Complete Solaria Inc

Previous wording

Our management has identified conditions that raise substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern.

Current wording

We have a history of losses that may continue in the future; our management has identified conditions that raise substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern; and we may not achieve profitability or generate positive cash flow.

Previous wording

Since our inception, we have incurred losses and negative cash flows from operations. We incurred net losses of $269.6 million and $29.5 million, during the fiscal years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, and had an accumulated deficit of $354.9 million and current debt of $61.9 million as of December 31, 2023. We had cash and cash equivalents of $2.6 million as of December 31, 2023, which were held for working capital expenditures. These conditions raise substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern. Our ability to continue as a going concern requires that we obtain sufficient funding to meet our obligations and finance our operations.

Current wording

Since our inception, we have incurred losses and negative cash flows from operations. We incurred net losses of $56.5 million and $269.6 million, during the fiscal years ended December 29, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively, and had an accumulated deficit of $411.4 million, accrued expenses and other current liabilities of $56.1 million, current debt of $1.5 million, and notes payable and derivative liabilities, net of current portion of $145.8 million, respectively, as of December 29, 2024, as well as other current and long-term liabilities (including the $6.9 million liability we recorded relating to a litigation matter with Siemens). We had cash and cash equivalents of $13.4 million as of December 29, 2024, which were held for working capital expenditures. These conditions raise substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern. Our ability to continue as a going concern requires that we obtain sufficient funding, either through external financial transactions or cash flows generated from operations, to meet our obligations and finance our operations.

Previous wording

If we are not able to secure adequate additional funding when needed, we will need to reevaluate our operating plan and may be forced to make reductions in spending, extend payment terms with suppliers, liquidate assets where possible, or suspend or curtail planned programs or cease operations entirely. These actions could materially impact our business, results of operations and future prospects. There can be no assurance that in the event we require additional financing, such financing will be available on terms that are favorable, or at all. Failure to generate sufficient cash flows from operations, raise additional capital or reduce certain discretionary spending would have a material adverse effect on our ability to achieve our intended business objectives.

Current wording

If we are not able to secure adequate additional funding, either through external financial transactions or cash flows generated from operations, when needed, we will need to reevaluate our operating plan and may be forced to make reductions in spending, extend payment terms with suppliers, liquidate assets where possible, or suspend or curtail planned programs or cease operations entirely. These actions could materially impact our business, results of operations and future prospects. There can be no assurance that in the event we require additional financing, such financing will be available on terms that are favorable, or at all.

Previous wording

We expect that we will need to raise additional funding to finance our operations. This additional financing may not be available on acceptable terms or at all. Failure to obtain this necessary capital when needed may force us to curtail planned programs or cease operations entirely.

Current wording

We may need to raise additional funding to finance our operations. This additional financing may not be available on acceptable terms or at all. Failure to obtain this necessary capital when needed may force us to curtail planned programs or cease operations entirely.

Previous wording

Our operations have consumed significant amounts of cash since inception. We expect to incur significant operating expenses as we continue to grow our business. We believe that our operating losses and negative operating cash flows will continue into the foreseeable future.

Current wording

Our operations have consumed significant amounts of cash since inception. We expect to incur significant operating expenses as we continue to grow our business, including expenses incurred in connection with acquisitions and the further integration of acquired businesses, including the SunPower Businesses. We believe that our operating losses and negative operating cash flows will continue into the foreseeable future.

Previous wording

We had cash and cash equivalents of $2.6 million as of December 31, 2023. Our cash position raises substantial doubt regarding our ability to continue as a going concern for 12 months after the consolidated financial statements issuance. We will require substantial additional capital to continue operations. Such additional capital might not be available when we need it and our actual cash requirements might be greater than anticipated. We cannot be certain that additional capital will be available on attractive terms, if at all, when needed, which could be dilutive to stockholders, and our financial condition, results of operations, business and prospects could be materially and adversely affected.

