) by DTC or its nominee or (ii) by institutions that have accounts with DTC (each, a “ Participant ”).
     
2.2.3 Beneficial Owner; Holder . Prior to due presentment for registration of transfer of any Warrant, the Company and the Warrant Agent may deem and treat the person in whose name that Warrant shall be registered on the Warrant Register (the “ Holder ”) as the absolute owner of such Warrant for purposes of any exercise thereof, and for all other purposes, and neither the Company nor the Warrant Agent shall be affected by any notice to the contrary. Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing herein shall prevent the Company, the Warrant Agent or any agent of the Company or the Warrant Agent from giving effect to any written certification, proxy or other authorization furnished by DTC governing the exercise of the rights of a holder of a beneficial interest in any Warrant. The rights of beneficial owners in a Warrant evidenced by the Global Certificate shall be exercised by the Holder or a Participant through the DTC system, except to the extent set forth herein or in the Global Certificate.

 

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2.2.4 Execution . The Warrant Certificates shall be executed on behalf of the Company by any authorized officer of the Company (an “Authorized Officer”), which need not be the same authorized signatory for all of the Warrant Certificates, either manually or by facsimile signature. The Warrant Certificates shall be countersigned by an authorized signatory of the Warrant Agent, which need not be the same signatory for all of the Warrant Certificates, and no Warrant Certificate shall be valid for any purpose unless so countersigned. In case any Authorized Officer of the Company that signed any of the Warrant Certificates ceases to be an Authorized Officer of the Company before countersignature by the Warrant Agent and issuance and delivery by the Company, such Warrant Certificates, nevertheless, may be countersigned by the Warrant Agent, issued and delivered with the same force and effect as though the person who signed such Warrant Certificates had not ceased to be such officer of the Company; and any Warrant Certificate may be signed on behalf of the Company by any person who, at the actual date of the execution of such Warrant Certificate, shall be an Authorized Officer of the Company authorized to sign such Warrant Certificate, although at the date of the execution of this Agreement any such person was not such an Authorized Officer.
     
2.2.5 Registration of Transfer . At any time at or prior to the Expiration Date (as defined below), a transfer of any Warrants may be registered and any Warrant Certificate or Warrant Certificates may be split up, combined or exchanged for another Warrant Certificate or Warrant Certificates evidencing the same number of Warrants as the Warrant Certificate or Warrant Certificates surrendered. Any Holder desiring to register the transfer of Warrants or to split up, combine or exchange any Warrant Certificate shall make such request in writing delivered to the Warrant Agent, and shall surrender to the Warrant Agent the Warrant Certificate or Warrant Certificates evidencing the Warrants the transfer of which is to be registered or that is or are to be split up, combined or exchanged and, in the case of registration of transfer, shall provide a signature guarantee. Thereupon, the Warrant Agent shall countersign and deliver to the person entitled thereto a Warrant Certificate or Warrant Certificates, as the case may be, as so requested. The Company and the Warrant Agent may require payment from the Holder requesting a registration of transfer of Warrants or a split-up, combination or exchange of a Warrant Certificate (but, for purposes of clarity, not upon the exercise of the Warrants and issuance of Warrant Shares to the Holder), of a sum sufficient to cover any tax or governmental charge that may be imposed in connection with such registration of transfer, split-up, combination or exchange, together with reimbursement to the Company and the Warrant Agent of all reasonable expenses incidental thereto. Any Warrant Certificate or Warrant Certificates surrendered pursuant to this Section 2.2.5 shall be delivered by the Warrant Agent to the Company upon request.

 

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2.2.6 Loss, Theft and Mutilation of Warrant Certificates . Upon receipt by the Company and the Warrant Agent of evidence reasonably satisfactory to them of the loss, theft, destruction or mutilation of a Warrant Certificate, and, in case of loss, theft or destruction, of indemnity or security in customary form and amount, and reimbursement to the Company and the Warrant Agent of all reasonable expenses incidental thereto, and upon surrender to the Warrant Agent and cancellation of the Warrant Certificate if mutilated, the Warrant Agent shall, on behalf of the Company, countersign and deliver a new Warrant Certificate of like denomination, tenor and date to the Holder in lieu of the Warrant Certificate so lost, stolen, destroyed or mutilated. The Warrant Agent may charge the Holder an administrative fee for processing the replacement of lost Warrant Certificates, which shall be charged only once in instances where a single surety bond obtained covers multiple certificates. The Warrant Agent may receive compensation from the surety companies or surety agents for administrative services provided to them.
     
2.2.7 Proxies . The Holder of a Warrant may grant proxies or otherwise authorize any person, including the Participants and beneficial holders that may own interests through the Participants, to take any action that a Holder is entitled to take under this Agreement or the Warrants; provided, however, that at all times that Warrants are evidenced by a Global Certificate, exercise of those Warrants shall be effected on their behalf by Participants through DTC in accordance the procedures administered by DTC.

 

2.3        Additional Warrants to be Issued . At any time following the consummation of the Offering, the Warrant Agent may issue additional warrants to purchase Common Stock (“ Additional Warrants ”) on the same terms and conditions as the Warrants in the Offering, upon receipt of joint written instructions from the Company and Maxim Group LLC for the issuance thereof. Such Additional Warrants, and the obligations of the Company and the Warrant Agent with respect thereto, shall be subject to the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement in all respects.

 

3.            Terms and Exercise of Warrants .

 

3.1        Exercise Price . Each Warrant shall, when countersigned by the Warrant Agent, entitle the Holder, subject to the provisions of the applicable Warrant Certificate and of this Agreement, to purchase from the Company the number of shares of Common Stock stated therein, at the initial price of $[___] per share, subject to the subsequent adjustments provided in Section 4 hereof. The term “ Exercise Price ” as used in this Agreement refers to the price per share at which shares of Common Stock may be purchased at the time a Warrant is exercised. The Company in its sole discretion may lower the Exercise Price at any time prior to the Expiration Date for a period of not less than twenty (20) business days, provided, that the Company shall provide at least five (5) days prior written notice of such reduction to the Holders of the Warrants, and provided further, that any such reduction shall be identical among all of the Warrants.

 

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3.2        Duration of Warrants . Warrants may be exercised only during the period (the “ Exercise Period ”) commencing on the Issuance Date and terminating at 5:00 p.m., New York City time on [__________] (the “ Expiration Date ”). Each Warrant not exercised on or before the Expiration Date shall become void, and all rights thereunder and all rights in respect thereof under this Agreement shall cease at 5:00 p.m., New York City time on the Expiration Date. The Company in its sole discretion may extend the duration of the Warrants by delaying the Expiration Date, provided, that the Company shall provide at least five (5) days prior written notice of any such extension to Holders of the Warrants, and provided further, that any such extension shall be identical in duration among all of the Warrants.

 

3.3        Exercise of Warrants .

 

3.3.1        Exercise and Payment . (a) Subject to the provisions of this Agreement, a Holder (or a Participant acting on behalf of a Holder in accordance with DTC procedures) may exercise Warrants by delivering to the Warrant Agent, not later than 5:00 p.m., New York City time on any business day during the Exercise Period (i) the Warrants to be exercised by (A) surrender of the Warrant Certificate evidencing the Warrants to the Warrant Agent at its office designated for such purpose or (B) delivery of the Warrants to an account of the Warrant Agent at DTC designated for such purpose in writing by the Warrant Agent to DTC from time to time, (ii) an election to purchase the Warrant Shares underlying the Warrants to be exercised (A) in the form included in Exhibit B to this Agreement or (B) via an electronic warrant exercise through the DTC system (each, an “ Election to Purchase ”) and (iii) the Exercise Price per share for each Warrant to be exercised (and, if applicable, any taxes or charges due in connection with the exercise of such Warrants), in lawful money of the United States of America by (A) certified or official bank check payable to [__________], (B) bank wire transfer in immediately available funds to [__________] or (C) payment to the Warrant Agent through the DTC system.

 

(b)       If any of (i) the Warrants, (ii) the Election to Purchase, or (iii) the Exercise Price therefor (and, if applicable, any taxes or charges due in connection with the exercise of such Warrants), is received by the Warrant Agent on any date after 5:00 P.M., New York City time, or on a date that is not a Trading Day, the Warrants with respect thereto will be deemed to have been received and exercised on the Trading Day next succeeding such date. “ Trading Day ” means any day on which the Common Stock is traded on the Trading Market, or, if the Trading Market is not the principal trading market for the Common Stock, then on the principal securities exchange or securities market in the United States on which the Common Stock is then traded, provided that “Trading Day” shall not include any day on which the Common Stock is scheduled to trade on such exchange or market for less than 4.5 hours or any day that the Common Stock is suspended from trading during the final hour of trading on such exchange or market (or if such exchange or market does not designate in advance the closing time of trading on such exchange or market, then during the hour ending at 4:00 P.M., New York City time). “ Trading Market ” means The NASDAQ Capital Market, The NASDAQ Global Market, The NASDAQ Global Select Market, the New York Stock Exchange or the NYSE MKT. The “ Exercise Date ” will be the date on which the materials in the first sentence of this Section 3.3.1(b) are received by the Warrant Agent (if by 5:00 P.M., New York City time), or the following Trading Day (if after 5:00 P.M., New York City time), regardless of any earlier date written on the materials. If the Warrants are received or deemed to be received after the Expiration Date, the exercise thereof will be null and void and any funds delivered to the Warrant Agent will be returned to the Holder or Participant, as the case may be, as soon as practicable. In no event will interest accrue on any funds deposited with the Warrant Agent in respect of an exercise or attempted exercise of Warrants.

 

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 (c)       The Warrant Agent shall deposit all funds received by it in payment of the Exercise Price in the account of the Company maintained with the Warrant Agent for such purpose and shall advise the Company via telephone at the end of each day on which funds for the exercise of the Warrants are received of the amount so deposited to such account. The Warrant Agent shall promptly confirm such telephonic advice to the Company in writing.

 

(d)       If less than all the Warrants evidenced by a surrendered Warrant Certificate are exercised, the Warrant Agent shall split up the surrendered Warrant Certificate and return to the Holder a Warrant Certificate evidencing the Warrants that were not exercised.

 

3.3.2        Issuance of Warrant Shares . As soon as practicable, but no later than 5:00 P.M., New York City time, on the third Trading Day following the Exercise Date of any Warrant and the clearance of the funds in payment of the Exercise Price (such date and time, the “ Delivery Time ”), the Warrant Agent shall direct the transfer agent for the Company’s Common Stock (the “ Transfer Agent ”) to, (i) provided that the Transfer Agent is participating in the DTC Fast Automated Securities Transfer Program at such time, credit such aggregate number of shares of Common Stock to which the Holder is entitled pursuant to such exercise to the Holder’s or its designee’s balance account with DTC through its Deposit/Withdrawal at Custodian System, or (ii) if the Transfer Agent is not participating in the DTC Fast Automated Securities Transfer Program at such time, issue to the Holder of such Warrant a certificate or certificates for the number of full shares of Common Stock to which he, she or it is entitled, registered in such name or names as may be directed by him, her or it.

 

3.3.3        Valid Issuance . All Warrant Shares issuable upon the proper exercise of a Warrant in conformity with this Agreement shall be validly issued, fully paid and nonassessable.

 

3.3.4        No Fractional Exercise . No fractional Warrant Shares will be issued upon the exercise of Warrants. As to any fraction of a share which the Holder would otherwise be entitled to purchase upon such exercise, the Company shall, at its election, either pay a cash adjustment in respect of such final fraction in an amount equal to such fraction multiplied by the Exercise Price or round up to the nearest whole number the number of shares of Common Stock to be issued to such Holder.

 

3.3.5        No Transfer Taxes . The Company shall not be required to pay any stamp or other tax or charge required to be paid in connection with the exercise of Warrants; and the Company shall not be required to issue or deliver any Warrant Shares until such tax or other charge shall have been paid or it has been established to the Company’s and the Warrant Agent’s satisfaction that no such tax or other charge is due. For purposes of clarity, the Company shall pay any stamp or other tax or charge required to be paid in connection with any issuance to the Holder of the Warrant Shares upon the exercise of Warrants.

 

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3.3.6        Date of Issuance . The Company will treat an exercising Holder as a beneficial owner of the Warrant Shares as of the Exercise Date, except that, if the Exercise Date is a date when the stock transfer books of the Company are closed, such person shall be deemed to have become the holder of such shares at the open of business on the next succeeding date on which the stock transfer books are open.

 

3.3.7        Restrictive Legend Events; Cashless Exercise Under Certain Circumstances .

 

(a)       The Company shall use its best efforts to maintain the effectiveness of the Registration Statement and the current status of the prospectus included therein, or file and maintain the effectiveness of another registration statement and another current prospectus covering the Warrants and the Warrant Shares, until the expiration of the Warrants in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement. The Company shall provide to the Warrant Agent and each Holder prompt written notice of any time that the Company is unable to deliver the Warrant Shares via DTC transfer or otherwise without restrictive legend because (A) the Commission has issued a stop order with respect to the Registration Statement, (B) the Commission otherwise has suspended or withdrawn the effectiveness of the Registration Statement, either temporarily or permanently, (C) the Company has suspended or withdrawn the effectiveness of the Registration Statement, either temporarily or permanently, (D) the prospectus contained in the Registration Statement is not available for the issuance of the Warrant Shares to the Holder or (E) otherwise (each a “ Restrictive Legend Event ”). To the extent that the Warrants cannot be exercised as a result of a Restrictive Legend Event or a Restrictive Legend Event occurs after a Holder has exercised Warrants in accordance with the terms of the Warrants but prior to the delivery of the Warrant Shares, the Company shall, at the election of the Holder, which shall be given within five (5) days of receipt of such notice of the Restrictive Legend Event, either (A) rescind the previously submitted Election to Purchase and the Company shall return all consideration paid by the Holder for such shares upon such rescission or (B) treat the attempted exercise as a cashless exercise as described in paragraph (b) below and refund the cash portion of the Exercise Price to the Holder.

 

(b)       If a Restrictive Legend Event has occurred, the Warrant shall only be exercisable on a cashless basis. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the Company shall not be required to make any cash payments or net cash settlement to the Holder in lieu of delivery of the Warrant Shares. Upon a “cashless exercise”, the Holder shall be entitled to receive the number of Warrant Shares equal to the quotient obtained by dividing (i) the product of (C) multiplied by (A-B) by (ii) (A), where:

 

(A)       = the VWAP on the Trading Day immediately preceding the Exercise Date;

 

(B)       = the Exercise Price of the Warrant, as adjusted as set forth herein; and

 

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(C)         = the number of Warrant Shares that would be issuable upon exercise of the Warrant in accordance with the terms of the Warrant if such exercise were by means of a cash exercise rather than a cashless exercise.

 

For purposes of this Agreement, “ VWAP ” means, for any date, the price determined by the first of the following clauses that applies: (a) if the Common Stock is then listed or quoted on a Trading Market, the daily volume weighted average price of the Common Stock for such date (or the nearest preceding date) on the Trading Market on which the Common Stock is then listed or quoted as reported by Bloomberg L.P. (based on a Trading Day from 9:30 a.m. (New York City time) to 4:02 p.m. (New York City time)), (b) the volume weighted average price of the Common Stock for such date (or the nearest preceding date) on the OTC Bulletin Board, (c) if the Common Stock is not then listed or quoted for trading on the OTC Bulletin Board and if prices for the Common Stock are then reported in the OTCQB maintained by OTC Markets Group, Inc. (or a similar organization or agency succeeding to its functions of reporting prices), the most recent bid price per share of Common Stock so reported, or (d) in all other cases, the fair market value of a share of Common Stock as determined by an independent appraiser selected in good faith by the Company, the fees and expenses of which shall be paid by the Company.

 

If the Warrant Shares are issued in such a cashless exercise, the Company acknowledges and agrees that, in accordance with Section 3(a)(9) of the Securities Act, the Warrant Shares shall take on the registered characteristics of the Warrants being exercised and the Company agrees not to take any position contrary thereto. Upon receipt of an Election to Purchase for a cashless exercise, the Warrant Agent will promptly deliver a copy of the Election to Purchase to the Company to confirm the number of Warrant Shares issuable in connection with the cashless exercise. The Company shall calculate and transmit to the Warrant Agent in a written notice, and the Warrant Agent shall have no duty, responsibility or obligation under this section to calculate, the number of Warrant Shares issuable in connection with any cashless exercise. The Warrant Agent shall be entitled to rely conclusively on any such written notice provided by the Company, and the Warrant Agent shall not be liable for any action taken, suffered or omitted to be taken by it in accordance with such written instructions or pursuant to this Agreement.

 

3.3.8        Disputes . In the case of a dispute as to the determination of the Exercise Price or the arithmetic calculation of the number of Warrant Shares issuable in connection with any exercise, the Company shall promptly deliver to the Holder the number of Warrant Shares that are not disputed.

 

3.3.9        Compensation for Buy-In on Failure to Timely Deliver Warrant Shares Upon Exercise . In addition to any other rights available to the Holder, if the Company fails to cause the Transfer Agent to deliver the Warrant Shares to the Holder pursuant to Section 3.3.2 on or before 5:00 p.m. (New York City time) on the second Trading Day after the Delivery Time, and if after such date the beneficial owner is required by its broker to purchase (in an open market transaction or otherwise) or the beneficial owner’s brokerage firm otherwise purchases, Common Stock to deliver in satisfaction of a sale by the beneficial owner of the Warrant Shares, which the beneficial owner anticipated receiving upon such exercise (a “ Buy-In ”), then the Company shall (A) pay in cash to the Holder the amount, if any, by which (x) the beneficial owner’s total purchase price (including brokerage commissions, if any) for the Common Stock so purchased exceeds (y) the amount obtained by multiplying (1) the number of Warrant Shares that the Company was required to deliver to the Holder in connection with the exercise at issue times (2) the price at which the sell order giving rise to such purchase obligation was executed, and (B) at the option of the Holder, either reinstate the portion of the Warrant and equivalent number of Warrant Shares for which such exercise was not honored (in which case such exercise shall be deemed rescinded) or deliver to the Holder the number of Warrant Shares that would have been issued had the Company timely complied with its delivery obligations. For example, if the beneficial owner purchases Common Stock having a total purchase price of $11,000 to cover a Buy-In with respect to an attempted exercise of Warrant Shares with an aggregate sale price giving rise to such purchase obligation of $10,000, under clause (A) of the immediately preceding sentence, the Company shall be required to pay the Holder $1,000 for the benefit of the beneficial owner. The Holder shall provide the Company written notice indicating the amounts payable to the Holder in respect of the Buy-In and, upon request of the Company, evidence of the amount of such loss. Nothing herein shall limit right of a Holder to pursue any other remedies available to it hereunder, at law or in equity including, without limitation, a decree of specific performance and/or injunctive relief with respect to the Company’s failure to timely deliver Warrant Shares upon exercise of Warrants as required pursuant to the terms hereof.

 

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3.3.10        Beneficial Ownership Limitation . A Holder shall not have the right to exercise any Warrants to the extent that after giving effect to the issuance of Warrant Shares after such exercise as set forth on the applicable Election to Purchase, such Holder or a person holding through such Holder (together with such Holder’s or person’s Affiliates (as defined in Rule 405 under the Securities Act), and any other persons acting as a group together with that Holder or person or any of that Holder’s or person’s Affiliates), would beneficially own in excess of 4.99% (the “ Beneficial Ownership Limitation ”) of the Company’s Common Stock. For purposes of the foregoing sentence, the number of shares of Common Stock beneficially owned by a person shall include the number of Warrant Shares that would be owned by that person issuable upon exercise of the Warrants with respect to which such determination is being made, but shall exclude the number of Warrant Shares (i) which would be issuable upon exercise of the remaining, non-exercised Warrants beneficially owned by that person or any of its Affiliates and (ii) underlying any other securities of the Company held by such Holder or its Affiliates that are exercisable or convertible into Common Stock and subject to a limitation on conversion or exercise that is analogous to the limitation contained in this Section 3.3.10 . Except as set forth in the preceding sentence, for purposes of this Section 3.3.10 , beneficial ownership shall be calculated in accordance with Section 13(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “ Exchange Act ”) and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, it being acknowledged by the Holder that neither the Warrant Agent nor the Company is representing to the Holder that such calculation is in compliance with Section 13(d) of the Exchange Act and the Holder or beneficial owner is solely responsible for any schedules required to be filed in accordance therewith. To the extent that the limitation contained in this Section 3.3.10 applies, the determination of whether a Warrant is exercisable and of the number of Warrants that are exercisable shall be in the sole discretion of the Holder, and the submission of an Election to Purchase shall be deemed to be the Holder’s determination of whether such Warrant is exercisable and of the number of Warrants that are exercisable, and neither the Warrant Agent nor the Company shall have any obligation to verify or confirm the accuracy of such determination and neither of them shall have any liability for any error made by the Holder or any other person. In addition, a determination as to any group status as contemplated above shall be determined in accordance with Section 13(d) of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder. For purposes of this Section 3.3.10 , in determining the number of outstanding shares of Common Stock, a Holder or other person may rely on the number of outstanding shares of Common Stock as reflected in (A) the Company’s most recent periodic or annual report filed with the Commission, as the case may be, (B) a more recent public announcement by the Company or (C) a more recent written notice by the Company or the Transfer Agent setting forth the number of shares of Common Stock outstanding. For any reason at any time, upon the written or oral request of a person that represents that it is or is acting on behalf of a Holder, the Company shall, within two (2) Trading Days, confirm orally or in writing or by e-mail to that person the number of shares of Common Stock then outstanding. Upon delivery of a written notice to the Company, the Holder may from time to time increase or decrease the Beneficial Ownership Limitation to any other percentage not in excess of 9.99% as specified in such notice, provided that any increase in the Beneficial Ownership Limitation will not be effective until the sixty-first (61st) day after such notice is delivered to the Company and any such increase or decrease will apply only to the Holder and its Affiliates and not to any other holder of Warrants. The provisions of this Section 3.3.10 shall be construed and implemented in a manner otherwise than in strict conformity with the terms of this Section 3.3.10 to correct this subsection (or any portion hereof) which may be defective or inconsistent with the intended beneficial ownership limitation herein contained.

 

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4.            Adjustments .

 

4.1        Adjustment upon Subdivisions or Combinations . If the Company at any time after the Issuance Date subdivides (by any stock split, stock dividend, recapitalization, reorganization, scheme of arrangement or otherwise) its outstanding Common Stock into a greater number of shares of Common Stock, the Exercise Price in effect immediately prior to such subdivision will be proportionately reduced and the number of Warrant Shares will be proportionately increased. If the Company at any time after the Issuance Date combines (by any stock split, stock dividend, recapitalization, reorganization, scheme, arrangement or otherwise) its outstanding Common Stock into a smaller number of shares of Common Stock, the Exercise Price in effect immediately prior to such combination will be proportionately increased and the number of Warrant Shares will be proportionately decreased. Any adjustment under this Section 4.1 shall become effective at 5:00 p.m., New York City time on the date the subdivision or combination or ratio change becomes effective. The Company shall promptly notify the Warrant Agent in writing of any adjustment to the Warrants and give specific instructions to the Warrant Agent with respect to any adjustments to the Warrant Register.

 

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4.2        Reclassification, Consolidation, Purchase, Combination, Sale or Conveyance . If, at any time while the Warrants are outstanding, (i) the Company, directly or indirectly, in one or more related transactions effects any merger or consolidation of the Company with or into another person, (ii) the Company, directly or indirectly, effects any sale, lease, license, assignment, transfer, conveyance or other disposition of all or substantially all of its assets in one or a series of related transactions, (iii) any direct or indirect purchase offer, tender offer or exchange offer (whether by the Company or another person) is completed pursuant to which holders of Common Stock are permitted to sell, tender or exchange their shares for other securities, cash or property and has been accepted by the holders of 50% or more of the outstanding Common Stock (not including any shares of Common Stock held by the other person or other persons making or party to, or associated or affiliated with the other persons making, such purchase offer, tender offer or exchange offer), (iv) the Company, directly or indirectly, in one or more related transactions effects any reclassification, reorganization or recapitalization of Common Stock or any compulsory share exchange pursuant to which the shares of Common Stock are effectively converted into or exchanged for other securities, cash or property, or (v) the Company, directly or indirectly, in one or more related transactions consummates a stock or share purchase agreement or other business combination (including, without limitation, a reorganization, recapitalization, spin-off or scheme of arrangement) with another person whereby such other person acquires more than 50% of the outstanding Common Stock (not including any Common Stock held by the other person or other persons making or party to, or associated or affiliated with the other persons making or party to, such stock or share purchase agreement or other business combination) (each a “ Fundamental Transaction ”), then, upon any subsequent exercise of a Warrant, the Holder shall have the right to receive, for each Warrant Share that would have been issuable upon such exercise immediately prior to the occurrence of such Fundamental Transaction (without regard to any limitation in Section 3.3.10 on the exercise of the Warrants), the number of shares, if any, of the successor or acquiring corporation or of the Company, if it is the surviving corporation, and any additional consideration (the “ Alternate Consideration ”) receivable as a result of such Fundamental Transaction by a holder of the number of shares of Common Stock for which this Warrant is exercisable immediately prior to such Fundamental Transaction (without regard to any limitation in Section 3.3.10 on the exercise of the Warrants). For purposes of any such exercise, the determination of the Exercise Price shall be appropriately adjusted to apply to such Alternate Consideration based on the amount of Alternate Consideration issuable in respect of one share of Common Stock in such Fundamental Transaction and the Company shall apportion the Exercise Price among the Alternate Consideration in a reasonable manner reflecting the relative value of any different components of the Alternate Consideration. If holders of Common Stock are given any choice as to the securities, cash or property to be received in a Fundamental Transaction, then the Holder shall be given the same choice as to the Alternate Consideration it receives upon any exercise of this Warrant following such Fundamental Transaction. The Company shall cause any successor entity in a Fundamental Transaction in which the Company is not the survivor (the “ Successor Entity ”), to assume in writing all of the obligations of the Company under this Agreement in accordance with the provisions of this Section 4.2 pursuant to written agreements in customary form and shall, upon the written request of the Holder of Warrants, deliver to that Holder in exchange for those Warrants a security of the Successor Entity evidenced by a written instrument substantially similar in form and substance to those Warrants that is exercisable for a corresponding number of shares of capital stock of such Successor Entity (or its parent entity), if any, plus any Alternate Consideration, receivable as a result of such Fundamental Transaction by a holder of the number of shares of Common Stock for which those Warrants were exercisable immediately prior to such Fundamental Transaction, and with an exercise price which applies the exercise price hereunder to such shares of capital stock, if any, plus any Alternate Consideration (but taking into account the relative value of the shares of Common Stock prior to such Fundamental Transaction and the value of such shares of capital stock plus Alternative Consideration after that Fundamental Transaction, for the purpose of protecting the economic value those Warrants had immediately prior to the consummation of such Fundamental Transaction). Upon the occurrence of any such Fundamental Transaction the Successor Entity shall succeed to, and be substituted for (so that from and after the date of such Fundamental Transaction, the provisions of this Agreement and the Warrant referring to the “Company” shall refer instead to the Successor Entity), and may exercise every right and power of the Company and shall assume all of the obligations of the Company under this Agreement and the Warrant with the same effect as if such Successor Entity had been named as the Company herein.

 

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The Company shall instruct the Warrant Agent in writing to mail by first class mail, postage prepaid, to each Holder, written notice of the execution of any such amendment, supplement or agreement with the Successor Entity. Any supplemented or amended agreement entered into by the successor corporation or transferee shall provide for adjustments, which shall be as nearly equivalent as may be practicable to the adjustments provided for in this Section 4.2 . The Warrant Agent shall have no duty, responsibility or obligation to determine the correctness of any provisions contained in such agreement or such notice, including but not limited to any provisions relating either to the kind or amount of securities or other property receivable upon exercise of warrants or with respect to the method employed and provided therein for any adjustments, and shall be entitled to rely conclusively for all purposes upon the provisions contained in any such agreement. The provisions of this Section 4.2 shall similarly apply to successive reclassifications, changes, consolidations, mergers, sales and conveyances of the kind described above.

 

4.3        Notices of Changes in Warrant . Upon every adjustment of the Exercise Price or the number of Warrant Shares issuable upon exercise of a Warrant, the Company shall give written notice thereof to the Warrant Agent, which notice shall state the Exercise Price resulting from such adjustment and the increase or decrease, if any, in the number of Warrant Shares purchasable at such price upon the exercise of a Warrant, setting forth in reasonable detail the method of calculation and the facts upon which such calculation is based. Upon the occurrence of any event specified in Sections 4.1 or 4.2 , or in Sections 5.1 or 5.2 below, then, in any such event, the Company shall give written notice of the occurrence of such event to each Holder of a Warrant, at the last address set forth for such Holder in the Warrant Register, of the record date or the effective date of the event. The Warrant Agent shall be entitled to rely conclusively on, and shall be fully protected in relying on, any certificate, notice or instructions provided by the Company with respect to any adjustment of the Exercise Price or the number of Warrant Shares issuable upon exercise of a Warrant, or any related matter, and the Warrant Agent shall not be liable for any action taken, suffered or omitted to be taken by it in accordance with any such certificate, notice or instructions or pursuant to this Agreement. The Warrant Agent shall not be deemed to have knowledge of any such adjustment unless and until it shall have received written notice thereof from the Company.

 

4.4        Other Events . In case any event shall occur affecting the Company as to which none of the provisions of preceding subsections of this Section 4 are strictly applicable, but which would require an adjustment to the terms of the Warrants in order to (i) avoid an adverse impact on the Warrants and (ii) effectuate the intent and purpose of this Section 4 , then, in each such case, the Company’s Board of Directors shall make such adjustments in the application of such provisions, as shall be reasonably necessary, in the good faith opinion of the Company’s Board of Directors, to effectuate the intent and purpose of this Section 4 .

 

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5.            Other Rights .

 

5.1        Purchase Rights . If, during the Exercise Period, the Company grants, issues or sells any options, convertible securities or rights to purchase stock, warrants, securities or other property pro rata to the record holders of any class of Common Stock (the “ Purchase Rights ”), then, in each such case, the Holder shall be entitled to acquire, upon the terms applicable to such Purchase Rights, the aggregate Purchase Rights which the Holder could have acquired if the Holder had held the number of shares of Common Stock acquirable upon complete exercise of the Warrant (without regard to any limitations on exercise of the Warrant, including without limitation, the Beneficial Ownership Limitation) immediately before the date on which a record is taken for the grant, issuance or sale of such Purchase Rights, or, if no such record is taken, the date as of which the record holders of Common Stock are to be determined for the grant, issue or sale of such Purchase Rights (provided, however, to the extent that the Holder’s right to participate in any such Purchase Right would result in the Holder and its Affiliates exceeding the Beneficial Ownership Limitation, then the Holder shall not be entitled to participate in such Purchase Right to such extent (and shall not be entitled to beneficial ownership of such shares of Common Stock as a result of such Purchase Right (and beneficial ownership) to such extent) and such Purchase Right to such extent shall be held in abeyance for the benefit of the Holder until such time or times, if ever, as its right thereto would not result in the Holder and its Affiliates exceeding the Beneficial Ownership Limitation, at which time or times the Holder shall be granted such right (and any Purchase Right granted, issued or sold on such initial Purchase Right or on any subsequent Purchase Right held similarly in abeyance) to the same extent as if there had been no such limitation).

 

5.2        Rights Upon Distribution of Assets . In addition to any adjustments pursuant to Section 4 above, if, during the Exercise Period, the Company shall declare or make any dividend or other distribution of its assets (or rights to acquire its assets) to holders of shares of Common Stock, by way of return of capital or otherwise (including, without limitation, any distribution of cash, stock or other securities, property, options, evidence of indebtedness or any other assets by way of a dividend, spin off, reclassification, corporate rearrangement, scheme of arrangement or other similar transaction) (a “ Distribution ”), then, in each such case, the Holder shall be entitled to participate in such Distribution to the same extent that the Holder would have participated therein if the Holder had held the number of shares of Common Stock acquirable upon complete exercise of the Warrant (without regard to any limitations or restrictions on exercise of the Warrant, including without limitation, the Beneficial Ownership Limitation) immediately before the date of which a record is taken for such Distribution, or, if no such record is taken, the date as of which the record holders of shares of Common Stock are to be determined for the participation in such Distribution (provided, however, that to the extent that the Holder’s right to participate in any such Distribution would result in the Holder and its Affiliates exceeding the Beneficial Ownership Limitation, then the Holder shall not be entitled to participate in such Distribution to such extent (and shall not be entitled to beneficial ownership of such shares of Common Stock as a result of such Distribution (and beneficial ownership) to such extent) and such Distribution to such extent shall be held in abeyance for the benefit of the Holder until such time or times, if ever, as its right thereto would not result in the Holder and its Affiliates exceeding the Beneficial Ownership Limitation, at which time or times the Holder shall be granted such Distribution (and any Distributions declared or made on such initial Distribution or on any subsequent Distribution held similarly in abeyance) to the same extent as if there had been no such limitation).

 

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6.            Restrictive Legends; Fractional Warrants . In the event that a Warrant Certificate surrendered for transfer bears a restrictive legend, the Warrant Agent shall not register that transfer until the Warrant Agent has received an opinion of counsel for the Company stating that such transfer may be made and indicating whether the Warrants must also bear a restrictive legend upon that transfer. The Warrant Agent shall not be required to effect any registration of transfer or exchange which will result in the transfer of or delivery of a Warrant Certificate for a fraction of a Warrant.

 

7.            Other Provisions Relating to Rights of Holders of Warrants .

 

7.1        No Rights as Stockholder . Except as otherwise specifically provided herein, a Holder, solely in its capacity as the registered holder of Warrants, shall not be entitled to vote or receive dividends or be deemed the holder of capital stock of the Company for any purpose, nor shall anything contained in this Agreement be construed to confer upon a Holder, solely in its capacity as the registered holder of Warrants, any of the rights of a stockholder of the Company or any right to vote, give or withhold consent to any corporate action (whether any reorganization, issue of stock, reclassification of share capital, consolidation, merger, conveyance or otherwise), receive notice of meetings, receive dividends or subscription rights or rights to participate in new issues of shares, or otherwise, prior to the issuance to the Holder of the Warrant Shares which it is then entitled to receive upon the due exercise of Warrants.

 

7.2        Reservation of Common Stock . The Company shall at all times reserve and keep available a number of its authorized but unissued shares of Common Stock that shall be sufficient to permit the exercise in full of all outstanding Warrants issued pursuant to this Agreement.

 

7.3        Public Information Failure . If at any time, a registration statement for the Warrant Shares is not effective and available and Rule 144 under the Securities Act is not available to cover the resale of such shares of Common Stock due to the failure of the Company to be currently reporting under the Exchange Act (“ Public Information Failure ”), then the Company shall pay in cash by wire transfer of immediately available funds an amount per month equal to 1% of the aggregate VWAP of the shares into which a Warrant is converted which are not able to be delivered without legend because of such Public Information Failure to the Holder thereof until such shares are able to be delivered without legend (to be pro-rated for any periods which are less than one month).

 

7.4        NASDAQ Listing . The Company will use its best efforts to ensure the Warrants and the Warrant Shares are listed for trading on The NASDAQ Capital Market and maintain such listing. Unless and until all of the Warrants have been exercised, the Company shall continue to be obligated to comply with its listing obligations under this Section 7.4 .

 

8.            Concerning the Warrant Agent and Other Matters .

 

8.1        Payment of Taxes . The Company shall from time to time promptly pay all taxes and charges that may be imposed upon the Company or the Warrant Agent in respect of the issuance or delivery of the Warrant Shares upon the exercise of Warrants , but the Company may require the Holders to pay any transfer taxes in respect of the Warrants or such shares. The Warrant Agent may refrain from registering any transfer of Warrants or any delivery of any Warrant Shares unless or until the persons requesting the registration or issuance shall have paid to the Warrant Agent for the account of the Company the amount of such tax or charge, if any, or shall have established to the reasonable satisfaction of the Company and the Warrant Agent that such tax or charge, if any, has been paid.

 

 - 14 -

 

 

8.2          Resignation, Consolidation, or Merger of Warrant Agent .

 

8.2.1        Appointment of Successor Warrant Agent . The Warrant Agent, or any successor to it hereafter appointed, may resign its duties and be discharged from all further duties and liabilities hereunder after giving thirty (30) days’ notice in writing to the Company, or such shorter period of time agreed to by the Company. If the office of the Warrant Agent becomes vacant by resignation or incapacity to act or otherwise, the Company shall appoint in writing a successor Warrant Agent in place of the Warrant Agent. If the Company shall fail to make such appointment within a period of thirty (30) days after it has been notified in writing of such resignation or incapacity by the Warrant Agent or by the Holder of a Warrant (who shall, with such notice, submit his Warrant for inspection by the Company), then the Warrant Agent or any Holder may apply to any court of competent jurisdiction for the appointment of a successor Warrant Agent at the Company’s cost. Any successor Warrant Agent, whether appointed by the Company or by such court, shall be a corporation organized and existing under the laws of any state of the United States of America, in good standing, and authorized under such laws to exercise corporate trust powers and subject to supervision or examination by federal or state authority. After appointment, any successor Warrant Agent shall be vested with all the authority, powers, rights, immunities, duties, and obligations of its predecessor Warrant Agent with like effect as if originally named as Warrant Agent hereunder, without any further act or deed, and except for executing and delivering documents as provided in the sentence that follows, the predecessor Warrant Agent shall have no further duties, obligations, responsibilities or liabilities hereunder, but shall be entitled to all rights that survive the termination of this Agreement and the resignation of the Warrant Agent, including but not limited to its right to indemnity hereunder. If for any reason it becomes necessary or appropriate, the predecessor Warrant Agent shall execute and deliver, at the expense of the Company, an instrument transferring to such successor Warrant Agent all the authority, powers, and rights of such predecessor Warrant Agent hereunder; and upon request of any successor Warrant Agent the Company shall make, execute, acknowledge, and deliver any and all instruments in writing for more fully and effectually vesting in and confirming to such successor Warrant Agent all such authority, powers, rights, immunities, duties, and obligations.

 

8.2.2        Notice of Successor Warrant Agent . In the event a successor Warrant Agent shall be appointed, the Company shall give notice thereof to the predecessor Warrant Agent and the Transfer Agent for the Common Stock not later than the effective date of any such appointment.

 

8.2.3        Merger or Consolidation of Warrant Agent . Any person into which the Warrant Agent may be merged or converted or with which it may be consolidated or any person resulting from any merger, conversion or consolidation to which the Warrant Agent shall be a party or any person succeeding to the shareowner services business of the Warrant Agent or any successor Warrant Agent shall be the successor Warrant Agent under this Warrant Agreement, without any further act or deed. For purposes of this Warrant Agreement, “person” shall mean any individual, firm, corporation, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, association, trust or other entity, and shall include any successor (by merger or otherwise) thereof or thereto.

 

 - 15 -

 

 

8.3          Fees and Expenses of Warrant Agent .

 

8.3.1        Remuneration . The Company agrees to pay the Warrant Agent reasonable remuneration for its services as such Warrant Agent hereunder and shall, pursuant to its obligations under this Agreement, reimburse the Warrant Agent upon demand for all expenditures that the Warrant Agent may reasonably incur in the execution of its duties hereunder.

 

8.3.2        Further Assurances . The Company agrees to perform, execute, acknowledge, and deliver or cause to be performed, executed, acknowledged, and delivered all such further and other acts, instruments, and assurances as may reasonably be required by the Warrant Agent for the carrying out or performing of the provisions of this Agreement.

 

8.4          Liability of Warrant Agent .

 

8.4.1        Reliance on Company Statement . Whenever in the performance of its duties under this Agreement, the Warrant Agent shall deem it necessary or desirable that any fact or matter be proved or established by the Company prior to taking or suffering any action hereunder, such fact or matter (unless other evidence in respect thereof be herein specifically prescribed) may be deemed to be conclusively proved and established by a statement signed by the Chief Executive Officer or other authorized officer of the Company and delivered to the Warrant Agent. The Warrant Agent may rely upon such statement for any action taken or suffered in good faith by it pursuant to the provisions of this Agreement.

 

8.4.2        Indemnity . The Warrant Agent shall be liable hereunder only for its own gross negligence, willful misconduct or bad faith. The Company agrees to indemnify the Warrant Agent and save it harmless against any and all liabilities, including judgments, costs and reasonable counsel fees, for anything done or omitted by the Warrant Agent in the execution of this Agreement, except as a result of the Warrant Agent’s gross negligence, willful misconduct or bad faith.

 

8.4.3        Exclusions . The Warrant Agent shall have no responsibility with respect to the validity of this Agreement or with respect to the validity or execution of any Warrant (except its countersignature thereof). The Warrant Agent shall not be responsible for any breach by the Company of any covenant or condition contained in this Agreement or in any Warrant. The Warrant Agent shall not be responsible to make any adjustments required under the provisions of Section 4 hereof or responsible for the manner, method, or amount of any such adjustment or the ascertaining of the existence of facts that would require any such adjustment; nor shall it by any act hereunder be deemed to make any representation or warranty as to the authorization or reservation of any shares of Common Stock to be issued pursuant to this Agreement or any Warrant or as to whether any Warrant Shares, when issued, be valid and fully paid and nonassessable.

 

 - 16 -

 

 

8.5        Acceptance of Agency . The Warrant Agent hereby accepts the agency established by this Agreement and agrees to perform the same upon the terms and conditions herein set forth and among other things, shall account promptly to the Company with respect to Warrants exercised and concurrently account for, and pay to the Company, all monies received by the Warrant Agent for the purchase of Warrant Shares.

 

9.            Miscellaneous Provisions .

 

9.1        Successors . All the covenants and provisions of this Agreement by or for the benefit of the Company or the Warrant Agent shall bind and inure to the benefit of their respective successors and assigns.

 

9.2        Notices . Any notice, statement or demand authorized by this Agreement to be given or made by the Warrant Agent or by the Holder of any Warrant to or on the Company shall be sufficiently given when so delivered if by hand or overnight delivery or if sent by certified mail or private courier service within five (5) days after deposit of such notice, postage prepaid, addressed (until another address is filed in writing by the Company with the Warrant Agent), as follows:

 

Blue Sphere Corporation 

301 McCullough Drive, 4 th Floor 

Charlotte, NC 28262 

Attention: Shlomi Palas, Chief Executive Officer

 

Any notice, statement or demand authorized by this Agreement to be given or made by the Holder of any Warrant or by the Company to or on the Warrant Agent shall be sufficiently given when so delivered if by hand or overnight delivery or if sent by certified mail or private courier service within five (5) days after deposit of such notice, postage prepaid, addressed (until another address is filed in writing by the Warrant Agent with the Company), as follows:

 

[__________] 

[ADDRESS] 

Attention: [__________]

 

9.3        Applicable Law . The validity, interpretation, and performance of this Agreement and of the Warrants shall be governed in all respects by the laws of the State of New York, without giving effect to conflicts of law principles that would result in the application of the substantive laws of another jurisdiction. Each of the parties hereto hereby agrees that any action, proceeding or claim against it arising out of or relating in any way to this Agreement shall be brought and enforced in the courts of the State of New York or the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York, and irrevocably submits to such jurisdiction, which jurisdiction shall be exclusive. The Company hereby waives any objection to such exclusive jurisdiction and that such courts represent an inconvenient forum.

 

9.4        Persons Having Rights under this Agreement . Nothing in this Agreement shall be construed to confer upon, or give to, any person or entity other than the parties hereto and the Holders of the Warrants any right, remedy, or claim under or by reason of this Agreement or of any covenant, condition, stipulation, promise, or agreement hereof. All covenants, conditions, stipulations, promises, and agreements contained in this Agreement shall be for the sole and exclusive benefit of the parties hereto and their successors and assigns and of the Holders of the Warrants.

 

 - 17 -

 

 

9.5        Examination of the Agreement . A copy of this Agreement shall be available at all reasonable times at the office of the Warrant Agent designated for such purpose for inspection by any Holder. Prior to such inspection, the Warrant Agent may require any such Holder to provide reasonable evidence of its interest in the Warrants.

 

9.6        Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed in any number of original or facsimile counterparts and each of such counterparts shall for all purposes be deemed to be an original, and all such counterparts shall together constitute but one and the same instrument.

 

9.7        Effect of Headings . The section headings herein are for convenience only and are not part of this Agreement and shall not affect the interpretation thereof.

 

9.8        Amendments . This Agreement may be amended by the parties hereto without the consent of any Holder for the purpose of curing any ambiguity, or curing, correcting or supplementing any defective provision contained herein or adding or changing any other provisions with respect to matters or questions arising under this Agreement as the parties may deem necessary or desirable and that the parties deem shall not adversely affect the interest of the Holders. All other modifications or amendments, including any amendment to increase the Exercise Price or shorten the Exercise Period, shall require the vote or written consent of the Holders of more than 50% of the then outstanding Warrants. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Company may lower the Exercise Price or extend the duration of the Exercise Period pursuant to Sections 3.1 and 3.2 , respectively, without the consent of the Holders. No consideration shall be offered by the Company to any Holder in connection with a modification, amendment or waiver of this Agreement or any Warrant without also offering the same consideration to all Holders.

 

9.9        Severability . This Agreement shall be deemed severable, and the invalidity or unenforceability of any term or provision hereof shall not affect the validity or enforceability of this Agreement or of any other term or provision hereof. Furthermore, in lieu of any such invalid or unenforceable term or provision, the parties hereto intend that there shall be added as a part of this Agreement a provision as similar in terms to such invalid or unenforceable provision as may be possible and be valid and enforceable.

 

 - 18 -

 

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be duly executed as of the date first above written.

     
  BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION
     
  By:  
  Name: Shlomo Palas
  Title: Chief Executive Officer
     
  [____________], as Warrant Agent
   
  By:  
  Name:
  Title:

 

[Signature Page to Warrant Agreement]

 

 - 19 -

 

 

EXHIBIT A

 

[ TO BE INCLUDED IN THE GLOBAL CERTIFICATE ]

 

[UNLESS THIS CERTIFICATE IS PRESENTED BY AN AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE OF THE DEPOSITORY TRUST COMPANY, A NEW YORK CORPORATION (“DTC”), TO ISSUER OR ITS AGENT FOR REGISTRATION OF TRANSFER, EXCHANGE, OR PAYMENT, AND ANY CERTIFICATE ISSUED IS REGISTERED IN THE NAME OF CEDE & CO. OR IN SUCH OTHER NAME AS IS REQUESTED BY AN AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE OF DTC (AND ANY PAYMENT IS MADE TO CEDE & CO. OR TO SUCH OTHER ENTITY AS IS REQUESTED BY AN AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE OF DTC), ANY TRANSFER, PLEDGE, OR OTHER USE HEREOF FOR VALUE OR OTHERWISE BY OR TO ANY PERSON IS WRONGFUL INASMUCH AS THE REGISTERED OWNER HEREOF, CEDE & CO., HAS AN INTEREST HEREIN.]

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION

 

WARRANT CERTIFICATE

NOT EXERCISABLE AFTER _____________, 20__

 

This certifies that the person whose name and address appears below, or registered assigns, is the registered owner of the number of Warrants set forth below. Each Warrant entitles its registered holder to purchase from Blue Sphere Corporation, a Nevada corporation (the “ Company ”) at any time prior to 5:00 P.M. (New York City time) on ______, 20__, at the designated office of _______________, as warrant agent (the “ Warrant Agent ”), set forth below, one share of common stock, par value $0.001 per share (the “ Common Stock ”), of the Company, at price of $____ per share, subject to possible adjustments as provided in the Warrant Agreement (as defined below).

 

This Warrant Certificate, with or without other Warrant Certificates, upon surrender at the designated office of the Warrant Agent, may be exchanged for another Warrant Certificate or Warrant Certificates evidencing the same number of Warrants as the Warrant Certificate or Warrant Certificates surrendered. A transfer of the Warrants evidenced hereby may be registered upon surrender of this Warrant Certificate at the designated office of the Warrant Agent by the registered holder in person or by a duly authorized attorney, properly endorsed or accompanied by proper instruments of transfer, a signature guarantee, and such other and further documentation as the Warrant Agent may reasonably request and duly stamped as may be required by the laws of the State of New York and of the United States of America.

 

The terms and conditions of the Warrants and the rights and obligations of the holder of this Warrant Certificate are set forth in the Warrant Agreement dated as of [         ], 2017 (the “ Warrant Agreement ”) between the Company and the Warrant Agent. A copy of the Warrant Agreement is available for inspection during business hours at the office of the Warrant Agent.

 

This Warrant Certificate shall not be valid or obligatory for any purpose until it shall have been countersigned by an authorized signatory of the Warrant Agent.

 

 

 

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Warrant Certificate to be duly executed as of this ___ of [       ], 2017.

     
  BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION
     
  By:  
  Name:
  Title: Chief Executive Officer
     
  [____________], as Warrant Agent
   
  By:  
  Name:
  Title:

 

[Signature Page to Warrant Certificate]

 

 

 

PLEASE DETACH HERE
——————————————————————————————————————

 

Certificate No.:_________ Number of Warrants:__________

 

WARRANT CUSIP NO.: _____________

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION

 

[Name & Address of Holder] [______________], Warrant Agent
   
  By mail:
   
  [ADDRESS]
   
  By hand or overnight courier:
   
  [ADDRESS]

 

 

 

 

EXHIBIT B

 

[Form of Election to Purchase]

 

(To Be Executed Upon Exercise of Warrants not evidenced by a Global Certificate)

 

The undersigned hereby irrevocably elects to exercise the right, represented by Warrants evidenced by this Warrant Certificate, to receive __________ shares of Common Stock and herewith tenders payment for such shares to the order of _________________ in the amount of $________ in accordance with the terms hereof.

 

OR

 

[In cases where cashless exercise is permitted under the Warrant Agreement] — The undersigned hereby irrevocably elects to exercise the right, represented by Warrants evidenced by this Warrant Certificate, to receive __________ shares of Common Stock (before giving effect to the cashless exercise provisions) and herewith agrees to make payment therefor pursuant to the cashless exercise provisions of the Warrant Agreement, all on the terms and the conditions specified in the Warrant Agreement.

 

The undersigned requests that a certificate for such shares be registered in the name of ___________, whose address is ________________________________________, and that such certificate be delivered to ________________, whose address is ______________________________ . If the number of Warrants being exercised hereby is less than all of the Warrants evidenced by this Warrant Certificate, the undersigned requests that a new Warrant Certificate representing the remaining unexercised Warrants be registered in the name of ___________________, whose address is _______________, and that such Warrant Certificate be delivered to ________________, whose address is __________________________.

 

Date: ____________, 20   (Signature)
    (Address)
    (Tax Identification Number)
     
Signature Guaranteed:    

Signatures must be guaranteed by an “eligible guarantor institution” meeting the requirements of the Warrant Agent, which requirements include membership or participation in the Security Transfer Agent Medallion Program (“STAMP”) or such other “signature guarantee program” as may be determined by the Warrant Agent in addition to, or in substitution for, STAMP, all in accordance with the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

 

 

 

Blue Sphere Corporation S-1/A

Exhibit 10.51

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION

 

REPRESENTATIVE’S WARRANT

 

THIS WARRANT AND THE SECURITIES ISSUABLE UPON EXERCISE HEREOF MAY NOT BE SOLD, TRANSFERRED, ASSIGNED, PLEDGED, OR HYPOTHECATED, OR BE THE SUBJECT OF ANY HEDGING, SHORT SALE, DERIVATIVE, PUT, OR CALL TRANSACTION THAT WOULD RESULT IN THE EFFECTIVE ECONOMIC DISPOSITION OF SUCH SECURITIES BY ANY PERSON FOR A PERIO D OF one hundred and eighty (180) days IMMEDI ATELY FOLLOWING THE DATE OF EFFECTIVENESS OF THE PUBLIC OFFERING OF THE COMPANY’S SECURITIES PURSUANT TO REGISTRATION STATEMENT NO. 333-215110 AS FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION, EXCEPT IN ACCORDANCE WITH FINRA RULE 5110(g)(2).

 

ISSUANCE DATE: [__], 2017

 

FOR VALUE RECEIVED , BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION, as of [__], 2017 (the “ Issuance Date ”) a Nevada corporation (the “ Company ”), hereby certifies that Maxim Group LLC, or its registered assigns (the “ Warrant Holder ”), is entitled, subject to the terms set forth below, to purchase from the Company [__________] 1 shares (the “ Warrant Shares ”) of the Company’s common stock, $0.001 par value per share (the “ Common Stock ”), exercisable at a price per share of $[___] 2 per share (the “ Exercise Price ”). This Warrant may be exercised any time and from time to time from and after the 181 st day following (the “ Initial Exercise Date ”) the Issuance Date, and through and including the third (3 rd ) anniversary of the Issuance Date (the “ Expiration Date ”), subject to the following terms and conditions set out in this Warrant.

 

1.        Registration of Warrant . The Company shall register this Warrant upon records to be maintained by the Company for that purpose (the “ Warrant Register ”), in the name of the record Warrant Holder hereof from time to time. The Company may deem and treat the registered Warrant Holder of this Warrant as the absolute owner hereof for the purpose of any exercise hereof or any distribution to the Warrant Holder, and for all other purposes, and the Company shall not be affected by notice to the contrary.

 

2.        Validity of Warrant and Issue of Shares . The Company represents and warrants that this Warrant has been duly authorized and validly issued and warrants and agrees that all of the Common Stock that may be issued upon the exercise of the rights represented by this Warrant will, when issued upon such exercise, be duly authorized, validly issued, fully paid and nonassessable and free from all taxes, liens and charges with respect to the issue thereof. The Company further warrants and agrees that during the period within which the rights represented by this Warrant may be exercised, the Company will at all times have authorized and reserved a sufficient number of shares of Common Stock to provide for the exercise of the rights represented by this Warrant.

 

 

1 An aggregate number of shares of Common Stock equal to three and one-half percent (3.5%) of the total number of shares of Common Stock and Pre-Funded Warrants, including any Option Shares (each as defined in that certain Underwriting Agreement, dated [__], 2017 (the “Underwriting Agreement”), between the Company and the Warrant Holder, acting severally on behalf of itself and as representative of the several Underwriters named on Schedule I thereto), sold on the Issuance Date pursuant to the Underwriting Agreement.

2 One hundred and twenty five percent (125%) of the initial public offering price of the Common Stock sold pursuant to the Underwriting Agreement.

 

1  

 

 

3.            Registration of Transfers and Exchange of Warrants .

 

(a)       The Company shall register the transfer of any portion of this Warrant in the Warrant Register, upon surrender of this Warrant with the Form of Assignment attached hereto as Exhibit A duly completed and signed, to the Company at the office specified in or pursuant to Section 10, and the Company may require, as a condition thereto, the payment of a sum sufficient to reimburse it for any transfer tax incidental thereto. Upon any such registration or transfer, a new warrant to purchase Common Stock, in substantially the form of this Warrant (any such new warrant, a “ New Warrant ”), evidencing the portion of this Warrant so transferred shall be issued to the transferee and a New Warrant evidencing the remaining portion of this Warrant not so transferred, if any, shall be issued to the transferring Warrant Holder. The acceptance of the New Warrant by the transferee thereof shall be deemed the acceptance of such transferee of all of the rights and obligations of a Warrant Holder of a Warrant.

 

(b)       This Warrant is exchangeable, upon the surrender hereof by the Warrant Holder to the office of the Company specified in or pursuant to Section 10 for one or more New Warrants, evidencing in the aggregate the right to purchase the number of Warrant Shares which may then be purchased hereunder. Any such New Warrant will be dated the date of such exchange.

 

(c)       Notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein, in accordance with FINRA Rule 5110(g)(1), this Warrant shall not be sold, transferred, assigned, pledged, or hypothecated, or be the subject of any hedging, short sale, derivative, put, or call transaction that would result in the effective economic disposition of this Warrant by any person for a period of 180 days immediately following the Issuance Date, except as provided in FINRA Rule 5110(g)(2).

 

4.                        Exercise of Warrants .

 

(a)       This Warrant shall be exercisable at any time and from time to time from and after the Initial Exercise Date and through and including the Expiration Date (the “ Exercise Period ”), for such number of Warrant Shares as is indicated in the form of Election to Purchase, which is attached hereto as Exhibit B and incorporated herein. If less than all of the Warrant Shares which may be purchased under this Warrant are exercised at any time, the Company shall issue or cause to be issued, at its expense, a New Warrant evidencing the right to purchase the remaining number of Warrant Shares for which no exercise has been evidenced by this Warrant. At 5:00 P.M., New York time on the Expiration Date, the portion of this Warrant not exercised prior thereto shall be and become void and of no value. The Company may not call or redeem any portion of this Warrant without the prior written consent of the Warrant Holder.

 

(b)       Exercise of this Warrant shall be made upon surrender of this Warrant with an Election to Purchase in the form attached hereto (or attached to such New Warrant), duly completed and signed to the Company, at its address set forth in Section 10, and payment of the Exercise Price (as set forth below).

 

2  

 

 

(c)       Payment upon exercise may be made at the written option of the Warrant Holder either by cashless exercise, as set forth in Section 5, or in cash, wire transfer or by certified or official bank check payable to the order of the Company equal to the applicable aggregate purchase price, for the number of Warrant Shares specified in the Election to Purchase (as such exercise number shall be adjusted to reflect any adjustment in the total number of Warrant Shares issuable to the Warrant Holder per the terms of this Warrant) and the Warrant Holder shall thereupon be entitled to receive the number of duly authorized, validly issued, fully-paid and non-assessable Warrant Shares determined as provided herein.

 

(d)       The Company shall use its best efforts to cause the Warrant Shares purchased hereunder to be transmitted by the Company’s transfer agent for the Common Stock (the “ Transfer Agent ”) to the Warrant Holder by crediting the account of the Warrant Holder’s prime broker with The Depository Trust Company through its Deposit or Withdrawal at Custodian system (“ DWAC ”) if the Company is then a participant in such system and either (i) there is an effective registration statement permitting the issuance of the Warrant Shares or resale of the Warrant Shares or (ii) this Warrant is being exercised via cashless exercise, and otherwise by physical delivery to the address specified by the Warrant Holder in the Election to Purchase by the time and date that is no later than 11:00 am, Eastern time, on the third (3 rd ) trading day after the latest of (A) the delivery to the Company of the Election to Purchase, (B) surrender of this Warrant (or any New Warrant, as applicable) and (C) payment of the aggregate Exercise Price as set forth above (including by cashless exercise, if permitted) (such date, the “ Warrant Share Delivery Date ”). The Warrant Shares shall be deemed to have been issued, and the Warrant Holder or any other person so designated to be named therein shall be deemed to have become a holder of record of such shares for all purposes, as of the date the Warrant has been exercised, with payment to the Company of the Exercise Price (or by cashless exercise, if permitted) having been paid.

 

(e)       If the Company fails to cause the Transfer Agent to transmit to the Warrant Holder the Warrant Shares pursuant to Section 4(d) by the Warrant Share Delivery Date, then the Holder will have the right to rescind such exercise.

 

(f)       With respect to the Registration Statement or the registration statement that is required to be filed pursuant to Section 8(c), the Company shall provide to the Warrant Holder prompt written notice of any time that (i) the Commission has issued a stop order with respect to any such registration statement, (ii) the Commission has otherwise suspended or withdrawn the effectiveness of any such registration statement (iii), the Company has suspended or withdrawn the effectiveness or filing of any such registration statement, or (iv) the Company otherwise fails to comply with its obligations pursuant to Section 8(c) (any of Section 4(f) (i) through (iv), a “ Registration Failure ”). In the event that a Registration Failure has occurred or is continuing at the time an Election to Purchase is delivered pursuant to Section 4(a) and as a result the Warrant Holder is unable to sell their Warrant Shares, the Company shall pay in cash to the Warrant Holder or the Warrant Holder’s brokerage firm the difference between (x) the product of (A) the number of Warrant Shares set forth in such Election to Purchase and (B) the closing sale price of the Common Stock on a national securities exchange (a “ Trading Market ”) within the meaning of Section 6 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “ Exchange Act ”), or if the Common Stock is not so listed, the most recent bid price per share of the Common Stock on the quotation system or marketplace on which the Common Stock is so quoted, on the date the Election to Purchase is delivered by the Warrant Holder, and (y) the aggregate Exercise Price that would be payable to exercise the Warrants to purchase the number of Warrant Shares referenced in such Election to Purchase if such exercise were by means of a cash exercise.

 

3  

 

  

(g)       In addition to any other rights available to the Warrant Holder, if the Company fails to cause the Transfer Agent to transmit to the Warrant Holder the Warrant Shares pursuant to an exercise on or before the Warrant Share Delivery Date, and if after such date the Warrant Holder is required by its broker to purchase (in an open market transaction or otherwise) or the Warrant Holder’s brokerage firm otherwise purchases, shares of Common Stock to deliver in satisfaction of a sale by the Warrant Holder of the Warrant Shares which the Warrant Holder anticipated receiving upon such exercise (a “ Buy-In ”), then the Company shall (A) pay in cash to the Warrant Holder the amount, if any, by which (x) the Warrant Holder’s total purchase price (including brokerage commissions, if any) for the shares of Common Stock so purchased exceeds (y) the amount obtained by multiplying (1) the number of Warrant Shares that the Company was required to deliver to the Warrant Holder in connection with the exercise at issue times (2) the price at which the sell order giving rise to such purchase obligation was executed, and (B) at the option of the Warrant Holder, either reinstate the portion of the Warrant and equivalent number of Warrant Shares for which such exercise was not honored (in which case such exercise shall be deemed rescinded) or deliver to the Warrant Holder the number of shares of Common Stock that would have been issued had the Company timely complied with its exercise and delivery obligations hereunder. For example, if the Warrant Holder purchases Common Stock having a total purchase price of $11,000 to cover a Buy-In with respect to an attempted exercise of shares of Common Stock with an aggregate sale price giving rise to such purchase obligation of $10,000, under clause (A) of the immediately preceding sentence the Company shall be required to pay the Warrant Holder $1,000. The Warrant Holder shall provide the Company written notice indicating the amounts payable to the Warrant Holder in respect of the Buy-In and, upon request of the Company, evidence of the amount of such loss. Nothing herein shall limit the Warrant Holder’s right to pursue any other remedies available to it hereunder, at law or in equity, including, without limitation, a decree of specific performance and/or injunctive relief with respect to the Company’s failure to timely deliver shares of Common Stock upon exercise of the Warrant as required pursuant to the terms hereof.

 

(h)       The Company will not close its stockholder books or records in any manner which prevents the timely exercise of this Warrant pursuant to the terms hereof.

 

4  

 

 

(i)       The Warrant Holder shall not have the right to exercise this Warrant to the extent that after giving effect to the issuance of Warrant Shares after such exercise as set forth on the applicable Election to Purchase, the Warrant Holder or a person holding through the Warrant Holder (together with the Warrant Holder’s or such person’s Affiliates (as defined in Rule 405 under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “ Securities Act ”)), and any other persons acting as a group together with the Warrant Holder or such person or any of the Warrant Holder’s or such person’s Affiliates), would beneficially own in excess of 4.99% (the “ Beneficial Ownership Limitation ”) of the Company’s Common Stock. For purposes of the foregoing sentence, the number of shares of Common Stock beneficially owned by a person shall include the number of Warrant Shares that would be owned by that person issuable upon exercise of this Warrant with respect to which such determination is being made, but shall exclude the number of Warrant Shares (i) which would be issuable upon exercise of the remaining, non-exercised Warrant beneficially owned by that person or any of its Affiliates and (ii) underlying any other securities of the Company held by the Warrant Holder or its Affiliates that are exercisable or convertible into Common Stock and subject to a limitation on conversion or exercise that is analogous to the limitation contained in this Section 4(i). Except as set forth in the preceding sentence, for purposes of this Section 4(i), beneficial ownership shall be calculated in accordance with Section 13(d) of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, it being acknowledged by the Warrant Holder that the Company is not representing to the Warrant Holder that such calculation is in compliance with Section 13(d) of the Exchange Act and the Warrant Holder or beneficial owner is solely responsible for any schedules required to be filed in accordance therewith. To the extent that the limitation contained in this Section 4(i) applies, the determination of whether this Warrant is exercisable and of the number of Warrant Shares with respect to which this Warrant is exercisable shall be in the sole discretion of the Warrant Holder, and the submission of an Election to Purchase shall be deemed to be the Warrant Holder’s determination of whether this Warrant is exercisable and of the number of Warrant Shares with respect to which this Warrant is exercisable, and the Company shall not have any obligation to verify or confirm the accuracy of such determination and shall not have any liability for any error made by the Warrant Holder or any other person. In addition, a determination as to any group status as contemplated above shall be determined in accordance with Section 13(d) of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder. For purposes of this Section 4(i), in determining the number of outstanding shares of Common Stock, the Warrant Holder or other person may rely on the number of outstanding shares of Common Stock as reflected in (A) the Company’s most recent periodic or annual report filed with the Securities Exchange Commission (the “ Commission ”), as the case may be, (B) a more recent public announcement by the Company or (C) a more recent written notice by the Company or the Transfer Agent setting forth the number of shares of Common Stock outstanding. For any reason at any time, upon the written or oral request of a person that represents that it is or is acting on behalf of the Warrant Holder, the Company shall, within two (2) trading days, confirm orally or in writing or by e-mail to that person the number of shares of Common Stock then outstanding. Upon delivery of a written notice to the Company, the Warrant Holder may from time to time increase or decrease the Beneficial Ownership Limitation to any other percentage not in excess of 9.99% as specified in such notice, provided that any increase in the Beneficial Ownership Limitation will not be effective until the sixty-first (61st) day after such notice is delivered to the Company. The provisions of this Section 4(i) shall be construed and implemented in a manner otherwise than in strict conformity with the terms of this Section 4(i) to correct this subsection (or any portion hereof) which may be defective or inconsistent with the intended beneficial ownership limitation herein contained.

 

5.                        Cashless Exercise .

 

(a)       If at any time prior to the Expiration Date there is not an effective registration statement on file with the Commission covering the resale of the Warrant Shares by the Warrant Holder, then at such time this Warrant may also be exercised by means of a cashless exercise. In such event, the Holder shall surrender this Warrant to the Company, together with a notice of cashless exercise, and the Company shall issue to the Holder the number of Warrant Shares determined as follows:

 

X = Y (A-B) / A

 

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where:
   
  X = The number of Warrant Shares to be issued to the Holder.

 

Y = The number of Warrant Shares with respect to which this Warrant is being exercised.

 

A = The VWAP on the trading day immediately prior to the date on which the Warrant Holder elects to exercise this Warrant by means of a “cashless exercise”, as set forth in the applicable Election to Purchase.

 

B = The Exercise Price.

 

For purposes of this Agreement, “ VWAP ” means, for any date, the price determined by the first of the following clauses that applies: (i) if the Common Stock is then listed or quoted on a Trading Market, the daily volume weighted average price of the Common Stock for such date (or the nearest preceding date) on the Trading Market on which the Common Stock is then listed or quoted as reported by Bloomberg L.P. (based on a Trading Day from 9:30 a.m. (New York City time) to 4:02 p.m. (New York City time)), (ii) the volume weighted average price of the Common Stock for such date (or the nearest preceding date) on the OTC Bulletin Board, (iii) if the Common Stock is not then listed or quoted for trading on the OTC Bulletin Board and if prices for the Common Stock are then reported in the OTCQB maintained by OTC Markets Group, Inc. (or a similar organization or agency succeeding to its functions of reporting prices), the most recent bid price per share of Common Stock so reported, or (iv) in all other cases, the fair market value of a share of Common Stock as determined by an independent appraiser selected in good faith by the Company, the fees and expenses of which shall be paid by the Company.

 

(b)       For purposes of Rule 144 of the Securities Act, it is intended, understood and acknowledged that the Warrant Shares issued in a cashless exercise transaction shall be deemed to have been acquired by the Warrant Holder, and the holding period for the Warrant Shares shall be deemed to have been commenced, on the Issuance Date.

 

6.                        Fractional Shares . The Company shall not be required to issue or cause to be issued fractional Warrant Shares on the exercise of this Warrant. The number of full Warrant Shares that shall be issuable upon the exercise of this Warrant shall be computed on the basis of the aggregate number of Warrants Shares purchasable on exercise of this Warrant so presented. If any fraction of a Warrant Share would, except for the provisions of this Section 6, be issuable on the exercise of this Warrant, the Company shall, at its option, (i) pay an amount in cash equal to the Exercise Price multiplied by such fraction or (ii) round the number of Warrant Shares issuable, up to the next whole number.

 

7.                         Adjustments .

 

(a)        Adjustment upon Subdivisions or Combinations . If the Company at any time after the Issuance Date subdivides (by any stock split, stock dividend, recapitalization, reorganization, scheme of arrangement or otherwise) its outstanding Common Stock into a greater number of shares of Common Stock, the Exercise Price in effect immediately prior to such subdivision will be proportionately reduced and the number of Warrant Shares will be proportionately increased. If the Company at any time after the Issuance Date combines (by any stock split, stock dividend, recapitalization, reorganization, scheme, arrangement or otherwise) its outstanding Common Stock into a smaller number of shares of Common Stock, the Exercise Price in effect immediately prior to such combination will be proportionately increased and the number of Warrant Shares will be proportionately decreased. Any adjustment under this Section 7(a) shall become effective at 5:00 p.m., New York City time on the date the subdivision or combination or ratio change becomes effective.

 

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(b)        Reclassification, Consolidation, Purchase, Combination, Sale or Conveyance . If, at any time while this Warrant is outstanding, (i) the Company, directly or indirectly, in one or more related transactions effects any merger or consolidation of the Company with or into another person, (ii) the Company, directly or indirectly, effects any sale, lease, license, assignment, transfer, conveyance or other disposition of all or substantially all of its assets in one or a series of related transactions, (iii) any direct or indirect purchase offer, tender offer or exchange offer (whether by the Company or another person) is completed pursuant to which holders of Common Stock are permitted to sell, tender or exchange their shares for other securities, cash or property and has been accepted by the holders of 50% or more of the outstanding Common Stock (not including any shares of Common Stock held by the other person or other persons making or party to, or associated or affiliated with the other persons making, such purchase offer, tender offer or exchange offer), (iv) the Company, directly or indirectly, in one or more related transactions effects any reclassification, reorganization or recapitalization of Common Stock or any compulsory share exchange pursuant to which the shares of Common Stock are effectively converted into or exchanged for other securities, cash or property, or (v) the Company, directly or indirectly, in one or more related transactions consummates a stock or share purchase agreement or other business combination (including, without limitation, a reorganization, recapitalization, spin-off or scheme of arrangement) with another person whereby such other person acquires more than 50% of the outstanding Common Stock (not including any Common Stock held by the other person or other persons making or party to, or associated or affiliated with the other persons making or party to, such stock or share purchase agreement or other business combination) (each a “ Fundamental Transaction ”), then, upon any subsequent exercise of this Warrant, the Warrant Holder shall have the right to receive, for each Warrant Share that would have been issuable upon such exercise immediately prior to the occurrence of such Fundamental Transaction, the number of shares, if any, of the successor or acquiring corporation or of the Company, if it is the surviving corporation, and any additional consideration (the “ Alternate Consideration ”) receivable as a result of such Fundamental Transaction by a holder of the number of shares of Common Stock for which this Warrant is exercisable immediately prior to such Fundamental Transaction. For purposes of any such exercise, the determination of the Exercise Price shall be appropriately adjusted to apply to such Alternate Consideration based on the amount of Alternate Consideration issuable in respect of one share of Common Stock in such Fundamental Transaction and the Company shall apportion the Exercise Price among the Alternate Consideration in a reasonable manner reflecting the relative value of any different components of the Alternate Consideration. If holders of Common Stock are given any choice as to the securities, cash or property to be received in a Fundamental Transaction, then the Warrant Holder shall be given the same choice as to the Alternate Consideration it receives upon any exercise of this Warrant following such Fundamental Transaction. The Company shall cause any successor entity in a Fundamental Transaction in which the Company is not the survivor (the “ Successor Entity ”), to assume in writing all of the obligations of the Company under this Agreement in accordance with the provisions of this Section 7(b) pursuant to written agreements in customary form and shall, upon the written request of the Warrant Holder, deliver to the Warrant Holder in exchange for those Warrants a security of the Successor Entity evidenced by a written instrument substantially similar in form and substance to those Warrants that is exercisable for a corresponding number of shares of capital stock of such Successor Entity (or its parent entity), if any, plus any Alternate Consideration, receivable as a result of such Fundamental Transaction by a holder of the number of shares of Common Stock for which this Warrant was exercisable immediately prior to such Fundamental Transaction, and with an exercise price which applies the exercise price hereunder to such shares of capital stock, if any, plus any Alternate Consideration (but taking into account the relative value of the shares of Common Stock prior to such Fundamental Transaction and the value of such shares of capital stock plus Alternative Consideration after that Fundamental Transaction, for the purpose of protecting the economic value this Warrant had immediately prior to the consummation of such Fundamental Transaction). Upon the occurrence of any such Fundamental Transaction the Successor Entity shall succeed to, and be substituted for (so that from and after the date of such Fundamental Transaction, the provisions of this Warrant referring to the “Company” shall refer instead to the Successor Entity), and may exercise every right and power of the Company and shall assume all of the obligations of the Company under this Warrant with the same effect as if such Successor Entity had been named as the Company herein.

 

7  

 

 

The Company shall mail by first class mail, postage prepaid, to the Warrant Holder, written notice of the execution of any such amendment, supplement or agreement with the Successor Entity. Any supplemented or amended agreement entered into by the successor corporation or transferee shall provide for adjustments, which shall be as nearly equivalent as may be practicable to the adjustments provided for in this Section 7(b). The provisions of this Section 7(b) shall similarly apply to successive reclassifications, changes, consolidations, mergers, sales and conveyances of the kind described above.

 

(c)        Notices of Changes in Warrant . Upon every adjustment of the Exercise Price or the number of Warrant Shares issuable upon exercise of this Warrant, the Company shall give written notice thereof to the Warrant Holder, which notice shall state the Exercise Price resulting from such adjustment and the increase or decrease, if any, in the number of Warrant Shares purchasable at such price upon the exercise of this Warrant, setting forth in reasonable detail the method of calculation and the facts upon which such calculation is based. Upon the occurrence of any event specified in Sections 7(a) or 7(b) or in Section 8(a) or 8(b) below, then, in any such event, the Company shall give written notice of the occurrence of such event to the Warrant Holder, at the last address set forth for such Holder in the Warrant Register, of the record date or the effective date of the event.

 

(d)        Other Events . In case any event shall occur affecting the Company as to which none of the provisions of preceding subsections of this Section 7 are strictly applicable, but which would require an adjustment to the terms of the Warrant in order to (i) avoid an adverse impact on the Warrant and (ii) effectuate the intent and purpose of this Section 7, then, in each such case, the Company’s Board of Directors shall make such adjustments in the application of such provisions, as shall be reasonably necessary, in the good faith opinion of the Company’s Board of Directors, to effectuate the intent and purpose of this Section 7.

 

8  

 

 

8.                        Other Rights .

 

(a)        Purchase Rights . If, during the Exercise Period, the Company grants, issues or sells any options, convertible securities or rights to purchase stock, warrants, securities or other property pro rata to the record holders of any class of Common Stock (the “ Purchase Rights ”), then, in each such case, the Warrant Holder shall be entitled to acquire, upon the terms applicable to such Purchase Rights, the aggregate Purchase Rights which the Warrant Holder could have acquired if the Warrant Holder had held the number of shares of Common Stock acquirable upon complete exercise of this Warrant (without regard to any limitations on exercise of this Warrant, including without limitation, the Beneficial Ownership Limitation) immediately before the date on which a record is taken for the grant, issuance or sale of such Purchase Rights, or, if no such record is taken, the date as of which the record holders of Common Stock are to be determined for the grant, issue or sale of such Purchase Rights (provided, however, to the extent that the Warrant Holder’s right to participate in any such Purchase Right would result in the Warrant Holder and its Affiliates exceeding the Beneficial Ownership Limitation, then the Warrant Holder shall not be entitled to participate in such Purchase Right to such extent (and shall not be entitled to beneficial ownership of such shares of Common Stock as a result of such Purchase Right (and beneficial ownership) to such extent) and such Purchase Right to such extent shall be held in abeyance for the benefit of the Warrant Holder until such time or times, if ever, as its right thereto would not result in the Warrant Holder and its Affiliates exceeding the Beneficial Ownership Limitation, at which time or times the Warrant Holder shall be granted such right (and any Purchase Right granted, issued or sold on such initial Purchase Right or on any subsequent Purchase Right held similarly in abeyance) to the same extent as if there had been no such limitation).

 

(b)        Rights Upon Distribution of Assets . In addition to any adjustments pursuant to Section 7 above, if, during the Exercise Period, the Company shall declare or make any dividend or other distribution of its assets (or rights to acquire its assets) to holders of shares of Common Stock, by way of return of capital or otherwise (including, without limitation, any distribution of cash, stock or other securities, property, options, evidence of indebtedness or any other assets by way of a dividend, spin off, reclassification, corporate rearrangement, scheme of arrangement or other similar transaction) (a “ Distribution ”), then, in each such case and to the extent permitted by FINRA Rule 5110(f)(2)(G), the Warrant Holder shall be entitled to participate in such Distribution to the same extent that the Warrant Holder would have participated therein if the Warrant Holder had held the number of shares of Common Stock acquirable upon complete exercise of this Warrant (without regard to any limitations or restrictions on exercise of this Warrant, including without limitation, the Beneficial Ownership Limitation) immediately before the date of which a record is taken for such Distribution, or, if no such record is taken, the date as of which the record holders of shares of Common Stock are to be determined for the participation in such Distribution (provided, however, that to the extent that the Warrant Holder’s right to participate in any such Distribution would result in the Warrant Holder and its Affiliates exceeding the Beneficial Ownership Limitation, then the Warrant Holder shall not be entitled to participate in such Distribution to such extent (and shall not be entitled to beneficial ownership of such shares of Common Stock as a result of such Distribution (and beneficial ownership) to such extent) and such Distribution to such extent shall be held in abeyance for the benefit of the Warrant Holder until such time or times, if ever, as its right thereto would not result in the Warrant Holder and its Affiliates exceeding the Beneficial Ownership Limitation, at which time or times the Warrant Holder shall be granted such Distribution (and any Distributions declared or made on such initial Distribution or on any subsequent Distribution held similarly in abeyance) to the same extent as if there had been no such limitation).

 

9  

 

 

(c)          Registration Rights .

 

i.       The Company shall use its best efforts to maintain the effectiveness of the Registration Statement and a current prospectus relating thereto, until the Expiration Date. During any period when the Company fails to have maintained an effective registration statement or a current prospectus relating thereto and the Warrant Holder desires to exercise the Warrant and, in the opinion of counsel to the Warrant Holder, Rule 144 is not available as an exemption from registration for the resale of the Warrant Shares held by the Warrant Holder, the Company shall immediately file a registration statement registering the resale of the Warrant Shares and use its best efforts to have it declared effective by the Commission within 30 days..

 

ii.      To the extent the Company does not maintain an effective registration statement for the Warrant Shares, then for a period commencing on the Initial Exercise Date and terminating on the Expiration Date, the Warrant Holder is entitled to one “demand” registration right at the Company’s expense, and additional “demand” registration rights at the Warrant Holder’s expense. Upon receipt of a demand registration request from the Warrant Holder, the Company shall file a registration statement on Form S-3 or, if Form S-3 is not available, on any other appropriate form, including Form S-1, and cause such registration statement to become effective in an expeditious manner ; provided, however , that if the Company has filed a registration statement with respect to which the Warrant Holder is entitled to piggyback registration rights pursuant to Section 8(c)(iii) hereof, then the Company shall not be required to comply with a demand registration right if either: (A) the Warrant Holder was given the opportunity to exercise its rights under Section 8(c)(iii) hereof in connection with the offering covered by such registration statement or (B) if such registration statement relates to an underwritten primary offering of securities of the Company, until the offering covered by such registration statement has been withdrawn or until thirty (30) days after such offering is consummated. A registration requested pursuant to this Section 8(c)(ii) shall not be deemed to have been effected: (i) unless a registration statement with respect thereto has become effective or (ii) if, after it has become effective, such registration is interfered with by any stop order, injunction or other order or requirement of the Commission or other governmental agency or court of competent jurisdiction for any reason, other than by reason of some act or omission by the Warrant Holder.

 

iii.     To the extent the Company does not maintain an effective registration statement for the Warrant Shares and in the further event that the Company files a registration statement with the Commission covering the sale of its shares of Common Stock (other than a registration statement on Form S-4 or S-8, or on another form, or in another context, in which such “piggyback” registration would be inappropriate), then, for a period commencing on the Initial Exercise Date and terminating on the Expiration Date, the Company shall give written notice of such proposed filing to the holders of Warrant Shares as soon as practicable but in no event less than twenty (20) days before the anticipated filing date, which notice shall describe the amount and type of securities to be included in such offering, the intended method(s) of distribution, and the name of the proposed managing underwriter or underwriters, if any, of the offering, and offer to the Warrant Holder in such notice the opportunity to register the sale of such number of shares of Warrant Shares as the Warrant Holder may request in writing within ten (10) days following receipt of such notice (a “ Piggyback Registration ”). The Company shall use its best efforts to cause such Warrant Shares to be included in such registration and shall use its reasonable best efforts to cause the managing underwriter or underwriters of a proposed underwritten offering to permit the Warrant Shares requested to be included in a Piggyback Registration on the same terms and conditions as any similar securities of the Company and to permit the sale or other disposition of such Warrant Shares in accordance with the intended method(s) of distribution thereof. All holders of Warrant Shares proposing to distribute their securities through a Piggyback Registration that involves an underwriter or underwriters shall enter into an underwriting agreement in customary form with the underwriter or underwriters selected for such Piggyback Registration. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, if the managing underwriter of a Piggyback Registration advises the Company that in its reasonable and good faith opinion the number of shares of Common Stock proposed to be included in such Piggyback Registration, including all Warrant Shares and all other shares of Common Stock to be included in such Piggyback Registration, exceeds the number of shares of Common Stock which can be sold in such offering and/or the number of shares of Common Stock proposed to be included in such offering would materially adversely affect the price per share of the Common Stock to be sold in such offering, the Company shall include in the Piggyback Registration (A) first, the shares of Common Stock requested to be included therein by the holder(s) requesting such Piggyback Registration and by the holders of Warrant Shares, allocated pro rata among all such holders on the basis of the number of unregistered Warrant Shares owned by all such holders or in such manner as they may otherwise agree; and (B) second, the shares of Common Stock requested to be included therein by other holders of Common Stock, allocated among such holders in such manner as they may agree.

 

10  

 

 

9.        Representative’s Compensation . The Warrant Holder and the Company agree and acknowledge that the issuance of this Warrant is made as compensation pursuant to Section 1(g) of that certain Underwriting Agreement, dated [__], 2017 (the “ Underwriting Agreement ”), between the Company and the Warrant Holder, acting severally on behalf of itself and as representative of the several Underwriters named on Schedule I thereto, and that this Warrant shall constitute full satisfaction for the Representative’s Warrants to be issued by the Company in connection with the Closing of the Offering (as such capitalized terms are defined in the Underwriting Agreement).

 

10.        Notice . All notices, requests, demands, claims and other communications hereunder shall be in writing and shall be delivered by certified or registered mail (first class postage pre-paid), guaranteed overnight delivery, or email transmission if such transmission is confirmed by delivery by certified or registered mail (first class postage pre-paid) or guaranteed overnight delivery, to the following addresses (or to such other addresses which such party shall subsequently designate in writing to the other party):

 

(a)     If to the Company: [ ]

 

          with a copy to: [ ]

 

(b)     If to the Warrant Holder:[ ]

 

          with a copy to:[ ]

 

11.                      Miscellaneous .

 

(a)       This Warrant shall be binding on and inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective successors and permitted assigns. This Warrant may be amended only in writing and signed by the Company and the Warrant Holder.

 

11  

 

 

(b)       Nothing in this Warrant shall be construed to give to any person or corporation other than the Company and the Warrant Holder any legal or equitable right, remedy or cause of action under this Warrant; this Warrant shall be for the sole and exclusive benefit of the Company and the Warrant Holder.

 

(c)       Without the prior written consent of the Company, this Warrant, or any of the rights granted hereunder, shall not be assigned, pledged, hypothecated or otherwise disposed of (whether by operation of law or otherwise) by the Warrant Holder, and shall not be subject to execution, attachment or similar process, unless (i) an effective registration statement is on file with the Commission covering the resale of the Warrant Shares by the Warrant Holder, or (ii) the Warrant Shares are otherwise exempt from the registration requirements under the Securities Act. Any such attempted transfer or disposition of the Warrant or of any rights granted hereunder contrary to the provisions of this section, or the levy of any attachment or similar process upon the Warrant or such rights, shall be null and void.

 

(d)       The headings herein are for convenience only, do not constitute a part of this Warrant and shall not be deemed to limit or affect any of the provisions hereof.

 

(e)       In case any one or more of the provisions of this Warrant shall be invalid or unenforceable in any respect, the validity and enforceability of the remaining terms and provisions of this Warrant shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby and the parties will attempt in good faith to agree upon a valid and enforceable provision which shall be a commercially reasonably substitute therefore, and upon so agreeing, shall incorporate such substitute provision in this Warrant.

 

(f)       The Warrant Holder shall not, by virtue hereof, be entitled to any voting or other rights of a shareholder of the Company, either at law or equity, and the rights of the Warrant Holder are limited to those expressed in this Warrant.

 

(g)       This Warrant shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York without regard to principles of conflicts of laws.

 

(h)       The Company and the Warrant Holder shall submit all disputes arising under this Warrant to arbitration in New York, New York before a single arbitrator of the American Arbitration Association (the “ AAA ”). The arbitrator shall be selected by application of the rules of the AAA, or by mutual agreement of the parties, except that such arbitrator shall be an attorney admitted to practice law in the State of New York. No party hereto will challenge the jurisdiction or venue provisions as provided in this section. Nothing in this section shall limit the Warrant Holder’s right to obtain an injunction for a breach of this Agreement from a court of law. Any injunction obtained shall remain in full force and effect until the arbitrator fully adjudicates the dispute.

 

[Signature Page Follows]

 

12  

 

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Company and Warrant Holder have caused this Warrant to be duly executed by an authorized officer as of the date first above stated.

     
  THE COMPANY:
     
  BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION
     
  By:  
  Name: Shlomi Palas
  Title: Chief Executive Officer
     
  WARRANT HOLDER:
     
  MAXIM GROUP LLC
     
  By:  
  Name:  
  Title:  

 

[Signature Page to Warrant]

 

13  

 

EXHIBIT A

 

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION  

WARRANT DATED [__], 2017

 

ASSIGNMENT FORM

 

(To assign the foregoing warrant, execute
this form and supply required information.
Do not use this form to exercise the warrant.)

 

FOR VALUE RECEIVED, [all of] or [_______ shares of] the foregoing Warrant and all rights evidenced thereby are hereby assigned to

 

_______________________________________________ whose address is

 

_______________________________________________________________.

 

_______________________________________________________________

 

Date: ______________, _______

 

Holder’s Signature: _____________________________

 

Holder’s Address: ______________________________

 

_______________________________

 

Signature Guaranteed: ___________________________________________

 

NOTE: The signature to this Assignment Form must correspond with the name as it appears on the face of the Warrant, without alteration or enlargement or any change whatsoever, and must be guaranteed by a bank or trust company. Officers of corporations and those acting in a fiduciary or other representative capacity should file proper evidence of authority to assign the foregoing Warrant.

 

14  

 

 

EXHIBIT B

 

FORM OF ELECTION TO PURCHASE  

(To be executed by the Warrant Holder to exercise the right to

purchase shares of Common Stock under the foregoing Warrant)

 

Blue Sphere Corporation

 

Re: Election to Purchase Shares of Common Stock Under the Warrant

 

(1) The undersigned hereby elects to purchase __________ Warrant Shares of the Company pursuant to the terms of the attached Warrant, dated __________, 2017, and tenders herewith payment of the exercise price in full, together with all applicable transfer taxes, if any.