Current wording

We will require substantial additional capital to continue operations. Such additional capital might not be available when we need it and our actual cash requirements might be greater than anticipated. Additionally, the ability to raise additional financing depends on numerous factors that are outside our control, including general economic and market conditions, interest rates, the health of financial institutions, investors’ and lenders’ assessments of our prospects and the prospects of the solar industry in general. We cannot be certain that additional capital will be available on attractive terms, if at all, when needed, which could be dilutive to stockholders, and our financial condition, results of operations, business and prospects could be materially and adversely affected. If the financial markets become difficult or costly to access, including due to rising interest rates, inflation, fluctuations in exchange rates or other changes in geopolitical or economic conditions, including, without limitation, with respect to tariffs and trade policies, our ability to raise additional capital may be negatively impacted. Our failure to raise capital in the future would have a negative impact on our ability to expand our business.

Previous wording

In connection with the preparation and audit of our financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, and our consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2023, our management identified a material weakness in our internal control over financial reporting. A material weakness is a deficiency, or combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of our annual or interim consolidated financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. The material weakness is as follows:

Current wording

In connection with the preparation and audit of our financial statements for the year ended December 29, 2024, our management identified material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting. A material weakness is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting, such that a reasonable possibility exists that a material misstatement of annual or interim financial statements would not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. The material weaknesses are as follows:

Previous wording

On February 7, 2018, safeguard tariffs on imported solar cells and modules went into effect pursuant to Proclamation 9693, which approved recommendations to provide relief to U.S. manufacturers and impose safeguard tariffs on imported solar cells and modules, based on the investigations, findings, and recommendations of the U.S. International Trade Commission (the “International Trade Commission”). Since 2021, modules are subject to a tariff rate of 15%. Cells are subjected to a tariff-rate quota, under which the first 2.5 GW of cell imports each year will be exempt from tariffs, and cells imported after the 2.5 GW quota has been reached will be subject to the same 30% tariff as modules in the first year, with the same 5% decline in each of the three subsequent years. The tariff-free cell quota applies globally, without any allocation by country or region.

Current wording

On February 7, 2018, safeguard tariffs on imported solar cells and modules (“CSPV”) went into effect pursuant to Proclamation 9693, which approved recommendations to provide relief to U.S. manufacturers and impose safeguard tariffs on imported solar cells and modules, based on the investigations, findings, and recommendations of the U.S. International Trade Commission (the “International Trade Commission”). On February 4, 2022, President Biden issued Proclamation 10339 extending the existing safeguard measures on U.S. imports of CSPV products by an additional four years until February 6, 2026. Since 2022, modules are subject to a tariff rate of approximately 15%. Cells are subjected to a tariff-rate quota, under which the first 5 GW of cell imports each year will be exempt from tariffs, and cells imported after the 5 GW quota has been reached will be subject to the same 14.75% tariff as modules in the first year, with the same 0.25% decline in each of the three subsequent years. The tariff-free cell quota applies globally, without any allocation by country or region.

Previous wording

The tariffs could materially and adversely affect our business and results of operations. While solar cells and modules based on interdigitated back contact technology were granted exclusion from these safeguard tariffs on September 19, 2018, our solar products based on other technologies continue to be subject to the safeguard tariffs. Although we are actively engaged in efforts to mitigate the effect of these tariffs, there is no guarantee that these efforts will be successful.

Current wording

The tariffs could materially and adversely affect our business and results of operations. While solar cells and modules based on interdigitated back contact technology remain excluded from these safeguard tariffs, our solar products based on other technologies continue to be subject to the safeguard tariffs, which will remain in place until February 6, 2026. Although we are actively engaged in efforts to mitigate the effect of these tariffs, there is no guarantee that these efforts will be successful.