 

(2) Payment shall take the form of (check applicable box):

☐ lawful money of the United States by wire transfer or cashier’s check drawn on a United States bank; or

☐ if permitted by the terms of the Warrant, the cancellation of such number of Warrant Shares as is necessary, in accordance with the formula set forth in Section 5 of the Warrant, to exercise the Warrant with respect to the number of Warrant Shares purchasable pursuant to the cashless exercise procedure set forth in Section 5 of the Warrant.

 

(3) Please issue said Warrant Shares in the name of the undersigned or in such other name or names as is specified below:

 

     

The Warrant Shares shall be delivered to the following DWAC Account Number:

     
     
     
     
     

[SIGNATURE OF HOLDER:]

 

Name of Holder: __________________________________________________________________________________

 

Signature of Authorized Signatory: ___________________________________________________________________

 

Name of Authorized Signatory: ______________________________________________________________________

 

Title of Authorized Signatory: _______________________________________________________________________

 

Date: ___________________________________________________________________________________________

 

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  Blue Sphere Corporation S-1/A

 

Exhibit 10.55

 

AMENDMENT #6
TO THE SECURITIES PURCHASE AGREEMENT
TO THE $2,106,000 PROMISSORY NOTE
AND TO THE COMMON STOCK PURCHASE WARRANTS

This Amendment #6, dated May 18, 2017 (this “ Amendment ”), is by and between Blue Sphere Corporation, a Nevada corporation (the “ Issuer ”) and JMJ Financial (the “ Investor ”) (referred to collectively herein as the “ Parties ”).

WHEREAS, the Issuer and the Investor entered into a Securities Purchase Agreement Document SPA-10212016 (the “ SPA ”) dated as of October 24, 2016, pursuant to which the Issuer issued to the Investor a $1,053,000 Promissory Note (the “ Note ”), a Warrant, and Origination Shares (All capitalized terms not otherwise defined herein shall have the meanings given such terms in the SPA).

WHEREAS, the Issuer and the Investor previously entered into Amendment #1 to the SPA and the Note dated February 15, 2017 adding an Origination Share beneficial ownership limit;

WHEREAS, the Issuer and the Investor previously entered into a Letter Agreement dated March 1, 2017 extending certain deadlines in the Note and in the Warrants issued under the SPA;

WHEREAS, the Issuer and the Investor previously entered into Amendment #2 to the SPA and the Note dated March 14, 2017 increasing the dollar amount of the Note;

WHEREAS, the Issuer and the Investor previously entered into a second Letter Agreement dated April 4, 2017 further extending certain deadlines in the Note and in the Warrants issued under the SPA;

WHEREAS, the Issuer and the Investor previously entered into Amendment #3 to the SPA and the Note dated April 13, 2017 extending the Maturity Date of the Note and the date for delivery of the Origination Shares;

WHEREAS, the Issuer and the Investor previously entered into Amendment #4 to the SPA and the Note dated April 28, 2017 further extending the Maturity Date of the Note and the date for delivery of the Origination Shares and further extending certain deadlines in the Note and in the Warrants issued under the SPA;

WHEREAS, the Issuer and the Investor previously entered into Amendment #5 to the SPA and the Note dated May 10, 2017 further increasing the dollar amount of the Note; and

WHEREAS, the Issuer issued additional common stock purchase warrants to the Investor on December 20, 2016, February 14, 2017, March 14, 2017, April 13, 2017, and May 11, 2017 (such warrants, plus the Warrant, all as previously amended, the “ Warrants ”).

NOW, THEREFORE, the Issuer and the Investor agree to amend the SPA, the Note, and the Warrants as follows:

1.        Extension of Maturity Date. In the sentence in the Note (as previously amended) that states “The Maturity Date is the earlier of May 19, 2017 or the third business day after the closing of the Public Offering,” the date of May 19, 2017 shall be replaced with the date of June 2, 2017.

2.        Extension of Origination Shares Dates. The references to the date of May 19, 2017 in Sections 1.3.1 and 1.3.2 of the SPA (as previously amended) shall be replaced with the date of June 2, 2017.

3.        Extension of Nasdaq Approval Date Section 6(xxiii) of the Note and Section 1.11(xxiii) of the Warrants shall hereinafter be deleted and replaced with the following text: “(xxiii) the Issuer fails to obtain from Nasdaq or NYSE by June 2, 2017 conditional approval of the listing of the Issuer's common stock on The Nasdaq Capital Market or NYSE-MKT subject only to completion of the Public Offering pursuant to the Registration Statement and to the Issuer's common stock maintaining the minimum price requirements prior to uplisting;”.

 

 
 

 

4.        Conditional Waiver of Default. The Investor conditionally waives the defaults for the Issuer's failure to meet the previously amended Maturity Date of the Note, delivery date for the Origination Shares, and Nasdaq approval deadlines, but the Investor does not waive any damages, fees, penalties, liquidated damages, or other amounts or remedies otherwise resulting from such defaults (which damages, fees, penalties, liquidated damages, or other amounts or remedies the Investor may choose in the future to assess, apply or pursue in its sole discretion) and the Investor's conditional waiver is conditioned on the Issuer's not being in default of and not breaching any term of the Note or the SPA or any other Transaction Documents at any time subsequent to the date of this Amendment (if the Issuer triggers an event of default or breaches any term of the Note, the SPA, or the Transaction Documents at any time subsequent to the date of this Amendment, the Investor may issue a notice of default for the Issuer's failure to meet the original Maturity Date of the Note, delivery date of the Origination Shares, or Nasdaq approval deadlines.

ALL OTHER TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE SPA, THE NOTE, AND THE WARRANTS, AS PREVIOUSLY AMENDED, REMAIN IN FULL FORCE AND EFFECT.

Please indicate acceptance and approval of this Amendment by signing below:

 

/s/ Shlomi Palas   /s/ JMJ Financial
Shlomi Palas   JMJ Financial
Blue Sphere Corporation   Its Principal
Chief Executive Officer    

 

 

[Amendment #6 Signature Page]

 

 

 

  Blue Sphere Corporation S-1/A

 

Exhibit 10.56

BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION

PRE-FUNDED WARRANT

 

 

WARRANT NUMBER:  [___]
ISSUANCE DATE: [___], 2017

 

THIS PRE-FUNDED WARRANT (this “ Warrant ”) certified that, for value received, BLUE SPHERE CORPORATION, a Nevada corporation (the “ Company ”), as of [___], 2017 (the “ Issuance Date ”), hereby certifies that [___], or its registered assigns (the “ Warrant Holder ”), is entitled, subject to the terms set forth below, to purchase from the Company [___] shares (the “ Warrant Shares ”) of the Company’s common stock, $0.001 par value per share (“ Common Stock ”), exercisable at the per share Exercise Price (as defined in Section 7). This Warrant may be exercised any time after Issuance Date and until this Warrant is exercised in full (the “ Expiration Date ”), subject to the following terms and conditions set out in this Warrant.

 

1.       

Registration of Warrant . The Company shall register this Warrant upon records to be maintained by the Company for that purpose (the “ Warrant Register ”), in the name of the record Warrant Holder hereof from time to time. The Company may deem and treat the registered Warrant Holder of this Warrant as the absolute owner hereof for the purpose of any exercise hereof or any distribution to the Warrant Holder, and for all other purposes, and the Company shall not be affected by notice to the contrary.

2.       

Investment Representation . The Warrant Holder by accepting this Warrant represents that the Warrant Holder is acquiring this Warrant for its own account or the account of an affiliate for investment purposes and not with the view to any offering or distribution and that the Warrant Holder will not sell or otherwise dispose of this Warrant or the underlying Warrant Shares in violation of applicable securities laws. The Warrant Holder acknowledges that the certificates representing any Warrant Shares may bear a legend indicating that they have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “ Securities Act ”), and may not be sold by the Warrant Holder except pursuant to an effective registration statement or pursuant to an exemption from registration requirements of the Securities Act and in accordance with federal and state securities laws. If this Warrant was acquired by the Warrant Holder pursuant to the exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act afforded by Regulation S thereunder, the Warrant Holder acknowledges and covenants that this Warrant may not be exercised by or on behalf of a Person during the one year distribution compliance period (as defined in Regulation S) following the date hereof. “ Person ” means an individual, partnership, firm, limited liability company, trust, joint venture, association, corporation, or any other legal entity.

3.       

Validity of Warrant and Issue of Shares . The Company represents and warrants that this Warrant has been duly authorized and validly issued and warrants and agrees that all of Common Stock that may be issued upon the exercise of the rights represented by this Warrant will, when issued upon such exercise, be duly authorized, validly issued, fully paid and nonassessable and free from all taxes, liens and charges with respect to the issue thereof. The Company further warrants and agrees that during the period within which the rights represented by this Warrant may be exercised, the Company will at all times have authorized and reserved a sufficient number of shares of Common Stock to provide for the exercise of the rights represented by this Warrant.

4.       

Registration of Transfers and Exchange of Warrants .

(a)       

Subject to compliance with the legend set forth on the face of this Warrant, the Company shall register the transfer of any portion of this Warrant in the Warrant Register, upon surrender of this Warrant with the Form of Assignment attached hereto duly completed and signed, to the Company at the office specified in or pursuant to Section 11. Upon any such registration or transfer, a new warrant to purchase Common Stock, in substantially the form of this Warrant (any such new warrant, a “ New Warrant ”), evidencing the portion of this Warrant so transferred shall be issued to the transferee and a New Warrant evidencing the remaining portion of this Warrant not so transferred, if any, shall be issued to the transferring Warrant Holder. The acceptance of the New Warrant by the transferee thereof shall be deemed the acceptance of such transferee of all of the rights and obligations of a Warrant Holder of a Warrant.

 

   
 

  

(b)       

This Warrant is exchangeable, upon the surrender hereof by the Warrant Holder to the office of the Company specified in or pursuant to Section 11 for one or more New Warrants, evidencing in the aggregate the right to purchase the number of Warrant Shares which may then be purchased hereunder. Any such New Warrant will be dated the date of such exchange.

5.       

Exercise of Warrants .

(a)       

This Warrant may be exercised at any time and from time to time from and after the Issuance Date and through and including the Expiration Date, for such number of Warrant Shares as is indicated in the form of “ Election to Purchase ”, which is attached hereto and incorporated herein as Exhibit A . If less than all of the Warrant Shares which may be purchased under this Warrant are exercised at any time, the Company shall issue or cause to be issued, at its expense, a New Warrant evidencing the right to purchase the remaining number of Warrant Shares for which no exercise has been evidenced by this Warrant. At 5:00 P.M., New York time on the Expiration Date, the portion of this Warrant not exercised prior thereto shall be and become void and of no value.

(b)       

Exercise of this Warrant shall be made upon surrender of this Warrant with an Election to Purchase in the form attached hereto (or attached to such New Warrant), duly completed and signed to the Company, at its address set forth in Section 11.

(c)       

A “ Date of Exercise ” means the date on which the Company shall have received (i) this Warrant (or any New Warrant, as applicable), with an Election to Purchase in the form attached hereto (or attached to such New Warrant), appropriately completed and duly signed, and (ii) payment of the Exercise Price for the number of Warrant Shares so indicated by the Warrant Holder to be purchased, as set forth herein.

(d)       

Payment upon exercise may be made at the written option of the Warrant Holder either by cashless exercise, as set forth in Section 6, or in cash, wire transfer or by certified or official bank check payable to the order of the Company equal to the applicable aggregate purchase price, for the number of Warrant Shares specified in the Election to Purchase (as such exercise number shall be adjusted to reflect any adjustment in the total number of Warrant Shares issuable to the Warrant Holder per the terms of this Warrant) and the Warrant Holder shall thereupon be entitled to receive the number of duly authorized, validly issued, fully-paid and non-assessable Warrant Shares determined as provided herein.

(e)       

The Company shall promptly, but in no event later than ten (10) business days after the Date of Exercise as defined herein, issue or cause to be issued and cause to be delivered to or upon the written order of the Warrant Holder and in such name or names as the Warrant Holder may designate (subject to the restrictions on transfer described in the legend set forth on the face of this Warrant), a certificate for the Warrant Shares issuable upon such exercise, with such restrictive legend as required by the Act. If no such restrictive legend is applicable, upon request of the Warrant Holder, the Warrant Shares will be recorded by book entry with the Company’s transfer agent. Any person so designated by the Warrant Holder to receive Warrant Shares shall be deemed to have become holder of record of such Warrant Shares as of the Date of Exercise of this Warrant.

 

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6.

Cashless Exercise .

a)       

If at any time prior to the Expiration Date there is not an effective registration statement on file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “ Commission ”) covering the resale of the Warrant Shares by the Warrant Holder, then at such time this Warrant may also be exercised by means of a cashless exercise. In such event, the Holder shall surrender this Warrant to the Company, together with a notice of cashless exercise, and the Company shall issue to the Holder the number of Warrant Shares determined as follows:

  X = Y (A-B)/A
   
  where:
   
  X = The number of Warrant Shares to be issued to the Holder.
       
  Y = The number of Warrant Shares with respect to which this Warrant is being exercised.
       
  A = The average closing price of Common Stock for the five (5) trading days immediately prior to the Date of Exercise.
       
  B = $0.01, as adjusted as set forth herein.
         

 

(b)       

For purposes of Rule 144 of the Act, it is intended, understood and acknowledged that the Warrant Shares issued in a cashless exercise transaction shall be deemed to have been acquired by the Warrant Holder, and the holding period for the Warrant Shares shall be deemed to have been commenced, on the issue date.

7.       

Exercise Price . The aggregate Exercise Price of this Warrant, except for a nominal exercise price of $0.01 per Warrant Share, was pre-funded to the Company on or prior to the Issuance Date and, consequently, no additional consideration (other than the nominal exercise price of $0.01 per Warrant Share) shall be required to be paid by the Holder to any Person to effect any exercise of this Warrant. The Holder shall not be entitled to the return or refund of all, or any portion, of such pre-paid aggregate Exercise Price under any circumstance or for any reason whatsoever, including in the event this Warrant shall not have been exercised prior to the Termination Date. The exercise price per share under this Warrant shall be $0.01, subject to adjustment hereunder (the “ Exercise Price ”).

8.       

Fractional Shares . The Company shall not be required to issue or cause to be issued fractional Warrant Shares on the exercise of this Warrant. The number of full Warrant Shares that shall be issuable upon the exercise of this Warrant shall be computed on the basis of the aggregate number of Warrants Shares purchasable on exercise of this Warrant so presented. If any fraction of a Warrant Share would, except for the provisions of this Section 8, be issuable on the exercise of this Warrant, the Company shall, at its option, (a) pay an amount in cash equal to the Exercise Price multiplied by such fraction or (b) round the number of Warrant Shares issuable, up to the next whole number.

9.       

Adjustments .

(a)       

Adjustments for Subdivisions, Combinations and Other Issuances . If the outstanding shares of Common Stock are divided into a greater number of shares, by forward stock split or otherwise, or a dividend in stock is paid on the Common Stock, then the number of shares of Warrant Shares for which the Warrant is then exercisable will be proportionately increased and the Exercise Price will be proportionately reduced. Conversely, if the outstanding shares of Common Stock are combined into a smaller number of shares of Common Stock, by reverse stock split or otherwise, then the number of Warrant Shares for which the Warrant is then exercisable will be proportionately reduced and the Exercise Price will be proportionately increased. The increases and reductions provided for in this Section 9(a) will be made with the intent and, as nearly as practicable, the effect that neither the percentage of the total equity of the Company obtainable on exercise of the Warrants nor the price payable for such percentage upon such exercise will be affected by any event described in this Section 9(a).

 

  3  
 

 

 

(b)       

Adjustments for Merger, Consolidation, Reclassification, Reorganization, Etc . In case of any change in Common Stock through merger, consolidation, reclassification, reorganization, partial or complete liquidation, purchase of all or substantially all the assets of the Company, or other change in the capital structure of the Company, then, as a condition of such change, lawful and adequate provision will be made so that the Warrant Holder will have the right thereafter to receive upon the exercise of the Warrant the kind and amount of shares of stock or other securities or property to which the Warrant Holder would have been entitled if, immediately prior to such event, the Warrant Holder had held the number of Warrant Shares obtainable upon the exercise of the Warrant. In any such case, appropriate adjustment will be made in the application of the provisions set forth herein with respect to the rights and interest thereafter of the Warrant Holder, to the end that the provisions set forth herein will thereafter be applicable, as nearly as reasonably may be, in relation to any shares of stock deliverable upon the exercise of the Warrant. The Company will not permit any change in its capital structure to occur unless the issuer of the shares of stock or other securities to be received by the Warrant Holder agrees to comply with the provisions of this Warrant.

10.       

Holder’s Exercise Limitations .

(a)       

The Company shall not effect any exercise of this Warrant, and the Holder shall not have the right to exercise any portion of this Warrant, to the extent that after giving effect to such issuance after exercise as set forth on the applicable Election to Purchase, the Holder (together with the Holder’s Affiliates, and any other Persons acting as a group together with the Holder or any of the Holder’s Affiliates (such Persons, “ Attribution Parties ”)), would beneficially own in excess of the Beneficial Ownership Limitation (as defined below).  For purposes of the foregoing sentence, the number of shares of Common Stock beneficially owned by the Holder and its Affiliates and Attribution Parties shall include the number of shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise of this Warrant with respect to which such determination is being made, but shall exclude the number of shares of Common Stock which would be issuable upon (i) exercise of the remaining, nonexercised portion of this Warrant beneficially owned by the Holder or any of its Affiliates or Attribution Parties and (ii) exercise or conversion of the unexercised or nonconverted portion of any other securities of the Company (including, without limitation, any other Common Stock Equivalents) subject to a limitation on conversion or exercise analogous to the limitation contained herein beneficially owned by the Holder or any of its Affiliates or Attribution Parties.  Except as set forth in the preceding sentence, beneficial ownership shall be calculated in accordance with Section 13(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “ Exchange Act ”) and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, it being acknowledged by the Holder that the Company is not representing to the Holder that such calculation is in compliance with Section 13(d) of the Exchange Act and the Holder is solely responsible for any schedules required to be filed in accordance therewith. To the extent that the limitation contained in this Section 10 applies, the determination of whether this Warrant is exercisable (in relation to other securities owned by the Holder together with any Affiliates and Attribution Parties) and of which portion of this Warrant is exercisable shall be in the sole discretion of the Holder, and the submission of a Notice of Exercise shall be deemed to be the Holder’s determination of whether this Warrant is exercisable (in relation to other securities owned by the Holder together with any Affiliates and Attribution Parties) and of which portion of this Warrant is exercisable, in each case subject to the Beneficial Ownership Limitation, and the Company shall have no obligation to verify or confirm the accuracy of such determination. In addition, a determination as to any group status as contemplated above shall be determined in accordance with Section 13(d) of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder. For purposes of this Section 10, in determining the number of outstanding shares of Common Stock, a Holder may rely on the number of outstanding shares of Common Stock as reflected in (A) the Company’s most recent periodic or annual report filed with the Commission, as the case may be, (B) a more recent public announcement by the Company or (C) a more recent written notice by the Company or the Transfer Agent setting forth the number of shares of Common Stock outstanding.  Upon the written or oral request of a Holder, the Company shall within two (2) trading days confirm orally and in writing to the Holder the number of shares of Common Stock then outstanding.  In any case, the number of outstanding shares of Common Stock shall be determined after giving effect to the conversion or exercise of securities of the Company, including this Warrant, by the Holder or its Affiliates or Attribution Parties since the date as of which such number of outstanding shares of Common Stock was reported.

 

  4  
 

 

 

(b)       

The “ Beneficial Ownership Limitation ” shall be 9.99% of the number of shares of the Common Stock outstanding immediately after giving effect to the issuance of shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise of this Warrant. The Holder, upon notice to the Company, may increase or decrease the Beneficial Ownership Limitation provisions of this Section 10, provided that the Beneficial Ownership Limitation in no event exceeds 9.99% of the number of shares of the Common Stock outstanding immediately after giving effect to the issuance of shares of Common Stock upon exercise of this Warrant held by the Holder and the provisions of this Section 10 shall continue to apply. Any increase in the Beneficial Ownership Limitation will not be effective until the 61 st day after such notice is delivered to the Company. The provisions of this paragraph shall be construed and implemented in a manner otherwise than in strict conformity with the terms of this Section 10 to correct this paragraph (or any portion hereof) which may be defective or inconsistent with the intended Beneficial Ownership Limitation herein contained or to make changes or supplements necessary or desirable to properly give effect to such limitation.

(c)       

Affiliate ” shall mean any Person that, directly or indirectly through one or more intermediaries, controls or is controlled by or is under common control with a Person as such terms are used in and construed under Rule 405 under the Securities Act.

(d)       

Common Stock Equivalents ” shall mean any securities of the Company or any subsidiaries of the Company which would entitle the holder thereof to acquire at any time Common Stock, including, without limitation, any debt, preferred stock, right, option, warrant or other instrument that is at any time convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for, or otherwise entitles the holder thereof to receive, Common Stock.

(e)       

The limitations contained in this Section 10 shall apply to a successor holder of this Warrant.

11.       

Notice . All notices, requests, demands, claims and other communications hereunder shall be in writing and shall be delivered by certified or registered mail (first class postage pre-paid), guaranteed overnight delivery, or email transmission if such transmission is confirmed, by certified or registered mail (first class postage pre-paid) or guaranteed overnight delivery, to the following addresses (or to such other addresses which such party shall subsequently designate in writing to the other party):

  (a) If to the Company:

 

  Blue Sphere Corporation
  301 McCullough Drive, 4th Floor
  Charlotte, North Carolina  28262
  Attention: Shlomi Palas
  Email: shlomi@bluespherecorporate.com

 

with a copy to:

 

  Thompson Hine LLP
  335 Madison Avenue, 12th Floor
  New York, NY  10017
  Attention: Peter J. Gennuso, Esq.
  Email: peter.gennuso@thompsonhine.com

 

  (b) If to the Warrant Holder:

 

     
     
     
  Attention:    
  Email:    

 

  5  
 

 

 

12.       

Miscellaneous .

(a)       

This Warrant shall be binding on and inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective successors and permitted assigns. This Warrant may be amended only in writing and signed by the Company and the Warrant Holder.

(b)       

Nothing in this Warrant shall be construed to give to any person or corporation other than the Company and the Warrant Holder any legal or equitable right, remedy or cause of action under this Warrant; this Warrant shall be for the sole and exclusive benefit of the Company and the Warrant Holder.

(c)       

Without the prior written consent of the Company, this Warrant, or any of the rights granted hereunder, shall not be transferred, assigned, pledged, hypothecated or otherwise disposed of (whether by operation of law or otherwise) by the Warrant Holder, and shall not be subject to execution, attachment or similar process, unless (i) an effective registration statement is on file with the Commission covering the resale of the Warrant Shares by the Warrant Holder, or (ii) the Warrant Shares are otherwise exempt from the registration requirements under the Act. Any such attempted transfer or disposition of the Warrant or of any rights granted hereunder contrary to the provisions of this section, or the levy of any attachment or similar process upon the Warrant or such rights, shall be null and void.

(d)       

The headings herein are for convenience only, do not constitute a part of this Warrant and shall not be deemed to limit or affect any of the provisions hereof.

(e)       

In case any one or more of the provisions of this Warrant shall be invalid or unenforceable in any respect, the validity and enforceability of the remaining terms and provisions of this Warrant shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby and the parties will attempt in good faith to agree upon a valid and enforceable provision which shall be a commercially reasonably substitute therefore, and upon so agreeing, shall incorporate such substitute provision in this Warrant.

(f)       

The Warrant Holder shall not, by virtue hereof, be entitled to any voting or other rights of a shareholder of the Company, either at law or equity, and the rights of the Warrant Holder are limited to those expressed in this Warrant.

(g)       

This Warrant shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Nevada without regard to principles of conflicts of laws.

(h)       

The Company and the Warrant Holder shall submit all disputes arising under this Warrant to arbitration in New York, New York before a single arbitrator of the American Arbitration Association (the “ AAA ”). The arbitrator shall be selected by application of the rules of the AAA, or by mutual agreement of the parties, except that such arbitrator shall be an attorney admitted to practice law in the State of New York. No party hereto will challenge the jurisdiction or venue provisions as provided in this section. Nothing in this section shall limit the Warrant Holder’s right to obtain an injunction for a breach of this Agreement from a court of law. Any injunction obtained shall remain in full force and effect until the arbitrator fully adjudicates the dispute.

  6  
 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the Company and Holder have caused this Warrant to be duly executed by the authorized officer as of the date first above stated.

 

 

  THE COMPANY:
   
  blue sphere corporation
   
   
  By:  
  Name: Shlomi Palas
  Title: Chief Executive Officer

 

 

 

  WARRANT HOLDER:
   
   
   
   
  By:  
  Name:  
  Title:  

 

 

[Signature Page to Pre-Funded Warrant]

 

 
 

FORM OF ELECTION TO PURCHASE

(To be executed by the Warrant Holder to exercise the right to

purchase shares of Common Stock under the foregoing Warrant)

 

 

Blue Sphere Corporation

 

 

Re: Election to Purchase Shares of Common Stock Under the Warrant

 

Gentlemen:

 

In accordance with the Warrant enclosed with this Election to Purchase, the undersigned hereby irrevocably elects to purchase _____________ shares of Common Stock of Blue Sphere Corporation at an original Exercise Price of USD $________ per share, subject to adjustment under the terms and conditions of the Warrant, and encloses herewith $____________ in cash, certified or official bank check(s), which sum represents the aggregate price for the number of shares of Common Stock to which this Election to Purchase relates, together with any applicable taxes payable by the undersigned pursuant to the Warrant. Any capitalized terms used but not defined in this Election to Purchase shall have the meaning ascribed to them in the accompanying Warrant.

The undersigned requests that certificates for the shares of Common Stock issuable upon this exercise be issued in the name of:

  Name:    
  Taxpayer ID:    
  Address:    
       

 

If the number of shares of Common Stock issuable upon this exercise shall not be all of the shares of Common Stock which the undersigned is entitled to purchase in accordance with the enclosed Warrant, the undersigned requests that a New Warrant evidencing the right to purchase the shares of Common Stock not issuable pursuant to the exercise evidenced hereby be issued in the name of and delivered to:

  Name:    
  Address:    
       

 

The undersigned represents and warrants that all offers and sales by the undersigned of the securities issuable upon exercise of the within Warrant shall be made pursuant to registration of the Common Stock under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), or pursuant to an exemption from registration under the Securities Act.

 

HOLDER:

 

Name:    
     
     
By:    
Title:    
Dated: ____________________, _________  

 

(Signature must conform in all respects to name of Holder as specified on the face of the Warrant)

 
 

NOTICE OF CASHLESS EXERCISE

 

 

 

TO: Blue Sphere Corporation

[Address]

Attn:  Secretary

 

 

The undersigned hereby elects to purchase ______________ shares (the “ Shares ”) of the Common Stock of Blue Sphere Corporation, at an original Exercise Price of USD $______ per share, pursuant to the cashless exercise provision of Section 6 of the attached Warrant.

 

 

Please issue a certificate or certificates representing the Shares in the name of the undersigned or in such other name as is specified below:

 

 

  Name:    
  Taxpayer ID:    
  Address:    
       

 

 

The undersigned represents that the undersigned is an “accredited investor,” and that the Shares are being acquired for the account of the undersigned for investment and not with a view to, or for resale in connection with, the distribution thereof, and that the undersigned has no present intention of distributing or reselling such shares.

 

 

HOLDER:

 

Name:    
     
     
By:    
Title:    
Dated: ____________________, _________  

 

 

 

 

Blue Sphere Corporation S-1/A

 

Exhibit 10.61

 

POWER PURCHASE AGREEMENT

 

THIS POWER PURCHASE AGREEMENT (this “ Agreement ”) is entered into as of May 26, 2011 (the “ Agreement Date ”), by and between The Narragansett Electric Company, d/b/a National Grid, a Rhode Island corporation (“ Buyer ”), and Orbit Energy Rhode Island, LLC, a Rhode Island limited liability company (“ Seller ”). Buyer and Seller are individually referred to herein as a “ Party ” and are collectively referred to herein as the “ Parties .”

 

WHEREAS , Seller is developing the Johnston, Rhode Island generating facility fueled by biogas produced through high solids anaerobic digestion which is more fully described in Exhibit A hereto (the “ Facility ”), which shall qualify as a Newly Developed Renewable Energy Resource (hereafter defined); and

 

WHEREAS , Buyer is authorized under R.I.G.L. ch. 39-26.1 to enter into long-term contracts for the purchase of energy, capacity and renewable energy certificates from a renewable generator meeting the requirements of that statute; and

 

WHEREAS , Buyer and Seller desire to enter into this Agreement whereby Buyer shall purchase from Seller all Products (as defined herein) generated by or associated with the Facility;

 

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and of the mutual agreements contained herein, and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Parties hereby agree as follows:

 

1. DEFINITIONS

 

In addition to terms defined in the recitals hereto, the following terms shall have the meanings set forth below. Any capitalized terms used in this Agreement and not defined herein shall have the same meaning as ascribed to such terms under the ISO-NE Practices and ISO-NE Rules.

 

Affiliate ” shall mean, with respect to any Person, any other Person that directly or indirectly through one or more intermediaries Controls, is Controlled by, or is under common Control with, such first Person.

 

Agreement ” shall have the meaning set forth in the first paragraph of this Agreement.

 

Agreement Date ” shall have the meaning set forth in the first paragraph hereof.

 

Bundled Price ” shall have the meaning set forth in Exhibit E hereof.

 

Business Day ” shall mean a day on which Federal Reserve member banks in New York, New York are open for business; and a Business Day shall start at 8:00 a.m. and end at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Prevailing Time. Notwithstanding the foregoing, with respect to notices only, a Business Day shall not include the Friday immediately following the U.S. Thanksgiving holiday.

 

Buyer’s Taxes ” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 5.4(a) hereof.

 

1

 

 

Capacity ” shall mean all capacity from the Facility as determined by ISO-NE’s Seasonal Claimed Capability rating (or successor or replacement rating used to measure capability) as defined in the ISO-NE Rules that is obligated to deliver and receive payments in the Forward Capacity Market (or its successor market) as set forth in the ISO-NE Rules, including without limitation as both a “New” and an “Existing” Capacity Resource as those terms are used in the ISO-NE Rules; provided that the Capacity shall not exceed the Contract Capacity.

 

Capacity Supply Obligations ” shall have the meaning set forth in the ISO-NE Rules.

 

Cash ” shall mean U.S. dollars held by or on behalf of a Party as Posted Collateral hereunder.

 

Certificates ” shall mean an electronic certificate created pursuant to the Operating Rules of the GIS or any successor thereto to represent the generation attributes of each MWh of Energy generated within the ISO-NE control area and the generation attributes of certain Energy imported into the ISO-NE control area.

 

Code ” shall mean the U.S. Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended from time to time or any successor law, and regulations issued pursuant thereto.

 

Collateral Account ” shall have the meaning specified in Section 6.5(a)(iii)(B) hereof.

 

Collateral Interest Rate ” shall mean the rate published in The Wall Street Journal as the “Prime Rate” from time to time (or, if more than one such rate is published, the arithmetic mean of such rates), or, if such rate is no longer published, a successor rate agreed to by Buyer and Seller, in each case determined as of the date the obligation to pay interest arises, but in no event more than the maximum rate permitted by applicable Law in transactions involving entities having the same characteristics as the Parties.

 

Collateral Requirement ” shall mean at any time the amount of Development Period Security or Operating Period Security required under this Agreement at such time.

 

Commercial Operation Date ” shall mean the date on which the conditions set forth in Section 3.3(b) have been satisfied, as set out in a written notice from Seller to Buyer.

 

Contract Capacity ” shall mean 3.2 MW.

 

Contract Maximum Amount ” shall mean 3.2 MWh per hour of Energy and a corresponding amount of all other Products.

 

Contract Year ” shall mean the twelve (12) consecutive calendar months starting on the first day of the calendar month following the Commercial Operation Date and each subsequent twelve (12) consecutive calendar month period.

 

Contract Value ” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 9.3(b) hereof.

 

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Control ” shall mean the possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to direct or cause the direction of the management and policies of a Person, whether through the ownership of voting securities, by contract or otherwise.

 

Cover Damages ” shall mean, with respect to any Delivery Shortfall, an amount equal to (a) the positive net amount, if, any, by which the Replacement Price exceeds the applicable Price that would have been paid pursuant to Section 5.1 and Exhibit E hereof, multiplied by the quantity of that Delivery Shortfall, plus (b) any applicable penalties and other costs assessed by ISO-NE or any other Person against Buyer as a result of Seller’s failure to deliver such Products in accordance with the terms of this Agreement. Buyer shall provide a statement for the applicable period explaining in reasonable detail the calculation of any Cover Damages.

 

Credit Support ” shall have the meaning specified in Section 6.2(d) hereof.

 

Credit Support Delivery Amount ” shall have the meaning specified in Section 6.3 hereof.

 

Credit Support Return Amount ” shall have the meaning specified in Section 6.4 hereof.

 

Critical Milestones ” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 3.1 hereof.

 

Custodian ” shall have the meaning specified in Section 6.5(a)(i) hereof.

 

Day Ahead Energy Market ” shall have the meaning set forth in the ISO-NE Rules.

 

Default ” shall mean any event or condition which, with the giving of notice or passage of time or both, could become an Event of Default.

 

Defaulting Party ” shall mean the Party with respect to which a Default or Event of Default has occurred.

 

Deliver ” or “ Delivery ” shall mean with respect to (i) Energy, to supply Energy into Buyer’s ISO-NE account at the Delivery Point in accordance with the terms of this Agreement and the rules of the Interconnecting Utility, (ii) RECs, to supply RECs in accordance with Section 4.7(e) and (iii) Capacity, delivery consistent with Section 4.8.

 

Delivery Point ” shall mean the Facility’s busbar on Seller’s side of the interconnection point with Buyer’s distribution system located within the Facility substation, the currently contemplated location of which is shown as the revenue meter location in Exhibit G . Not later than the date on which the Interconnecting Utility determines the Interconnection Cost Adjustment as set forth in Exhibit E , Buyer and Seller shall agree on any changes to Exhibit G to reflect the final location of the Delivery Point and shall amend this Agreement to attach a revised Exhibit G reflecting any such changes.

 

Delivery Shortfall ” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 4.3 hereof.

 

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Development Period Security ” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 6.2(a) hereof

 

Determination Date ” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2.2(e) hereof. “Disputing Party” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 6.6(a) hereof

 

Eastern Prevailing Time ” shall mean either Eastern Standard Time or Eastern Daylight Savings Time, as in effect from time to time.

 

Effective Date ” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2.1 hereof

 

Energy ” shall mean electric “energy,” as such term is defined in the ISO-NE Tariff, generated by the Facility as measured in kWh (unless otherwise noted) in Eastern Prevailing Time, less such Facility’s station service use, generator lead losses and transformer losses, which quantity for purposes of this Agreement will never be less than zero.

 

Environmental Attributes ” shall mean any and all generation attributes under the Renewable Energy Standard and/or under any and all other international, federal, regional, state or other law, rule, regulation, bylaw, treaty or other intergovernmental compact, decision, administrative decision, program (including any voluntary compliance or membership program), competitive market or business method (including all credits, certificates, benefits, and emission measurements, reductions, offsets and allowances related thereto) that are attributable, now or in the future, to the favorable generation or environmental attributes of the Facility or the Products produced by the Facility, up to and including the Contract Maximum Amount, during the Services Term, to: (a) any such credits, certificates, benefits, offsets and allowances computed on the basis of the Facility’s generation using renewable technology or displacement of fossil-fuel derived or other conventional energy generation; (b) any Certificates issued pursuant to the GIS in connection with Energy generated by the Facility; and (c) any voluntary emission reduction credits obtained by Seller in accordance with the terms of this Agreement in connection with the generation of Energy by the Facility; provided, however, that Environmental Attributes shall not include: (i) any state or federal production tax credits; (ii) any state or federal investment tax credits or other tax credits associated with the construction or ownership of the Facility; (iii) any cash payments or grants made in lieu of such tax credits; (iv) any state or federal tax credit or cash grant introduced after the date of this Agreement intended to supplement, replace or enhance the tax credits described in the foregoing clauses (i), (ii) or (iii); (v) any depreciation deductions permitted under the Code with respect to the Facility (including any bonus or accelerated depreciation); or (vi) any state, federal or private Financing, grants, guarantees or other credit support relating to the development, construction, ownership, operation or maintenance of the Facility.

 

Escalation Date ” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 5.1(b) hereof “Escalation Rate” shall mean two percent (2%) per annum.

 

Escalation Rate ” shall mean two percent (2%) per annum.

 

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Event of Default ” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 9.1 hereof and shall include the events and conditions described in Section 9.1 and Section 9.2 hereof.

 

Extended Term ” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2.2(e) hereof. “Extension Price” shall have the meaning set forth in Exhibit E hereto.

 

Extension Regulatory Approval ” shall mean approval by the PUC or any other applicable Governmental Entity of the extension of this Agreement pursuant to Section 2.2(e), without material modification or conditions, to the extent Buyer determines such approval is required in its sole discretion, which approval shall include without limitation all regulatory authorizations required by the PUC or any other applicable Governmental Entity under then-applicable law, including the recovery by Buyer of its costs incurred under this Agreement during the entire Extended Term , which approval shall be final and not subject to appeal or rehearing and shall be acceptable to Buyer in its sole discretion.

 

EWG ” shall mean an exempt wholesale generator under 15 U.S.C. § 79z-5a, as amended from time to time.

 

Facility ” shall have the meaning set forth in the Recitals.

 

FERC ” shall mean the United States Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, and shall include its successors.

 

Financial Closing Date ” shall mean the date of signing of the initial agreements for any Financing of the Facility.

 

Financing ” shall mean indebtedness, whether secured or unsecured, loans, guarantees, notes, equity, convertible debt, sale-leaseback or other tax-equity transactions, bond issuances, recapitalizations and all similar financing or refinancing.

 

Force Majeure ” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 10.1(a) hereof.

 

Forward Capacity Auction ” shall have the meaning set forth in the ISO-NE Rules. “Forward Capacity Market” shall have the meaning set forth in the ISO-NE Rules.

 

Generator Maintenance Outages ” shall have the meaning set forth in the ISO-NE Rules.

 

Generator Planned Outages ” shall have the meaning set forth in the ISO-NE Rules.

 

Generation Unit ” shall mean a facility that converts a fuel or an energy resource into electrical energy.

 

GIS ” shall mean the New England Power Pool Generation Information System or any successor thereto, which includes a generation information database and certificate system, operated by NEPOOL, its designee or successor entity, that accounts for generation attributes of electricity generated or consumed within New England.

 

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Good Utility Practice ” shall mean compliance with all applicable laws, codes and regulations, all ISO-NE Rules and ISO-NE Practices, and any practices, methods and acts engaged in or approved by a significant portion of the electric industry in New England during the relevant time period, or any of the practices, methods and acts which, in the exercise of reasonable judgment in light of the facts known at the time the decision is made, could have been expected to accomplish the desired result consistent with good business practices, reliability, safety and expedition. Good Utility Practice is not intended to be limited to the optimum practice, method or act to the exclusion of all others, but rather is intended to include acceptable practices, methods and acts generally accepted in the industry in New England.

 

Governmental Entity ” shall mean any federal, state or local governmental agency, authority, department, instrumentality or regulatory body, and any court or tribunal, with jurisdiction over Seller, Buyer or the Facility.

 

Initial Services Term ” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2.2(b) hereof.

 

Interconnecting Utility ” shall mean the utility (which may or may not be Buyer or an Affiliate of Buyer) providing interconnection service for the Facility to the transmission or distribution system of that utility.

 

Interconnection Agreement ” shall mean an agreement between Seller and the Interconnecting Utility regarding the interconnection of the Facility to the transmission or distribution system of the Interconnecting Utility, as the case may be, as the same may be amended from time to time.

 

Interconnection Cost Adjustment ” shall have the meaning set forth in Exhibit E hereto.

 

Interconnection Point ” shall have the meaning set forth in the Interconnection Agreement.

 

Interest Amount ” shall mean with respect to a Party and an Interest Period, the sum of the daily interest amounts for all days in such Interest Period; each daily interest amount to be determined by such Party as follows: (a) the amount of Cash held by such Party on that day (but excluding any interest previously earned on such Cash); multiplied by (b) the Collateral Interest Rate for that day; divided by (c) 360.

 

Interest Period ” shall mean the period from (and including) the last Business Day on which an Interest Amount was Transferred by Buyer (or if no Interest Amount has yet been Transferred by Buyer, the Business Day on which Cash was Transferred to Seller) to (but excluding) the Business Day on which the current Interest Amount is to be Transferred.

 

Internal Bilateral Transaction ” means the purchase or sale of electric energy or regulation obligations between two market participants internal to NEPOOL.

 

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ISO ” or “ ISO-NE ” shall mean ISO New England Inc., the independent system operator established in accordance with the RTO arrangements for New England, or its successor.

 

ISO-NE Practices ” shall mean the ISO-NE practices and procedures for delivery and transmission of energy and capacity and capacity testing in effect from time to time and shall include, without limitation, applicable requirements of the NEPOOL Agreement, and any applicable successor practices and procedures.

 

ISO-NE Rules ” shall mean all rules and procedures adopted by NEPOOL, ISO-NE, or the RTO, and governing wholesale power markets and transmission in New England, as such rules may be amended from time to time, including but not limited to, the ISO-NE Tariff, the Market Rules (as defined in the ISO-NE Tariff), the ISO-NE Operating Procedures (as defined in the ISO-NE Tariff), the ISO-NE Planning Procedures (as defined in the ISO-NE Tariff), the Transmission Operating Agreement (as defined in the ISO-NE Tariff), the Participants Agreement, the manuals, procedures and business process documents published by ISO-NE via its web site and/or by its e-mail distribution to appropriate NEPOOL participants and/or NEPOOL committees, as amended, superseded or restated from time to time.

 

ISO-NE Tariff ” shall mean ISO-NE’s Transmission, Markets and Services Tariff, FERC Electric Tariff No. 3, as amended from time to time.

 

ISO-NE Settlement Market System ” shall have the meaning as set forth in the ISO-NE Tariff.

 

kW ” shall mean a kilowatt.

 

kWh ” shall mean a kilowatt-hour.

 

Late Payment Rate ” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 5.3 hereof.

 

Law ” shall mean all federal, state and local statutes, regulations, rules, orders, executive orders, decrees, policies, judicial decisions and notifications, including without limitation those pertaining to public health, pollution, natural resources or the environment.

 

Lender ” shall mean any party providing Financing for the development, construction, and ownership of the Facility, or any refinancing of that Financing, and shall include any assignee or transferee of such a party and any trustee, collateral agent or similar entity acting on behalf of such a party.

 

Letter of Credit ” shall mean an irrevocable, non-transferable, standby letter of credit, issued by a Qualified Institution utilizing a form acceptable to the Party in whose favor such letter of credit is issued. All costs relating to any Letter of Credit shall be for the account of the Party providing that Letter of Credit.

 

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Letter of Credit Default ” shall mean with respect to an outstanding Letter of Credit, the occurrence of any of the following events (a) the issuer of such Letter of Credit shall fail to be a Qualified Institution; (b) the issuer of the Letter of Credit shall fail to comply with or perform its obligations under such Letter of Credit if such failure shall be continuing after the lapse of any applicable grace period; (c) the issuer of the Letter of Credit shall disaffirm, disclaim, repudiate or reject, in whole or in part, or challenge the validity of, such Letter of Credit; or (d) the Letter of Credit shall expire or terminate or have a Value of $0 at any time the Party on whose account that Letter of Credit is issued is required to provide Credit Support hereunder and that Party has not Transferred replacement Credit Support meeting the requirements of this Agreement; provided, however, that no Letter of Credit Default shall occur in any event with respect to a Letter of Credit after the time such Letter of Credit is required to be cancelled or returned in accordance with the terms of this Agreement.