Previous wording

Uncertainty surrounding the implications of existing tariffs affecting the U.S. solar market and potential trade tensions between the U.S. and other countries is likely to cause market volatility, price fluctuations, supply shortages, and project delays, any of which could harm our business, and the pursuit of mitigating actions may divert substantial resources from other projects. Further, the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act may inhibit importation of certain solar modules or components. In addition, the imposition of tariffs is likely to result in a wide range of impacts to the U.S. solar industry and the global manufacturing market, as well as our business in particular. Such tariffs could materially increase the price of our solar products and result in significant additional costs to the company, its resellers, and the resellers’ customers, which could cause a significant reduction in demand for the company’s solar power products and greatly reduce our competitive advantage.

Current wording

Further, the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act may inhibit importation of certain solar modules or components. In addition, the imposition of tariffs is likely to result in a wide range of impacts to the U.S. solar industry and the global manufacturing market, as well as our business in particular. Such tariffs could materially increase the price of our solar products and result in significant additional costs to the company, its resellers, and the resellers’ customers, which could cause a significant reduction in demand for the company’s solar power products and greatly reduce our competitive advantage.

Previous wording

The Inflation Reduction Act (“IRA”) extended and modified prior law applicable to tax credits that are available with respect to solar energy systems. Under the IRA, the following credits are available: (i) a production tax credit under Code Section 44 (for facilities that begin construction before January 1, 2025) and Code Section 45Y (for facilities that begin construction between January 1, 2025 and the year that is four calendar years after the year in which certain U.S. greenhouse gas emissions percentages are met) (the “PTC”) in connection with the installation of certain solar facilities and energy storage technology, (ii) an investment tax credit under Code Section 48 (for facilities that begin construction before January 1, 2025) and Code Section 48E (for facilities that begin construction between January 1, 2025 and the year that is four calendar years after the year in which certain U.S. greenhouse gas emissions percentages are met) (the “ITC”) in connection with the installation of certain solar facilities and energy storage technology, and (iii) a residential clean energy credit (the “Section 25D Credit”) in connection with the installation of property that uses solar energy to generate electricity for residential use.

Current wording

The Inflation Reduction Act (“IRA”) extended and modified prior law applicable to U.S. federal tax credits that are available with respect to solar energy systems. Under the IRA, the following tax credits are available: (i) a production tax credit under Code Section 45 (for facilities that are place in service after December 31, 2025) (the “PTC”) in connection with the installation of certain solar facilities and energy storage technology, (ii) an investment tax credit under Code Section 48 (for facilities that begin construction before January 1, 2025) and Code Section 48E (for facilities that are placed in service after December 31, 2024 (the “ITC”) in connection with the installation of certain solar facilities and energy storage technology, and (iii) a residential clean energy credit (the “Section 25D Credit”) in connection with the installation of qualifying property that uses solar energy to generate electricity for residential use.

Previous wording

Prior to the IRA, the PTC for solar facilities had phased out and was no longer available. The IRA reinstated the PTC for solar facilities. The PTC available to a taxpayer in a taxable year is equal to a certain rate multiplied by the kilowatt hours of electricity produced by the taxpayer from solar energy at a facility owned by it and sold to an unrelated party during that taxable year. The base rates for the PTC is 0.3 cents. This rate is increased to 1.5 cents for projects that (i) have a maximum net output of less than one MW AC, (ii) begin construction before January 29, 2023, or (iii) meet certain prevailing wage and apprenticeship requirements. It also may be increased for projects that include a certain percentage of components that were produced in the U.S., projects that are located in certain energy communities, and projects that are located in low-income communities.