 

Market Participant ” shall have the meaning set forth in the ISO-NE Rules.

 

Meters ” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 4.6(a) hereof.

 

Moody’s ” shall mean Moody’s Investors Service, Inc., and any successor thereto. “MW” shall mean a megawatt.

 

MWh ” shall mean a megawatt-hour (one MWh shall equal 1,000 kWh).

 

NEPOOL ” shall mean the New England Power Pool and any successor organization.

 

NEPOOL Agreement ” shall mean the Second Amended and Restated New England Power Pool Agreement dated as of February 1, 2005, as amended and/or restated from time to time.

 

NERC ” shall mean the North American Electric Reliability Council and shall include any successor thereto.

 

Network Upgrades ” shall mean any upgrades to the Pool Transmission Facilities and the Transmission Provider’s transmission and distribution systems, including any System Modifications under the Interconnection Agreement, necessary for Delivery of the Energy to the Delivery Point, including those that are necessary for the Facility’s Capacity to be recognized as a Capacity Resource pursuant to the ISO-NE Rules, as determined and identified in the interconnection study approved in connection with construction of the Facility.

 

Newly Developed Renewable Energy Resource ” shall mean, pursuant to R.I.G.L. § 39-26.1-2(6), an electrical generation unit that uses exclusively an eligible renewable energy resource (as defined under R.I.G.L. § 39-26-5), and either (x) has neither begun operation, nor have the developers of the unit implemented investment or lending agreements necessary to finance the construction of the unit or (y) is located within the state of Rhode Island and obtained project financing on or after January 1, 2009.

 

Node ” shall have the meaning set forth in the ISO-NE Rules.

 

Non-Defaulting Party ” shall mean the Party with respect to which a Default or Event of Default has not occurred.

 

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Non-Peak Months ” shall mean the months of September, October, April and May. “Notification Time” shall mean 1:00 p.m. Eastern Prevailing Time on a Business Day. “Obligations” shall have the meaning specified in Section 6.1 hereof.

 

Operating Period Security ” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 6.2(b) hereof.

 

Operational Limitations ” of the Facility are the parameters set forth in Exhibit A describing the physical limitations of the Facility, including the time required for start-up, the limitation on the number of scheduled start-ups per Contract Year and the minimum operating limit(s) for the Facility.

 

Party ” and “ Parties ” shall have the meaning set forth in the first paragraph of this Agreement.

 

Permits ” shall mean any permit, authorization, license, order, consent, waiver, exception, exemption, variance or other approval by or from, and any filing, report, certification, declaration, notice or submission to or with, any Governmental Entity required to authorize action, including any of the foregoing relating to the ownership, siting, construction, operation, use or maintenance of the Facility under any applicable Law.

 

Person ” shall mean an individual, partnership, corporation, limited liability company, limited liability partnership, limited partnership, association, trust, unincorporated organization, or a government authority or agency or political subdivision thereof.

 

Pool Transmission Facilities ” has the meaning given that term in the ISO-NE Rules.

 

Posted Collateral ” shall mean all Credit Support and all proceeds thereof that have been Transferred to or received by a Party under this Agreement and not Transferred to the Party providing the Credit Support or released by the Party holding the Credit Support. Any Interest Amount or portion thereof not Transferred will constitute Posted Collateral in the form of Cash.

 

Price ” shall mean the purchase price(s) for Products referenced in Section 5.1 hereof and Exhibit E hereto.

 

Products ” shall mean Energy, Capacity and RECs; provided, however, that Energy, Capacity and RECs generated by the Facility in excess of the Contract Maximum Amount or during any Test Period shall not be deemed Products.

 

Projected Annual Energy Output ” shall mean the historic average of actual generation of the Facility since the Commercial Operation Date or, solely for the period up to and including the Contract Year immediately after the Contract Year in which the Commercial Operation Date occurred, 23,160 MWh, in each case in MWh per Contract Year.

 

PUC ” shall mean the Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission and shall include its successors.

 

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QF ” shall mean a cogeneration or small power production facility which meets the criteria as defined in Title 18, Code of Federal Regulations, §§ 292.201 through 292.207, as amended from time to time.

 

Qualified Institution ” shall mean a major U.S. commercial bank or trust company, the U.S. branch office of a foreign bank, or another financial institution, in any case, organized under the laws of the United States or a political subdivision thereof having assets of at least $10 billion and a credit rating of at least (A) “A2” from Moody’s or “A” from S&P, if such entity is rated by both S&P and Moody’s or (B) “A” by S&P or “A2” by Moody’s, if such entity is rated by either S&P or Moody’s but not both.

 

Real-Time Energy Market ” shall have the meaning as set forth in the ISO-NE Rules.

 

Reference Market-Maker ” shall mean a leading dealer in the relevant market that is selected in a commercially reasonable manner and is not an affiliate of either party.

 

Regulatory Approval ” shall mean the PUC’s approval of this Agreement without material modification or conditions pursuant to R.I.G.L. §§ 39-26.1-3 through 39-26.1-5 and the regulations promulgated thereunder, including the recovery by Buyer of its costs incurred under this Agreement and remuneration equal to 2.75 percent (2.75%) of Buyer’s actual annual payments under this Agreement pursuant to R.I.G.L. § 39-26.1-4, which approval shall be final and not subject to appeal or rehearing and shall be acceptable to Buyer in its sole discretion.

 

Rejected Purchase ” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 4.4 hereof.

 

Renewable Energy Certificates ” or “ RECs ” shall mean all of the Certificates and any and all other Environmental Attributes associated with the Products or otherwise produced by the Facility which conform with the eligibility criteria set forth in the applicable Rhode Island regulations and are eligible to satisfy the Renewable Energy Standard, and shall represent title to and claim over all Environmental Attributes associated with the specified MWh of generation from such Newly Developed Renewable Energy Resource.

 

Renewable Energy Standard ” shall mean the requirements established pursuant to R.I.G.L. § 39-26-1 et seq. and the regulations promulgated thereunder that requires all retail electricity sellers in Rhode Island (except Block Island Power Company and Pascoag Utility District) to provide a minimum percentage of electricity from eligible renewable energy resources, and such successor laws and regulations as may be in effect from time to time.

 

Replacement Energy ” shall mean Energy purchased by Buyer as replacement for any Delivery Shortfall.

 

Replacement Price ” shall mean the price at which Buyer, acting in a commercially reasonable manner, purchases Replacement Energy and Replacement RECs plus (i) transaction and other administrative costs reasonably incurred by Buyer in purchasing such Replacement Energy and Replacement RECs and (ii) additional transmission charges, if any, reasonably incurred by Buyer to transmit Replacement Energy to the Delivery Point; provided, however, that (a) in no event shall Buyer be required to utilize or change its utilization of its owned or controlled assets, contracts or market positions to minimize Seller’s liability, (b) Buyer shall have no obligation to purchase Replacement Energy and/or Replacement RECs, and (c) if Buyer does not purchase Replacement Energy and/or Replacement RECs, the market value of Energy and/or RECs at the time of the Delivery Shortfall (as reasonably determined by Buyer) will replace the price at which Buyer purchases Energy and/or Replacement RECs in the calculation of the Replacement Price.

 

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Replacement RECs ” shall mean any generation or environmental attributes, including any Certificates or other certificates or credits related thereto reflecting generation by a Newly Developed Renewable Energy Resource that are purchased by Buyer as replacement for any Delivery Shortfall.

 

Request Date ” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 6.6(a) hereof. “Requesting Party” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 6.6(a) hereof.

 

Resale Damages ” shall mean, with respect to any Rejected Purchase, an amount equal to (a) the positive net amount, if any, by which the applicable Price that would have been paid pursuant to Section 4.4 hereof for such Rejected Purchase, had it been accepted, exceeds the Resale Price multiplied by the quantity of that Rejected Purchase, plus (b) any applicable penalties assessed by ISO-NE or any other Person against Seller as a result of Buyer’s failure to accept such Products. Seller shall provide a written statement explaining in reasonable detail the calculation of any Resale Damages.

 

Resale Price ” shall mean the price at which Seller, acting in a commercially reasonable manner, sells or is paid for a Rejected Purchase, plus transaction and other administrative costs reasonably incurred by Seller in re-selling such Rejected Purchase; provided, however, that in no event shall Seller be required to utilize or change its utilization of the Facility or its other assets, contracts or market positions in order to minimize Buyer’s liability for such Rejected Purchase.

 

Rounding Amount ” shall have the meaning specified in Section 6.2(c) hereof.

 

RTO ” shall mean ISO-NE and any successor organization or entity to ISO-NE, as authorized by FERC to exercise the functions pursuant to the FERC’s Order No. 2000 and FERC’s corresponding regulations, or any successor organization, or any other entity authorized to exercise comparable functions in subsequent orders or regulations of FERC.

 

S&P ” shall mean Standard & Poor’s Ratings Group, a division of McGraw Hill, Inc., and any successor thereto.

 

Schedule ” or “ Scheduling ” shall mean the actions of Seller and/or its designated representatives pursuant to Section 4.2, of notifying, requesting and confirming to ISO-NE the quantity of Energy to be delivered on any given day or days (or in any given hour or hours) during the Services Term at the Delivery Point.

 

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Seasonal Claimed Capacity ” shall mean the maximum dependable load carrying ability of the Facility in the summer or winter, excluding capacity required for use by the Facility, as determined by ISO-NE pursuant to the ISO-NE Rules.

 

Seller’s Taxes ” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 5.4(a) hereof.

 

Services Term ” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2.2(b) hereof.

 

Substitute Credit Support ” shall have the meaning assigned in Section 6.5(f) hereof.

 

Supply Forecast ” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 9.3(b) hereof.

 

Term ” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2.2(a) hereof.

 

Termination Payment ” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 9.3(b) hereof.

 

Test Period ” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 4.9 hereof.

 

Test REC Price ” shall mean, during the Test Period, the average of two (2) broker quotes for the average sale price of Certificates generated by a Newly Developed Renewable Energy Resource obtained by Seller from brokers that normally trade in such Certificates, having at least one (1) year of experience in trading Certificates and that are not Affiliates of either Party, in each case for the month in which the RECs at issue were delivered to Buyer.

 

Transfer ” shall mean, with respect to any Posted Collateral or Interest Amount, and in accordance with the instructions of the Party entitled thereto:

 

(a)       in the case of Cash, payment or transfer by wire transfer into one or more bank accounts specified by the Party to whom such Cash is being delivered; an

 

(b)       in the case of Letters of Credit, delivery of the Letter of Credit or an amendment thereto to the Party to whom such Letter of Credit is being delivered.

 

Transmission Provider ” shall mean (a) ISO-NE, its respective successor or Affiliates; (b) Buyer; or (c) such other third parties from whom transmission services are necessary for Seller to fulfill its performance obligations to Buyer hereunder, as the context requires.

 

Unit Contingent ” means that Seller is obligated to deliver Products only to the extent that the Facility operates and generates Products.

 

Valuation Agent ” means the Requesting Party; provided, however, that that in all cases, if an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing with respect to the Party designated as the Valuation Agent, then in such case, and for so long as the Event of Default continues, the other Party shall be the Valuation Agent.

 

Valuation Date ” shall mean each Business Day.

 

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Valuation Percentage ” shall have the meaning specified in Section 6.2(d) hereof.

 

Valuation Time ” shall mean the close of business on the Business Day before the Valuation Date or date of calculation, as applicable.

 

Value ” shall mean, with respect to Posted Collateral or Credit Support, the Valuation Percentage multiplied by the amount then available under the Letter of Credit to be unconditionally drawn by Buyer.

 

2. EFFECTIVE DATE; CONDITIONS; TERM

 

2.1.        Effective Date . The “ Effective Date ” shall be the date that the conditions described in Section 8.1 hereof has been satisfied or waived by Buyer (unless this Agreement is terminated prior to that date in accordance with its terms).

 

2.2.        Term .

 

(a)        The “ Term ” of this Agreement is the period beginning on the Agreement Date and ending upon the final settlement of all obligations hereunder after the expiration of the Services Term or the earlier termination of this Agreement in accordance with its terms.

 

(b)        The “ Services Term ” is the period during which Buyer is obligated to purchase Products Delivered to Buyer by Seller (not including any Energy and RECs Delivered during the Test Period under Section 4.9), commencing on the Commercial Operation Date and continuing for a period of fifteen (15) years from the Commercial Operation Date (subject to extension of the Services Term for the Extended Term pursuant to Section 2.2(e)), unless this Agreement is earlier terminated in accordance with the provisions hereof. The initial 15-year Services Term, prior to any extension thereof pursuant to Section 2.2(e), is referred to herein as the “ Initial Services Term .”

 

(c)        At the expiration of the Initial Services Term under Section 2.2(b), the Parties shall no longer be bound by the terms and provisions hereof (including, without limitation, any payment obligation hereunder), except (i) to the extent necessary to provide invoices and make payments or refunds with respect to Products delivered prior to such expiration or termination, (ii) to the extent necessary to enforce the rights and the obligations of the Parties arising under this Agreement before such expiration or termination, (iii) as set forth in Section 2.2(d) and Section 2.2(e) and (iv) the obligations of the Parties hereunder with respect to confidentiality and indemnification shall survive the expiration or termination of this Agreement.

 

(d)        At the expiration of the Initial Services Term, Buyer shall have the right, exercisable in Buyer’s sole discretion, to negotiate in good faith with Seller for no more than sixty (60) days, the terms of the sale of such Energy, Capacity and/or RECs generated by the Facility (or a portion thereof, as selected by Buyer) to Buyer or its designee on an exclusive basis. If Buyer wishes to enter into such negotiation, Buyer shall notify Seller of such decision at least one hundred eighty (180) days prior to the expiration of the Initial Services Term, and such negotiations shall commence at least one hundred fifty (150) days prior to the expiration of the Initial Services Term. Seller shall supply in a timely manner, information regarding the Facility which is customary to allow Buyer to perform due diligence and to negotiate in good faith for the purchase of such Energy, Capacity and RECs.

 

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(e)        Without limiting the rights of Buyer under Section 2.2(d), Buyer shall have the right, exercisable in Buyer’s sole discretion, to extend the Services Term and the term during which Buyer is obligated to purchase the Products pursuant to this Agreement for an additional six (6) years (the “ Extended Term ”), which right shall be exercisable by sending a written notice from Buyer to Seller not later than ninety (90) days prior to the fourteenth (14th) anniversary of the Commercial Operation Date (the date that is ninety (90) days prior to the fourteenth (14th) anniversary of the Commercial Operation Date is referred to herein as the “ Determination Date ”). In the event that Buyer exercises its right under this Section 2.2(e), (i) the Bundled Price for the Extended Term shall be reset to the “Extension Price” as defined in Exhibit E , which shall remain subject to adjustment for the Forward Capacity Market payments described in Exhibit E but shall not be subject to annual escalation pursuant to Section 5.1(b) after the fourteenth (14th) Escalation Date after the Commercial Operation Date, and (ii) all other terms and conditions of this Agreement shall remain unchanged. Seller shall provide Buyer written notice of the Extension Price, as described in Exhibit E , no later than one hundred eighty (180) days prior to the Determination Date. Any extension of the Services Term and Buyer’s purchase obligation under this Agreement pursuant to this Section 2.2(e) shall be subject to Buyer’s receipt of any required Extension Regulatory Approval. In the event that any required Extension Regulatory Approval is not received within 210 days after the Determination Date, the exercise by Buyer of its right to extend the Agreement under this Section 2.2(e) shall be void and of no further force and effect.

 

3. FACILITY DEVELOPMENT AND OPERATION

 

3.1.        Critical Milestones .

 

(a)        Subject to the provisions of Section 3.1(c), commencing on the Effective Date, Seller shall develop the Facility in order to achieve the following milestones (“ Critical Milestones ”) on or before the date set forth in this Section 3.1(a):

 

(i) receipt of all Permits necessary to construct the Facility, as set forth in Exhibit B , in final form, by the date that is six (6) months after the Effective Date;

 

(ii) acquisition of all required real property and other site control rights necessary for construction and operation of the Facility, interconnection of the Facility to the Interconnecting Utility, construction of the Network Upgrades (to the extent it is Seller’s responsibility to do so) and performance of Seller’s obligations under this Agreement as set forth on Exhibit B , by the date that is six (6) months after the Effective Date;

 

(iii) closing of Financing required in order for Seller to proceed with the construction of the Facility, including, as applicable, Seller’s financial obligations with respect to interconnection of the Facility to the Interconnecting Utility and construction of the Network Upgrades, by the date that is six (6) months after the Effective Date;

 

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(iv) issuance of a full notice to proceed by Seller to its general construction contractor and commencement of construction of the Facility by the date that is nine (9) months after the Effective Date;

 

(v) execution of agreements by Seller and one or more providers of organic feedstock for the Facility that collectively are adequate to satisfy all of the Facility’s feedstock requirements for the first two years after the Commercial Operation Date by the date that is eighteen (18) months after the Effective Date; and

 

(vi) achievement of the Commercial Operation Date by the date that is two (2) years after the Effective Date.

 

(b)        Seller shall provide Buyer with written notice of the achievement of each Critical Milestone within seven (7) days after that achievement, which notice shall include information demonstrating with reasonable specificity that such Critical Milestone has been achieved. Seller acknowledges that Buyer requires such written notice solely for monitoring purposes, and that nothing set forth in this Agreement shall create or impose upon Buyer any responsibility or liability for the development, construction, operation or maintenance of the Facility.

 

(c)        Majeure under Section 10.1, Seller may elect to extend all of the dates for the Critical Milestones not yet achieved (i) by one year without posting additional Development Period Security and, (ii) after such initial one-year extension, by up to two additional six-month periods by posting additional Development Period Security of $22,500 for each such six-month period. In no event may Seller exercise the right to extend the Critical Milestone dates under this Section 3.1(c) by more than two (2) years in total, and in no event shall any extension of the Critical Milestone dates as a result of one or more Force Majeure events exceed a cumulative total of twelve (12) months in addition to any extensions under this Section 3.1(c). Any such election under this Section 3.1(c) shall be made in a written notice delivered to Buyer on or prior to the first date for a Critical Milestone that has not yet been achieved (as such date may have previously been extended).

 

(d)        The Parties agree that time is of the essence with respect to the dates for Critical Milestones (as the same may be extended pursuant to Section 3.1(c)) and is part of the consideration to Buyer in entering into this Agreement.

 

(e)        If the Facility does not achieve the Commercial Operation Date by the Commercial Operation Date milestone set out in Section 3.1(a)(vi), as may be extended under Section 3.1(c), either Party may terminate this Agreement within sixty (60) days after such date by written notice to the other Party (which termination shall be effective upon delivery of such notice), and upon such termination neither Party will have any further liability to the other hereunder except for obligations arising under Section 6.1 and Article 12.

 

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(f)        If Seller fails to make material progress toward the Commercial Operation Date, as reasonably determined by either Buyer or the PUC based on Seller’s progress with respect to the milestones set forth in Section 3.1(a), within three (3) years after the Agreement Date, Buyer may terminate this Agreement by written notice to Seller delivered within sixty (60) days after the third anniversary of the Agreement Date (which termination shall be effective upon delivery of such notice), and upon such termination neither Party will have any further liability to the other hereunder except for obligations arising under Section 6.1 and Article 12.

 

3.2.        Construction .

 

(a)        Progress Reports . At the end of each calendar quarter after the Effective Date and until the Commercial Operation Date, Seller shall provide Buyer with a progress report regarding Critical Milestones not yet achieved, including projected time to completion of the Facility, in accordance with the form attached hereto as Exhibit C , and shall provide supporting documents and detail regarding the same upon Buyer’s request. Seller shall permit Buyer and its advisors and consultants to review and discuss with Seller and its advisors and consultants such progress reports during business hours and upon reasonable notice to Seller.

 

(b)        Site Access . Buyer and its representatives shall have the right but not the obligation, during business hours and upon reasonable notice to Seller, to inspect the Facility site and monitor the construction of the Facility.

 

3.3.        Commercial Operation .

 

(a)        Seller’s obligation to Deliver the Products and Buyer’s obligation to pay Seller for such Products commences on the Commercial Operation Date; provided that Energy, Capacity and RECs generated prior to the Commercial Operation Date shall not be deemed Products.

 

(b)        The Commercial Operation Date shall occur on the date on which the Facility is substantially completed as described in Exhibit A and capable of regular commercial operation in accordance with Good Utility Practice, the manufacturer’s guidelines for all material components of the Facility, all requirements of the ISO-NE Rules and ISO-NE Practices for the delivery of the Products to Seller have been satisfied, and all performance testing for the Facility has been successfully completed, provided Seller has also satisfied, and continues to satisfy, the following conditions precedent as of such date:

 

(i) completion of all transmission and interconnection facilities and any Network Upgrades, including final acceptance and authorization to interconnect the Facility from the Interconnecting Utility in accordance with the Interconnection Agreement;

 

(ii) Seller has obtained and demonstrated possession of all Permits required for the lawful construction and operation of the Facility, for the interconnection of the Facility to the Interconnecting Utility (including any Network Upgrades) and for Seller to perform its obligations under this Agreement, including but not limited to Permits related to environmental matters, all as set forth on Exhibit B;

 

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(iii) Seller has (i) qualified the Facility as an “eligible renewable energy resource” pursuant to Section 5.0 of the Code of Rhode Island Rules 90-060-015 and (ii) otherwise satisfied the requirements for the Facility to be a Newly Developed Renewable Energy Resource;

 

(iv) Seller has acquired all real property rights and other site control rights needed to construct and operate the Facility, to interconnect the Facility to the Interconnecting Utility, to construct the Network Upgrades (to the extent that it is Seller’s responsibility to do so) and to perform Seller’s obligations under this Agreement;

 

(v) Seller has established all ISO-NE-related accounts and entered into all ISO-NE-related agreements (including without limitation registration of the Facility as a “settlement only generator” in the ISO-NE Settlement Market System) required for the performance of Seller’s obligations in connection with the Facility and this Agreement, which agreements shall be in full force and effect, including the registration of the Facility in the GIS;

 

(vi) Seller has provided to Buyer 1.3.9 confirmation from ISO-NE regarding approval of generation entry, has submitted the Asset Registration Form (as defined in ISO-NE Practices) for the Facility to ISO-NE and has taken such other actions as are necessary to effect the transfer of the Energy to Buyer in the ISO-NE Settlement Market System;

 

(vii) Seller has caused the Facility to be qualified as an Existing Capacity Resource under the ISO-NE Rules with a Seasonal Capability equal to or greater than the Contract Capacity;

 

(viii) Seller has successfully completed all pre-operational testing and commissioning for the Facility in accordance with manufacturer guidelines;

 

(ix) Seller has satisfied and continues to satisfy all Critical Milestones that precede the Commercial Operation Date in Section 3.1;

 

(x) no Default or Event of Default by Seller shall have occurred and remain uncured;

 

(xi) Seller has obtained any and all necessary authorizations from FERC to sell Energy and Capacity from the Facility at market-based rates and shall be in compliance with such authorization; and

 

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(xii) the Facility, as constructed to date, is under the sole control of Seller (including without limitation with respect to the operation, maintenance and management of the Facility) and is either owned or leased by Seller, and Seller is a party to all material contracts relating to the construction, operation, management and maintenance of the Facility.

 

3.4.        Operation of the Facility .

 

(a)        Compliance With Utility Requirements . Seller shall comply with, and cause the Facility to comply with: (i) Good Utility Practice; (ii) the Operational Limitations; and (iii) all applicable rules, procedures, operating policies, criteria, guidelines and requirements imposed by ISO-NE, any Transmission Provider, the Interconnecting Utility, NERC and/or any regional reliability entity, including, in each case, all practices, requirements, rules, procedures and standards related to Seller’s construction, ownership or leasing, operation and maintenance of the Facility and its performance of its obligations under this Agreement (including obligations related to the generation, Scheduling, interconnection and transmission of Energy, the sale of Capacity and the transfer of RECs), whether such requirements were imposed prior to or after the Agreement Date or the Effective Date. Seller shall be solely responsible for registering as the “Generator Owner” and “Generator Operator” of the Facility with NERC and any applicable regional reliability entities.

 

(b)        Permits . Seller shall maintain in full force and effect all Permits necessary for it to perform its obligations under this Agreement, including all Permits necessary to operate and maintain the Facility.

 

(c)        Maintenance and Operation of Facility; Outages . Seller shall, at all times during the Term, construct, maintain and operate the Facility in accordance with Good Utility Practice and in accordance with Exhibit A to this Agreement. Seller shall bear all costs related thereto. Seller may contract with other Persons to provide discrete construction, operation and maintenance functions, so long as Seller maintains sole ownership of or the sole leasehold interest in, and overall control over the construction, operation and maintenance of, the Facility throughout the Term. Seller shall use commercially reasonable efforts, consistent with Good Utility Practice, to schedule all Generator Maintenance Outages during Non-Peak Months, and shall schedule all Generator Planned Outages during Non-Peak Months. Seller shall provide Buyer with a schedule setting forth all Generator Planned Outages for the next twelve (12) months no later than January 15th of each calendar year of the Services Term, and shall provide Buyer with notice of any Generator Maintenance Outage within twenty-four (24) hours after Seller schedules such Generator Maintenance Outage.

 

(d)        Interconnection Agreement . Seller shall comply with the terms and conditions of the Interconnection Agreement.

 

(e)        ISO-NE Status . Seller shall, at all times during the Term, either: (i) be an ISO-NE “Market Participant” pursuant to the ISO-NE Rules; or (ii) have entered into an agreement with an ISO-NE Market Participant that shall perform all of Seller’s ISO-NE-related obligations in connection with the Facility and this Agreement.

 

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(f)        Forecasts . Commencing at least thirty (30) days prior to the Commercial Operation Date and continuing throughout the Services Term, Seller shall update and deliver to Buyer on a monthly basis and in a form reasonably acceptable to Buyer, twelve (12) month rolling forecasts of Energy production by the Facility, which forecasts shall be prepared in good faith and in accordance with Good Utility Practice based on historical performance, maintenance schedules, Seller’s generation projections and other relevant data and considerations. Any notable changes from prior forecasts or historical energy delivery shall be noted and an explanation provided. The provisions of this section are in addition to Seller’s requirements under ISO-NE Rules and ISO-NE Practices, including ISO-NE Operating Procedure No. 5, and the Transmission Provider’s rules and regulations.

 

(g)        Eligible Renewable Energy Resource . Seller shall be solely responsible for certifying the Facility with the PUC as a renewable energy resource pursuant to Section 6.0 of the Code of Rhode Island Rules 90-060-015 (as amended from time to time) and maintaining such certification throughout the Services Term; provided, however, that if the Facility ceases to qualify as a renewable energy resource solely as a result of a change in Law, Seller shall only be required to use commercially reasonable efforts to maintain such certification after that change in Law.

 

(h)        Compliance Reporting . If Buyer is subject to any certification or compliance reporting requirement with respect to the Products delivered to Buyer hereunder, then Seller shall provide any information in its possession (or, if not in Seller’s possession, available to it and not reasonably available to Buyer) requested by Buyer to permit Buyer to comply with any such reporting requirement.

 

(i)        Insurance . Throughout the Term, and without limiting any liabilities or any other obligations of Seller hereunder, Seller shall secure and continuously carry with an insurance company or companies rated not lower than “A-” by the A.M. Best Company the insurance coverage specified on Exhibit D . Within thirty (30) days prior to the start of each Contract Year, Seller shall provide Buyer with a certified “true and correct” copy of such insurance policies, provisions and endorsements and a certificate of insurance which (i) shall include Buyer as an additional insured on each policy, (ii) shall not include the legend “certificate is not evidence of coverage” or any statement with similar effect, (iii) shall evidence a firm obligation of the insurer to provide Buyer within thirty (30) days prior written notice of coverage modifications, and (iv) shall be endorsed by a Person who has authority to bind the insurer. If any coverage is written on a “claims-made” basis, the certification accompanying the policy shall conspicuously state that the policy is “claims made.”

 

(j)        Contacts . Each Party shall identify a principal contact or contacts, which contact(s) shall have adequate authority and expertise to make day-to-day decisions with respect to the administration of this Agreement.

 

(k)        Compliance with Law . Without limiting the generality of any other provision of this Agreement, Seller shall be responsible for complying with all applicable requirements of Law, including all applicable rules, procedures, operating policies, criteria, guidelines and requirements imposed by FERC and any other Governmental Entity, whether imposed pursuant to existing Law or procedures or pursuant to changes enacted or implemented during the Term, including all risks of environmental matters relating to the Facility or the Facility site. Seller shall indemnify Buyer against any and all claims arising out of or related to such environmental matters and against any costs imposed on Buyer as a result of Seller’s violation of any applicable Law, or ISO-NE or NERC requirements. For the avoidance of doubt, Seller shall be responsible for procuring, at its expense, all Permits and governmental approvals required for the construction and operation of the Facility in compliance with Law.

 

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(l)        FERC Status . Seller shall maintain the Facility’s status as a QF or EWG at all times after the Commercial Operation Date and shall obtain and maintain any requisite authority to sell the output, including Energy and Capacity, of the Facility at market-based rates or an exemption from the requirement that it have such authority.

 

(m)        Emissions . Seller shall be responsible for all costs associated with the Facility’s emissions, including the cost of procuring emission reductions, offsets, allowances or similar items associated with the Facility’s emissions, to the extent required to operate the Facility. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, failure or inability of Seller to procure emission reductions, offsets, allowances or similar items associated with the Facility’s emissions shall not constitute a Force Majeure.

 

3.5.        Interconnection and Delivery Services .

 

(a)        Seller shall be responsible for all costs associated with interconnection of the Facility at the Interconnection Point, including the costs of the Network Upgrades, consistent with all standards and requirements set forth by any applicable Governmental Entity and the Interconnecting Utility, subject to the Interconnection Cost Adjustment set forth in Exhibit E .

 

(b)        Seller shall defend, indemnify and hold Buyer harmless against any liability of Seller arising due to Seller’s performance or failure to perform under the Interconnection Agreement.

 

4. DELIVERY OF PRODUCTS

 

4.1.        Obligation to Sell and Purchase Products .

 

(a)        Beginning on the Commercial Operation Date and subject to Section 4.1(b), Seller shall sell and Deliver, and Buyer shall purchase and receive, the Products produced by the Facility and capable of being Delivered, up to and including the Contract Maximum Amount, in accordance with the terms and conditions of this Agreement. The aforementioned obligations for Seller to sell and Deliver the Products and for Buyer to purchase and receive the same is Unit Contingent and shall be subject to the operation of the Facility.

 

(b)        Buyer shall not be obligated to purchase or accept any Products to the extent that such Products (i) exceed the Contract Maximum Amount in any hour or (ii) are Energy, or RECs associated with Energy, that is produced using any fuel other than biogas that results from the on-site anaerobic digestion of organic solids.

 

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(c)        Seller shall Deliver the Products produced by the Facility, up to and including the Contract Maximum Amount, exclusively to Buyer, and Seller shall not sell, divert, grant, transfer or assign such Products or any Certificate or other attribute associated with such Products to any Person other than Buyer during the Term. Seller shall not enter into any agreement or arrangement under which such Products can be claimed by any Person other than Buyer. Buyer shall have the exclusive right to resell or convey the Products and any Energy, RECs or Capacity purchased during any Test Period in its sole discretion.

 

(d)        In the event that ISO-NE no longer treats Capacity as a separate product and/or has discontinued or substantially altered the Forward Capacity Market (or any successor thereto) such that Capacity no longer has value in the New England bulk power market, the Parties agree that the Bundled Price of Energy as set forth in Exhibit E hereunder shall be modified such that the mutually agreed upon price shall reflect the historical economics of the combined Energy and Capacity payments and adjustments hereunder, with corresponding revisions to this Agreement to the extent required.

 

(e)        To the extent Seller or any Affiliate of Seller constructs additional generating projects in the six-state New England region, or expands the Facility, prior to selling the energy, capacity or generation attributes from any such project or expansion to another Person, Seller or such Affiliate shall give written notice thereof to Buyer. Upon Buyer’s receipt of such notice, Buyer shall have the right to negotiate in good faith with Seller or such Affiliate for no more than sixty (60) days, unless otherwise agreed to by Seller or such Affiliate, the terms of the sale of such energy, capacity and/or generation attributes (or a portion thereof) to Buyer or its designee on an exclusive basis. If Buyer wishes to enter into such negotiation, Buyer shall notify Seller or such Affiliate of such decision within fifteen (15) days of receipt of Seller’s or such Affiliate’s notice. Seller or such Affiliate shall supply in a timely manner, information regarding such project(s) or expansion(s) which is customary to allow Buyer to perform due diligence and to negotiate in good faith for the purchase of such energy, capacity and generation attributes. If Buyer and Seller or such Affiliate fail to reach agreement following such negotiation, prior to Seller or an Affiliate of Seller entering into a new agreement or an amendment to an existing agreement to sell any of the energy, capacity or generation attributes from any such project or expansion to another Person, Seller shall first take the actions set forth in this Section 4.1(e), as follows:

 

(i) Where the term of such agreement is one (1) year or more, Seller shall first offer to Buyer in writing to amend this Agreement to incorporate the terms and conditions of such other agreement or amendment. Buyer shall have twenty (20) days to either: (1) accept all of the terms and conditions of such other agreement or amendment; or (2) accept only the pricing and term provisions included in such other agreement or amendment; or (3) decline all of the terms and conditions of such other agreement or amendment. In the event Buyer chooses either option (1) or (2) above, Seller and Buyer shall amend this Agreement to reflect the accepted terms and conditions and, to the extent Buyer determines such amendment requires approval of or filing with the PUC or another Governmental Entity, Buyer shall use commercially reasonable efforts to apply for such approval or make such filing in accordance with, and subject to, Section 18. No amendment of this Agreement under this Section 4.1(e)(i) shall affect the quantity of Products to be received and purchased by Buyer under this Agreement.

 

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(ii) Where the term of such agreement is less than one (1) year, Seller or such Affiliate of Seller shall first offer to enter into such agreement for such output with Buyer on the same terms and conditions. Buyer shall have twenty (20) days to either accept or reject such agreement. In the event Buyer chooses to enter into such agreement, Buyer and Seller or such Affiliate of Seller shall promptly execute such agreement. To the extent Buyer determines such agreement requires approval of or filing with the PUC or another Governmental Entity, Buyer will use commercially reasonable efforts to apply for such approval or make such filing consistent with Section 18, and such agreement shall not become effective unless and until such approval is obtained or such filing is made.

 

(iii) If Buyer fails to notify Seller of its choice within twenty (20) days after Buyer’s receipt of the offer from Seller or an Affiliate of Seller under clause (i) or (ii) above, Buyer shall be deemed to have elected to decline all of the terms and conditions of such other agreement or amendment. If any required filing with or approval by the PUC or another Governmental Entity with respect to any amendment or agreement under this Section 4.1(e) as described above is not made or received within one hundred eighty (180) days after Buyer and Seller or an Affiliate of Seller enter into such amendment or agreement, then such amendment or agreement shall be void and of no further force and effect.

 

(iv) If Buyer declines to enter into a new agreement or an amendment to this Agreement under this Section 4.1(e) or the filing with or approval of the PUC or another Governmental Entity relating to such agreement or amendment is not received within one hundred eighty (180) days after Buyer and Seller or an Affiliate of Seller enter into such agreement or amendment, then Seller or such Affiliate of Seller may proceed with the proposed sale of such energy, capacity or generation attributes from such project or expansion to another Person under the terms and conditions offered to Buyer.

 

(v) This Section 4.1(e) shall only apply to bilateral agreements, and any transactions conducted in ISO-NE’s Real-Time or Day-Ahead markets shall not be subject to this Section 4.1(e).

 

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4.2.        Scheduling and Delivery of Energy .

 

(a)        During the Services Term, Seller shall Schedule Deliveries of Energy hereunder with ISO-NE within the defined Operational Limitations of the Facility and in accordance with this Agreement, all ISO-NE Practices and ISO-NE Rules, as applicable. Seller shall transfer the Energy to Buyer in the Real Time Energy Market in such a manner that Buyer may resell such Energy in the Real Time Energy Market, and Buyer shall have no obligation to pay for any Energy not transferred to Buyer in the Real Time Energy Market or for which Buyer is not credited in the ISO-NE Settlement Market System (including, without limitation, as a result of an outage on any electric transmission or distribution system). As of the Effective Date, Delivery of the Energy is contemplated to occur within the ISO-NE Settlement Market System through Seller’s registration of the Facility as a generation asset and assignment of the Energy to Buyer in such ISO-NE Settlement Market System. Buyer may, in its sole discretion, direct Seller to (i) Schedule Delivery of the Energy in the Day-Ahead Energy Market and/or (ii) Deliver the Energy to Buyer or at Buyer’s direction through Internal Bilateral Transactions executed through ISO-NE and settled at the delivery node associated with the Facility. Any such Internal Bilateral Transactions will specify hourly delivery of Energy and will be entered into daily, and any necessary adjustments will be made pursuant to ISO-NE settlement protocols. Any such Internal Bilateral Transactions will be entered into the Day-Ahead Energy Market and/or the Real Time Energy Market, as applicable.

 

(b)        The Parties agree to use commercially reasonable efforts to comply with all applicable ISO-NE Rules and ISO-NE Practices in connection with the Scheduling and Delivery of Energy hereunder. Penalties or similar charges assessed by a Transmission Provider and caused by noncompliance with the Scheduling obligations set forth in this Section 4.2 shall be the responsibility of Seller.

 

(c)        Without limiting the generality of this Section 4.2, Seller shall at all times during the Services Term be designated as the “Lead Market Participant” (or any successor designation) for the Facility and shall be solely responsible for any obligations and liabilities, including all charges, penalties and financial assurance obligations, imposed by ISO-NE or under the ISO-NE Rules and ISO-NE Practices with respect to the Facility.

 

4.3.        Failure of Seller to Deliver Products . In the event that Seller fails to satisfy any of its obligations to Deliver any of the Products hereunder in accordance with Section 4.1 and Section 4.2, and such failure is not excused under the express terms of this Agreement (a “ Delivery Shortfall ”), Seller shall pay Buyer an amount for such Delivery Shortfall equal to the Cover Damages. Such payment shall be due no later than the date for Buyer’s payment for the applicable month as set forth in Section 5.2 hereof. Each Party agrees and acknowledges that (i) the damages that Buyer would incur due to a Delivery Shortfall would be difficult or impossible to predict with certainty, and (ii) it is impractical and difficult to assess actual damages in the circumstances stated, and therefore the Cover Damages as agreed to by the Parties and set forth herein is a fair and reasonable calculation of such damages.

 

4.4.        Failure by Buyer to Accept Delivery of Products . If Buyer fails to accept or pay for all or part of any of the Products to be purchased by Buyer hereunder and such failure to accept is not excused under the terms of this Agreement (a “ Rejected Purchase ”), then Buyer shall pay Seller, on the date payment would otherwise be due in respect of the month in which the failure occurred, an amount for such Rejected Purchase equal to the Resale Damages. Each Party agrees and acknowledges that (i) the damages that Seller would incur due to a Rejected Purchase would be difficult or impossible to predict with certainty, and (ii) it is impractical and difficult to assess actual damages in the circumstances stated, and therefore the Resale Damages as agreed to by the Parties and set forth herein is a fair and reasonable calculation of such damages.

 

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4.5.          Delivery Point .

 

(a)        All Energy shall be Delivered hereunder by Seller to Buyer at the Delivery Point. Seller shall be responsible for the costs of delivering its Energy to the Delivery Point consistent with all standards and requirements set forth by the FERC, ISO-NE, the Interconnecting Utility and any other applicable Governmental Entity and any applicable tariff.

 

(b)        Seller shall be responsible for all applicable charges associated with transmission and/or distribution interconnection, service and delivery charges, including all related ISO-NE administrative fees and other FERC-approved charges in connection with the Delivery of Energy to and at the Delivery Point.

 

(c)        Buyer shall be responsible for all losses, transmission charges, ancillary service charges, line losses, congestion charges and other ISO-NE, Interconnecting Utility or applicable system costs or charges associated with transmission incurred, in each case, in connection with the transmission of Energy delivered under this Agreement from and after the Delivery Point.

 

4.6.          Metering .

 

(a)        Metering . All electric metering associated with the Facility, including the Facility meter and any other real-time meters, billing meters and back-up meters (collectively, the “ Meters ”), shall be installed, operated, maintained and tested at Seller’s expense in accordance with Good Utility Practice and any applicable requirements and standards issued by NERC, the Interconnecting Utility, and ISO-NE; provided that each Meter shall be tested at Seller’s expense once each Contract Year. The Meters shall be used for the registration, recording and transmission of information regarding the Energy output of the Facility. Seller shall provide Buyer with a copy of all metering and calibration information and documents regarding the Meters promptly following receipt thereof by Seller.

 

(b)        Measurements . Readings of the Meters at the Facility by the Interconnecting Utility (or an independent Person mutually acceptable to the Parties) shall be conclusive as to the amount of Energy generated by the Facility; provided however, that Seller, upon request of Buyer and at Buyer’s expense (if more frequently than annually as provided for in Section 4.6(a)), shall cause the Meters to be tested by the Interconnecting Utility in whose territory the Facility is located, and if any Meter is out of service or is determined to be registering inaccurately by more than two percent (2%), (i) the measurement of Energy produced by the Facility shall be adjusted as far back as can reasonably be ascertained, but no event shall such period exceed six (6) months from the date that such inaccuracy was discovered, in accordance with the filed tariff of such Interconnecting Utility, and any adjustment shall be reflected in the next invoice provided by Seller to Buyer hereunder and (ii) Seller shall reimburse Buyer for the cost of such test of the Meters. Meter readings shall be adjusted to take into account the losses to Deliver the Energy to the Delivery Point. Seller shall make recorded meter data available monthly to Buyer at no cost.

 

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(c)        Inspection, Testing and Calibration . Buyer shall have the right to inspect and test any of the Meters at the Facility at reasonable times and upon reasonable notice from Buyer to Seller. Buyer shall have the right to have a representative present during any testing or calibration of the Meters at the Facility by Seller. Seller shall provide Buyer with timely notice of any such testing or calibration.

 

(d)        Audit of Meters . Buyer shall have access to the Meters and the right to audit all information and test data related to such Meters.

 

(e)        Notice of Malfunction . Seller shall provide Buyer with prompt notice of any malfunction or other failure of the Meters or other telemetry equipment necessary to accurately report the quantity of Energy being produced by the Facility. If any Meter is found to be inaccurate by more than two percent (2%), the meter readings shall be adjusted as far back as can reasonably be ascertained, but no event shall such period exceed six (6) months from the date that such inaccuracy was discovered, and any adjustment shall be reflected in the next invoice provided by Seller to Buyer hereunder.

 

(f)        Telemetry . The Meters shall be capable of sending meter telemetry data, and Seller shall provide Buyer with simultaneous access to such data at no additional cost to Buyer. This provision is in addition to any requirements of Seller under ISO-NE Rules and Practices, including ISO-NE Operating Procedure No. 18.

 

4.7.          RECs .

 

(a)        Seller shall transfer to Buyer all of the right, title and interest in and to the Facility’s Environmental Attributes, including the RECs, associated with the Facility’s Energy Delivered during the Term in accordance with the terms of this Section 4.7.

 

(b)        All Energy provided by Seller to Buyer from the Facility under this Agreement shall meet the requirements for eligibility pursuant to the Renewable Energy Standard; provided, however, that if the Facility ceases to qualify as a Newly Developed Renewable Energy Resource solely as a result of a change in Law, Seller shall only be required to use commercially reasonable efforts to ensure that all Energy provided by Seller to Buyer from the Facility under this Agreement meets the requirements for eligibility pursuant to the Renewable Energy Standard after that change in Law.

 

(c)        At Buyer’s request and at Seller’s sole cost, Seller shall seek qualification under the renewable portfolio standard or similar law of New York and/or one or more New England states (in addition to Rhode Island) and/or any federal renewable energy standard. Seller shall use commercially reasonable efforts, consistent with Good Utility Practice, to maintain such qualification at all times during the Services Term, or until Buyer indicates such qualification is no longer necessary. Seller shall also submit any information required by any state or federal agency (including without limitation the PUC) with regard to administration of its rules regarding Environmental Attributes or its renewable energy standard or renewable portfolio standard to Buyer or as directed by Buyer.

 

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(d)        Seller shall comply with all GIS Operating Rules relating to the creation and transfer of all RECs to be purchased by Buyer under this Agreement and all other GIS Operating Rules to the extent required for Buyer to achieve the full value of such RECs. In addition, at Buyer’s request, Seller shall register with and comply with the rules and requirements of any other tracking system or program that tracks, monetizes or otherwise creates or enhances value for Environmental Attributes, which compliance shall be at Seller’s sole cost if such registration and compliance is requested in connection with Section 4.7(c) above and shall be at Buyer’s sole cost in other instances.

 

(e)        Prior to the delivery of any Energy hereunder (including any Energy Delivered during any Test Period), either (i) Seller shall cause Buyer to be registered in the GIS as the initial owner of all Certificates to be Delivered hereunder to Buyer or (ii) Seller and Buyer shall effect an irrevocable forward transfer of the Certificates to be Delivered hereunder to Buyer in the GIS. In the event any Certificates associated with the RECs to be delivered to Buyer under this Agreement are not actually deposited in Buyer’s GIS account (or in a GIS account designated by Buyer to Seller in writing) on the date such Certificates are created in the GIS, Buyer shall notify Seller accordingly in writing and Seller shall, within ten (10) Business Days of receipt of such notice, credit Buyer with the value of the RECs associated with those Certificates, calculated in accordance with Section 2 of Exhibit E . Notwithstanding the foregoing or any other provision of this Agreement (including without limitation Exhibit E ) to the contrary, Buyer shall withhold from any payment due to Seller under Section 5.2 after either (x) the date that is seven (7) months prior to the end of the Services Term or (y) the date on which Buyer has exercised a right to terminate this Agreement prior to the expiration of the Services Term an amount equal to the value of the RECs (calculated in accordance with Section 2 of Exhibit E ) that would otherwise be included in that payment, and such withheld amount shall be paid to Seller within fifteen (15) days after the Certificates associated with those RECs have been deposited in Buyer’s GIS account (or in a GIS account designated by Buyer to Seller in writing).

 

4.8.          Capacity .

 

(a)        Seller’s Delivery of Capacity and Buyer’s purchase of Capacity under the Agreement shall be solely through financial settlement pursuant to Exhibit E . Buyer shall neither take title to any Capacity nor be responsible for any actions or conditions in the Forward Capacity Market with respect to such Capacity. Subject to all other terms of this Agreement, the actions of Seller in the Forward Capacity Market, as set forth in this Section 4.8, are for the economic benefit of Buyer, as set forth in Exhibit E .

 

(b)        During the Term, Seller shall take commercially reasonable actions necessary to secure Capacity Supply Obligations for the Facility, including but not limited to qualifying the Facility for participation in the Forward Capacity Auctions (or reconfiguration auctions) as a New Capacity Resource or an Existing Capacity Resource (as applicable) with the maximum Seasonal Claimed Capability available for the Facility, and shall participate in every Capacity Commitment Period in the Forward Capacity Market covered by the Services Term.

 

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(c)        Seller shall take commercially reasonable actions to bid in the Facility’s Capacity (i) to clear in the Forward Capacity Auction, (ii) to secure a Capacity Supply Obligation and (iii) to avoid being de-listed from the Forward Capacity Market, unless otherwise approved by Buyer in its sole discretion. Such approval shall be sought by Seller by requesting approval in writing from Buyer at least one-hundred and twenty (120) days in advance of the qualification deadline for the Forward Capacity Auction in which Seller wishes to submit a static or permanent de-list bid, or at least one-hundred and twenty (120) days in advance of the start of the Forward Capacity Auction in which Seller wishes to submit a dynamic de-list bid.

 

(d)        Subject to the ISO-NE Rules relating to confidentiality of information provided by ISO-NE, Seller shall submit copies of all bidding documentation Seller provides to ISO-NE to Buyer to demonstrate compliance with the bidding requirements under this Section 4.8.

 

(e)        During the Services Term, Seller shall be responsible for all performance requirements mandated by the ISO-NE Rules and ISO-NE Practices, including performance requirements (and payment of penalties, if any) associated with the Forward Capacity Market.

 

(f)        Any failure of Seller to perform its obligations under this Section 4.8 shall not be a Default or Event of Default; provided that the Bundled Price paid by Buyer for the Products shall at all times be adjusted as set forth in Section 4 of Exhibit E without regard to whether Seller has performed its obligations under this Section 4.8 or whether the Facility’s Capacity has qualified or cleared in the Forward Capacity Market at any time.

 

4.9.          Deliveries During Test Period . During the period from the first Delivery of Energy produced by the Facility to the Delivery Point until the Commercial Operation Date (the “ Test Period ”), Seller shall sell and Deliver, and Buyer shall purchase and receive, any Energy and RECs produced by the Facility and Delivered. Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 5.1, (i) payment for Energy produced and Delivered during the Test Period shall be equal to the product of (x) the MWh of Energy Delivered from the Facility to the Delivery Point and (y) the Real Time Locational Marginal Price at such Delivery Point (as determined by ISO-NE) for each hour of the month when Energy is produced by the Facility, and (ii) payment for the RECs produced by the Facility and Delivered during that Test Period shall be equal to the product of (A) the Test REC Price and (B) the MWh of Energy Delivered by the Facility to the Delivery Point. In no event shall the Test Period extend beyond six months, except due to Force Majeure.

 

5. PRICE AND PAYMENTS FOR PRODUCTS

 

5.1.          Price for Products .

 

(a)        All Products Delivered to Buyer in accordance with this Agreement shall be purchased by Buyer at the Price specified in Exhibit E and in accordance with this Section 5.1. Other than the (i) payment for the Products under this Section 5.1, (ii) payments related to Meter testing under Section 4.6(b), (iii) payments related to Meter malfunctions under Section 4.6(e), (iv) payment for Energy and RECs during any Test Period in accordance with Section 4.9, (v) payment of any Resale Damages under Section 4.4, (vi) payment of interest on late payments under Section 5.3, (vii) payments for reimbursement of Buyer’s Taxes under Section 5.4(a), (viii) return of any Credit Support under Section 6.4 or Section 6.5, and (ix) payment of any Termination Payment due from Buyer under Section 9.3, Buyer shall not be required to make any other payments to Seller under this Agreement, and Seller shall be solely responsible for all costs incurred by it in connection with the performance of its obligations under this Agreement.

 

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(b)        Escalation of Price . Consistent with Exhibit E and subject to Section 2.2(e), the Bundled Price shall escalate by the Escalation Rate on each Escalation Date. For purposes of this Agreement, the “ Escalation Date ” shall initially be January 1, 2014 and each January 1 thereafter; provided, however, that if Seller elects to extend the Commercial Operation Date pursuant to Section 3.1(c) or as a result of a Force Majeure under Section 10.1, then each Escalation Date occurring after Seller notifies Buyer in writing of its extension election or such Force Majeure shall be delayed by the period of that extension. All delays in the Escalation Date occurring under this Section 5.1(b) shall be cumulative (i.e., shall also take into account all prior extensions), such that the period of time between January 1 of a year and the Escalation Date corresponding to that year shall be equal to the total number of days of all extensions elected by Seller under Section 3.1(c) and Section 10.1. Notwithstanding any provision of this Agreement to the contrary, in no event shall there be (x) more than sixteen (16) Escalation Dates during the Term or (y) more than fourteen (14) Escalation Dates after the Commercial Operation Date. Upon the election of any extension of the Commercial Operation Date, Seller shall deliver a certification in the form of Exhibit F setting forth the total number of days of such extension and establishing the new annual Escalation Date. Buyer shall approve such certification in its sole discretion, and any dispute regarding such certification shall be resolved in accordance with Article 11.

 

5.2.          Payment and Netting .

 

(a)        Billing Period . The calendar month shall be the standard period for all payments under this Agreement. On or before the fifteenth (15th) day following the end of each month, Seller shall render to Buyer an invoice for the payment obligations incurred hereunder during the preceding month, and based on the Energy Delivered in the preceding month. Such invoice shall contain supporting detail for all charges reflected on the invoice, and Seller shall provide Buyer with additional supporting documentation and information as Buyer may reasonably request.

 

(b)        Timeliness of Payment . Unless otherwise agreed to by the Parties, all invoices under this Agreement shall be due and payable in accordance with each Party’s invoice instructions on or before the later of the twentieth (20th) day of each month, or the tenth (10th) day after receipt of the invoice, or if such day is not a Business Day, then on the next Business Day. Each Party shall make payments by electronic funds transfer, or by other mutually agreeable method(s), to the account designated by the other Party. Any undisputed amounts not paid by the due date shall be deemed delinquent and shall accrue interest at the Late Payment Rate, such interest to be calculated from and including the due date to but excluding the date the delinquent amount is paid in full.

 

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(c)           Disputes and Adjustments of Invoices .

 

(i) All invoices rendered under this Agreement shall be subject to adjustment after the end of each month in order to true-up charges based on changes resulting from any recent ISO-NE billing statements or revisions, if any, to previous ISO-NE billing statements. If ISO-NE resettles any invoice which relates to the Products sold under this Agreement and (a) any charges thereunder are the responsibility of the other Party under this Agreement or (b) any credits issued thereunder would be due to the other Party under this Agreement, then the Party receiving the invoice from ISO-NE shall in the case of (a) above invoice the other Party or in the case of (b) above pay the amount due to the other Party. Any invoices issued or amounts due pursuant to this Section shall be invoiced or paid as provided in Section 5.2.

 

(ii) Unless otherwise agreed, (i) a Party may, in good faith, dispute the correctness of any invoice or any adjustment to an invoice rendered under this Agreement, or adjust any invoice for any arithmetic or computational error within twenty-four (24) months of the date the invoice, or adjustment to an invoice, was rendered and (ii) if a Party does not challenge the accuracy within such twenty-four (24) month period, such invoice shall be binding upon that Party and shall not be subject to challenge. In the event an invoice or portion thereof, or any other claim or adjustment arising hereunder, is disputed, payment of the undisputed portion of the invoice shall be required to be made when due, with notice of the dispute given to the other Party. Any invoice dispute or invoice adjustment shall be in writing and shall state the basis for the dispute or adjustment along with all available supporting documentation. Payment of the disputed amount shall not be required until the dispute is resolved. Upon resolution of the dispute, any required payment or refund shall be made within ten (10) days of such resolution along with interest accrued at the Late Payment Rate from and including the due date (or in the case of a refund, the payment date) but excluding the date paid. If an invoice is paid and thereafter the payment or the invoice on which the payment was based is disputed, upon notice of dispute, the Party receiving payment shall hold the amount in dispute in escrow for the benefit of the prevailing Party until the resolution of such dispute. If any amount in dispute is ultimately determined (under the terms herein) to be due to the other Party, it shall be paid or returned (as the case may be) to the other Party within ten (10) Business Days of such determination along with interest accrued at the Late Payment Rate from the (i) date due and owing in accordance with the Invoice until the date paid or (ii) if the amount was paid and is to be returned, from the date paid, until the date returned. Inadvertent overpayments shall be reimbursed or deducted by the Party receiving such overpayment from subsequent payments, with interest accrued at the Late Payment Rate from and including the date of such overpayment to but excluding the date repaid or deducted by the Party receiving such overpayment, as directed by the other Party. Any dispute with respect to an invoice or claim to additional payment is waived unless the other Party is notified in accordance with this Section 5.2 within the referenced twenty-four (24) month period.

 

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(d)        Netting of Payments . The Parties hereby agree that they may discharge mutual debts and payment obligations due and owing to each other under this Agreement on the same date through netting, in which case all amounts owed by each Party to the other Party for the purchase and sale of Products during the monthly billing period under this Agreement, including any related damages calculated pursuant to this Agreement, interest, and payments or credits, may be netted so that only the excess amount remaining due shall be paid by the Party who owes it. If no mutual debts or payment obligations exist and only one Party owes a debt or obligation to the other during the monthly billing period, such Party shall pay such sum in full when due. The Parties agree to provide each other with reasonable detail of such net payment or net payment request.

 

5.3.        Interest on Late Payment or Refund . A late payment charge shall accrue on any late payment or refund as specified above at the lesser of (a) the Collateral Interest Rate plus one percent (1%), and (b) the maximum rate permitted by applicable Law in transactions involving entities having the same characteristics as the Parties (the “ Late Payment Rate ”).

 

5.4.        Taxes, Fees and Levies .

 

(a)        Seller shall be obligated to pay all present and future taxes, fees and levies, imposed on or associated with the Facility or delivery or sale of the Products (“ Seller’s Taxes ”), unless Buyer collects such taxes, fees and levies upon resale of the Products (as, for example, with a value added tax). Buyer shall be obligated to pay all present and future taxes, fees and levies, imposed on or associated with such Products after Delivery of such Products to Buyer or imposed on or associated with the purchase of such Products (other than ad valorem, franchise or income taxes which are related to the sale of the Products by Seller) and are, therefore, the responsibility of Seller) (“ Buyer’s Taxes ”). In the event Seller shall be required by law or regulation to remit or pay any Buyer’s Taxes, Buyer shall reimburse Seller for such payment. In the event Buyer shall be required by law or regulation to remit or pay any Seller’s Taxes, Seller shall reimburse Buyer for such payment, and Buyer may deduct any of the amount of any such Seller’s Taxes from the amount due to Seller under Section 5.2. Buyer shall have the right to all credits, deductions and other benefits associated with taxes paid by Buyer. Seller shall have the right to all credits, deductions and other benefits associated with taxes paid by Seller. Nothing shall obligate or cause a Party to pay or be liable to pay any taxes, fees and levies for which it is exempt under law.

 

(b)        Seller shall bear all risks, financial and otherwise, throughout the Term, associated with Seller’s or the Facility’s eligibility to receive any federal or state tax credits or other incentive or subsidies or to qualify for accelerated depreciation for Seller’s accounting, reporting or tax purposes.

 

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6. SECURITY FOR PERFORMANCE

 

6.1.          Grant of Security Interest . Subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, Seller hereby pledges to Buyer as security for all outstanding obligations under this Agreement and any other documents, instruments or agreements executed in connection therewith (collectively, the “ Obligations ”), and grants to Buyer a first priority continuing security interest, lien on, and right of set-off against all Posted Collateral delivered to or received by Buyer hereunder. Upon the return by Buyer to Seller of any Posted Collateral, the security interest and lien granted hereunder on that Posted Collateral will be released immediately and, to the extent possible, without further action by either Party.

 

6.2.          Seller’s Support .

 

(a)        Seller shall be required to post Credit Support in the amount of $90,000 to secure Seller’s Obligations until the Commercial Operation Date (“ Development Period Security ”). One-half of the Development Period Security shall be provided to Buyer within fifteen (15) days after the Agreement Date, and the remaining one-half of the Development Period Security shall be provided to Buyer within fifteen (15) days after the Effective Date. Buyer shall return any undrawn amount of the Development Period Security to Seller within thirty (30) days after the later of (x) Buyer’s receipt of an undisputed notice from Seller that the Commercial Operation Date has occurred or (y) Buyer’s receipt of the full amount of the Operating Period Security.

 

(b)        Beginning not later than three (3) days following the Commercial Operation Date, Seller shall provide Buyer with Credit Support to secure Seller’s Obligations after the Commercial Operation Date through and including the date that all of Seller’s Obligations are satisfied (“ Operating Period Security ”). The Operating Period Security shall be in the amount of $90,000.

 

(c)        The Credit Support Delivery Amount, as defined below, will be rounded up, and the Return Amount, as defined below, will be rounded down, in each case to the nearest integral multiple of $10,000 (“ Rounding Amount ”).

 

(d)        The following items will qualify as “Credit Support” hereunder in the amount noted under “Valuation Percentage”:

 

    “Valuation Percentage”
   
  (A) Cash 100%
     
  (B) Letters of Credit 100% unless either (i) a Letter of Credit Default shall have occurred and be continuing with respect to such Letter of Credit, or (ii) twenty (20) or fewer Business Days remain prior to the expiration of such Letter of Credit, in which cases the Valuation Percentage shall be 0%.

 

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(e)        All calculations with respect to Credit Support shall be made by the Valuation Agent as of the Valuation Time on the Valuation Date.

 

6.3.          Delivery of Credit Support .

 

On any Business Day during the Services Term on which (a) no Event of Default has occurred and is continuing with respect to Buyer, and (b) no termination date has occurred or has been designated as a result of an Event of Default with respect to Buyer for which there exist any unsatisfied payment obligations with respect to Buyer, then Buyer may request, by written notice, that Seller Transfer to Buyer, or cause to be Transferred to Buyer, Credit Support for the benefit of Buyer, having a Value of at least the Collateral Requirement (“ Credit Support Delivery Amount ”). Such Credit Support shall be delivered to Buyer on the next Business Day if the request is received by the Notification Time; otherwise Credit Support is due by the close of business on the second Business Day after the request is received.

 

6.4.          Reduction and Substitution of Posted Collateral .

 

On any Business Day during the Services Term on which (a) no Event of Default has occurred and is continuing with respect to Seller, (b) no termination date has occurred or has been designated as a result of an Event of Default with respect to Seller for which there exist any unsatisfied payment Obligations, and (c) the Posted Collateral posted by Seller exceeds the required Operating Period Security (rounding downwards for any fractional amount to the next interval of the Rounding Amount), then Seller may, at its sole cost, request that Buyer return Operating Period Security in the amount of such difference (“ Credit Support Return Amount ”) and Buyer shall be obligated to do so. Such Posted Collateral shall be returned to Seller by the close of business on the second Business Day after Seller’s receipt of such request. The Parties agree that if Seller has posted more than one type of Credit Support to Buyer, Seller can, in its sole discretion, select the type of Credit Support for Buyer to return; provided, however, that Buyer shall not be required to return the specified Credit Support if immediately after such return, Seller would be required to post additional Credit Support pursuant to the calculation of Operating Period Security.

 

6.5.          Administration of Posted Collateral .

 

(a)           Cash . Posted Collateral provided in the form of Cash to Buyer hereunder shall be subject to the following provisions.

 

(i) So long as no Event of Default has occurred and is continuing with respect to Buyer, Buyer will be entitled to either hold Cash or to appoint an agent which is a Qualified Institution (a “ Custodian ”) to hold Cash for Buyer. In the event that an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing with respect to Buyer, then the provisions of Section 6.5(a)(ii) shall not apply with respect to Buyer and Cash shall be held in a Qualified Institution in accordance with the provisions of Section 6.5(a)(iii)(B). Upon notice by Buyer to Seller of the appointment of a Custodian, Seller’s Obligations to make any Transfer will be discharged by making the Transfer to that Custodian. The holding of Cash by a Custodian will be deemed to be the holding of Cash by Buyer for which the Custodian is acting. If Buyer or its Custodian fails to satisfy any conditions for holding Cash as set forth above, or if Buyer is not entitled to hold Cash at any time, then Buyer will Transfer, or cause its Custodian to Transfer, the Cash to a Qualified Institution and the Cash shall be maintained in accordance with Section 6.5(a)(iii)(B). Except as set forth in Section 6.5(c), Buyer will be liable for the acts or omissions of the Custodian to the same extent that Buyer would be held liable for its own acts or omissions.

 

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(ii) Notwithstanding the provisions of applicable Law, if no Event of Default has occurred and is continuing with respect to Buyer and no termination date has occurred or been designated as a result of an Event of Default with respect to Buyer for which there exists any unsatisfied payment obligations with respect to Buyer, then Buyer shall have the right to sell, pledge, rehypothecate, assign, invest, use, comingle or otherwise use in its business any Cash that it holds as Posted Collateral hereunder, free from any claim or right of any nature whatsoever of Seller, including any equity or right of redemption by Seller.

 

(iii) Notwithstanding Section 6.5(a)(ii), if neither Buyer nor the Custodian is eligible to hold Cash pursuant to Section 6.5(a)(i) then:

 

(A)        the provisions of Section 6.5(a)(ii) will not apply with respect to Buyer; and

 

(B)        Buyer shall be required to Transfer (or cause to be Transferred) not later than the close of business within five (5) Business Days following the beginning of such ineligibility all Cash in its possession or held on its behalf to a Qualified Institution to be held in a segregated, safekeeping or custody account (the “ Collateral Account ”) within such Qualified Institution with the title of the account indicating that the property contained therein is being held as Cash for Buyer. The Qualified Institution shall serve as Custodian with respect to the Cash in the Collateral Account, and shall hold such Cash in accordance with the terms of this Article 6 and for the security interest of Buyer and execute such account control agreements as are necessary or applicable to perfect the security interest of Seller therein pursuant to Section 9-314 of the Uniform Commercial Code or otherwise, and subject to such security interest, for the ownership and benefit of Seller. The Qualified Institution holding the Cash will invest and reinvest or procure the investment and reinvestment of the Cash in accordance with the written instructions of Buyer, subject to the approval of such instructions by Seller (which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld). Buyer shall have no responsibility for any losses resulting from any investment or reinvestment effected in accordance with Seller’s approval.

 

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(iv) So long as no Event of Default with respect to Seller has occurred and is continuing, and no termination date has occurred or been designated for which any unsatisfied payment obligations of Seller exist as the result of an Event of Default with respect to Seller, in the event that Buyer or its Custodian is holding Cash, Buyer will Transfer (or cause to be Transferred) to Seller, in lieu of any interest or other amounts paid or deemed to have been paid with respect to such Cash (all of which shall be retained by Buyer), the Interest Amount. Interest on Cash shall accrue at the Collateral Interest Rate. Interest accrued during the previous month shall be paid by Buyer to Seller on the 3rd Business Day of each calendar month and on any Business Day that posted Credit Support in the form of Cash is returned to Seller, but solely to the extent that, after making such payment, the amount of the Posted Collateral will be at least equal to the required Development Period Security or Operating Period Security, as applicable. On or after the occurrence of an Event of Default with respect to Seller or a termination date as a result of an Event of Default with respect to Seller, Buyer or its Custodian shall retain any such Interest Amount as additional Posted Collateral hereunder until the Obligations of Seller under the Agreement have been satisfied in the case of a termination date or for so long as such Event of Default is continuing in the case of an Event of Default.

 

(b)        Buyer’s Rights and Remedies . If at any time an Event of Default with respect to Seller has occurred and is continuing, then, unless Seller has paid in full all of its Obligations that are then due, including those under Section 9.3(b) of this Agreement, Buyer may exercise one or more of the following rights and remedies: (i) all rights and remedies available to a secured party under applicable Law with respect to Posted Collateral held by Buyer, (ii) the right to set-off any amounts payable by Seller with respect to any Obligations against any Posted Collateral or the cash equivalent of any Posted Collateral held by Buyer, or (iii) the right to liquidate any Posted Collateral held by Buyer and to apply the proceeds of such liquidation of the Posted Collateral to any amounts payable to Buyer with respect to the Obligations in such order as Buyer may elect. For purposes of this Section 6.5, Buyer may draw on the entire undrawn portion of any Letter of Credit. Cash proceeds that are not applied to the Obligations shall be maintained in accordance with the terms of this Article 6. Seller shall remain liable for amounts due and owing to Buyer that remain unpaid after the application of Posted Collateral, pursuant to this Section 6.5.

 

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(c)           Seller’s Rights and Remedies . If at any time a termination date has occurred or been designated as the result of an Event of Default with respect to Buyer and Buyer has provided Credit Support to Seller under Section 9.3(b), then unless Buyer has paid in full all of its obligations under Section 9.3(b) of this Agreement: (i) Seller may exercise all rights and remedies available to Seller under applicable Law with respect to any Posted Collateral provided by Buyer, (ii) Buyer will be obligated immediately to return all Posted Collateral provided by Seller, including any accrued interest to Seller, or (iii) to the extent that Posted Collateral provided by Seller, including any accrued interest is not returned pursuant to (ii) above, Seller may set-off any amounts payable by Seller with respect to any Obligations against any posted Credit Support or the cash equivalent thereof or to the extent that Seller does not set off such amounts, withhold payment of any remaining amounts payable by Seller with respect to any obligations of Buyer, up to the value of the remaining posted Credit Support held by Buyer, until that posted Credit Support is Transferred to Seller. For avoidance of doubt, (i) Buyer will be obligated immediately to Transfer any Letter of Credit to Seller and (ii) Seller may do any one or more of the following: (x) to the extent that the Letter of Credit is not Transferred to Seller as required pursuant to (i) above, set-off any amounts payable by Seller with respect to any Obligations against any such Letter of Credit held by Buyer and, to the extent its rights to set-off are not exercised, withhold payment of any remaining amounts payable by Seller with respect to any Obligations, up to the value of any remaining posted Credit Support and the value of any Letter of Credit held by Buyer, until any such Posted Credit Support and such Letter of Credit is Transferred to Seller; and (y) exercise rights and remedies available to Seller under the terms of the Letter of Credit.

 

(d)           Letters of Credit . Credit Support provided in the form of a Letter of Credit shall be subject to the following provisions.

 

(i) As one method of providing increased Credit Support, Seller may increase the amount of an outstanding Letter of Credit or establish one or more additional Letters of Credit.

 

(ii) Upon the occurrence of a Letter of Credit Default, Seller agrees to Transfer to Buyer either a substitute Letter of Credit or Cash, in each case on or before the first (1st) Business Day after the occurrence thereof (or the third (3rd) Business Day after the occurrence thereof if only clause (a) under the definition of Letter of Credit Default applies).

 

(iii) Notwithstanding Sections 6.3 and 6.4, (1) Buyer need not return a Letter of Credit unless the entire principal amount is required to be returned, (2) Buyer shall consent to a reduction of the principal amount of a Letter of Credit to the extent that a Credit Support Delivery Amount would not be created thereby (as of the time of the request or as of the last time the Credit Support Delivery Amount was determined), and (3) if there is more than one form of Posted Collateral when a Credit Support Return Amount is to be Transferred, the Secured Party may elect which to Transfer.

 

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(e)        Care of Posted Collateral . Each Party shall exercise reasonable care to assure the safe custody of all Posted Collateral to the extent required by applicable Law, and in any event a Party will be deemed to have exercised reasonable care if it exercises at least the same degree of care as it would exercise with respect to its own property. Except as specified in the preceding sentence, each Party will have no duty with respect to the Posted Collateral, including without limitation, any duty to enforce or preserve any rights thereto.

 

(f)        Substitutions . Unless otherwise prohibited herein, upon notice to Buyer specifying the items of Posted Collateral to be exchanged, Seller may, on any Business Day, deliver to Buyer other Credit Support (“ Substitute Credit Support ”). On the Business Day following the day on which the Substitute Credit Support is delivered to Buyer, Buyer shall return to Seller the items of Credit Support specified in Seller’s notice; provided, however, that Buyer shall not be required to return the specified Posted Collateral if immediately after such return, Seller would be required to post additional Credit Support pursuant to the calculation of Development Period Security or Operating Period Security set forth in Sections 6.2(a) and 6.2(b), respectively.

 

6.6.           Exercise of Rights Against Posted Collateral

 

(a)        Disputes regarding amount of Credit Support . If either Party disputes the amount of Credit Support to be provided or returned (such Party the “ Disputing Party ”), then the Disputing Party shall (a) deliver the undisputed amount of Credit Support to the other Party (such Party, the “ Requesting Party ”) and (b) notify the Requesting Party of the existence and nature of the dispute no later than 5:00 p.m. Eastern Prevailing Time on the Business Day that the request for Credit Support was made (the “ Request Date ”). On the Business Day following the Request Date, the Parties shall consult with each other in order to reconcile the two conflicting amounts. If the Parties are not able to resolve their dispute, the Credit Support shall be recalculated, on the Business Day following the Request Date, by each Party requesting quotations from two (2) Reference Market-Makers for a total of four (4) quotations. The highest and lowest of the four (4) quotations shall be discarded and the arithmetic average shall be taken of the remaining two (2), which shall be used in order to determine the amount of Credit Support required. On the same day the Credit Support amount is recalculated, the Disputing Party shall deliver any additional Credit Support required pursuant to the recalculation or the Requesting Party shall return any excess Credit Support that is no longer required pursuant to the recalculation.

 

(b)        Further Assurances . Promptly following a request by a Party, the other Party shall use commercially reasonable efforts to execute, deliver, file, and/or record any financing statement, specific assignment, or other document and take any other action that may be necessary or desirable to create, perfect, or validate any security interest or lien, to enable the requesting party to exercise or enforce its rights or remedies under this Agreement, or to effect or document a release of a security interest on posted Credit Support or accrued interest.

 

(c)        Further Protection . Seller will promptly give notice to Buyer of, and defend against, any suit, action, proceeding, or lien that involves the Posted Collateral delivered to Buyer by Seller or that could adversely affect any security interest or lien granted pursuant to this Agreement.

 

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7. REPRESENTATIONS, WARRANTIES, COVENANTS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

 

7.1.           Representations and Warranties of Buyer . Buyer hereby represents and warrants to Seller as of the Agreement Date as follows:

 

(a)           Organization and Good Standing; Power and Authority . Buyer is a corporation duly incorporated, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of Rhode Island. Subject to the receipt of the Regulatory Approval and the Extension Regulatory Approval, if applicable, Buyer has all requisite power and authority to execute, deliver, and perform its obligations under this Agreement.

 

(b)           Due Authorization; No Conflicts . The execution and delivery by Buyer of this Agreement, and the performance by Buyer of its obligations hereunder, have been duly authorized by all necessary actions on the part of Buyer and do not and, under existing facts and Law, shall not: (i) contravene its certificate of incorporation or any other governing documents; (ii) conflict with, result in a breach of, or constitute a default under any note, bond, mortgage, indenture, deed of trust, license, contract or other agreement to which it is a party or by which any of its properties may be bound or affected; (iii) assuming receipt of the Regulatory Approval and the Extension Regulatory Approval, if applicable, violate any order, writ, injunction, decree, judgment, award, statute, law, rule, regulation or ordinance of any Governmental Entity or agency applicable to it or any of its properties; or (iv) result in the creation of any lien, charge or encumbrance upon any of its properties pursuant to any of the foregoing.

 

(c)           Binding Agreement . This Agreement has been duly executed and delivered on behalf of Buyer and, assuming the due execution hereof and performance hereunder by Seller and receipt of the Regulatory Approval and the Extension Regulatory Approval, if applicable, constitutes a legal, valid and binding obligation of Buyer, enforceable against it in accordance with its terms, except as such enforceability may be limited by law or principles of equity.

 

(d)           No Proceedings . Except to the extent relating to the Regulatory Approval and the Extension Regulatory Approval, if applicable, there are no actions, suits or other proceedings, at law or in equity, by or before any Governmental Entity or agency or any other body pending or, to the best of its knowledge, threatened against or affecting Buyer or any of its properties (including, without limitation, this Agreement) which relate in any manner to this Agreement or any transaction contemplated hereby, or which Buyer reasonably expects to lead to a material adverse effect on (i) the validity or enforceability of this Agreement or (ii) Buyer’s ability to perform its obligations under this Agreement.

 

(e)           Consents and Approvals . Except to the extent associated with the Regulatory Approval and the Extension Regulatory Approval, if applicable, the execution, delivery and performance by Buyer of its obligations under this Agreement do not and, under existing facts and Law, shall not, require any Permit or any other action by, any Person which has not been duly obtained, made or taken or that shall be duly obtained, made or taken on or prior to the date required, and all such approvals, consents, permits, licenses, authorizations, filings, registrations and actions are in full force and effect, final and non-appealable as required under applicable Law.

 

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(f)           Negotiations . The terms and provisions of this Agreement are the result of arm’s length and good faith negotiations on the part of Buyer.

 

(g)          Bankruptcy . There are no bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, receivership or other such proceedings pending against or being contemplated by Buyer, or, to Buyer’s knowledge, threatened against it.

 

(h)           No Default . No Default or Event of Default has occurred and is continuing and no Default or Event of Default shall occur as a result of the performance by Buyer of its obligations under this Agreement.

 

7.2.          Representations and Warranties of Seller . Seller hereby represents and warrants to Buyer as of the Agreement Date as follows:

 

(a)           Organization and Good Standing; Power and Authority . Seller is a limited liability company, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of Rhode Island. Subject to the receipt of the Permits listed in Exhibit B , Seller has all requisite power and authority to execute, deliver, and perform its obligations under this Agreement.

 

(b)           Authority . Seller (i) has the power and authority to own and operate its businesses and properties, to own or lease the property it occupies and to conduct the business in which it is currently engaged; (ii) is duly qualified and in good standing under the laws of each jurisdiction where its ownership, lease or operation of property or the conduct of its business requires such qualification; and (iii) holds, or shall hold by the Commercial Operation Date, all rights and entitlements necessary to construct, own or lease (as applicable) and operate the Facility and to deliver the Products to Buyer in accordance with this Agreement.

 

(c)           Due Authorization; No Conflicts . The execution and delivery by Seller of this Agreement, and the performance by Seller of its obligations hereunder, have been duly authorized by all necessary actions on the part of Seller and do not and, under existing facts and Law, shall not: (i) contravene any of its governing documents; (ii) conflict with, result in a breach of, or constitute a default under any note, bond, mortgage, indenture, deed of trust, license, contract or other agreement to which it is a party or by which any of its properties may be bound or affected; (iii) assuming receipt of the Permits listed on Exhibit B , violate any order, writ, injunction, decree, judgment, award, statute, law, rule, regulation or ordinance of any Governmental Entity or agency applicable to it or any of its properties; or (iv) result in the creation of any lien, charge or encumbrance upon any of its properties pursuant to any of the foregoing.

 

(d)           Binding Agreement . This Agreement has been duly executed and delivered on behalf of Seller and, assuming the due execution hereof and performance hereunder by Seller and receipt of the Permits listed on Exhibit B , constitutes a legal, valid and binding obligation of Seller, enforceable against it in accordance with its terms, except as such enforceability may be limited by law or principles of equity.

 

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(e)           No Proceedings . Except to the extent associated with the Permits listed on Exhibit B , there are no actions, suits or other proceedings, at law or in equity, by or before any Governmental Entity or agency or any other body pending or, to the best of its knowledge, threatened against or affecting Seller or any of its properties (including, without limitation, this Agreement) which relate in any manner to this Agreement or any transaction contemplated hereby, or which Seller reasonably expects to lead to a material adverse effect on (i) the validity or enforceability of this Agreement or (ii) Seller’s ability to perform its obligations under this Agreement.

 

(f)           Consents and Approvals . Subject to the receipt of the Permits listed on Exhibit B on or prior to the date such Permits are required under applicable Law, the execution, delivery and performance by Seller of its obligations under this Agreement do not and, under existing facts and Law, shall not, require any Permit or any other action by, any Person which has not been duly obtained, made or taken, and all such approvals, consents, permits, licenses, authorizations, filings, registrations and actions are in full force and effect, final and non-appealable. To Seller’s knowledge, Seller shall be able to receive the Permits listed in Exhibit B in due course and as required under applicable Law to the extent that those Permits have not previously been received.

 

(g)           Newly Developed Renewable Energy Resource . Subject to Section 4.7(b), the Facility shall be a Newly Developed Renewable Energy Resource, qualified by the PUC as eligible to participate in the Renewable Energy Standard program under R.I.G.L. § 39¬26-1 et seq., and shall have a commercial operation date, as verified by the PUC, on or after December 31, 2012.

 

(h)           Title to Facility and Products . Seller has and shall have good and marketable title to (i) the Facility and (ii) all Products sold and delivered to Buyer under this Agreement, in each case free and clear of all liens, charges and encumbrances. Seller has not sold and shall not sell any such Products to any other Person (other than sales of Capacity in the Forward Capacity Market as contemplated by this Agreement), and no Person other than Seller can claim an interest in any Product to be sold to Buyer under this Agreement.

 

(i)            Negotiations . The terms and provisions of this Agreement are the result of arm’s length and good faith negotiations on the part of Seller.

 

(j)            Bankruptcy . There are no bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, receivership or other such proceedings pending against or being contemplated by Seller, or, to Seller’s knowledge, threatened against it.

 

(k)           No Default . No Default or Event of Default has occurred and is continuing and no Default or Event of Default shall occur as a result of the performance by Seller of its obligations under this Agreement.

 

(l)            Fuel . Seller reasonably expects to be able to obtain the fuel needed to operate the Facility in accordance with Good Utility Practice for the entire Services Term.

 

(m)          Useful Life . As of the Effective Date, the projected useful life of the Facility is at least twenty-one (21) years.

 

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7.3.           Continuing Nature of Representations and Warranties . The representations and warranties set forth in this Section are made as of the Agreement Date and deemed made continually throughout the Term. If at any time during the Term, any Party obtains actual knowledge of any event or information which causes any of the representations and warranties in this Article 7 to be materially untrue or misleading, such Party shall provide the other Party with written notice of the event or information, the representations and warranties affected, and the action, if any, which such Party intends to take to make the representations and warranties true and correct. The notice required pursuant to this Section shall be given as soon as practicable after the occurrence of each such event.

 

8. REGULATORY APPROVAL

 

8.1.           Receipt of Regulatory Approval . The obligations of the Parties to perform this Agreement, other than the Parties’ obligations under Section 6.2(a), Section 6.3, Section 6.4, Section 6.5, Section 8.2, Section 8.3, and Article 12, are conditioned upon and shall not become effective or binding until the receipt of the Regulatory Approval. Buyer shall notify Seller within five (5) Business Days after receipt of the Regulatory Approval or receipt of an order of the PUC regarding this Agreement that is not acceptable in form and substance to Buyer in its sole discretion.

 

8.2.           Filing for Regulatory Approval . Buyer shall (i) use commercially reasonable efforts to file an application for the Regulatory Approval with the PUC by not later than thirty (30) days after the Agreement Date and (ii) at Buyer’s sole discretion, exercise commercially reasonable efforts to obtain the Regulatory Approval, including using commercially reasonable efforts to obtain a favorable resolution in any appeal of an order of the PUC with respect to this Agreement; provided that Buyer shall have no obligation to appeal a PUC order that it determines is unacceptable. Seller shall have the right to intervene in the proceeding before the PUC and shall use commercially reasonable efforts to cooperate with Buyer (but only as requested by Buyer) in obtaining the Regulatory Approval.

 

8.3.           Failure to Obtain Regulatory Approval . If Buyer (i) on any date notifies Seller that it has received an order of the PUC regarding this Agreement that is not acceptable in form and substance to Buyer in its sole discretion or (ii) has not notified Seller that it has received the Regulatory Approval by eighteen (18) months after the Agreement Date, then this Agreement shall terminate as of that date, with no further liability for either Party hereunder except for any obligations arising under Section 6.3 and Article 12 which accrued prior to such termination, and Buyer shall return to Seller its Posted Collateral.

 

9. BREACHES; REMEDIES

 

9.1.           Events of Default by Either Party . It shall constitute an event of default (“ Event of Default ”) by either Party hereunder if:

 

(a)           Representation or Warranty . Any material breach of any representation or warranty of such Party set forth herein, or in filings or reports made pursuant to this Agreement, and such breach continues for more than thirty (30) days after the Non-Defaulting Party has provided written notice to the Defaulting Party that any material representation or warranty set forth herein is false, misleading or erroneous in any material respect without the breach having been cured; or

 

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(b)           Payment Obligations . Any undisputed payment due and payable hereunder is not made on the date due, and such failure continues for more than ten (10) Business Days after notice thereof is given by the Non-Defaulting Party to the Defaulting Party; or

 

(c)           Other Covenants . Other than a Delivery Shortfall (the sole remedy for which shall be the payment of Cover Damages under Section 4.3), a Rejected Purchase (the sole remedy for which shall be the payment of Resale Damages under 4.4), a failure by Seller to perform its obligations under Section 4.8 (which is addressed in Section 4.8(0), or an Event of Default described in Section 9.1(a), 9.1(b), 9.1(d), 9.1(e) or 9.2, such Party fails to perform, observe or otherwise to comply with any obligation hereunder and such failure continues for more than thirty (30) days after notice thereof is given by the Non-Defaulting Party to the Defaulting Party; provided, however, that such period shall be extended for an additional reasonable period if the Defaulting Party is unable to cure within that thirty (30) day period and provided that corrective action has been taken by the Defaulting Party within such thirty (30) day period and so long as such cure is diligently pursued by the Defaulting Party until such Default had been corrected, but in any event within one hundred fifty (150) days; or

 

(d)           Bankruptcy . Such Party (i) is adjudged bankrupt or files a petition in voluntary bankruptcy under any provision of any bankruptcy law or consents to the filing of any bankruptcy or reorganization petition against such Party under any such law, or (without limiting the generality of the foregoing) files a petition to reorganize pursuant to 11 U.S.C. § 101 or any similar statute applicable to such Party, as now or hereinafter in effect, (ii) makes an assignment for the benefit of creditors, or admits in writing an inability to pay its debts generally as they become due, or consents to the appointment of a receiver or liquidator or trustee or assignee in bankruptcy or insolvency of such Party, or (iii) is subject to an order of a court of competent jurisdiction appointing a receiver or liquidator or custodian or trustee of such Party or of a major part of such Party’s property, which is not dismissed within sixty (60) days; or

 

(e)           Permit Compliance . Such Party fails to obtain and maintain in full force and effect any Permit (other than the Regulatory Approval and the Extension Regulatory Approval, if applicable) necessary for such Party to perform its obligations under this Agreement.

 

9.2.          Events of Default by Seller . In addition to the Events of Default described in Section 9.1, it shall constitute an Event of Default by Seller hereunder if:

 

(a)           Taking of Facility Assets . Any asset of Seller that is material to the construction, operation or maintenance of the Facility or the performance of its obligations hereunder is taken upon execution or by other process of law directed against Seller other than by condemnation or eminent domain, or any such asset is taken upon or subject to any attachment by any creditor of or claimant against Seller and such attachment is not disposed of within sixty (60) days after such attachment is levied; or

 

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(b)           Failure to Maintain Credit Support . The failure of Seller to provide, maintain and/or replenish the Development Period Security or the Operating Period Security as required pursuant to Article 6 of this Agreement, and such failure continues for more than five (5) Business Days after Buyer has provided written notice thereof to Seller; or

 

(c)           Failure to Satisfy ISO-NE Obligations . The failure of Seller to satisfy, or cause to be satisfied (other than by Buyer), any material obligation under the ISO-NE Rules or ISO-NE Practices or any other material obligation with respect to ISO-NE, except in the event that such failure is also a failure of Seller to perform its obligations under Section 4.8 (which is addressed in Section 4.8(f)); or

 

(d)           Failure to Meet Critical Milestones . The failure of Seller to satisfy any Critical Milestone by the date set forth therefor in Section 3.1(a), as the same may be extended in accordance with Section 3.1(c).

 

9.3.          Remedies .

 

(a)           Suspension of Performance and Remedies at Law . Upon the occurrence of an Event of Default, the Non-Defaulting Party shall have the right, but not the obligation, to (i) withhold any payments due the Defaulting Party under this Agreement, (ii) suspend its performance hereunder, and (iii) exercise such other remedies as provided for in this Agreement or, to the extent not inconsistent with the terms of this Agreement, at law, including, without limitation, the termination right set forth in Section 9.3(b). In addition to the foregoing, the Non-Defaulting Party shall retain its right of specific performance to enforce the Defaulting Party’s obligations under this Agreement.

 

(b)           Termination and Termination Payment . Upon the occurrence of an Event of Default, a Non-Defaulting Party may terminate this Agreement at its sole discretion by providing written notice of such termination to the Defaulting Party. If the Non-Defaulting Party terminates this Agreement, it shall be entitled to calculate and receive as its sole remedy for such Event of Default a “Termination Payment” as follows:

 

(i) Termination by Buyer . If Buyer terminates this Agreement because of an Event of Default by Seller, the Termination Payment due to Buyer shall be equal to the amount, if positive, calculated according to the following formula:

 

  ∑(RV – CV) + P  
  N  

 

where :

 

“∑” is the summation over the remainder of the Services Term.