Current wording

Prior to the IRA, the PTC for solar facilities had phased out and was no longer available. The IRA reinstated the PTC for solar facilities. The PTC available to a taxpayer in 2024 and prior taxable years under Code Section 45 generally is equal to a certain rate multiplied by the kilowatt hours of electricity produced by the taxpayer from solar energy at a facility owned by it and sold to an unrelated party during that taxable year. The base rates for the PTC under Code Section 45 is 0.3 cents (adjusted for inflation). This rate is increased to 1.5 cents (adjusted for inflation) for projects that (i) have a maximum net output of less than one megawatt (measured in alternating current), (ii) begin construction before January 29, 2023, or (iii) meet certain prevailing wage and apprenticeship requirements. It also may be increased for projects that include a certain percentage of components that were produced in the U.S., projects that are located in certain energy communities, and projects that are located in low-income communities. The PTC under Code Section 45Y, the successor to Code Section 45 that is applicable for taxable years after 2024, generally is similar to the PTC under Code Section 45 but includes certain different terms and qualification requirements.

Previous wording

The Section 25D Credit available to a taxpayer is equal to the “applicable percentage” of expenditures for property that uses solar energy to generate electricity for use in a dwelling unit used as a residence by the taxpayer. The applicable percentage is 26% for such systems that are placed in service before January 1, 2022, 30% for such systems that are placed in service after December 31, 2021 and before January 1, 2033, 26% for such systems that are placed in service in 2033, and 22% for such systems that are placed in service in 2034. The Section 25D Credit is scheduled to expire effective January 1, 2035. Although it is unlikely that Complete Solaria would qualify for the Section 25D Credit, the availability of the Section 25D Credit may impact the prices of its solar energy systems.

Current wording

The Section 25D Credit available to a taxpayer is equal to the “applicable percentage” of expenditures for property that uses solar energy to generate electricity for use in a dwelling unit located in the U.S. and used as a residence by the taxpayer. The applicable percentage is 26% for such systems that are placed in service before January 1, 2022, 30% for such systems that are placed in service after December 31, 2021 and before January 1, 2033, 26% for such systems that are placed in service in 2033, and 22% for such systems that are placed in service in 2034. The Section 25D Credit is scheduled to expire effective January 1, 2035. The availability of the Section 25D Credit may impact the prices of its solar energy systems and overall value proposition our solar systems provide to customers.

Previous wording

Reductions in, eliminations of, or expirations of, governmental incentives could adversely impact results of operations and ability to compete in this industry by increasing the cost of capital, causing us to increase the prices of our energy and solar energy systems and reduce the size of our addressable market.

Current wording

Reductions in, eliminations of, or expirations of, governmental incentives could adversely impact results of operations and our ability to compete in this industry by increasing the cost of capital, causing us to increase the prices of our energy and solar energy systems and reduce the size of our addressable market.

Previous wording

Existing regulations and policies and changes to these regulations and policies may present technical, regulatory, and economic barriers to the purchase and use of solar power products, which may significantly reduce demand for our products and services.

Current wording

Existing regulations and policies, including trade policies and tariffs, and changes to these regulations and policies, including changes to trade policies and tariffs, may present technical, regulatory, and economic barriers to the purchase and use of solar power products, which may significantly reduce demand for our products and services.

Previous wording

The market for electric generation products is heavily influenced by federal, state and local government laws, regulations and policies concerning the electric utility industry in the U.S. and abroad, as well as policies promulgated by electric utilities. These regulations and policies often relate to electricity pricing and technical interconnection of customer-owned electricity generation, and changes that make solar power less competitive with other power sources could deter investment in the research and development of alternative energy sources as well as customer purchases of solar power technology, which could in turn result in a significant reduction in the demand for our solar power products. The market for electric generation equipment is also influenced by trade and local content laws, regulations and policies that can discourage growth and competition in the solar industry and create economic barriers to the purchase of solar power products, thus reducing demand for our solar products. In addition, on-grid applications depend on access to the grid, which is also regulated by government entities. We anticipate that our solar power products and our installation will continue to be subject to oversight and regulation in accordance with federal, state, local and foreign regulations relating to construction, safety, environmental protection, utility interconnection and metering, trade, and related matters. It is difficult to track the requirements of individual states or local jurisdictions and design equipment to comply with the varying standards. In addition, the U.S. and European Union, among others, have imposed tariffs or are in the process of evaluating the imposition of tariffs on solar panels, solar cells, polysilicon, and potentially other components. These and any other tariffs or similar taxes or duties may increase the price of our solar products and adversely affect our cost reduction roadmap, which could harm our results of operations and financial condition. Any new regulations or policies pertaining our solar power products may result in significant additional expenses for our customers, which could cause a significant reduction in demand for our solar power products.

Current wording

The market for electric generation products is heavily influenced by federal, state and local government laws, geopolitical forces (such as trade policies and tariffs), regulations and policies concerning the electric utility industry in the U.S. and abroad, as well as policies promulgated by electric utilities. These regulations and policies often relate to electricity pricing and technical interconnection of customer-owned electricity generation, and trade and policy changes that make solar power less competitive with other power sources could deter investment in the research and development of alternative energy sources as well as customer purchases of solar power technology, which could in turn result in a significant reduction in the demand for our solar power products. The market for electric generation equipment is also influenced by geopolitics, trade and local content laws, policies and tariffs, regulations and policies that can discourage growth and competition in the solar industry and create economic barriers to the purchase of solar power products, thus reducing demand for our solar products. In addition, on-grid applications depend on access to the grid, which is also regulated by government entities. We anticipate that our solar power products and our installation will continue to be subject to oversight and regulation in accordance with federal, state, local and foreign regulations relating to construction, safety, environmental protection, utility interconnection and metering, trade, and related matters. It is difficult to track the requirements of individual states or local jurisdictions and design equipment to comply with the varying standards. In addition, the U.S. and European Union, among others, have imposed tariffs or are in the process of evaluating the imposition of tariffs on solar panels, solar cells, polysilicon, and potentially other components. These and any other tariffs or similar taxes or duties may increase the price of our solar products and adversely affect our cost reduction roadmap, which could harm our results of operations and financial condition. We cannot predict what actions may be taken by the United States or other countries with respect to trade policies and tariffs or with respect to other policies and incentives that impact the solar industry, or that promote other forms of energy production over the solar industry. Any new regulations or policies pertaining our solar power products may result in significant additional expenses for our customers, which could cause a significant reduction in demand for our solar power products.

Previous wording

In California, the California Public Utilities Commission (“CPUC”) issued an order in 2016 retaining retail-based net metering credits for residential customers of California’s major utilities as part of Net Energy Metering 2.0 (“NEM 2.0”). Under NEM 2.0, new distributed generation customers receive the retail rate for electricity exported to the grid, less certain non-bypassable fees. Customers under NEM 2.0 also are subject to interconnection charges and time-of-use rates. Existing customers who receive service under the prior net metering program, as well as new customers under the NEM 2.0 program, currently are permitted to remain covered by them on a legacy basis for a period of 20 years. On September 3, 2020, the CPUC opened a new proceeding to review its current net metering policies and to develop Net Energy Metering 3.0 (“NEM 3.0”), also referred to by the CPUC as the NEM 2.0 successor tariff. NEM 3.0 was finalized on December 15, 2022 and will include several changes from previous net metering plans. There will be changes that impact the amount that homeowners with solar power will be able to recuperate when selling excess energy back to the utility grid. With NEM 3.0, the value of the credits for net exports will be tied to the state’s 2022 Distributed Energy Resources Avoided Cost Calculator Documentation (“ACC”). Another significant change with NEM 3.0 will be applied to the netting period: the time period over which the utilities measure the clean energy being imported or exported. In general, longer netting periods have typically been advantageous for solar power customers because production can offset any consumption. NEM 3.0 will instead measure energy using instantaneous netting, which means interval netting approximately every 15 minutes. This will lead to more NEM customers’ electricity registering as exports, now valued at the new, lower ACC value.