N

 

“RV” is the replacement value of the Products for the remainder of the Services Term, calculated with reference to the applicable Replacement Price and the Supply Forecast, using a discount factor of eight percent (8.0%).

 

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“CV” is the contract value of the Products for the remainder of the Services Term calculated with reference to the applicable Price and the Supply Forecast, using a discount factor of eight percent (8.0%) (the “ Contract Value ”).

 

“P” is the amount of any applicable penalties and costs incurred by Buyer in replacing the Products not Delivered to Buyer as a result of the termination of this Agreement.

 

All such amounts shall be determined by Buyer in good faith and in a commercially reasonable manner, and Buyer shall provide Seller with a reasonably detailed calculation of the Termination Payment due under this Section 9.3(b)(i).

 

(ii) Termination by Seller Prior to Financial Closing Date . If Seller terminates this Agreement because of an Event of Default by Buyer prior to the Financial Closing Date, the Termination Payment due to Seller shall be equal to all of Seller’s out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with the development and construction of the Facility prior to such termination.

 

(iii) Termination by Seller On or After Financial Closing Date . If Seller terminates this Agreement because of an Event of Default by Buyer on or after the Financial Closing Date, the Termination Payment due to Seller shall be equal to the amount, if positive, calculated according to the following formula:

 

  ∑(CV – MV) + P  
  N  

 

where:

 

“∑” is the summation over the remainder of the Services Term.

N

 

“CV” is the Contract Value.

 

“MV” is the market value of the Products for the remaining Services Term as determined with reference to the applicable Resale Price and the Supply Forecast, using a discount factor of eight percent (8.0%).

 

“P” is the amount of any applicable penalties and costs incurred by Seller in selling the Products not accepted and paid for by Buyer as a result of the termination of this Agreement.

 

All such amounts shall be determined by Seller in good faith and in a commercially reasonable manner, and Seller shall provide Buyer with a reasonably detailed calculation of the Termination Payment due under this Section 9.3(b)(iii).

 

(iv) Supply Forecast . For purposes of determining the Termination Payment pursuant to Section 9.3(b)(i) and 9.3(b)(iii) above, the quantity of Products to be delivered shall be based upon the then-current Projected Annual Energy Output (the “ Supply Forecast ”).

 

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(v) Acceptability of Liquidated Damages . Each Party agrees and acknowledges that (i) the damages that the Parties would incur due to an Event of Default would be difficult or impossible to predict with certainty, and (ii) it is impractical and difficult to assess actual damages in the circumstances stated, and therefore the Termination Payment as agreed to by the Parties and set forth herein is a fair and reasonable calculation of such damages.

 

(vi) Payment of Termination Payment . The Defaulting Party shall make the Termination Payment within ten (10) Business Days after the notice thereof is effective. If the Defaulting Party disputes the Non-Defaulting Party’s calculation of the Termination Payment, in whole or in part, the Defaulting Party shall, within ten (10) Business Days of receipt of the calculation of the Termination Payment, provide to the Non-Defaulting Party a detailed written explanation of the basis for such dispute; provided, however, the Defaulting Party shall first transfer Credit Support to the Non-Defaulting Party in an amount equal to the Termination Payment as calculated by the Non-Defaulting Party, which Credit Support shall be administered in accordance with Article 6. If the Parties are unable to resolve the dispute within thirty (30) days, Article 11 shall apply.

 

(vii) Reinstatement of Agreement . In the event that Buyer terminates this Agreement prior to the Commercial Operation Date and Seller thereafter achieves the Commercial Operation Date within one (1) year after such termination, Buyer may elect to reinstate this Agreement in accordance with its terms by providing Seller with at least six (6) months’ prior written notice of such reinstatement. Upon such reinstatement, Buyer shall return to Seller any Termination Payment made by Seller, together with interest accruing at the Late Payment Rate, on or prior to the date selected for reinstatement of this Agreement.

 

(c)           Set-off . The Non-Defaulting Party shall be entitled, at its option and in its discretion, to withhold and set off any amounts owed by the Non-Defaulting Party to the Defaulting Party against any payments and any other amounts owed by the Defaulting Party to the Non-Defaulting Party, including any Termination Payment payable as a result of any early termination of this Agreement.

 

(d)           Notice to Lenders . Buyer shall provide a copy of any notice given to Seller under this Article 9 to one representative of the Financing providing loans to or for the benefit of Seller and one representative of the Financing providing equity to or for the benefit of Seller, of which Buyer shall have written notice.

 

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(e)           Limitation of Remedies, Liability and Damages . EXCEPT AS EXPRESSLY SET FORTH HEREIN, THERE IS NO WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, AND ANY AND ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES ARE DISCLAIMED. THE PARTIES CONFIRM THAT THE EXPRESS REMEDIES AND MEASURES OF DAMAGES PROVIDED IN THIS AGREEMENT SATISFY THE ESSENTIAL PURPOSES HEREOF. FOR BREACH OF ANY PROVISION FOR WHICH AN EXPRESS REMEDY OR MEASURE OF DAMAGES IS PROVIDED, SUCH EXPRESS REMEDY OR MEASURE OF DAMAGES SHALL BE THE SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY, THE OBLIGOR’S LIABILITY SHALL BE LIMITED AS SET FORTH IN SUCH PROVISION AND ALL OTHER REMEDIES OR DAMAGES AT LAW OR IN EQUITY ARE WAIVED. IF NO REMEDY OR MEASURE OF DAMAGES IS EXPRESSLY PROVIDED HEREIN, THE OBLIGOR’S LIABILITY SHALL BE LIMITED TO DIRECT ACTUAL DAMAGES ONLY, SUCH DIRECT ACTUAL DAMAGES SHALL BE THE SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY, AND ALL OTHER REMEDIES OR DAMAGES AT LAW OR IN EQUITY ARE WAIVED. UNLESS EXPRESSLY HEREIN PROVIDED, NEITHER PARTY SHALL BE LIABLE FOR CONSEQUENTIAL, INCIDENTAL, PUNITIVE, EXEMPLARY OR INDIRECT DAMAGES, LOST PROFITS OR OTHER BUSINESS INTERRUPTION DAMAGES, BY STATUTE, IN TORT OR CONTRACT, UNDER ANY INDEMNITY PROVISION OR OTHERWISE. TO THE EXTENT ANY DAMAGES REQUIRED TO BE PAID HEREUNDER ARE LIQUIDATED, THE PARTIES ACKNOWLEDGE THAT THE DAMAGES ARE DIFFICULT OR IMPOSSIBLE TO DETERMINE, OR OTHERWISE OBTAINING AN ADEQUATE REMEDY IS INCONVENIENT AND THE DAMAGES CALCULATED HEREUNDER CONSTITUTE A REASONABLE APPROXIMATION OF THE HARM OR LOSS.

 

10. FORCE MAJEURE

 

10.1.         Force Majeure .

 

(a)           The term “ Force Majeure ” means an unusual, unexpected and significant event: (i) that was not within the control of the Party claiming its occurrence; (ii) that could not have been prevented or avoided by such Party through the exercise of reasonable diligence; and (iii) that directly prohibits or prevents such Party from performing its obligations under this Agreement. Under no circumstances shall Force Majeure include (w) any occurrence or event that merely increases the costs or causes an economic hardship to a Party, (x) any occurrence or event that was caused by or contributed to by the Party claiming the Force Majeure, (y) Seller’s ability to sell the Products at a price greater than that set out in this Agreement, or (z) Buyer’s ability to procure the Products at a price lower than that set out in this Agreement. In addition, a delay or inability to perform attributable to a Party’s lack of preparation, a Party’s failure to timely obtain and maintain all necessary Permits (excepting the Regulatory Approval and the Extension Regulatory Approval, if applicable), a failure to satisfy contractual conditions or commitments, or lack of or deficiency in funding or other resources shall each not constitute a Force Majeure.

 

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(b)           If either Party is unable, wholly or in part, by Force Majeure to perform obligations under this Agreement, such performance shall be excused and suspended so long as the circumstances that give rise to such inability exist, but for no longer period. The Party whose performance is affected shall give prompt notice thereof; such notice may be given orally or in writing but, if given orally, it shall be promptly confirmed in writing, providing details regarding the nature, extent and expected duration of the Force Majeure, its anticipated effect on the ability of such Party to perform obligations under this Agreement, and the estimated duration of any interruption in service or other adverse effects resulting from such Force Majeure, and shall be updated or supplemented to keep the other Party advised of the effect and remedial measures being undertaken to overcome the Force Majeure. Such inability shall be promptly corrected to the extent it may be corrected through the exercise of due diligence. The Party whose performance is affected shall also give prompt notice of the termination of the Force Majeure and shall resume performance of its obligations under this Agreement upon such termination. Neither party shall be liable for any losses or damages arising out of a suspension of performance that occurs because of Force Majeure.

 

(c)           Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Force Majeure prevents full or partial performance under this Agreement for a period of twelve (12) months or more, the Party whose performance is not prevented by Force Majeure shall have the right to terminate this Agreement upon written notice to the other Party and without further recourse.

 

(d)           Neither Party may raise a claim of Force Majeure based in whole or in part on curtailment by a Transmission Provider unless (i) such Party has contracted for firm transmission with a Transmission Provider for the Energy to be delivered to or received at the Delivery Point and (ii) such curtailment is due to “force majeure” or “uncontrollable force” or a similar term as defined under the Transmission Provider’s tariff; provided, however, that existence of the foregoing factors shall not be sufficient to conclusively or presumptively prove the existence of a Force Majeure absent a showing of other facts and circumstances which in the aggregate with such factors establish that a Force Majeure as defined in Section 10.1(a) has occurred.

 

11. DISPUTE RESOLUTION

 

In the event of any dispute, controversy or claim between the Parties arising out of or relating to this Agreement (collectively, a “ Dispute ”), the Parties shall attempt in the first instance to resolve such Dispute through consultations between the Parties. If such consultations do not result in a resolution of the Dispute within fifteen (15) days after notice of the Dispute has been delivered to either Party, then such Dispute shall be referred to the senior management of the Parties for resolution. If the Dispute has not been resolved within fifteen (15) days after such referral to the senior management of the Parties, then the Parties may seek to resolve such Dispute in the courts of the State of Rhode Island. The Parties agree to the exclusive jurisdiction of the state and federal courts located in the State of Rhode Island for any legal proceedings that may be brought by a Party arising out of or in connection with this Agreement. EACH PARTY HEREBY WAIVES ANY RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY IN ANY DISPUTE.

 

12. CONFIDENTIALITY

 

Buyer and Seller each agrees not to disclose to any Person and to keep confidential, and to cause and instruct its Affiliates, officers, directors, employees, partners and representatives not to disclose to any Person and to keep confidential, any non-public information relating to the terms and provisions of this Agreement, and any information relating to the Products to be supplied by Seller hereunder, and such other non-public information that is designated as “Confidential.” Notwithstanding the foregoing, any such information may be disclosed:

 

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(a)           to the extent Buyer determines it is appropriate in connection with efforts to obtain or maintain the Regulatory Approval or the Extension Regulatory Approval, if applicable, or to seek rate recovery for amounts expended by Buyer under this Agreement;

 

(b)          as required by applicable laws, regulations, rules or orders or by any subpoena or similar legal process of any Governmental Entity so long as the receiving Party gives the non-disclosing Party written notice at least three (3) Business Days prior to such disclosure, if practicable;

 

(c)          to the Affiliates of either Party and to the consultants, attorneys, auditors, financial advisors, lenders or potential lenders, investors or potential investors and their advisors of either Party or their Affiliates that agree to be bound by this confidentiality provision;

 

(d)          in order to comply with any rule or regulation of ISO-NE, any stock exchange or similar Person or for financial disclosure purposes;

 

(e)          to the extent the non-disclosing Party shall have consented in writing prior to any such disclosure; and

 

(f)           to the extent that the information was previously made publicly available other than as a result of a breach of this Article 12;

 

provided, however, in each case, that the Party seeking such disclosure shall, to the extent practicable, use commercially reasonable efforts to prevent or limit the disclosure. The Parties shall be entitled to all remedies available at law or in equity to enforce or seek relief in connection with this Article 12.

 

13. INDEMNIFICATION

 

Except as set forth in Sections 3.4(k) and 3.5(b) and in Exhibit D , neither Party shall indemnify, defend or hold harmless the other Party or its partners, shareholders, directors, officers, employees or agents from and against any liabilities, damages, losses, penalties, claims, demands, suits or proceedings claimed by, due to or instituted by any third party as a result of either Party’s execution, delivery or performance of this Agreement.

 

14. ASSIGNMENT AND CHANGE OF CONTROL

 

14.1.           Prohibition on Assignments . Except as permitted under this Article 14, this Agreement may not be assigned by either Party without the prior written consent of the other Party, which consent may not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed. The Party requesting the other Party’s consent to an assignment of this Agreement will reimburse such other Party for all costs and expenses such other Party incurs in connection with that consent, without regard to whether such consent is provided. When assignable, this Agreement shall be binding upon, shall inure to the benefit of, and may be performed by, the successors and assignees of the Parties, except that no assignment, pledge or other transfer of this Agreement by either Party shall operate to release the assignor, pledgor, or transferor from any of its obligations under this Agreement unless the other Party (or its successors or assigns) consents in writing to the assignment, pledge or other transfer and expressly releases the assignor, pledgor, or transferor from its obligations thereunder.

 

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14.2.           Assignor Remains Liable . Unless specifically agreed in writing, any assignment by a Party as contemplated by this Section 14 shall not be construed to relieve the assignor of any of its obligations under this Agreement, nor shall any such assignment be deemed to modify or otherwise affect any of the rights of the non-assigning Party hereunder.

 

14.3.           Change in Control over Seller . Buyer’s consent shall be required for any change in Control over Seller, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed and shall be provided if Buyer reasonably determines that such change in Control does not have a material adverse effect on Seller’s creditworthiness or Seller’s ability to perform its obligations under this Agreement.

 

14.4.           Permitted Assignment by Buyer . Buyer shall have the right to assign this Agreement without consent of Seller (a) in connection with (i) any merger or consolidation of Buyer with or into another Person; (ii) any exchange of all of the common stock or other equity interests of Buyer or Buyer’s parent for cash, securities or other property; or (iii) any acquisition, reorganization, or other similar corporate transaction involving all or substantially all of the common stock or other equity interests in, or assets of, Buyer; provided that (A) the proposed assignee agrees in writing to assume all of Buyer’s obligations under this Agreement and (B) the proposed assignee delivers to Seller a legal opinion as to due power and authority, due authorization, enforceability and regulatory approvals, or (b) to a Person whose credit rating as established by S&P or Moody’s is equal or better than BBB- from S&P or Baa3 from Moody’s after giving effect to the proposed assignment of this Agreement; provided that (i) the proposed assignee agrees in writing to assume all of Buyer’s obligations under this Agreement and (ii) the proposed assignee delivers to Seller a legal opinion as to due power and authority, due authorization, enforceability and regulatory approvals.

 

14.5.           Prohibited Assignments . Any purported assignment of this Agreement not in compliance with the provisions of this Article 14 shall be null and void.

 

15. TITLE; RISK OF LOSS

 

Title to and risk of loss related to the Energy shall transfer from Seller to Buyer at the Delivery Point. Title and risk of loss related to the RECs shall transfer to Buyer when the same are credited to Buyer’s GIS account(s) or the GIS account(s) designated by Buyer to Seller in writing. Seller shall retain risk of loss with respect to the Capacity, consistent with Section 4.8. Seller warrants that it shall deliver to Buyer the Products free and clear of all liens, claims, charges or encumbrances therein or thereto by any Person.

 

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16. AUDIT

 

16.1.           Audit . Each Party shall have the right, upon reasonable advance notice, and at its sole expense (unless the other Party has defaulted under this Agreement, in which case the Defaulting Party shall bear the expense) and during normal working hours, to examine the records of the other Party to the extent reasonably necessary to verify the accuracy of any statement, charge or computation made pursuant to this Agreement. If requested, a Party shall provide to the other Party statements evidencing the quantities of Products delivered or provided hereunder. If any such examination reveals any inaccuracy in any statement, the necessary adjustments in such statement and the payments thereof shall be made promptly and shall bear interest at the Late Payment Rate from the date the overpayment or underpayment was made until paid.

 

16.2.           Consolidation of Financial Information . The Parties agree that generally accepted accounting principles and U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission rules may require Buyer to evaluate whether Buyer must consolidate Seller’s financial information on Buyer’s financial statements. Buyer shall require access to financial records and personnel to determine if consolidated financial reporting is required. If Buyer determines at any time that such consolidation is required, Buyer shall require the following from Seller within fifteen (15) days after the end of every calendar quarter for the Term of this Agreement:

 

(a)           complete financial statements and notes to financial statements for such quarter;

 

(b)           financial schedules underlying such financial statements; and

 

(c)           access to records and personnel to enable Buyer’s independent auditor to conduct financial audits (in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards) and internal control audits (in accordance with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002). Any information provided to Buyer under this Section 16.2 shall be treated as confidential except that such information may be disclosed for financial statement purposes.

 

17. NOTICES

 

Any notice or communication given pursuant hereto shall be in writing and (1) delivered personally (personally delivered notices shall be deemed given upon written acknowledgment of receipt after delivery to the address specified or upon refusal of receipt); (2) mailed by registered or certified mail, postage prepaid (mailed notices shall be deemed given on the actual date of delivery, as set forth in the return receipt, or upon refusal of receipt); or (3) delivered by fax or electronic mail (notices sent by fax or electronic mail shall be deemed given upon confirmation of delivery); in each case addressed as follows or to such other addresses as may hereafter be designated by either Party to the other in writing:

 

If to Buyer:
   
If to Seller:

 

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18. WAIVER AND MODIFICATION

 

This Agreement may be amended and its provisions and the effects thereof waived only by a writing executed by the Parties, and no subsequent conduct of any Party or course of dealings between the Parties shall effect or be deemed to effect any such amendment or waiver. No waiver of any of the provisions of this Agreement shall be deemed or shall constitute a waiver of any other provision hereof (whether or not similar), nor shall such waiver constitute a continuing waiver unless otherwise expressly provided. The failure of either Party to enforce any provision of this Agreement shall not be construed as a waiver of or acquiescence in or to such provision. Buyer shall determine in its sole discretion whether any amendment or waiver of the provisions of this Agreement shall require approval of or filing with the PUC or another Governmental Entity, and if Buyer determines that such approval or filing is required for any amendment or waiver of the provisions of this Agreement, then such amendment or waiver shall not become effective unless and until such approval is obtained or such filing is made.

 

19. INTERPRETATION

 

19.1.           Choice of Law . Interpretation and performance of this Agreement shall be in accordance with, and shall be controlled by, the laws of the State of Rhode Island (without regard to its principles of conflicts of law).

 

19.2.           Headings . Article and Section headings are for convenience only and shall not affect the interpretation of this Agreement. References to articles, sections and exhibits are, unless the context otherwise requires, references to articles, sections and exhibits of this Agreement. The words “hereof” and “hereunder” shall refer to this Agreement as a whole and not to any particular provision of this Agreement.

 

19.3.           Forward Contract; Commodities Exchange Act . The Parties acknowledge and agree that this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereunder are a “forward contract” within the meaning of the United States Bankruptcy Code. Each Party represents and warrants, solely as to itself, that it is (i) a “forward merchant” within the meaning of the United States Bankruptcy Code and (ii) an “eligible commercial entity” and an “eligible contract participant” within the meaning of the United States Commodities Exchange Act.

 

19.4.           Standard of Review . The Parties acknowledge and agree that the standard of review for any avoidance, breach, rejection, termination or other cessation of performance of or changes to any portion of this integrated, non-severable Agreement (as described in Section 22) over which FERC has jurisdiction, whether proposed by Seller, by Buyer, by a non-party of, by FERC acting sua sponte shall be the “public interest” standard of review set forth in United Gas Pipe Line Co. v. Mobile Gas Serv. Co. , 350 U.S. 332 (1956) and Federal Power Corrun’n v. Sierra Pac. Power Co. , 350 U.S. 348 (1956) and clarified by Morgan Stanley Capital Group, Inc. v. Public Util. Dist. No. 1 of Snohomish , 554 U.S. __ (2008), as may be modified by subsequent cases. Each Party agrees that if it seeks to amend any applicable power sales tariff during the Term, such amendment shall not in any way materially and adversely affect this Agreement without the prior written consent of the other Party. Each Party further agrees that it shall not assert, or defend itself, on the basis that any applicable tariff is inconsistent with this Agreement.

 

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19.5.           Change in ISO-NE Rules and Practices . This Agreement is subject to the ISO-NE Rules and ISO-NE Practices. If, during the Term of this Agreement, any ISO-NE Rule or ISO-NE Practice is terminated, modified or amended or is otherwise no longer applicable, resulting in a material alteration of a material right or obligation of a Party hereunder, the Parties agree to negotiate in good faith in an attempt to amend or clarify this Agreement to embody the Parties’ original intent regarding their respective rights and obligations under this Agreement, provided that neither Party shall have any obligation to agree to any particular amendment or clarification of this Agreement. The intent of the Parties is that any such amendment or clarification reflect, as closely as possible, the intent, substance and effect of the ISO-NE Rule or ISO-NE Practice being replaced, modified, amended or made inapplicable as such ISO-NE Rule or ISO-NE Practice was in effect prior to such termination, modification, amendment, or inapplicability, provided that such amendment or clarification shall not in any event alter (i) the purchase and sale obligations of the Parties pursuant to this Agreement, or (ii) the Bundled Price. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event of a change in the ISO-NE Rules or ISO-NE Practices described in Section 4.1(d), the provisions of Section 4.1(d), and not of this Section 19.5, shall apply to such change.

 

19.6.           Joint Preparation . This Agreement shall be considered for all purposes as prepared through the joint efforts of the Parties and shall not be construed against one Party or the other as a result of the preparation, substitution, submission or other event of negotiation, drafting or execution hereof.

 

20. COUNTERPARTS; FACSIMILE SIGNATURES

 

Any number of counterparts of this Agreement may be executed, and each shall have the same force and effect as an original. Facsimile signatures hereon or on any notice or other instrument delivered under this Agreement shall have the same force and effect as original signatures.

 

21. NO DUTY TO THIRD PARTIES

 

Except as provided in any consent to assignment of this Agreement, nothing in this Agreement nor any action taken hereunder shall be construed to create any duty, liability or standard of care to any Person not a Party to this Agreement.

 

22. SEVERABILITY

 

If any term or provision of this Agreement or the interpretation or application of any term or provision to any prior circumstance is held to be unenforceable, illegal or invalid by a court or agency of competent jurisdiction, the remainder of this Agreement and the interpretation or application of all other terms or provisions to Persons or circumstances other than those which are unenforceable, illegal or invalid shall not be affected thereby, and each term and provision shall be valid and be enforced to the fullest extent permitted by law.

 

23. INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR

 

Nothing in this Agreement shall be construed as creating any relationship between Buyer and Seller other than that of Seller as independent contractor for the sale of Products, and Buyer as principal and purchaser of the same. Neither Party shall be deemed to be the agent of the other Party for any purpose by reason of this Agreement, and no partnership or joint venture or fiduciary relationship between the Parties is intended to be created hereby.

 

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24. ENTIRE AGREEMENT

 

This Agreement shall constitute the entire agreement and understanding between the Parties hereto and shall supersede all prior agreements and communications.

 

[Signature page follows]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF , each of Buyer and Seller has caused this Agreement to be duly executed on its behalf as of the date first above written.

 

THE NARRAGANSETT ELECTRIC COMPANY, D/B/A NATIONAL GRID

 

/s/ The Narragansett Electric Company    

 

ORBIT ENERGY RHODE ISLAND, LLC

 

/s/ Orbit Energy Rhode Island, LLC    

 

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EXHIBIT D

 

INSURANCE

 

1.        Prior to the commencement of construction of the Facility, through final expiration of the Term or longer where specified below, Seller shall provide and maintain, at its own expense, insurance policies, intended to be primary (with no right of contribution by any other coverage available to National Grid USA its direct and indirect parents, subsidiaries and affiliates (the “Insured Entities”)), covering all Operations, Work and Services to be performed by Seller under or in connection with this Agreement, issued by reputable insurance companies with an A.M. Best Rating of at least B+, which meet or exceed the requirements listed herein:

 

(a) Workers’ Compensation and Employers Liability Insurance as required by the State in which the Work activities under this Agreement will be performed. If applicable, coverage shall include the U.S. Longshoreman’s and Harbor Workers Compensation Act, and the Jones Act. The employer’s liability limit shall be $500,000 each per accident, per person disease, and disease by policy limit.

 

( b) Commercial General Liability (CGL) Insurance , covering all operations to be performed by or on behalf of Seller under or in connection with this Agreement, with minimum combined single limits for bodily injury and property damage of $1,000,000 per occurrence and $2,000,000 in the aggregate.

 

Coverage shall include: contractual liability (with this Agreement, and any associated verbal agreements, being included under the definition of “Insured Contract” thereunder), products/completed operations, and if applicable, explosion, collapse and underground (XC&U).

 

If the products-completed operations coverage is written on a claims-made basis, the retroactive date shall not precede the effective date of this Agreement and coverage shall be maintained continuously for the duration of this Agreement and for at least two years thereafter.

 

Additional Insured as required in Section 3 below,

 

The policy shall contain a separation of insureds condition.

 

In the event Seller is a governmental entity such as a town, county, municipality etc., and such entity’s liability to a third party is limited by law, regulation, code, ordinance, by-laws or statute (collectively the “Law”), this liability insurance shall contain an endorsement that waives such Law for insurance purposes only and strictly prohibits the insurance company from using such Law as a defense in either the adjustment of any claim, or in the defense of any suit directly asserted by an Insured Entity.

 

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(c) Automobile Liability , covering all owned, non-owned and hired vehicles used in connection with all operations, work or services to be performed by or on behalf of Seller under or in connection with this Agreement with a minimum combined single limit of liability for bodily injury and property damage of $1,000,000 per accident. Additional Insured as required in Section 3 below.

 

(d) Umbrella Liability or Excess Liability coverage , with a minimum per occurrence limit of $4,000,000. This coverage shall run concurrent to the CGL required in Section 1(b) above, shall apply excess of the required automobile, CGL and employer’s liability coverage required in this Insurance Exhibit, and shall provide additional insured status as outlined in Section 3 below.

 

(e) Watercraft Liability , if used in connection with this Agreement, with the same minimum limits of liability as outlined in requirement 1(b) above, and naming the Insured Entities, including their officers and employees, as additional insured as outlined in Section 3. Seller represents that no watercraft will be used in connection with this Agreement.

 

(f) Aircraft Liability , if used in connection with this Agreement, with a limit of liability of not less than $10,000,000 combined single limit per occurrence, and naming the Insured Entities, including their officers and employees, as additional insured’s as required in Section 3 below. Such coverage shall not include a per-passenger or per seat coverage limit. Seller represents that no aircraft will be used in connection with this Agreement.

 

(g) Pollution Liability (PL) : covering any sudden and accidental pollution liability which may arise out of, under, or in connection with the performance of this Agreement, by or on behalf of Seller, or that arise out of Seller’s use of any owned, non-owned or hired vehicles, with a combined single limit of liability for bodily injury and property damage of $1,000,000 per occurrence and in the aggregate.

 

This requirement may be satisfied by providing either this PL policy, which would include naming the Insured Entities, including their officers and employees, as additional insured’s as outlined in Section 3 below; OR by providing coverage for sudden and accidental pollution liability under the CGL and commercial automobile insurance policies required above - limited solely by the Insurance Services Organization (ISO) standard pollution exclusion, or its equivalent.

 

In the event Seller is unable to secure and/or maintain any or all of this sudden and accidental pollution liability coverage, Seller agrees to indemnify and hold the Insured Entities harmless against any and all liability resulting from any coverage deficiency that is out of compliance with this insurance requirement.

 

(h) Risk of Loss: Seller shall be responsible for all risk of loss to its equipment and materials, and any other equipment and materials owned by its employees or by other third parties that may be in their care, custody and control. If this coverage is excluded from the Commercial General Liability policy, then coverage will be acceptable under Seller’s property policy. In the event that any equipment or materials (Goods) are supplied by the Insured Entities, an Insured Entities’ representative will provide the insurable value of the Goods to Seller in writing, both cumulatively and on a maximum per item basis. Seller will provide replacement cost insurance for these Goods under a blanket builder’s risk policy, an equipment floater, or other equivalent coverage, while such Goods are under the care, custody and control of Seller. Such insurance shall cover all Goods outlined in the Agreement or as noted on subsequent contract amendments. The coverage limit shall apply on either a per location basis or a maximum per item basis, and shall name the Insured Entities as Additional Insureds with respect to their insurable interest as required in Section 3 below.

 

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(i) Limits: Any combination of Commercial General Liability, Automobile Liability and Umbrella Liability policy limits can be used to satisfy the limit requirements in items 1 b, c & d above.

 

2.    Self-Insurance : Proof of qualification as a qualified self-insurer, if approved in advance in writing by an Insured Entities representative, will be acceptable in lieu of securing and maintaining one or more of the coverages required in this Exhibit D. Such acceptance shall become a part of this Exhibit D by reference herein.

 

For Workers’ Compensation, such evidence shall consist of a copy of a current self-insured certificate for the State in which the work will be performed.

 

In order for self insurance to be accepted, Seller’s unsecured debt must have a financial rating of at least investment grade. For purposes of this Exhibit D, “ Investment Grade ” means (i) if Seller has a credit rating from both S&P and Moody’s then, a credit rating from S&P equal to or better than “BBB-” and a credit rating from Moody’s equal to or better than “Baa3”; (ii) if Seller has a credit rating from only one of S&P and Moody’s, then a Credit Rating from S&P equal to or better than “BBB-” or a credit rating from Moody’s equal to or better than “Baa3; or (iii) if the Parties have mutually agreed in writing on an additional or alternative rating agency, then the equivalent credit rating assigned to an entity by such additional or alternative rating agency that is equal to or better than “BBB-” from S&P and/or “Baa3” from Moody’s.

 

3.     Additional Insured : The intent of the Additional Insured requirement under the CGL, Auto, PL, Umbrella/Excess, Aircraft and Watercraft policies is to include the Insured Entities, their directors, officers and employees, as Additional Insured’s for liabilities associated with, or arising out of, all operations, work or services to be performed by or on behalf of Seller, including ongoing and completed operations, under this Agreement. The following language should be used when referencing the additional insured status: National Grid USA, its subsidiaries and affiliates shall be named as additional insured .

 

To the extent Seller’s insurance coverage does not provide the full Additional Insured coverage as required herein, Seller agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Insured Entities against any and all liability resulting from any deficiency in Seller’s insurance coverage that may be out of compliance with this insurance requirement.

 

4.     Waiver of Recovery : Seller and its insurance carrier(s) shall waive all rights of recovery against the Insured Entities and their directors, officers and employees, for any loss or damage covered under those policies referenced in this insurance provision, or for any required coverage that may be self-insured by Seller. To the extent Seller’s insurance carriers will not waive their right of subrogation against the Insured Entities, Seller agrees to indemnify the Insured Entities for any subrogation activities pursued against them by Seller’s insurance carriers. However, this waiver shall not extend to the gross negligence or willful misconduct of the Insured Entities or their employees, sub-contractors or agents.

 

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5.    Contractors : In the event Seller uses Contractors in connection with this Agreement, it is expressly agreed that Seller shall have the sole responsibility to make certain that all Contractors are in compliance with these insurance requirements and remains in compliance throughout the course of this Agreement, and thereafter as required. Seller shall remain liable for the performance of the Contractor, and such sub-contract relationship shall not relieve Seller of its obligations under this agreement.

 

Unless agreed to in writing the by the Risk Management Department of National Grid USA Service Company, any deductible or self insured retentions maintained by any Contractor, which shall be for the account of the Contractor, and shall not exceed $1,000,000. If requested by National Grid, Seller shall provide National Grid with an insurance certificate from its Contractor evidencing this coverage.

 

In the event any Contractor is unable to maintain all of the same insurance coverage as required in this Exhibit D, Seller shall notify National Grid and the Parties shall reasonably agree to replacement insurance given the scope and nature of the works of Contractor. Until such insurance is in place, such Contractor shall not perform any work in connection with this Agreement.

 

6.     Insurance Certification : Upon execution of this Agreement, Seller shall promptly provide National Grid with (a) Certificate(s) of Insurance for all coverage’s required herein at the following address: National Grid Attn: Risk Management Bldg. A-4 300 Erie Boulevard West Syracuse, NY 13202 Such certificates, and any renewals or extensions thereof, shall outline the amount of deductibles or self-insured retentions which shall be for the account of Seller. Such deductibles or self-insured retentions shall not exceed $1,000,000 unless agreed to in writing by the Risk Management Department of National Grid USA Service Company, whose approval shall not be unreasonably withheld, delayed or conditioned.

 

Seller shall endeavor to provide National Grid with at least 30 days prior written (10 days for non-payment of premium) notice of any cancellation or diminution of the insurance coverage required in this Exhibit D.

 

7.     Insurance Obligation : If any insurance coverage is not secured, maintained or is cancelled and Seller fails to timely procure other insurance as specified, National Grid has the right, but not the obligation, to procure such insurance and to invoice Seller for said coverage.

 

8.     Incident Reports : Seller shall furnish the Risk Management Department of National Grid USA Service Company with copies of any non-privileged accident or incident report(s)(collectively, the “Documents”) sent to Seller’s insurance carriers covering accidents, incidents or events occurring as a result of the performance of all operations, work and services performed by or on behalf of Seller under or in connection with this Agreement, excluding any accidents or incidents occurring on Seller property. If any of the National Grid Companies are named in a lawsuit involving the operations and activities of Seller associated with this Agreement, Seller shall promptly provide copies of all insurance policies relevant to this accident or incident if requested by National Grid. However, in the event such Documents are deemed privileged and confidential (Attorney Client Privilege), Seller shall provide the relevant facts of the accident or incident in a format that does not violate such Attorney Client Privilege.

 

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9.    Other Coverage : These requirements are in addition to any which may be required elsewhere in this Agreement. In addition, Seller shall comply with any governmental site specific insurance requirements even if not stated herein.

 

10.  Coverage Representation : Seller represents that it has the required policy limits available, and shall notify National Grid USA Service Company’s Risk Management Department in writing when the coverage’s required in this Exhibit D have been reduced as a result of claims payments, expenses, or both. However, this obligation does not apply to any claims that would be handled solely with in Seller’s deductible or self-insured retention.

 

11.  Responsibility : The complete or partial failure of Seller’s insurance carrier to fully protect and indemnify the Insured Entities per the terms of the Agreement, including without limitation, this exhibit, or the inadequacy of the insurance shall not in any way lessen or affect the obligations of Seller to the Insured Entities.

 

12.  Coverage Limitation : Nothing contained in this Exhibit D is to be construed as limiting the extent of Seller’s responsibility for payment of damages resulting from all operations, work and services to be performed by or on behalf of Seller under or in connection with this Agreement, or limiting, diminishing, or waiving Seller’s obligation to indemnify, defend, and save harmless the Insured Entities in accordance with this Agreement.

 

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FIRST AMENDMENT TO
POWER PURCHASE AGREEMENT

 

This FIRST AMENDMENT TO POWER PURCHASE AGREEMENT (this “ Amendment ”) is entered into as of April 11, 2013, by and between The Narragansett Electric Company, d/b/a National Grid, a Rhode Island corporation (“ Buyer ”), and Orbit Energy Rhode Island, LLC, a Rhode Island limited liability company (“ Seller ”). Buyer and Seller are individually referred to herein as a “ Party ” and are collectively referred to herein as the “ Parties ”).

 

WHEREAS , Buyer and Seller are parties to that certain Power Purchase Agreement dated as of May 26, 2011 (the “ Agreement ”) pursuant to which Seller has agreed to sell and deliver, and Buyer has agreed to purchase and receive, the Products generated by or associated with the Facility during the Services Term (in each case as defined in the Agreement); and

 

WHEREAS , Seller has chosen to locate its Facility at an address other than as set forth in the Agreement;

 

NOW, THEREFORE , in consideration of the foregoing and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Parties agree as follows:

 

1.       In the introductory paragraph of the Agreement, the phrase “(this “ Agreement ”)” is deleted in its entirety and replaced with “(as amended from time to time in accordance with the terms hereof, this “ Agreement ”).

 

2.       The text of Exhibit A to the Agreement is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:

 

Facility : The Orbit Energy Rhode Island, LLC facility is located on Lot 28 and Lot 38 on the Town of Johnston, Rhode Island Tax Assessor’s Plat 33. The facility consists of two Caterpillar G3520C generator sets (Generator #1 and Generator #2). Each generator set is rated at 1.6 MW for a combined 3.2 MW of electric generation capacity. Orbit Energy will generate renewable power using biogas generated from on-site anaerobic digestion of food scraps and other organic waste.

 

3.       The usage in this Amendment of terms which are defined in the Agreement is in accordance with the usage thereof in the Agreement.

 

4.       Except as specifically amended hereby, all terms and provisions contained in the Agreement shall remain unchanged and in full force and effect, and each of the Parties ratifies and confirms all such terms and provisions. In the event of a conflict between the provisions of this Amendment and the Agreement, the provisions of this Amendment shall govern.

 

5.       Two or more counterparts of this Amendment may be signed by the parties, each of which shall be an original but all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument. Facsimile signatures hereon shall be deemed to have the same effect as original signatures.

 

 

 

 

6.       Interpretation and performance of this Amendment shall be in accordance with, and shall be controlled by, the laws of the State of Rhode Island (without regard to its principles of conflicts of law).

 

[Signature Page Follows]

 

 

 

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF , each of Buyer and Seller has caused this Amendment to be duly executed on its behalf as of the date first above written.

 

THE NARRAGANSETT ELECTRIC COMPANY, D/B/A NATIONAL GRID

 

/s/ The Narragansett Electric Company  

 

ORBIT ENERGY RHODE ISLAND, LLC

 

/s/ Orbit Energy Rhode Island, LLC  

 

 

 

 

SECOND AMENDMENT TO POWER PURCHASE
AGREEMENT AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

 

This SECOND AMENDMENT TO POWER PURCHASE AGREEMENT AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT (this “ Amendment ”) is entered into as of December 9, 2013, by and between The Narragansett Electric Company, d/b/a National Grid, a Rhode Island corporation (“ Buyer ”), and Orbit Energy Rhode Island, LLC, a Rhode Island limited liability company (“ Seller ”). Buyer and Seller are individually referred to herein as a “ Party ” and are collectively referred to herein as the “ Parties ”).

 

WHEREAS , Buyer and Seller are parties to that certain Power Purchase Agreement dated as of May 26, 2011, as amended by the First Amendment to Power Purchase Agreement dated as of April 11, 2013 (the “ Agreement ”) and approved by the Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission (the “ PUC ”) on August 18, 2011 in Docket No. 4265, pursuant to which Seller has agreed to sell and deliver, and Buyer has agreed to purchase and receive, the Products generated by or associated with the Facility during the Services Term (in each case as defined in the Agreement); and

 

WHEREAS , in a letter dated October 12, 2011, a copy of which is Attachment 1 hereto, Buyer agreed to extend the deadline for Seller to provide the second half of the Development Period Security under Section 6.2(a) of the Agreement until fifteen days after the closing of the Financing described in Section 3.1(a)(iii) of the Agreement, and the Parties wish to reflect that extension in this Amendment; and

 

WHEREAS , Seller has exercised its rights to extensions of the dates for the Critical Milestone under Section 3.1(c) of the Agreement; and

 

WHEREAS , Seller has chosen to locate its Facility at an address other than as set forth in the Agreement;

 

NOW, THEREFORE , in consideration of the foregoing and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Parties agree as follows:

 

1.             The text of clauses (i) through (vi) of Section 3.1(a) of the Agreement is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:

 

(i) receipt of all Permits necessary to construct the Facility, as set forth in Exhibit B , in final form, by August 1, 2014;

 

(ii) acquisition of all required real property and other site control rights necessary for construction and operation of the Facility, interconnection of the Facility to the Interconnecting Utility, construction of the Network Upgrades (to the extent it is Seller’s responsibility to do so) and performance of Seller’s obligations under this Agreement as set forth on Exhibit B , by February 1, 2014;

 

(iii) closing of Financing required in order for Seller to proceed with the construction of the Facility, including, as applicable, Seller’s financial obligations with respect to interconnection of the Facility to the Interconnecting Utility and construction of the Network Upgrades, by May 1, 2014;

 

 

 

 

(iv) issuance of a full notice to proceed by Seller to its general construction contractor and commencement of construction of the Facility by May 1, 2014;

 

(v) execution of agreements by Seller and one or more providers of organic feedstock for the Facility that collectively are adequate to satisfy all of the Facility’s feedstock requirements for the first two years after the Commercial Operation Date by May 1, 2014; and

 

(vi) achievement of the Commercial Operation Date by September 1, 2015.

 

2.             In Section 5.1(b) of the Agreement, the reference to “January 1, 2014” is changed to “January 1, 2016.”

 

3.             The second sentence of Section 6.2(a) of the Agreement is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:

 

One-half of the Development Period Security shall be provided to Buyer within fifteen (15) days after the Agreement Date, and the remaining one-half of the Development Period Security shall be provided to Buyer within fifteen (15) days after the closing of Financing required in order for Seller to proceed with the construction of the Facility, as described in Section 3.1(a)(iii).

 

4.             The text of Exhibit A to the Agreement is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:

 

Facility: The Orbit Energy Rhode Island, LLC facility is located on Lot 2 on the Town of Johnston, Rhode Island Tax Assessor’s Plat 43. The facility consists of two Caterpillar G3520C generator sets (Generator #1 and Generator #2), or the equivalent. Each generator set is rated at 1.6 MW for a combined 3.2 MW of electric generation capacity. Orbit Energy will generate renewable power using biogas generated from on-site anaerobic digestion of food scraps and other organic waste.

 

5.             The Parties acknowledge and agree that: (i) the revisions to Section 3.1(a) of the Agreement that are set forth in Section 1 of this Amendment reflect the exercise by Seller of all of its rights under Section 3.1(c) of the Agreement to extend the dates for the Critical Milestones under the Agreement and that no further extensions of those Critical Milestones may be made by Seller under Section 3.1(c) of the Agreement; (ii) as a result of the revision to Section 5.1(a) of the Agreement that is set forth in Section 2 of this Amendment, no certification in the form of Exhibit F to the Agreement is required in connection with that extension of the Critical Milestones; and (iii) as of the date of this Amendment, Seller has not provided any of the second half of the Development Period Security required under Section 6.2(a) of the Agreement.

 

6.             This Amendment is conditioned upon and shall not become effective unless and until either (a) the PUC confirms, in a manner that is acceptable in form and substance to Buyer in its sole discretion, that PUC approval is not required in order for the effectiveness of this Amendment or (b) the PUC approves this Amendment without material modification or conditions, which approval shall be final and not subject to appeal or rehearing and shall be acceptable to Buyer in its sole discretion. If so requested by Seller, Buyer shall notify Seller in writing within five (5) Business Days after the effectiveness of this Amendment.

 

 

 

 

7.             The usage in this Amendment of terms which are defined in the Agreement is in accordance with the usage thereof in the Agreement.

 

8.             Except as specifically amended hereby, all terms and provisions contained in the Agreement shall remain unchanged and in full force and effect, and each of the Parties ratifies and confirms all such terms and provisions. In the event of a conflict between the provisions of this Amendment and the Agreement, the provisions of this Amendment shall govern.

 

9.             Two or more counterparts of this Amendment may be signed by the Parties, each of which shall be an original but all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument. Facsimile signatures hereon shall be deemed to have the same effect as original signatures.

 

10.           Interpretation and performance of this Amendment shall be in accordance with, and shall be controlled by, the laws of the State of Rhode Island (without regard to its principles of conflicts of law).

 

[Signature Page Follows]

 

 

 

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF , each of Buyer and Seller has caused this Amendment to be duly executed on its behalf as of the date first above written.