Current wording

In California, the California Public Utilities Commission (“CPUC”) issued an order in 2016 retaining retail-based net metering credits for residential customers of California’s major utilities as part of Net Energy Metering 2.0 (“NEM 2.0”). Under NEM 2.0, new distributed generation customers receive the retail rate for electricity exported to the grid, less certain non-by passable fees. Customers under NEM 2.0 also are subject to interconnection charges and time-of-use rates. Existing customers who receive service under the prior net metering program, as well as new customers under the NEM 2.0 program, currently are permitted to remain covered by them on a legacy basis for a period of 20 years. On September 3, 2020, the CPUC opened a new proceeding to review its current net metering policies and to develop Net Energy Metering 3.0 (“NEM 3.0”), also referred to by the CPUC as the NEM 2.0 successor tariff. NEM 3.0 was finalized on December 15, 2022 and includes several changes from previous net metering plans. The changes instituted by NEM 3.0 impacted the amount that homeowners with solar power will be able to recuperate when selling excess energy back to the utility grid. With NEM 3.0, the value of the credits for net exports are tied to the state’s Distributed Energy Resources Avoided Cost Calculator Documentation (“ACC”). Another significant change with NEM 3.0 relates to the netting period: the time period over which the utilities measure the clean energy being imported or exported. In general, longer netting periods have typically been advantageous for solar power customers because production can offset any consumption. NEM 3.0 will instead measure energy using instantaneous netting, which means interval netting approximately every 15 minutes. This will lead to more NEM customers’ electricity registering as exports, now valued at the new, lower ACC value. Overall, the institution on NEM 3.0 has resulted in a smaller market for residential solar systems and it is not certain that market conditions will improve or that NEM 3.0 will be amended or replaced with a more solar-friendly rate structure. Other states may adopt policies similar to NEM 3.0 that cause deterioration to other residential solar markets.

Previous wording

We purchase solar panels, inverters and other system components from a limited number of suppliers, which makes us susceptible to quality issues, shortages and price changes. If we fail to develop, maintain and expand relationships with existing or new suppliers, we may be unable to adequately meet anticipated demand for our solar energy systems or may only be able to offer our systems at higher costs or after delays. If one or more of the suppliers that we rely upon to meet anticipated demand ceases or reduces production, we may be unable to satisfy this demand due to an inability to quickly identify alternate suppliers or to qualify alternative products on commercially reasonable terms.

Current wording

We purchase solar panels, inverters and other system components from a limited number of suppliers for certain components, which makes us susceptible to quality issues, shortages and price changes. If we fail to develop, maintain and expand relationships with existing or new suppliers, we may be unable to adequately meet anticipated demand for our solar energy systems or may only be able to offer our systems at higher costs or after delays. If one or more of the suppliers that we rely upon to meet anticipated demand ceases or reduces production, we may be unable to satisfy this demand due to an inability to quickly identify alternate suppliers or to qualify alternative products on commercially reasonable terms.

Previous wording

In particular, there are a limited number of inverter suppliers. Once we design a system for use with a particular inverter, if that type of inverter is not readily available at an anticipated price, we may incur additional delay and expense to redesign the system.

Current wording

In particular, there are a limited number of inverter and battery suppliers. Once we design a system for use with a particular inverter or battery, if that type of inverter or battery is not readily available at an anticipated price, we may incur additional delay and expense to redesign the system and source alternative inventory.

Previous wording

Our business substantially focuses on solar service agreements and transactions with residential customers. Our energy system sales to homeowners utilize power purchase agreements (“PPAs”), leases, loans and other products and services. We currently offer PPAs and leases through, EverBright, LLC, and other financial institutions. If we were unable to arrange new or alternative financing methods for PPAs and leases on favorable terms, our business, financial condition, results of operations, and prospects could be materially and adversely affected.

Current wording

Our business substantially focuses on solar service agreements and transactions with residential customers. Our energy system sales to homeowners utilize power purchase agreements (“PPAs”), leases, loans and other products and services. We currently offer PPAs and leases through LightReach, Mosaic, EverBright, LLC, and other financial institutions. If we were unable to arrange new or alternative financing methods for PPAs and leases on favorable terms, our business, financial condition, results of operations, and prospects could be materially and adversely affected.

Previous wording

We have incurred net losses in the past and had an accumulated deficit of $354.9 million and $85.4 million as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. We will continue to incur net losses as spending increases to finance the expansion of operations, installation, engineering, administrative, sales and marketing staffs, spending increases on brand awareness and other sales and marketing initiatives and implement internal systems and infrastructure to support the company’s growth. We do not know whether revenue will grow rapidly enough to absorb these costs, and our limited operating history makes it difficult to assess the extent of these expenses or their impact on results of operations. Our ability to achieve profitability depends on a number of factors, including but not limited to:

Current wording

We have incurred net losses in the past, including $56.5 million in the fiscal year ended December 29, 2024, and we have an accumulated deficit of $411.4 million as of December 29, 2024. Additionally, as of December 29, 2024, we had long-term indebtedness of $145.8 million. We will continue to incur net losses as spending increases to finance the expansion of operations, installation, engineering, administrative, sales and marketing staffs, spending increases on brand awareness and other sales and marketing initiatives and implement internal systems and infrastructure to support the company’s growth. We do not know whether revenue will grow rapidly enough to absorb these costs, and our limited operating history makes it difficult to assess the extent of these expenses or their impact on results of operations. Our ability to achieve profitability depends on a number of factors, including but not limited to:

Previous wording

The solar energy and renewable energy industries are both highly competitive and continually evolving as participants strive to distinguish themselves within their markets and compete with large utilities. Our primary competitors are the traditional utilities that supply energy to potential customers. We compete with these utilities primarily based on price, predictability of price and the ease by which customers can switch to electricity generated by our solar energy systems. If we cannot offer compelling value to its customers based on these factors, then our business will not grow. Utilities generally have substantially greater financial, technical, operational and other resources than us. As a result of their greater size, these competitors may be able to devote more resources to the research, development, promotion and sale of their products or respond more quickly to evolving industry standards and changes in market conditions than we can. Utilities could also offer other value- added products and services that could help them compete with us even if the cost of electricity they offer is higher than ours. In addition, a majority of utilities’ sources of electricity is non-solar, which may allow utilities to sell electricity more cheaply than electricity generated by our solar energy systems.

Current wording

The solar energy and renewable energy industries are both highly competitive and continually evolving as participants strive to distinguish themselves within their markets and compete with large utilities. Our primary competitors are the traditional utilities that supply energy to potential customers. We compete with these utilities primarily based on price, predictability of price and the ease by which customers can switch to electricity generated by our solar energy systems. If we cannot offer compelling value to its customers based on these factors, then our business will not grow. Utilities generally have substantially greater financial, technical, operational and other resources than us. As a result of their greater size, these competitors may be able to devote more resources to the research, development, promotion and sale of their products or respond more quickly to evolving industry standards and changes in market conditions than we can. Utilities could also offer other value added products and services that could help them compete with us even if the cost of electricity they offer is higher than ours. In addition, a majority of utilities’ sources of electricity are non-solar, which may allow utilities to sell electricity more cheaply than electricity generated by our solar energy systems.

Previous wording

Our business is subject to significant industry-specific seasonal fluctuations. In the U.S., many customers make purchasing decisions towards the end of the year in order to take advantage of tax credits. In addition, sales in the new home development market are often tied to construction market demands, which tend to follow national trends in construction, including declining sales during cold weather months.

Current wording

Our business is subject to significant industry-specific seasonal fluctuations. In the U.S., many customers make purchasing decisions towards the end of the year in order to take advantage of tax credits and residential solar sales tend to decline during the winter months. In addition, sales in the new home development market are often tied to construction market demands, which tend to follow national trends in construction, including declining sales during cold weather months.