 

THE NARRAGANSETT ELECTRIC COMPANY, D/B/A NATIONAL GRID

 

/s/ The Narragansett Electric Company  

 

ORBIT ENERGY RHODE ISLAND, LLC

 

/s/ Orbit Energy Rhode Island, LLC  

  

 

 

 

THIRD AMENDMENT TO POWER PURCHASE AGREEMENT

 

This THIRD AMENDMENT TO POWER PURCHASE AGREEMENT (this “ Amendment ”) is entered into as of January 9, 2015, by and between The Narragansett Electric Company, d/b/a National Grid, a Rhode Island corporation (“ Buyer ”), and Orbit Energy Rhode Island, LLC, a Rhode Island limited liability company (“ Seller ”). Buyer and Seller are individually referred to herein as a “ Party ” and are collectively referred to herein as the “ Parties ”).

 

WHEREAS , Buyer and Seller are parties to that certain Power Purchase Agreement dated as of May 26, 2011 and approved by the Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission (“PUC”) on August 18, 2011 in Docket No. 4265, as amended by the First Amendment to Power Purchase Agreement dated as of April 11, 2013 and the Second Amendment to Power Purchase Agreement and Acknowledgement dated as of December 9, 2013, as approved by the PUC on April 11, 2014 in Docket No. 4265 (the “ Agreement ”), pursuant to which Seller has agreed to sell and deliver, and Buyer has agreed to purchase and receive, the Products generated by or associated with the Facility during the Services Term (in each case as defined in the Agreement); and

 

WHEREAS , Seller has exercised all of its rights to extensions of the dates for the Critical Milestones under Section 3.1(c) of the Agreement; and

 

WHEREAS , Seller has requested a further extension of the deadlines to acquire all of the Permits necessary to construct its Facility and to achieve the Commercial Operation Date under Section 3.1(a) of the Agreement;

 

NOW, THEREFORE , in consideration of the foregoing and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Parties agree as follows:

 

1.             The text of clause (i) of Section 3.1(a) of the Agreement is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:

 

(i) receipt of all Permits necessary to construct the Facility, as set forth in Exhibit B , in final form, by May 30, 2015;

 

2.             The text of clause (vi) of Section 3.1(a) of the Agreement is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:

 

(vi) achievement of the Commercial Operation Date by December 31, 2015.

 

3.             In consideration for Buyer’s agreement to extend the Critical Milestone deadlines as set forth in paragraphs 1 and 2 of this Amendment, Seller shall post with Buyer additional Development Period Security of $22,500 (the “ First Additional Collateral ”). In addition, Seller may elect to extend either or both of the Critical Milestone deadlines in paragraphs 1 and 2 by up to an additional six-month period by posting additional Development Period Security of $22,500 (the “ Second Additional Collateral ” and, together with the First Additional Collateral, the “ Additional Collateral ”). The Additional Collateral will be added to the required amount of Development Period Security for all purposes of the Agreement. The Additional Collateral shall be deemed to be, and shall comply and with the requirements of, Development Period Security, Credit Support and Posted Collateral for all purposes of the Agreement.

 

 

 

 

4.            This Amendment is conditioned upon and shall not become effective unless and until (i) Buyer has received the First Additional Collateral and (ii) either (a) the PUC confirms, in a manner that is acceptable in form and substance to Buyer in its sole discretion, that PUC approval is not required in order for the effectiveness of this Amendment or (b) the PUC approves this Amendment without material modification or conditions, which approval shall be final and not subject to appeal or rehearing and shall be acceptable to Buyer in its sole discretion.

 

5.             The usage in this Amendment of terms which are defined in the Agreement is in accordance with the usage thereof in the Agreement.

 

6.             Except as specifically amended hereby, all terms and provisions contained in the Agreement shall remain unchanged and in full force and effect, and each of the Parties ratifies and confirms all such terms and provisions. In the event of a conflict between the provisions of this Amendment and the Agreement, the provisions of this Amendment shall govern.

 

7.             Two or more counterparts of this Amendment may be signed by the parties, each of which shall be an original but all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument. Facsimile signatures hereon shall be deemed to have the same effect as original signatures.

 

8.             Interpretation and performance of this Amendment shall be in accordance with, and shall be controlled by, the laws of the State of Rhode Island (without regard to its principles of conflicts of law).

 

[Signature Page Follows]

 

 

 

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF , each of Buyer and Seller has caused this Amendment to be duly executed on its behalf as of the date first above written.

 

THE NARRAGANSETT ELECTRIC COMPANY, D/B/A NATIONAL GRID

 

/s/ The Narragansett Electric Company  

 

ORBIT ENERGY RHODE ISLAND, LLC

 

/s/ Orbit Energy Rhode Island, LLC  

  

 

 

 

FOURTH AMENDMENT TO POWER PURCHASE AGREEMENT

 

This FOURTH AMENDMENT TO POWER PURCHASE AGREEMENT (this “ Amendment ”) is entered into as of May 27, 2016, by and between The Narragansett Electric Company, d/b/a National Grid, a Rhode Island corporation (“ Buyer ”), and Orbit Energy Rhode Island, LLC, a Rhode Island limited liability company (“Seller”). Buyer and Seller are individually referred to herein as a “ Party ” and are collectively referred to herein as the “ Parties ”).

 

WHEREAS , Buyer and Seller are parties to that certain Power Purchase Agreement dated as of May 26, 2011 and approved by the Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission (“ PUC ”) on August 18, 2011 in Docket No. 4265, as amended by the First Amendment to Power Purchase Agreement dated as of April 11, 2013, by the Second Amendment to Power Purchase Agreement and Acknowledgement dated as of December 9, 2013, as approved by the PUC on April 11, 2014 in Docket No. 4265, and as amended by the Third Amendment to Power Purchase Agreement dated as of January 9, 2015, as approved by the PUC on March 31, 2015 in Docket No. 4265 (the “ Agreement ”), pursuant to which Seller has agreed to sell and deliver, and Buyer has agreed to purchase and receive, the Products generated by or associated with the Facility during the Services Term (in each case as defined in the Agreement); and

 

WHEREAS , Seller has exercised all of its rights to extensions of the dates for the Critical Milestones under Section 3.1(c) of the Agreement and under the Third Amendment to Power Purchase Agreement; and

 

WHEREAS , Seller has requested a further extension of the deadline to achieve the Commercial Operation Date under Section 3.1(a) of the Agreement;

 

NOW, THEREFORE , in consideration of the foregoing and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Parties agree as follows:

 

1.             The text of clause (vi) of Section 3.1(a) of the Agreement is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:

 

(vi)         achievement of the Commercial Operation Date by June 30, 2017.

 

2.             The following is added at the end of Section 3.2(a) of the Agreement:

 

Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 12, Buyer may, in its sole discretion, file any progress reports and other material provided to it under this Section 3.2(a) with the PUC and/or the Rhode Island Division of Public Utilities and Carriers.

 

 

 

 

3.             Section 7.2(n) is added to the Agreement immediately following Section 7.2(m) of the Agreement, reading as follows:

 

(n)       From and after May 27, 2016 until the Commercial Operation Date, Buyer has all of the Permits needed for the construction of the Facility, all of which are in full force and effect.

 

4.             In consideration for Buyer’s agreement to extend the Critical Milestone deadlines as set forth in paragraph I of this Amendment, Seller shall post with Buyer additional Development Period Security of $45,000 (the “ Additional Collateral ”). The Additional Collateral will be added to the required amount of Development Period Security for all purposes of the Agreement. The Additional Collateral shall be deemed to be, and shall comply and with the requirements of, Development Period Security, Credit Support and Posted Collateral for all purposes of the Agreement.

 

5.             This Amendment is conditioned upon and shall not become effective unless and until (i) Buyer has received the Additional Collateral and (ii) either (a) the PUC confirms, in a manner that is acceptable in form and substance to Buyer in its sole discretion, that PUC approval is not required in order for the effectiveness of this Amendment or (b) the PUC approves this Amendment without material modification or conditions, which approval shall be final and not subject to appeal or rehearing and shall be acceptable to Buyer in its sole discretion.

 

6.             The usage in this Amendment of terms which are defined in the Agreement is in accordance with the usage thereof in the Agreement.

 

7.             Except as specifically amended hereby, all terms and provisions contained in the Agreement shall remain unchanged and in full force and effect, and each of the Parties ratifies and confirms all such terms and provisions. In the event of a conflict between the provisions of this Amendment and the Agreement, the provisions of this Amendment shall govern.

 

8.             Two or more counterparts of this Amendment may be signed by the parties, each of which shall be an original but all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument. Facsimile signatures hereon shall be deemed to have the same effect as original signatures.

 

9.             Interpretation and performance of this Amendment shall be in accordance with, and shall be controlled by, the laws of the State of Rhode Island (without regard to its principles of conflicts of law).

 

[Signature Page Follows]

 

 

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF , each of Buyer and Seller has caused this Amendment to be duly executed on its behalf as of the date first above written.

 

THE NARRAGANSETT ELECTRIC COMPANY, D/B/A NATIONAL GRID

 

/s/ The Narragansett Electric Company  

 

ORBIT ENERGY RHODE ISLAND, LLC

 

/s/ Orbit Energy Rhode Island, LLC  

 

 

 

Blue Sphere Corporation S-1/A

 

Exhibit 10.62

 

SECOND AMENDED AND RESTATED
RENEWABLE ENERGY POWER PURCHASE AGREEMENT

This Second Amended and Restated Renewable Energy Power Purchase Agreement (the “ Agreement ”) is entered into as of September 30, 2016, by and between ORBIT ENERGY CHARLOTTE, LLC , a North Carolina limited liability company with principal offices located at [] (“ Seller ”), and DUKE ENERGY CAROLINAS, LLC , a North Carolina limited liability company with principal offices located at [] (“ Duke Carolinas ”). Duke Carolinas and Seller are herein referred to collectively as the “ Parties ” and individually as a “ Party ”.

RECITALS

WHEREAS , Duke Carolinas and Seller are parties to that certain Amended and Restated Renewable Energy Power Purchase Agreement dated October 12, 2012, and subsequently amended on April 25, 2013; January 31, 2014; January 29, 2015; and August 11, 2016, (As amended the “ Previous Agreement ”), pursuant to which Seller agreed to sell and Deliver (as defined herein), and Duke Carolinas agreed to purchase and receive, Energy (as defined herein), and capacity from Seller’s Facility (as defined herein), and all associated Renewable Energy Attributes (as defined herein);

WHEREAS , the Parties now desire to further amend and restate the Previous Agreement to, consolidate all the amendments, extend the commercial operation date and to make additional changes pursuant to terms and conditions set forth herein.

NOW THEREFORE , in consideration of the mutual promises contained herein and other good and valuable consideration, the Parties agree as follows:

Article 1
DEFINITIONS

1.1           Definitions . Any capitalized or abbreviated term not elsewhere defined in this Agreement shall have the definition set forth in this Article 1. As used in this Agreement, the following terms shall have the respective meanings set forth below.

Account ” means a Party’s electronic account with the Tracking System.

Administrator ” means a state or federal administrator, voluntary program standard-setting body, Certification Authority, if applicable, and any Governmental Authority or other body with jurisdiction over Certification under, or the transfer or transferability of RECs in, any particular Applicable Program.

Affiliate ” means, with respect to any entity, each entity that directly or indirectly controls, is controlled by, or is under common control with, such designated entity, with “control” meaning the possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to direct management and policies, or otherwise have control of an entity, whether through the ownership of voting securities or by contract or otherwise.

Agreement ” is defined in the introductory paragraph hereof.

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Applicable Program ” means an existing or future domestic, international or foreign renewable energy or emissions reduction program, scheme or organization, adopted or approved by a Governmental Authority, or other similar program with respect to which exists a market, registry or reporting for particular Renewable Energy Attributes associated with the Facility that is designated by Duke Carolinas pursuant to and in accordance with Section 4.4.6. As of the Effective Date and throughout the Term, the REPS shall be an Applicable Program.

Auxiliary Load ” means Energy used to operate auxiliary equipment in the Facility necessary for power generation (such as pumps, blowers, fuel preparation machinery, and exciters).

Bankrupt ” means, that a Person (i) is the subject of a voluntary bankruptcy, insolvency or similar proceeding; (ii) applies for, seeks consent to, or acquiesces in the appointment of a receiver, custodian, trustee, liquidator or similar official to manage all or a substantial portion of its assets; (iii) is the subject of an involuntary bankruptcy or similar proceeding, and fails to have such proceeding dismissed within sixty (60) days; (iv) is dissolved (other than pursuant to a consolidation, amalgamation or merger); (v) makes an assignment for the benefit of its creditors; or (vi) has a resolution passed for its winding-up, official management or liquidation (other than pursuant to a consolidation, amalgamation or merger).

Bankruptcy Code ” means those laws of the United States of America related to bankruptcy, codified and enacted as Title 11 of the United States Code, entitled “Bankruptcy” and found at 11 U.S.C. § 101 et seq .

Business Day ” means a day on which Federal Reserve member banks in Charlotte, NC are open for business, beginning at 0800 EPT and ending at 1700 EPT.

Certified ” or “ Certification ” means, if applicable, (i) the certification by the NCUC or its designee of (a) the creation and characteristics of a REC, (b) the qualification of the Facility as a Renewable Energy Facility and, to the extent necessary, or the Fuel Source used to generate Energy at the Facility as a Renewable Energy Resource under the REPS, (c) Delivery of a REC or (d) other compliance with the requirements of the REPS or (ii) any certification by a Certification Authority or its designee that is required pursuant to or in connection with any Applicable Program other than the REPS.

Certification Authority ” means an entity that is responsible for issuing Certifications pursuant to, or in connection with, the REPS or an Applicable Program.

Change of Control ” has the meaning set forth in Section 9.4.

Claim ” means any claim, demand, audit, cause of action, litigation, lawsuit, grievance, arbitration, mediation or proceeding (including, without limitation, any bankruptcy, reorganization, dissolution, insolvency, liquidation, extension of bankruptcy or similar proceeding).

Commercial Operation ” means Seller has successfully completed construction and testing of the Facility and has determined that the Facility is operational at its full output capacity in order to Deliver Energy, and all associated Renewable Energy Attributes, in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement.

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Commercial Operation Date ” means the date that the Facility achieves or achieved Commercial Operation.

Commercial Operation Milestone Date ” means the milestone date for Commercial Operation specified on the Milestone Schedule.

Commercially Reasonable Efforts ” means, with respect to any action required to be made, attempted or taken by a Party under this Agreement, the level of effort in light of the facts known to such Party at the time a decision is made that (i) can reasonably be expected to accomplish the desired action at a reasonable cost and in accordance with any applicable Requirements of Law, and (ii) is, to the extent applicable, consistent with Prudent Utility Practice.

Defaulting Party ” has the meaning set forth in Section 8.1.

Deliver ” or “ Delivery ” means, with respect to Energy, Seller’s delivery of Energy generated by the Facility to the Delivery Point and, with respect to RECs, Seller’s electronic delivery and transfer of RECs from Seller’s Account to Duke Carolinas’ Account via the Tracking System in accordance with the operating rules governing the Tracking System and the REPS or Applicable Program.

Delivery Point ” means the interconnection point between the Facility and Duke Carolinas’ distribution or transmission system, as applicable.

Effective Date ” shall mean the date of execution by Duke Carolinas and Seller of this Agreement.

Energy ” means three-phase, 60-cycle alternating current electric energy, expressed in units of kWh or MWH , generated at the Facility that is delivered to the Delivery Point.

Energy Price ” means the applicable per MWh price for Energy, as set forth on Exhibit 3 .

Event of Default ” has the meaning set forth in Section 8.1.

Facility ” means Seller’s facility located in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina, at 600 Johnson Road, Charlotte, NC 28206 as described in Exhibit 1 .

Facility Lender ” means, collectively, any lender(s) providing any debt financing for the Facility and any successor(s) or assigns thereto.

FERC ” means the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission or any successor thereto.

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Financing Documents ” means the loan and credit agreements, notes, bonds, indentures, security agreements, lease financing agreements, mortgages, deeds of trust, interest rate exchanges, swap agreements and other documents relating to the development, bridge, construction and/or permanent debt financing for the Facility, including any credit enhancement, credit support, working capital financing, or refinancing documents, and any and all amendments, modifications, or supplements to the foregoing that may be entered into from time to time at the discretion of Seller in connection with the development, construction, ownership, leasing, operation or maintenance of the Facility.

Force Majeure ” means an event not anticipated as of the Effective Date, which is not within the reasonable control of the Party affected thereby or attributable to such Party’s fault or negligence, and which by the exercise of due diligence the affected Party is unable to overcome or obtain or cause to be obtained a commercially reasonable substitute therefor. Force Majeure includes, but is not restricted to: acts of God; fire; explosion; civil disturbance; sabotage; action or restraint by court order or Governmental Authority, so long as the affected Party has not applied for or assisted in the application for, and has opposed where and to the extent reasonable, such government action. Force Majeure shall not include the following: (i) Seller’s ability to sell the Product or any component thereof to a market at a more advantageous price, (ii) lack of Fuel Source that is not cause by or is not the result of a Force Majeure; (iii) Seller’s failure to obtain any Permit; (iv) a change in a Requirement of Law; and (v) Seller’s failure to finance and/or construct the Facility. Increased cost of performance by Seller (including the reduction or elimination of production tax credits or any similar subsidy associated with the production of electricity by the Facility) shall not constitute an event of Force Majeure.

Forced Outage ” means any condition at the Facility that requires immediate removal of the Facility, or some part thereof, from service, another outage state, or a reserve shutdown state. For purposes of example only, this type of outage may result from immediate mechanical/electrical/hydraulic control system trips and operator-initiated trips in response to Facility conditions and/or alarms.

Forward Contract Merchant ” has the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 101(26) of the Bankruptcy Code.

Fuel Source ” means food and other organic waste resources that are, and qualify as, a Renewable Energy Resource including without limitation Poultry Waste.

Government Action ” is an action of a Governmental Authority to change the eligibility of the Product for an Applicable Program or substantially change the requirements for compliance by persons obligated to comply with an Applicable Program.

Governmental Authority ” means any federal, state or local government, legislative body, court of competent jurisdiction, administrative agency or commission or other governmental or regulatory authority or instrumentality or authorized arbitral body, including, without limitation, the Commission.

Indemnified Party ” has the meaning set forth in Section 10.2.

Indemnifying Party ” has the meaning set forth in Section 10.2.

Initial Security ” has the meaning set forth in Section 6.10.

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Interconnection Agreement ” means an agreement to be entered into by the Parties setting forth the terms and conditions under which the Facility will be connected to Duke Carolinas electric system, consistent with the provisions of Section 3.7.

Interconnection Facilities ” means all the equipment installed for the purpose of interconnecting the Facility to the Delivery Point, including protective devices, metering equipment, etc., to permit parallel operation of the Facility with Duke Carolinas’ system.

Interconnection Facilities Charge ” means the charges assessed by Duke Carolinas and to be paid by Seller in compensation for Duke Carolinas providing the Interconnection Facilities, calculated in accordance with Section 3.7.2.

Interconnection Request ” means a formal, written request issued by Seller to Duke Carolinas requesting that Duke Carolinas provide the Interconnection Facilities.

Interest Rate ” means the prime rate, as quoted in The Wall Street Journal as of the date on which the calculation begins, plus one percent (1%), but not to exceed the maximum rate which may be lawfully charged.

Issuer Minimum Requirements ” has the meaning set forth in Section 6.11.

kW ” means kilowatt.

kWh ” means kilowatt-hour.

Letter of Credit ” has the meaning set forth in Section 6.11.

Liabilities ” has the meaning set forth in Section 10.2.

Master Netting Agreement ” has the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 101(38A) of the Bankruptcy Code.

Maximum REC Purchase Obligation ” means the maximum quantity of RECs that Duke Carolinas shall be required to purchase and receive each Operating Year, as set forth on Exhibit 3 ; provided , however , that, in the event that any Operating Year begins on a date other than January 1 or ends on a date other than December 31, the applicable quantity set forth on Exhibit 3 shall be reduced on a pro rata basis.

Milestone ” means each of the milestones identified on Exhibit 2 .

Milestone Schedule ” means the dates associated with the Milestones set forth on Exhibit 2 .

Minimum REC Requirement ” means the minimum quantity of RECs that Seller shall Deliver to Duke Carolinas each Operating Year, as set forth on Exhibit 3 ; provided , however , that, in the event that any Operating Year begins on a date other than January 1 or ends on a date other than December 31, the applicable quantity set forth on Exhibit 3 shall be reduced on a pro rata basis.

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Month ” or “ Monthly ” means a calendar month (or any partial calendar month at the outset of the Term or any Operating Year in the event that the Term or any Operating Year, as applicable, commences during a calendar month).

MW ” means megawatt.

MWh ” means megawatt -hour.

Nameplate Capacity Rating ” means the installed nameplate capacity rating of the Facility set forth in Exhibit 1 .

NC-RETS ” means the North Carolina Renewable Energy Tracking System.

NCUC ” means the North Carolina Utilities Commission.

NERC ” means the North American Electric Reliability Council.

New Renewable Energy Facility ” means a facility that meets the requirements set forth in N.C. Gen. Stat. 62-133.8(a)(5).

Non-Defaulting Party ” means the Party that has not caused the Event of Default.

Operating Year ” means the period commencing on the Commercial Operation Date and ending on December 31 of the year in which the Commercial Operating Date occurs and thereafter a calendar year beginning January 1 and ending December 31.

Permit ” means any permit, license, registration, filing, certificates of occupancy, approvals, variances, or other authorizations from or by any Governmental Authority and pursuant to any Requirements of Law.

Person ” means any individual, entity, corporation, general or limited partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, estate, trust, association or other entity or Governmental Authority.

Poultry Waste ” means (a) the manure of poultry and/or (b) wastes associated with the production and/or processing of poultry and products containing poultry, in each case that qualify for and are approved by the Commission as a poultry waste resource under the Act for purposes of meeting compliance with N.C. Gen. Stat. § 62-133.8(f).

Premises ” means the location of the Facility as set forth in Exhibit 1 .

Previous Agreement ” has the meaning set forth in the Recitals.

Product ” means the capacity, the Energy and all ancillary products, services and attributes which are or can be produced by the Facility, including, without limitation, all Renewable Energy Attributes.

Product Reporting Rights ” means the exclusive right to report sole ownership of Renewable Energy Attributes to any Certification Authority, Administrator, Governmental Authority or other party under any present or future Applicable Program, including the REPS, and, including without limitation, for purposes of compliance, marketing, advertising, and/or otherwise.

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Prudent Utility Practice ” means any of the practices, methods, standards and acts (including, but not limited to, the practices, methods, standards and acts engaged in or approved by a significant portion of the electric power generation industry in the United States) that, at a particular time, in the exercise of reasonable judgment in light of the facts known or that should reasonably have been known at the time a decision was made, could have been expected to accomplish the desired result consistent with good business practices, reliability, economy, safety and expedition, and which practices, methods, standards and acts generally conform to operation and maintenance standards recommended by the Facility’s equipment suppliers and manufacturers, the applicable Facility design limits, applicable governmental approvals and law. “Prudent Utility Practice” is not intended to be limited to the optimum practice, method or act to the exclusion of all others, but rather to include acceptable practices, methods or acts generally accepted.

REC Price ” means, with respect to each type of REC to be Delivered by Seller to Duke Carolinas hereunder, the applicable per REC price, as set forth on Exhibit 3 .

Renewable Energy ” means the Energy generated by a New Renewable Energy Facility.

Renewable Energy Attributes ” means all of the attributes, characteristics, and other benefits associated with: (i) the generation of Energy or Thermal Energy from the Facility and (ii) its displacement of conventional energy generation and/or use, which shall include, but are not limited to, those unitized under the REPS and any other Applicable Program, and any other form of credits, benefits, reductions, offsets, allowances, green tags, or other transferable indicia, howsoever entitled, designated by the REPS or an Applicable Program. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Renewable Energy Attributes do not include (a) any Energy or Thermal Energy generated by or capacity of the Facility, (b) investment, production, or other tax credits, grants, benefits, and/or deductions associated with the construction, ownership, and/or operation of the Facility and other financial incentives, credits, reductions, or allowances associated with the Facility that are applicable to local, state or federal tax obligations, (c) fuel-related subsidies or “tipping fees” that may be paid to the Facility to accept certain fuels, or local subsidies received by the generator for the destruction of particular preexisting pollutants or the promotion of local environmental benefits or (d) emission reduction greenhouse gas credits (GHGs) encumbered or used by the Facility for compliance with local, state, provincial or federal operating or air quality permits. For clarity, if the fuel utilized by the Facility for the generation of Energy or Thermal Energy includes, receives, or is eligible to receive any tradable attributes of any manner, including, without limitation, those based on the heat trapping, greenhouse gas reduction benefits, carbon offsets or other emission offsets attributed to the fuel, Seller shall include with the fuel, and provide to Duke Carolinas, sufficient attributes to ensure that the production of Energy or Thermal Energy by the Facility is deemed to be renewable energy and to ensure that there are zero net emissions associated with the production of Energy or Thermal Energy by the Facility. Expressly subject to the foregoing requirement, Seller shall have right and title to emission reduction greenhouse gas credits (GHGs) associated with the reduction of solid waste or treatment benefits created by the Facility’s utilization of biomass or biogas fuels.

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Renewable Energy Certificate ” or “ REC ” means, notwithstanding anything to the contrary in the REPS or any Applicable Program, a certificate, credit, allowance, green tag, or other transferable indicia, howsoever entitled representing generation of a particular quantity of Energy generated in compliance with the Applicable Program (including the REPS) using a qualifying energy fuel resource (including a Renewable Energy Resource) and/or by a qualifying energy facility (including a New Renewable Energy Facility). A REC shall represent all title to and claim over all of the Renewable Energy Attributes and Product Reporting Rights associated with the Energy generated by the Facility. Unless modified by Government Action, an electric REC shall represent the Renewable Energy Attributes associated with one (1) MWh of Energy, and a thermal REC shall represent the Renewable Energy Attributes associated with 3,412,000 British thermal units (BTUs) of thermal energy. For clarity, references in this Agreement to the purchase and sale of RECs shall include the purchase and sale of the Renewable Energy Attributes and Product Reporting Rights.

Renewable Energy Resource ” shall have the meaning set forth in N.C. Gen. Stat. 62-133.8(a)(8).

Replacement REC Costs ” means (i) the positive difference between (a) the market cost of comparable in-state North Carolina Renewable Energy Certificates associated with replacement of that portion of the Minimum REC Requirement that Seller failed to Deliver hereunder, less (b) the aggregate amount, based on the applicable REC Price, for that portion of the Minimum REC Requirement that Seller failed to Deliver hereunder, plus (ii) any additional costs. For the avoidance of doubt, additional costs may include, but are not limited to, directly associated transaction costs, the amount of any penalty or any compliance payment made or incurred by Duke Carolinas that is a direct result of Seller’s failure to Deliver the Minimum REC Requirement in order to be in compliance with its obligations under the REPS or, if applicable, any Applicable Program for such Operating Year during which Seller failed to Deliver the Minimum REC Requirement in compliance with this Agreement, and all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses (including the reasonable fees and expenses of Duke Carolinas’ counsel) incurred by Duke Carolinas.

REPS ” means the North Carolina Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Portfolio Standard, N.C. Gen. Stat. 62-133.8, including all rules promulgated by the NCUC associated therewith, as each may be amended or modified from time-to-time, and any successor renewable energy standards, statutes, regulations, or rules.

Requirement of Law ” means any federal, state and local law, statute, regulation, rule, code, ordinance, resolution, order, writ, judgment or decree or Permit enacted, adopted, issued or promulgated by any Governmental Authority, including, (i) those pertaining to electrical, building, zoning, and occupational safety and health requirements or to pollution or protection of the environment , and (iii) principles of common law under which a Party may be held liable for the release or discharge of any Hazardous Substance into the environment.

Scheduled Outage ” means a planned interruption/reduction of the Facility’s generation that is required for inspection, or preventive or corrective maintenance.

Secured Events ” has the meaning set forth in Section 6.10.

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Seller ” is defined in the introductory paragraph.

SERC ” means the Southeastern Electric Reliability Council.

State Commission ” means the NCUC or the Public Service Commission of South Carolina, as applicable.

Taxes ” has meaning set forth in Section 6.7.

Term ” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.1.

Thermal Energy ” means energy in the form of heat produced by the Facility as a direct byproduct of its generation of Energy using the Fuel Sources, which thermal energy is measurable and is instantaneously used for useful purposes exclusively in compliance with the requirements of the REPS and the NCUC’s rules, regulations, and requirements; provided, however, without limiting the generality of the foregoing, use of the thermal energy for useful purposes excludes any and all uses for or in connection with any electric power or Energy production or as station power.

Article 2
TERM

2.1           Effective Date and Term . This Agreement shall be effective on the Effective Date and shall remain in full force and effect until August 21, 2030 (the “ Term ”), unless sooner terminated or extended as provided herein.

Article 3
FACILITY DEVELOPMENT; INTERCONNECTION

3.1           Development of Facility . Subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, Seller covenants as follows:

3.1.1           Except as expressly permitted otherwise by this Agreement, the Facility shall be developed and achieve Commercial Operation in accordance with this Agreement, the specifications in Exhibit 1 , and the Milestone Schedule set forth in Exhibit 2 , all at Seller’s sole cost and expense. Seller shall not achieve Commercial Operation more than one hundred twenty (120) days prior to the Commercial Operation Milestone Date without the written consent of Duke Carolinas.

3.1.2           The Facility shall be designed, constructed, and tested in compliance with all applicable Permits, each applicable Requirement of Law and Prudent Utility Practice, and shall qualify as a New Renewable Energy Facility. The Facility will be capable of supplying the Product in a safe and reliable manner, consistent with the requirements of each applicable Requirement of Law and Prudent Utility Practice.

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3.2           Progress Reports . Within ten (10) days after the end of each Month following the Effective Date and until the Commercial Operation Date , Seller shall prepare and submit to Duke Carolinas a written status report which shall (i) cover the previous Month, (ii) be prepared in a manner and format (hard copy and electronic) reasonably acceptable to Duke Carolinas and (iii) include a detailed description of the progress of the Facility’s construction, a statement of any significant issues which remain unresolved and Seller’s recommendations for resolving the same, an updated report as to Seller’s adherence to the Milestone Schedule, a summary of any significant events which are scheduled or expected to occur during the following thirty (30) days, and any other information reasonably requested by Duke Carolinas.

3.3           Commercial Operation . Seller will give written notice to Duke Carolinas approximately thirty (30) days before Seller expects that the Facility will achieve Commercial Operation and when the Facility has achieved Commercial Operation. At any time that Seller has reason to believe that the Facility is not likely to achieve Commercial Operation by the Commercial Operation Milestone Date, Seller will provide written notice to Duke Carolinas along with the relevant facts.

3.4           Test Energy and Associated RECs . To facilitate Seller’s testing of the Facility prior to Commercial Operation, Duke Carolinas shall, upon reasonable notice by Seller, accept Delivery of all Energy and associated RECs produced by the Facility during testing that are Delivered to Duke Carolinas in accordance with this Agreement, as specified in Exhibit 3 ; provided,   however, that, prior to Commercial Operation, the Energy Price shall be $48.19 per MWh, the Electricity REC Price shall be $20.22 per REC and the Thermal REC Price shall be $6.43 per REC.

3.5           Seller’s Cost and Expense; Tax Benefits . Notwithstanding any provision of this Agreement, (i) Duke Carolinas shall have no responsibility whatsoever for any costs (including financing) necessary or desirable for the development, construction, operation, or maintenance of the Facility, which shall be entirely at Seller’s sole cost and expense; and (ii) any risk as to the availability of any attributes not included in the Renewable Energy Attributes shall be borne entirely by Seller.

3.6           Additional Generation Capacity . Nothing in this Agreement shall require Seller to increase the generation capacity of the Facility to exceed the nameplate capacity set forth in Exhibit 1 . In addition, nothing in this Agreement shall prohibit Seller from generating and/or installing additional generation capacity at or near the Premises so long as such installation does not interfere with Seller’s performance hereunder; provided,   however, that, for the avoidance of doubt, any such additional generation capacity shall not be considered or deemed to be part of the Facility for purposes of this Agreement which exceeds or is beyond 10% of the nameplate capacity set forth in Exhibit 1 , and Duke Carolinas shall have no obligation whatsoever to purchase the Energy or any Renewable Energy Attributes produced by such generation or additional generation capacity which exceeds or is beyond 10% of the nameplate capacity set forth in Exhibit 1 .

3.7           Interconnection.

3.7.1           Seller represents, warrants and covenants that the Facility will be certified during the entire Term as a “qualifying facility” as defined by FERC pursuant to Section 210 of the Public Utility Regulatory Policy Act of 1978, as amended.

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3.7.2           Duke Carolinas will furnish, install, own and maintain the Interconnection Facilities, including protective devices, metering equipment, etc., to permit parallel operation of the Facility with Duke Carolinas’ system. The Interconnection Facilities Charge, calculated in accordance with the Extra Facilities Provisions of Duke Carolinas’ Service Regulations to be paid by Seller each month shall be 1.1 percent (1.1%) of the installed cost of the Interconnection Facilities. Such installed cost shall be determined no earlier than twelve (12) months prior to the installation of the Interconnection Facilities and will reflect the then current costs, conditions and service requirements.

3.7.3           The Interconnection Facilities Charge is subject to the rates, Service Regulations and conditions of Duke Carolinas as the same are now on file with the State Commission and may be changed or modified from time to time upon approval by the State Commission. Any such changes or modifications, including those which may result in increased Interconnection Facilities Charges, shall be made a part of this Agreement to the same effect as if they were set forth herein.

3.7.4           Duke Carolinas shall exert reasonable efforts to furnish and install the Interconnection Facilities no later than the reasonable date requested by Seller for such installation. Seller’s obligation to pay the Interconnection Facilities Charge shall begin on the date that such Interconnection Facilities become operational, except as provided in the immediately succeeding sentence, and such charges shall apply at all times thereafter during the Term whether or not Seller is actually delivering Energy to Duke Carolinas. If either Party is prevented from delivering or receiving Energy from the Facility on the Commercial Operations Date by reason of an event of Force Majeure, then the beginning of Seller’s obligation to pay Interconnection Facilities Charges shall be extended for a period proportionate to such delay.

3.7.5           Duke Carolinas shall install and own such meters as shall be necessary to measure and record the Energy delivered from the Facility hereunder. Such meters shall be located as set forth on Exhibit 1 . The cost of such meters shall be included in the Interconnection Facilities Charge. If meters are not installed at the Delivery Point, the meters or meter readings will be adjusted to reflect losses from the metering point to the Delivery Point.

3.7.6           If Duke Carolinas determines, based on calculations, studies, analyses, monitoring, measurement or observation, that the output of the Facility will cause or is causing Duke Carolinas to be unable to provide proper voltage levels to its customers, then Seller shall be required to comply with a voltage schedule and/or reactive power output schedule as prescribed by Duke Carolinas. In addition, when the average Monthly power factor of the power supplied by Seller to Duke Carolinas is less than 90% or greater than 97%, Duke Carolinas may adjust the quantity of Energy deemed to be delivered hereunder, in kilowatt hours, as appropriate. Duke Carolinas reserves the right to install facilities necessary for the measurement of power factor and to adjust the Interconnection Facilities Charge accordingly.

3.7.7           The Parties shall enter into an Interconnection Agreement setting forth the further terms and conditions of interconnection.

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Article 4
PURCHASE AND SALE OBLIGATIONS; CONTRACT PRICE;
DELIVERY AND METERING

4.1           Sale and Purchase of Total Output of Facility; Damages for Failure to Deliver .

4.1.1           Each Operating Year during the Term, Seller shall sell and Deliver, and Duke Carolinas shall purchase and receive, the total output of Energy, and all Renewable Energy Attributes associated with such output, based on the Facility’s nameplate capacity set forth in Exhibit 1 ; provided , however , that, without limiting the generality of the foregoing and subject to Force Majeure, (i) Seller shall sell and Deliver, and Duke Carolinas shall purchase and receive, an amount of RECs each Operating Year that is at least equal to the Minimum REC Requirement and (ii) Duke Carolinas shall not, and shall have no obligation to, purchase and receive an amount of RECs each Operating Year that is greater than the Maximum REC Purchase Obligation. Seller shall not have the right to sell or deliver any Energy or Renewable Energy Attributes produced from the Facility to any other Person. For the avoidance of doubt, as set forth in Section 3.6, Duke Carolinas shall not be required to purchase any Energy or Renewable Energy Attributes that are associated with any additional generation capacity which exceeds or is beyond 10% of the nameplate capacity set forth in Exhibit 1 .

4.1.2           If Seller fails to Deliver the Minimum REC Requirement to Duke Carolinas during any Operating Year, Seller shall pay damages to Duke Carolinas in an amount equal to the Replacement REC Costs. In the event that any REC that was generated is later rescinded or revoked by a Government Authority due to Seller’s default under Section 8.1, notwithstanding that the REC was Delivered to and paid for by Duke Carolinas, Seller shall be liable for damages for any Replacement REC Costs associated with such rescinded or revoked RECs.

4.2           Contract Prices . In consideration of Seller’s sale to Duke Carolinas of the total output of Energy, and all Renewable Energy Attributes associated with such output, Duke Carolinas shall, with respect to all Energy and RECs Delivered by Seller to Duke Carolinas hereunder, pay the applicable Energy Price for such Energy and the applicable REC Price for such RECs as defined in Exhibit 3 .

4.3           Transmission and Delivery Costs . Seller shall be responsible for any costs or charges imposed on or associated with the Product or its Delivery of the Product up to and at the Delivery Point. Duke Carolinas shall be responsible for any costs or charges imposed on or associated with the Product after its receipt from the Delivery Point.

4.4           REC Transfer and Certification .

4.4.1           Seller transfers to Duke Carolinas any and all, and the exclusive, right to sell, otherwise transfer or use the Renewable Energy Attributes, which rights shall include any and all Product Reporting Rights. Seller shall not sell or transfer to any third party at any time or report for its own account any Renewable Energy Attributes associated with the same electrical output from the Facility. Duke Carolinas shall have the right, exclusive to the full extent applicable, to verify, Certify, and otherwise take advantage of the rights, claims and ownership in the Renewable Energy Attributes and Product Reporting Rights purchased by Duke Carolinas hereunder.

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4.4.2           Seller will be responsible for any Taxes imposed on the creation, ownership, or transfer of the RECs or other Renewable Energy Attributes otherwise not represented by the Renewable Energy Certificate under this Agreement up to the time and place of Delivery. Duke Carolinas will be responsible for any Taxes imposed on the receipt of ownership of RECs or such other Renewable Energy Attributes at or after the time and place of Delivery.

4.4.3           Seller shall be responsible for the initial and continuing certification and registration of the Facility with the NCUC and verification of the Facility’s output for generation of RECs in the NC-RETS system and for all associated costs with such registration, Certification and verification. Duke Carolinas shall be responsible for certification, verification or any other registration obligation and associated costs that may be required for the unitization, regulation, certification and verification of the Renewable Energy Attributes under any Applicable Program other than the REPS. Upon reasonable request by Duke Carolinas, and at Duke Carolinas’ cost, Seller shall use Commercially Reasonable Efforts to cooperate with Duke Carolinas to obtain such certification, verification or other registration under such Applicable Program, which cooperation shall also include, but not be limited to, such actions as required to effectuate Delivery of such Renewable Energy Attributes in the form of whatever transfer indicia is provided under the Applicable Program.

4.4.4           After the Commercial Operation Date, Seller shall, within fifteen (15) days after generation information for each billing period is uploaded by Duke Carolinas into NC-RETS, Deliver an amount of RECs that is equal to the aggregate amount of RECs generated by the Facility during such billing period. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, if, in connection with an Applicable Program designated by Duke Carolinas pursuant to Section 4.4.6, Delivery shall occur in a Tracking System other than NC-RETS, Seller shall, within fifteen (15) days after the end of each Month after the Commercial Date, Deliver an amount of RECs that is equal to the aggregate amount of RECs actually generated by the Facility for such Month. Seller will take all actions necessary to meet all the requirements for the completion of Delivery of the RECs in accordance with this Agreement the Applicable Program (including the REPS). Delivery of title of the RECs shall be deemed to have occurred when the transfer of the RECs from Seller’s account to Duke Carolinas’ account is recorded in the NC-RETS system in accordance with the terms and conditions of the operating rules therefor. Upon either Party’s receipt of notice from an Administrator that the transfer of RECs pursuant to this Agreement will not be recognized or Delivery was not made as required, that Party will immediately so notify the other Party, providing a copy of such notice, and both Parties will cooperate in taking such actions as are necessary and commercially reasonable to cause such transfer to be recognized and RECs Delivered. Upon Duke Carolinas’ request from time to time, Seller will execute and deliver any instrument of sale, transfer, assignment, or release which Duke Carolinas determines is necessary or desirable to complete Delivery. Upon Delivery, all of Seller’s right, title, and interest in and to the RECs, in addition to all of the Renewable Energy Attributes associated with the generation of Energy of the Facility that is otherwise represented by the REC, will pass to Duke Carolinas.

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4.4.5           Seller warrants that each REC Delivered hereunder will comply with the requirements of the Applicable Program under which the Facility has been certified and/or registered. Upon the request of either Party, the other Party will cooperate and provide reasonable assistance, including the provision of information and records, to support the requesting Party’s compliance with any informational and reporting requirements under the REPS and, at Duke Carolinas’ cost, any Applicable Program designated by Duke Carolinas pursuant to Section 4.4.6.

4.4.6           In the event that Duke Carolinas shall desire to exercise its claim to the Renewable Energy Attributes for use under an Applicable Program other than REPS or any other program, including a carbon offset program, Duke Carolinas shall provide reasonable written notice to Seller that shall designate the Applicable Program, identify the information, documentation and such action that may be required from Seller in order to cooperate with Duke Carolinas for certification and/or registration of Seller’s Facility and verification of the Renewable Energy Attributes generated in association with the electrical output of the Facility under the Applicable Program, and propose a reasonable time schedule for such production of information and documentation and for such requisite action needed from Seller. Such notice shall also include provision for reimbursement and indemnification as provided under this Agreement of any costs, expense, or capital expenditure that may be reasonably incurred by Seller in association with such certification, registration and verification and any other condition or term necessary to effectuate Duke Carolinas’ right to and use of the Renewable Energy Attributes consistent with this Agreement, including those relating to the mechanism of transfer and Delivery of such attributes. Seller is obligated to provide Renewable Energy Certificates, including the Renewable Energy Attributes, and Seller shall not be required to participate in any Applicable Program, other than the REPS, that would require Seller to Deliver to Duke Carolinas Renewable Energy Certificates, including the Renewable Energy Attributes, other than as defined hereunder.

Article 5
OPERATION OF FACILITY

5.1           Facility Requirements . During the Term, at its sole cost and expense, Seller covenants that:

5.1.1           The Facility shall be operated, controlled, staffed and maintained in compliance with all Requirements of Laws and Prudent Utility Practice, including all applicable operating guidelines established by NERC and SERC, if applicable;

5.1.2           The Facility shall obtain, maintain and comply with all Permits and agreements (including all environmental permits) that are required or desirable in order for the Facility and Seller to generate, schedule, meter and Deliver the Product in compliance with this Agreement, except as otherwise permitted by Requirements of Law or by written agreement with Duke Carolinas;

5.1.3           Seller shall take all actions necessary to maintain the registration of the Facility with the NCUC as a New Renewable Energy Facility during the Term, except as set forth in Article 12; and

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5.1.4           Seller shall, in addition to any information reasonably requested by Duke Carolinas with respect to the Facility’s REC production, provide to Duke Carolinas by December 1 of each Operating Year a forecast of the Facility’s expected REC production for each Month during the immediately following Operating Year and shall promptly notify Duke Carolinas of any material changes in or to the forecast for the then-current Operating Year.

5.2           Outages . Seller shall comply with all current Duke Carolinas, NERC, and SERC generating unit outage reporting requirements, as they may be revised from time to time, and as they apply to the Facility. When Forced Outages occur, Seller shall notify Duke Carolinas of the existence, nature, and expected duration of the Forced Outage as soon as practical, but in no event later than fifteen (15) minutes after the Forced Outage occurs. Seller shall immediately inform Duke Carolinas of changes in the expected duration of the Forced Outage unless relieved of this obligation by Duke Carolinas for the duration of each Forced Outage. All Scheduled Outages shall be coordinated in advance with Duke Carolinas with a mutually agreed start date and duration. During the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. of any Business Day, Seller shall use Commercially Reasonable Efforts to (i) maximize the amount of Energy produced by the Facility, and (ii) minimize the extent and duration of any Scheduled Outage and Forced Outages.

5.3           Electric Supply to Facility . Any back-up and maintenance power for the Facility’s Auxiliary Load shall be provided to Seller by Duke Carolinas pursuant to a separate electric service agreement under the Duke Carolinas rate schedule appropriate for such service.

5.4           Duke Carolinas’ Right To Curtail Facility . Duke Carolinas shall have the right to notify Seller by written or telephonic communication to curtail the Delivery of Energy from the Facility to Duke Carolinas, and Seller shall immediately comply with such notification. Duke Carolinas may provide such notification in a situation in which continued Delivery of the Energy will (i) imminently endanger or is reasonably likely to imminently endanger life or property, (ii) adversely affect or is reasonably likely to adversely affect the ability to maintain safe, adequate and reliable service to customers of the electric system to which the Facility is connected, and (iii) adversely affect or is reasonably likely to adversely affect the safe and reliable operation of the Facility. Duke Carolinas acknowledges and agrees that (a) the right described in this Section 5.4 is limited to those situations described in (i)-(iii) above and shall be exercised in accordance with all Requirements of Law and Prudent Utility Practice and (b) in the event that Duke exercises such right, Duke Carolinas shall use Commercially Reasonable Efforts to minimize the scope and duration of any curtailment.

Article 6
BILLING AND PAYMENT; RECORDS; SECURITY

6.1           Invoices and Payments . Duke Carolinas shall send to Seller a statement reflecting the calculation of the net amount due in reasonable detail for the Product Delivered by Seller to Duke Carolinas for the previous billing period (if RECs are to be Delivered in NC-RETS) or the previous Month (if RECs are to be Delivered in a Tracking System other than NC-RETS), which amount shall be equal to (i) the Energy Price, multiplied by the number of MWh’s of Energy Delivered by Seller during such billing period or Month, as applicable, and (ii) the REC Price, multiplied by the number of RECs Delivered by Seller during such billing period or Month, as applicable. Duke Carolinas shall pay to Seller in immediately available funds the net amount reflected on the statement described above by the twentieth (20th) day of the following Month.

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6.2           Late Payment . Amounts owed by Duke Carolinas and not disputed, if not remitted within the time period specified under Section 6.1 above, shall accrue interest at the Interest Rate from the date due until the date paid.

6.3           Disputed Billings . In case any portion of an invoice submitted pursuant to Section 6.1 hereof is in bona fide dispute, Duke Carolinas may withhold payment of the disputed portion until such dispute is resolved. For each disputed payment, Duke Carolinas shall provide Seller with a written statement of its grounds for disputing a bill prior to the due date of the invoice. Upon determination of the correct amount, any such amount plus interest shall be paid within two (2) Business Days. Interest shall accrue as provided in Section 6.2 hereof from the original invoice due date until the date of actual payment.

6.4           Adjustments . If any overcharge or undercharge in any form whatsoever shall at any time be found and the statement therefor has been paid, the Party that has been paid the overcharge shall refund the amount of the overcharge paid plus interest and the Party that has been undercharged shall pay the amount of the undercharge plus interest, within thirty (30) days after final determination thereof; provided, however, no retroactive adjustment shall be made for any overcharge or undercharge beyond a period of twenty-four (24) Months from the date of the statement on which such overcharge or undercharge was first included. Interest shall accrue as provided in Section 6.2 hereof from the original due date until the day of actual adjustment payment.

6.5           Records . Each Party shall keep and maintain all records as may be necessary or useful in performing or verifying any calculations made pursuant to this Agreement, or in verifying such Party’s performance hereunder. All such records shall be retained by each Party for at least ten (10) calendar years following the calendar year in which such records were created.

6.6           Audit Rights . Each Party, through its authorized representatives, shall have the right, at its sole expense and during normal business hours, to examine and copy the records of the other Party to the extent reasonably necessary to verify the accuracy of any statement, charge or computation made hereunder or to verify the other Party’s performance of its obligations hereunder. If any statement is determined by the Parties or through arbitration to be inaccurate, a corrected statement shall be issued and any amount due thereunder will be promptly paid and shall bear interest calculated at the Interest Rate from the date of the overpayment or underpayment to the date of receipt of the reconciling payment, subject to the twenty-four (24) Month limitations period set forth in Section 6.4.

6.7           Taxes . Seller shall be responsible for all existing and any new taxes, fees, levies, assessments, penalties, licenses, or charges imposed or levied by any federal, state or local governmental agency (collectively, “ Taxes ”) on the construction, ownership, leasing, operation and maintenance of the Facility and the Energy associated with the Facility prior to Delivery to Duke Carolinas. Duke Carolinas shall be responsible for all existing and any new Taxes imposed or levied by any federal, state or local governmental agency on Product generated by the Facility after transfer to Duke Carolinas at the Delivery Point. If Duke Carolinas is required to remit or pay Taxes that are Sellers’s responsibility under this Agreement, then Seller shall promptly reimburse Duke Carolinas for such Taxes. If Seller is required to remit or pay Taxes that are Duke Carolinas’ responsibility under this Agreement, then Duke Carolinas shall promptly reimburse Seller for such Taxes.

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6.8           Fuel Costs . Seller shall provide to Duke Carolinas, on a Monthly basis within ten (10) days after Seller’s receipt of the Monthly billing statement hereunder from Duke Carolinas and in a form to be mutually agreed upon by the Parties, information on the Facility’s fuel costs, if any, for the Energy delivered to Duke Carolinas hereunder during the preceding Month.

6.9           Accounting Matters . Seller will promptly deliver to Duke Carolinas any and all information in its possession, and which it is not precluded from disclosing due to an obligation of confidentiality to third parties, related to the Seller, the Facility or this Agreement, reasonably requested by Duke Carolinas to verify the treatment of this Agreement under FASB Statement No. 167, Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities (“ VIE ”). If the information requested by Duke Carolinas belongs to the Facility owner, Seller will use Commercially Reasonable Efforts to obtain that information from the Facility owner but will not have any liability to Duke Carolinas, nor shall any Event of Default arise, if Seller is unable to obtain the information after requesting it from the Facility owner. Such information may include, but is not limited to, data supporting the Facility’s economic life, the Facility’s fair market value and the executory costs, non-executory costs, and investment tax credits or other costs associated with the Facility, including any and all debt obligations related to the Facility. Seller will not knowingly take any action that could cause Duke Carolinas to be subject to VIE treatment at any point during the Term. If a change in FASB Statement No. 167 or any other accounting standard or applicable law causes Duke Carolinas to become subject to VIE treatment at any point during the Term, Seller will cooperate with Duke Carolinas and take all reasonable steps requested by Duke Carolinas to assist Duke Carolinas in curing such treatment or mitigating the effects of such treatment, to the extent incapable of cure.

6.10           Interconnection Facility Security . No later than five (5) Business Days following the Effective Date, Seller shall post and thereafter maintain security in the amount of Five Hundred Thousand and 00/100 Dollars ($500,000.00) (the “ Initial Security ”), which shall be held by Duke Carolinas as security for Seller paying (i) the Interconnection Facilities Charge, and (ii) any damages under Section 8.2 (collectively “ Secured Events ”). The Initial Security shall be in a form as provided for in Section 6.11, and will be maintained in place until the end of the sixtieth (60th) month following the month in which Commercial Operation is achieved.

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6.11         Form of Interconnection Security . The Initial Security shall be in the form of either:

6.11.1           An irrevocable transferable standby letter of credit (a “ Letter of Credit ”) in a form acceptable to Duke Carolinas issued by a U.S. bank, or the U.S. branch of a foreign bank, with a minimum A- senior unsecured debt rating from S&P or Moody’s and Ten Billion Dollars ($10,000,000,000) in assets (the “ Issuer Minimum Requirements ”). In the event that senior unsecured debt ratings are unavailable, the issuer rating will be used. The Letter of Credit shall state that it shall renew automatically for successive one-year or shorter periods unless Duke Carolinas receives written notice from the issuing financial institution at least sixty (60) days, but not more than one hundred twenty (120) days, prior to the expiration date stated in the Letter of Credit that the issuing financial institution elects not to extend the Letter of Credit. If Duke Carolinas receives notice from the issuing financial institution that the Letter of Credit will not be extended, Seller will be required to provide a substitute Letter of Credit from an alternative bank or financial institution satisfying the Issuer Minimum Requirements. The receipt of the substitute Letter of Credit must be effective on or before the expiration date of the expiring Letter of Credit and delivered to Duke Carolinas at least thirty (30) days before the expiration date of the original Letter of Credit. If Seller fails to supply a substitute Letter of Credit as required herein, then Duke Carolinas will have the right to draw on the entire amount of the expiring Letter of Credit and to hold the amount as collateral. If the credit rating of the issuer of a Letter of Credit falls below the Issuer Minimum Requirements, Seller shall have two (2) Business Days (or such longer period as Duke Carolinas in its sole discretion may permit in writing) following written notice by Duke Carolinas to obtain a suitable Letter of Credit from another bank or other financial institution that meets the Issuer Minimum Requirements. If Seller fails to supply a suitable Letter of Credit that meets the Issuer Minimum Requirements, then Duke Carolinas will have the right to draw on the entire amount of the existing Letter of Credit and to hold the amount as collateral; or

6.11.2           a guarantee, in form and substance satisfactory to Duke Carolinas, from an issuer that meets Duke Carolinas’ creditworthiness requirements, which shall be determined in Duke Carolinas’ sole and reasonable discretion based on commercially reasonable practices.

Article 7
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

7.1          Mutual Representations . As a material inducement to execution of this Agreement, each Party hereby represents and warrants to the other Party that:

7.1.1           It is duly organized or formed, validly existing and, if applicable, in good standing under the laws of the jurisdiction of its organization or formation, and is qualified to conduct its business in all jurisdictions necessary to perform its obligations hereunder;

7.1.2           The execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement are within its powers, have been duly authorized by all necessary action and do not violate any of the terms or conditions in its governing documents, any agreement to which it is a party or by which it or any of its property is bound, or any Requirement of Law applicable to it (evidence of which shall be delivered to the other Party upon its request);

7.1.3           Except as set forth in and as required by this Agreement, no consent, approval, order or authorization of, or registration, declaration or filing with, any Governmental Authority is required by such Party in connection with the execution, delivery or performance of this Agreement;

7.1.4           It is, and will continue to be for the Term, a Forward Contract Merchant both generally and with respect to the Product Delivered and purchased under this Agreement and that this Agreement constitutes a Master Netting Agreement.

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7.2           Seller Representations.

7.2.1           Seller represents and warrants to Duke Carolinas that this Agreement is exempt from FERC jurisdiction with respect to the requirements under Sections 205 and 206 of the Federal Power Act.

7.2.2           Seller represents and warrants to Duke Carolinas as of each Delivery Date that:

   (a)           the Facility is registered with the NCUC as a New Renewable Energy Facility as defined in the REPS, and Seller owns or has the right to the Renewable Energy Attributes associated with the Facility;

  (b)           the Facility and the RECs Delivered hereunder are registered with the applicable Tracking System (including the NC-RETS system);

  (c)           Seller has good and marketable title to the RECs, free and clear of any liens, Taxes, claims, security interests, or other encumbrances;

  (d)           Seller has not sold or otherwise transferred, and will not sell or otherwise transfer, the Renewable Energy Attributes sold or intended to be sold to Duke Carolinas under this Agreement to any other Person or report the Renewable Energy Attributes sold or intended to be sold to Duke Carolinas under this Agreement for its own account;

  (e)           The Facility shall generate renewable energy using the Fuel Source as the Facility’s exclusive fuel source such that the Facility generates at least the Minimum REC Requirement during each Operating Year; and,

  (f)           Neither the Energy nor the RECs (consisting of the Renewable Energy Attributes to the extent defined hereunder and the Product Reporting Rights) will be used or credited toward any other purpose, including, without limitation, another federal, state or international renewable energy portfolio standard or voluntary or mandatory renewable energy program. For the avoidance of doubt, the foregoing shall not affect Seller’s ability to use any renewable energy attributes that, for purposes of this Agreement, are not considered to be Renewable Energy Attributes.

Article 8
EVENTS OF DEFAULT AND REMEDIES

8.1           Events of Default . An “ Event of Default ” by a Party (the “ Defaulting Party ”) shall mean:

8.1.1           With respect to Seller, an Event of Default shall occur, without notice or the opportunity to cure, if Seller:

  (a)           sells the Product or any component thereof (including Renewable Energy Certificates) of the Facility to any Person other than Duke Carolinas;

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(b)           tampers with facilities owned by Duke Carolinas or its Affiliate or other material misconduct in connection with this Agreement;

(c)           fails to achieve Commercial Operation by the Commercial Operation Milestone Date and Seller has failed to pay Buyer damages in accordance with Section 8.2.1(f).

(d)           fails to achieve any Milestone, other than the Commercial Operation Date (which is addressed in 8.1.1(c) above), within in 20 days after the Milestone date specified for such Milestone in Exhibit 2 ;

(e)           fails to Deliver the Minimum REC Requirement for two (2) consecutive Operating Years or for two (2) Operating Years during any four (4)-Operating Year period;

(f)           abandons construction or operation of the Facility; or

(g)           fails to maintain registration of the Facility as a New Renewable Energy Facility with the NCUC.

8.1.2         With respect to either Party, an Event of Default shall occur, without notice of the opportunity to cure, unless otherwise set forth below, if such Party:

(a)           becomes Bankrupt;

(b)           makes any representation, warranty or covenant that is proven to be false or misleading in any material respect at the time it was made;

(c)           transfers or assigns or otherwise conveys any of its rights or obligations under this Agreement to another Person without the other Party’s prior written consent, to the extent such consent is required under this Agreement, or, if at the time of such transfer, assignment or conveyance, the resulting, surviving or transferee entity fails to assume all the obligations of such Party under this Agreement by operation of law or pursuant to an agreement reasonably satisfactory to the other Party;

(d)           fails to make, when due, any undisputed payment required pursuant to this Agreement unless such Party shall have cured the same within ten (10) Business Days after receipt of written notice of such payment failure from the other Party; or

(e)           fails to perform any other material covenant or obligation set forth in this Agreement that is not otherwise enumerated in this Section 8.1, unless such Party cures such failure within sixty (60) days after receipt of written notice of such failure from the other Party.

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8.2           Rights Upon Default.

8.2.1         Upon and during the continuation of an Event of Default, the Non-Defaulting Party shall be entitled to elect or pursue one or more of the following remedies:

(a)           terminate the Agreement by providing written notice to the Defaulting Party;

(b)           accelerate all amounts then owing by the Defaulting Party to the Non-Defaulting Party;

(c)           withhold any payments due to the Defaulting Party under this Agreement;

(d)           suspend its performance under this Agreement;

(e)           recover damages incurred by the Non-Defaulting Party as a result of the Event of Default, including, if Seller is the Defaulting Party, recovery of Replacement REC Costs by Duke Carolinas; or

(f)           if the Facility fails to achieve Commercial Operation in accordance with Section 8.1.1(c), Seller shall pay to Duke Carolinas, as liquidated damages, five hundred thousand dollars ($500,000) within five (5) business days after such failure and the Agreement shall be terminated without further opportunity to cure. Each Party stipulates that the liquidated damages set forth in this Section are a reasonable approximation of the anticipated harm or loss and acknowledges the difficulty of estimation or calculation of actual damages, and each Party hereby waives the right to contest such payments as unenforceable, an unreasonable penalty or otherwise; or

(g)           pursue any other remedies available at law or in equity, except to the extent such remedies are expressly limited by this Agreement.

8.2.2         Calling on Security . In the event that (i) an Event of Default with respect to Seller has occurred and is continuing or (ii) Duke Carolinas has issued a termination notice as a result of an Event of Default with respect to Seller, Duke Carolinas may exercise any one or more of the rights and remedies provided under this Agreement or as otherwise available under applicable law. Without limiting the foregoing, Duke Carolinas may, in such event, in its sole discretion and in addition to any of the remedies set forth in Section 8.2.1 above, draw on any outstanding Letter of Credit issued for its benefit. Seller shall restore any Letter of Credit to its original state or amount within thirty (30) days of the exercise of any right or remedy against or with respect to such Letter of Credit by Duke Carolinas; provided , however , that the foregoing shall not apply in the event that Duke Carolinas exercises any such right or remedy and, in addition thereto, terminates this Agreement.

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Article 9
ASSIGNMENT

9.1           No Assignment Without Consent . Except as permitted in this Article 9, neither Party shall assign this Agreement or any portion thereof, without the prior written consent of the other Party, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed; provided (i) at least thirty (30) days prior notice of any such assignment shall be given to the other Party; (ii) any assignee, other than under a collateral assignment, shall expressly assume the assignor’s obligations hereunder, unless otherwise agreed to by the other Party, and no assignment, whether or not consented to, shall relieve the assignor of its obligations hereunder in the event the assignee fails to perform, unless the other Party agrees in writing in advance to waive the assignor’s continuing obligations pursuant to this Agreement; and (iii) before the Agreement is assigned by Seller, other than under a collateral assignment, the assignee must first obtain such approvals as may be required by all applicable regulatory bodies.

9.2           Transfer to Affiliates . Seller’s consent shall not be required for Duke Carolinas to assign this Agreement to an Affiliate of Duke Carolinas, provided that Duke Carolinas provides assurances and executes documents reasonably required by Seller and the Facility Lender regarding Duke Carolinas’ continued liability for all of Duke Carolinas’ obligations under this Agreement in the event of any nonperformance on the part of such assignee.

9.3           Collateral Assignment . Duke Carolinas’ consent shall not be required for Seller to assign this Agreement for collateral purposes to the Facility Lender; provided,   however, that no such assignment shall affect Duke Carolinas’ rights to any RECs Delivered, or to be Delivered, hereunder or any other rights of Duke Carolinas or obligations of Seller hereunder. Seller shall notify Duke Carolinas, pursuant to Section 9.1, of any such assignment to the Facility Lender no later than thirty (30) days prior to the assignment. To facilitate Seller’s obtaining of financing to construct and operate the Facility, Duke Carolinas shall use Commercially Reasonable Efforts to provide such consents to assignments, certifications, representations, information or other documents as may be reasonably requested by Seller or the Facility Lender in connection with the financing of the Facility; provided, that in responding to any such request, Duke Carolinas shall have no obligation to provide any consent, or enter into any agreement, that materially adversely affects any of Duke Carolinas’ rights, benefits, risks and/or obligations under this Agreement.

9.4           Seller Chance of Control . Any direct or indirect Change of Control of Seller (whether voluntary or by operation of law) shall require the prior written consent of Duke Carolinas, which shall not be unreasonably withheld. “ Change of Control ” shall mean a change in either (1) fifty percent or more of the economic interests in Seller or (2) the ability to vote fifty percent or more of the controlling interests in Seller; provided that a Change of Control shall not occur with respect to any change in interests in a publicly traded company.

9.5           Notice of Facility Lender Action . Within ten (10) days following Seller’s receipt of each written notice from the Facility Lender of default, or Facility Lender’s intent to exercise any remedies, under the Financing Documents, Seller shall deliver a copy of such notice to Duke Carolinas.

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Article 10
FORCE MAJEURE; INDEMNITY; LIMITATION OF LIABILITY

10.1           Force Majeure . If either Party is rendered unable by a Force Majeure event to carry out, in whole or in part, its obligations under this Agreement, then, during the pendency of such event of Force Majeure, but for no longer period, the obligations of the affected Party (other than the obligation to make payments hereunder when due) shall be suspended to the extent required. The affected Party shall (i) give the other Party written notice within 48 hours of the commencement of the Force Majeure event, with details to be supplied within three (3) Business Days after the commencement of the Force Majeure event further describing the particulars of the occurrence of the Force Majeure event, and (ii) use Commercially Reasonable Efforts to remedy the cause of the Force Majeure event with all reasonable dispatch. Whenever either Party is required to commence or complete any action within a specified period, such period shall be extended by an amount equal to the duration of any event of Force Majeure occurring or continuing during such period; provided, however, that in no event will any Force Majeure event extend this Agreement beyond its Term. This Agreement may be terminated by a Party upon written notice if the non-terminating Party fails to substantially perform its obligations under this Agreement on account of a Force Majeure event for a period exceeding 180 days after the occurrence of such Force Majeure event; provided that such 180 day period may be extended, by the written agreement of both Parties, for an additional 180 days if (i) such Force Majeure event is not remedied within the original 180-day period with reasonable diligence, (ii) such Force Majeure event may reasonably be expected to be remedied within the additional 180-day period, and (iii) the Party not performing its obligations under this Agreement on account of such Force Majeure event promptly undertakes to remedy such Force Majeure event and continues with reasonable diligence to effect such remedy within the additional 180-day period.

10.2           Indemnification.

  10.2.1           Each Party (the “ Indemnifying Party ”) agrees to indemnify, defend and hold harmless the other Party, its Affiliates and each of their respective officers, directors, employees, agents and representatives (the “ Indemnified Party ”) from and against all claims, demands, losses, liabilities, penalties, and expenses (including reasonable attorneys’ fees) for personal injury or death to persons and damage to the Indemnified Party’s real property and tangible personal property or facilities or the property of any other person or entity (collectively, “ Liabilities ”) to the extent arising out of, resulting from, or caused by an Event of Default under this Agreement, violation of any applicable environmental laws, or by the negligent or tortious acts, errors, or omissions of the Indemnifying Party, its Affiliates, its directors, officers, employees, or agents. The indemnification of third party claims provided under this Section is not limited by the limitation on damages set forth in Section 10.3. Nothing in this Section shall enlarge or relieve Seller or Duke Carolinas of any liability to the other for any breach of this Agreement. This indemnification obligation shall apply notwithstanding any negligent or intentional acts, errors or omissions of the Indemnified Party, but the Indemnifying Party’s liability to pay damages to the Indemnified Party shall be reduced in proportion to the percentage by which the Indemnified Party’s negligent or intentional acts, errors or omissions caused the damages. Neither Party shall be indemnified for its damages resulting from its sole negligence, intentional acts or willful misconduct. Without limiting the foregoing, Seller shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless Duke Carolinas (and any Duke Carolinas’ Indemnified Party) from any Liabilities arising from the Product that occur when title of the Product is vested in Seller and for any Claims arising from the design, construction, and operation of the Facility.

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  10.2.2           The Indemnifying Party shall assume on behalf of the Indemnified Party and conduct with due diligence and in good faith the defense of any Claim against the Indemnified Party, whether or not the Indemnifying Party shall be joined therein, and the Indemnified Party shall cooperate with the Indemnifying Party in such defense. If such Claim is asserted against an Indemnified Party, the Indemnified Party shall notify the Indemnifying Party promptly upon receipt of knowledge of such Claim and the Indemnified Party shall promptly provide to the Indemnifying Party all information that it has received with respect to such Claim. No such Claim shall be compromised or settled by the Indemnified Party without the prior written consent of the Indemnifying Party, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld. The Indemnifying Party shall have charge and direction of the defense and settlement of such Claim; provided, however, that without relieving the Indemnifying Party of its obligations hereunder or impairing the Indemnifying Party’s right to control the defense or settlement thereof, the Indemnified Party may elect to participate through separate counsel in the defense of any such Claim. The fees and expenses of counsel retained by the Indemnified Party shall be at the expense of such Indemnified Party unless (a) such Indemnified Party shall have reasonably concluded that there exists a material conflict of interest between the Indemnifying Party and such Indemnified Party in the conduct of the defense of such Claim (in which case the Indemnifying Party shall not have the right to control the defense or settlement of such Claim on behalf of such Indemnified Party, but no settlement shall be entered into without the consent of the Indemnifying Party, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld), or (b) the Indemnifying Party shall not have employed counsel to assume the defense of such Claim within a reasonable time after notice of the commencement thereof (and in each of such cases the reasonable fees and expenses of counsel shall be at the expense of the Indemnifying Party).

10.3           Limitations of Remedies, Liability and Damages . THE PARTIES AGREE THAT THE REMEDIES AND MEASURES OF DAMAGES PROVIDED IN THIS AGREEMENT SATISFY THE ESSENTIAL PURPOSES HEREOF. IF NO MEASURE OF DAMAGES OR OTHER REMEDY IS EXPRESSLY PROVIDED HEREIN, THE OBLIGOR’S LIABILITY SHALL BE LIMITED TO DIRECT ACTUAL DAMAGES ONLY, WHICH DIRECT ACTUAL DAMAGES SHALL BE THE SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY AND ALL OTHER REMEDIES OR DAMAGES AT LAW OR IN EQUITY ARE WAIVED. UNLESS OTHERWISE PROVIDED IN THIS AGREEMENT, NEITHER PARTY SHALL BE LIABLE FOR CONSEQUENTIAL, INCIDENTAL, PUNITIVE, EXEMPLARY OR INDIRECT DAMAGES, LOST PROFITS OR OTHER BUSINESS INTERRUPTION DAMAGES, (OTHER THAN CONSEQUENTIAL, INCIDENTAL, PUNITIVE, EXEMPLARY OR INDIRECT DAMAGES, LOST PROFITS OR OTHER BUSINESS INTERRUPTION DAMAGES RECOVERED BY AN UNAFFILIATED THIRD PARTY AGAINST A PARTY SUBJECT TO INDEMNIFICATION HEREUNDER), WHETHER SUCH DAMAGES ARE ALLOWED OR PROVIDED BY STATUTE, IN TORT, UNDER ANY INDEMNITY PROVISION OR OTHERWISE .

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Article 11
GOVERNMENT ACTION

11.1           General . The Parties acknowledge that the Applicable Programs, which, among other things, establish the conditions for a market for RECs, may be the subject of Government Action (including court challenge) that could adversely affect the eligibility of the electrical output from the Facility to meet the requirements of an Applicable Program or otherwise alter the requirements of an Applicable Program, or make RECs unavailable or dramatically diminished or increased in value. Except as set forth in Section 11.2, Government Action that changes in any respect the market or economic value of the RECs will have no effect on the obligation of the Parties to purchase and receive, and sell and Deliver, the RECs at the price and on the terms set forth in this Agreement. To the extent that Government Action renders a Party’s performance of any of its obligations hereunder illegal, including the Delivery of the RECs, this Agreement will be terminated automatically without penalty to either Party and any further action by the Parties. Notwithstanding the foregoing, this Agreement will not be affected, cancelled, or otherwise impaired by Government Action that is specific to a Party under Applicable Law taken by a Government Authority alleging that Party’s violation thereof.

11.2           Affecting REPS/Applicable Program . If Government Action which occurs after the Effective Date causes the output of the Facility or any RECs to fail to meet the requirements of REPS or any Applicable Program for which approval has been sought or obtained under Section 4.4.6 of this Agreement, then Seller shall exercise Commercially Reasonable Efforts to cause the Facility and its output or the RECs to maintain compliance with REPS at its own cost, and shall use Commercially Reasonable Efforts to cooperate with Duke Carolinas to cause the Facility and its output or the RECs to maintain compliance with such other Applicable Program at Duke Carolinas’ cost.

11.3           Carbon Offset Legislation/Tradable Attributes . In the event that, as a result of Government Action or other legislative, administrative, voluntary, mandatory, or regulatory process, the Facility may generate only carbon offsets or RECs, but not both, then Seller shall take, or cause to be taken, such action as necessary to ensure that Renewable Energy Attributes and RECs sufficient to fulfill its obligations under this Agreement are produced from the Facility and the underlying fuel used to generate the Energy. If the Facility generates, receives, or is eligible to receive any tradable attributes of any manner that are not Renewable Energy Attributes, Seller (i) shall have right and title to all such attributes and (ii) shall operate the Facility in a manner that ensures Duke Carolinas receives the RECs (including the Renewable Energy Attributes) hereunder and Duke Carolinas’ entitlement to receive the RECs (including the Renewable Energy Attributes) associated with the Energy generated by the Facility are not undermined or otherwise affected.

Article 12
DISPUTE RESOLUTION

12.1           Arbitration.

  12.1.1           Any and all disputes and controversies arising out of or in connection with this Agreement shall be decided exclusively by binding arbitration in Charlotte, North Carolina in accordance with the Commercial Arbitration Rules of the American Arbitration Association (except as expressly provided otherwise herein). The arbitration shall be governed by the United States Arbitration Act (9 U.S.C. § 1 et seq .), and judgment upon the award rendered by the arbitrator(s) may be entered in any court having jurisdiction thereof. This agreement to arbitrate and any other agreement or consent to arbitrate entered into in accordance herewith will be specifically enforceable under the prevailing arbitration law of any court having jurisdiction. Any arbitration may be consolidated with any other arbitration proceedings between the Parties commenced under this Section 12.1. The award of the arbitrator shall be specifically enforceable in a court of competent jurisdiction.

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12.1.2           Either Party may commence the arbitration by giving to the other Party written notice in sufficient detail of the existence and nature of any dispute proposed to be arbitrated. The demand must be made within a reasonable time after the dispute has arisen. In no event may the demand for arbitration be made if the institution of legal or equitable proceedings based on such dispute is barred by the applicable statute of limitations. The Parties shall attempt to agree on a person to serve as arbitrator with respect to the matter at issue. If the Parties cannot agree on an arbitrator within ten (10) Business Days of such notice, each shall then appoint one individual to serve as an arbitrator within thirty (30) Business Days of such notice and the two (2) individuals thus appointed shall select a third arbitrator to serve as chairman of the panel of arbitrators. Such three (3) arbitrators shall determine all matters by majority vote; provided however, if the two (2) arbitrators appointed by the Parties are unable to agree upon the appointment of the third arbitrator within ten (10) Business Days after their appointment, both shall give written notice of such failure to agree to the Parties, and, if the Parties fail to agree upon the selection of such third arbitrator within five (5) Business Days of such notice, then either of the Parties upon written notice to the other may require such appointment from, and pursuant to the rules of, the Philadelphia office of the American Arbitration Association for commercial arbitration. Any arbitrator appointed shall be a present or former executive of an electric utility, or private power producer, or an attorney, in each case with substantial experience in electric power purchase agreements. Prior to appointment, each arbitrator shall agree to conduct such arbitration in accordance with the terms of this Agreement.

12.1.3           The Parties shall have sixty (60) calendar days after appointment of all arbitrators to perform discovery and present evidence and argument to the arbitrators. During that period, the arbitrators shall be available to receive and consider all such evidence as is relevant and, within reasonable limits due to the restricted time period, to hear as much argument as is feasible, giving a fair allocation of time to each Party to the arbitration. The arbitrators shall use all reasonable means to expedite discovery and to sanction noncompliance with reasonable discovery requests or any discovery order. The arbitrators shall not consider any evidence or argument not presented during such period and shall not extend such period except by the written consent of both parties. At the conclusion of such period, the arbitrators shall have forty-five (45) calendar days to reach a determination.

12.1.4           The arbitrators shall have the right only to interpret and apply the terms and conditions of this Agreement and to order any remedy allowed by this Agreement, and may not change any term or condition of this Agreement, deprive either Party of any right or remedy expressly provided hereunder, or provide any right or remedy that has been excluded hereunder.

12.1.5           The arbitrators shall give a written decision to the Parties stating their findings of fact, conclusions of law and order, and shall furnish to each Party a copy thereof signed by them within five (5) calendar days from the date of their determination. Each party shall pay the cost of the arbitrator or arbitrators, with respect to those issues as to which they do not prevail, as determined by the arbitrator or arbitrators.

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12.2         Preliminary Injunctive Relief . Nothing in this Article 12 shall preclude, or be construed to preclude, the resort by either party to a court of competent jurisdiction solely for the purposes of securing a temporary or preliminary injunction to preserve the status quo or avoid irreparable harm pending arbitration pursuant to this Article 12.

Article 13
MISCELLANEOUS

13.1         Confidentiality; Publicity.

13.1.1           Neither Party will disclose the terms or conditions of this Agreement to a third party (other than the Party’s employees, guarantor, lenders, counsel, accountants, agents or advisors who have to know such information and have agreed to keep such terms confidential), except in accordance with the terms set forth in this Section. In the event that any Party (or any of such Party’s employees, guarantors, lenders, counsel, accountants, agents or advisors) (collectively, the “ Required Party ”) is required to disclose any term of this Agreement (i) in order to comply with any applicable law or regulation, including, but not limited to, any public records request, or request of any regulatory agency having colorable jurisdiction over the Party and requesting the confidential information in the ordinary course of business; (ii) pursuant to any rule or requirement of any Certification Authority, Administrator or Governmental Authority administering an Applicable Program; or (iii) in connection with any court or regulatory proceeding, the Required Party shall (a) provide the other Party (the “ Notified Party ”) with prompt written notice of any such request or requirement so that such Notified Party may seek a protective order or other appropriate remedy and/or waive compliance with the provisions of this Section and (b) reasonably cooperate with such Notified Party to obtain such protective order or other remedy. In the event such protective order or other remedy is not obtained and the Notified Party fails to waive compliance with this Section of this Agreement, the Required Party agrees to (I) furnish only those terms of this Agreement for which the Required Party is advised by its legal counsel in writing that it is legally required to be disclosed, (II) upon the Notified Party’s request and expense, use its commercially reasonable efforts to obtain assurances that confidential treatment will be accorded to such terms, and (III) give the Notified Party prior written notice of the terms to be disclosed as far in advance of its disclosure as is reasonably practicable. Notwithstanding anything in this Section 13.1.1 to the contrary, Duke Carolinas may, without the consent of, or any prior notice to, Seller, disclose the terms or conditions of this Agreement in any REPS-related compliance report or filing made by Duke Carolinas with the NCUC.

13.1.2           Seller shall not make any announcement or release any information concerning this Agreement to any member of the public, press, Person, or any official body, without Duke Carolinas’ prior written consent.

13.2         Entire Agreement . This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the Parties with respect to the subject matter hereof, and it supersedes all prior oral or written agreements, commitments, negotiations or understandings with respect to the matters provided for herein, including, but not limited to, the Original Agreement.

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13.3           Amendment . Unless expressly provided otherwise in another provision of this Agreement, this Agreement shall not be amended, altered or modified except by an instrument in writing duly executed by both Parties. It is agreed that no regular practice or method of dealing between the Parties hereto shall be used to modify, interpret, supplement, or alter in any manner the terms of this Agreement.

13.4           Waiver . Any agreement on the part of a Party to any extension or waiver of any provision hereof shall be valid only if set forth in an instrument in writing signed on behalf of such Party. A waiver by a Party of the performance of any covenant, agreement, obligation, condition, representation or warranty shall not be construed as a waiver of any other covenant, agreement, obligation, condition, representation or warranty. A waiver by a Party of the performance of any act shall not constitute a waiver of the performance of any other act or an identical act required to be performed at a later time.

13.5           Remedies Cumulative . No right or remedy herein conferred upon or reserved to either Party is intended to be exclusive of any other right or remedy, and each and every right and remedy shall be cumulative and in addition to any other right or remedy under this Agreement, or under applicable law, whether now or hereafter existing.

13.6           Interpretation.

  13.6.1           In this Agreement, unless a different intention clearly appears: (a) the singular includes the plural and vice versa; (b) the reference to any Party includes such Party’s legal and/or permitted successors and assignees, and reference to a Party in a particular capacity excludes such Party in any other capacity or individually; (c) the reference to any gender includes the other gender; (d) reference to any document other than this Agreement refers to such documents as may be amended, modified, replaced or superseded from time to time, or any successor document(s) thereto; (e) reference to any Article, Section or Exhibit means such Article, Section or Exhibit of this Agreement unless otherwise indicated; (f) “hereunder”, “hereof’, “hereto”, and words of similar import shall be deemed references to this Agreement as a whole and not to any particular Section or other provision; (g) “including” (and with correlative meaning “include”), when following any general statement or term, is not to be construed as limiting the general statement or term to the specific items or matters set forth or to similar items or matters, but rather as permitting the general statement or term to refer to all other items or matters that could reasonably fall within its broadest possible scope; (h) relative to the determination of any period of time, “from” means “from and including”, “to” means “to but excluding” and “through” means “through and including”; (i) reference to any law or regulation refers to such law or regulation as may be amended, modified, replaced or superseded from time to time, or any successor law(s) or regulation(s) thereto; and (j) reference to “termination of this Agreement,” “this Agreement is terminated,” “this Agreement may be terminated” and similar phrases used in this Agreement refer to the termination of deliveries under this Agreement and related on-going rights and obligations, and does not imply or mean a termination of rights, remedies, obligations and provisions which by their nature or as provided elsewhere in the Agreement survive termination. Other terms used in this Agreement but not listed in this Article shall have meanings as commonly used in the English language and, where applicable, in Prudent Utility Practice. Words not otherwise defined herein that have well known and generally accepted technical or trade meanings are used herein in accordance with such recognized meanings.

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  13.6.2           This Agreement has been negotiated between unrelated parties who are sophisticated and knowledgeable in the matters contained in this Agreement and who have acted in their own self-interest. In addition, each party has been represented by legal counsel. The provisions of this Agreement shall be interpreted in a reasonable manner to effect the purposes of the parties, and this Agreement shall not be interpreted or construed against any party to this Agreement because that party or any attorney or representative for that party drafted this Agreement or participated in the drafting of this Agreement.

13.7           Binding Effect; Limitation of Benefits . This Agreement shall be binding upon and shall insure to the benefit of the Parties hereto and, subject to the provisions of Article 9 hereof, their successors and permitted assigns. Nothing in this Agreement is intended to confer benefits, rights or remedies unto any Person other than the Parties and their permitted successors and assigns, and no third party shall have the right to enforce the provisions of this Agreement. Duke Carolinas does not, nor should it be construed to, extend its credit or financial support for the benefit of any third parties lending money to or having other transactions with Seller.

13.8           Governing Law . The validity, interpretation and performance of this Agreement and each of its provisions shall be governed by the laws of the State of North Carolina, without giving effect to any choice of conflict of law provision or rule (whether of the State of North Carolina or any other jurisdiction) that would cause the application of the laws of any jurisdiction other than the State of North Carolina.

13.9           No Partnership or Joint Venture . This Agreement is not intended to create nor shall it be construed to create any partnership or joint venture relationship between Duke Carolinas and Seller, and neither Party hereto shall have the power to bind or obligate the other Party. Neither Party hereto shall be liable for the payment or performance of any debts, obligations, or liabilities of the other Party, unless expressly assumed in writing herein or otherwise. Each Party retains full control over the employment, direction, compensation and discharge of its employees, and will be solely responsible for all compensation of such employees, including social security, withholding and worker’s compensation responsibilities.

13.10           Headings . The titles, headings and table of contents contained in this Agreement are inserted for convenience of reference only, shall not be deemed to be a part of this Agreement for any purpose, and shall not in any way define or affect the meaning, construction or scope of any of the provisions hereof.

13.11           Severability . Whenever possible, each provision of this Agreement shall be interpreted in such a manner as to be effective and valid under the domestic laws of the State of North Carolina as provided herein, but if any provision of this Agreement is held to be illegal, invalid or unenforceable under present or future Laws effective during the term hereof, then (a) in lieu of such illegal, invalid or unenforceable provision, the Parties shall promptly endeavor, in good faith negotiations, to agree on a provision as may be possible and be legal, valid and enforceable, provided that no Party shall be required to agree to any provision that would materially alter any of its rights or obligations under this Agreement, and (b) the legality, validity and enforceability of the remaining provisions of this Agreement shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby. To the extent permitted by Law, each Party hereby waives any provision of Law that renders any such provision prohibited or unenforceable in any respect.

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13.12           Survival . Any obligations, limitations, exclusions and duties which by their nature extend beyond the expiration or termination of this Agreement, as well as any other provisions necessary to interpret the respective rights and obligations of the Parties hereunder, shall survive the expiration or earlier termination of this Agreement.

13.13           Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which will be deemed an original, but all of which taken together shall constitute one single agreement between the Parties.

13.14           Notices.

   13.14.1           Except as set forth in Section 13.14.2, all notices, requests, statements or payments, if by check, shall be made to the addresses set out below. Notices required to be in writing shall be delivered by letter, facsimile or other documentary form. Notice by facsimile or hand delivery shall be deemed to have been received by the close of the Business Day during which the notice is received or hand delivered. Notice by mail or overnight courier shall be deemed to have been received upon delivery as evidenced by the delivery receipt.

To Duke Carolinas: []

To Seller: []

   13.14.2           A Party’s address or addressee to which notices or invoices shall be sent may be changed from time to time by such Party by notice served as hereinabove provided.

[Signatures Appear on the Following Page]

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this Agreement has been executed and delivered by the duly authorized representatives of Duke Carolinas and Seller as of the date first written above.

DUKE ENERGY CAROLINAS, LLC,  
a North Carolina Limited Liability Company  
   
/s/ Duke Energy Carolinas, LLC  
   
ORBIT ENERGY CHARLOTTE, LLC,  
a North Carolina Limited Liability Company  
   
/s/ Orbit Energy Charlotte, LLC  

 

 

 

 

Blue Sphere Corporation S-1/A

 

Exhibit 21.1  

 

LIST OF SUBSIDIARIES AND AFFILIATES

 

Blue Sphere Corporation (the “Company”) has the following direct and indirect subsidiaries and/or affiliates:

 

Subsidiary Name Jurisdiction of Formation Percentage of Ownership  
       
Eastern Sphere, Ltd. Israel 100%  
       
Bluesphere Pavia S.r.l Italy 100% (1)
       
Agricerere S.r.l. Italy 100% (2)
       
Agrielekra S.r.l. Italy 100% (2)
       
Agrisorse S.r.l. Italy 100% (2)
       
Gefa S.r.l. Italy 100% (2)
       
PureSphere Ltd. Israel                      50% (3)
       
Blue Sphere Brabant B.V. Holland 100%  
       
Rhode Island Energy Partners, LLC Delaware 22.75% (5)
       
Orbit Energy Rhode Island, LLC Rhode Island 22.75% (4)(5)
       
Concord Energy Partners, LLC Delaware 25% (5)
       
Orbit Energy Charlotte, LLC North Carolina 25% (4)(5)
       
Bino Sphere LLC Delaware 100%  

 

(1) The Company’s interest in Bluesphere Pavia S.r.l is based on its interest in Eastern Sphere, Ltd., which owns 100% of Bluesphere Pavia S.r.l.
     
(2) The Company’s interests in these entities is based on its interest in Bluesphere Pavia S.r.l, which owns 100% of these entities.
     
(3) The Company’s interest in interests in these entities is based on its interest in Eastern Sphere, Ltd., which owns 50% of each of these entities.
     
(4) The Company’s interests in these entities is based on its interests in Concord Energy Partners, LLC and Rhode Island Energy Partners, LLC, which are the sole owners of Orbit Energy Charlotte, LLC and Orbit Energy Rhode Island, LLC, respectively.
     
(5) Such entity is deemed to be nonconsolidated affiliate of the Company.

 

 

 

  Blue Sphere Corporation S-1/A

 

Exhibit 23.2

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

We consent to the use in this Amendment No. 3 to Registration Statement No. 333-215110 on Form S-1 of our report dated February 14, 2017 (except for Note 18, as to which the date is March 24, 2017) relating to the financial statements of Blue Sphere Corporation (which report expresses an unqualified opinion and includes an explanatory paragraph relating to the substantial doubt about its ability to continue as a going concern), appearing in the Prospectus, which is part of this Registration Statement.

 We also consent to the reference to us under the heading “Experts” in such Prospectus.

 

 

/S/ Brightman Almagor Zohar & Co.

 

Brightman Almagor Zohar & Co.,

Certified Public Accountants

A Member of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited

 

Tel Aviv, Israel

May 30, 2017