Previous wording

Global pandemics or fear of spread of contagious diseases, such as Ebola virus disease (EVD), coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS), severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), H1N1 flu, H7N9 flu, avian flu and monkeypox, as well as hurricanes, earthquakes, tsunamis, or other natural disasters could disrupt our business operations, reduce or restrict operations and services, incur significant costs to protect its employees and facilities, or result in regional or global economic distress, which may materially and adversely affect business, financial condition, and results of operations. Actual or threatened war, terrorist activities, political unrest, civil strife, future disruptions in access to bank deposits or lending commitments due to bank failures and other geopolitical uncertainty could have a similar adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations. On February 24, 2022, the Russian Federation launched an invasion of Ukraine that has had an immediate impact on the global economy resulting in higher energy prices and higher prices for certain raw materials and goods and services which in turn is contributing to higher inflation in the U.S. and other countries across the globe with significant disruption to financial markets. We have outsourced product development and software engineering in Ukraine and we may potentially indirectly be adversely impacted any significant disruption it has caused and may continue to escalate. Similarly, the current armed conflict in Israel and the Gaza Strip may impact our operations. Any one or more of these events may impede our operation and delivery efforts and adversely affect sales results, or even for a prolonged period of time, which could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations. We cannot predict the full effects the supply chain constraints will have on our business, cash flows, liquidity, financial condition and results of operations at this time due to numerous uncertainties.

Current wording

Global pandemics or fear of spread of contagious diseases, such as Ebola virus disease (EVD), coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS), severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), H1N1 flu, H7N9 flu, avian flu and monkeypox, as well as hurricanes, earthquakes, tsunamis, or other natural disasters could disrupt our business operations, reduce or restrict operations and services, incur significant costs to protect its employees and facilities, or result in regional or global economic distress, which may materially and adversely affect business, financial condition, and results of operations. Actual or threatened war, terrorist activities, political unrest, civil strife, future disruptions in access to bank deposits or lending commitments due to bank failures and other geopolitical uncertainty could have a similar adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations. On February 24, 2022, the Russian Federation launched an invasion of Ukraine that has had an immediate impact on the global economy resulting in higher energy prices and higher prices for certain raw materials and goods and services which in turn is contributing to higher inflation in the U.S. and other countries across the globe with significant disruption to financial markets. Any one or more of these events may impede our operation and delivery efforts and adversely affect sales results, or even for a prolonged period of time, which could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations. We cannot predict the full effects the supply chain constraints will have on our business, cash flows, liquidity, financial condition and results of operations at this time due to numerous uncertainties.

Previous wording

We are exposed to the credit risk of customers and payment delinquencies on its accounts receivables.

Current wording

We are exposed to the credit risk of customers and our finance partners, and payment delinquencies on accounts receivables.

Previous wording

While customer defaults have been immaterial to date, we expect that the risk of customer defaults may increase as we grow our business. If we experience increased customer credit defaults, our revenue and our ability to raise new investment funds could be adversely affected. If economic conditions worsen, certain of our customers may face liquidity concerns and may be unable to satisfy their payment obligations to us on a timely basis or at all, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

Defaults by customers and the financial institutions that fund some of our customers’ solar systems have not been material to date, but we expect that the risk of customer defaults or financial partner defaults may increase as we grow our business. For example, Sunnova Energy International, Inc. (“Sunnova”), a major provider of financing for solar systems, announced that substantial doubt exists regarding its ability to continue as a going concern. While Complete Solar does not use Sunnova for any of its customer financing, if any of our financing partners experience liquidity concerns or stop funding projects, we may incur significant losses or project delays. If any of our customers are unable to make milestone payments on systems purchased in cash, our revenue and costs could be adversely affected. If economic conditions worsen, certain of our customers or finance partners may face liquidity concerns and may be unable to satisfy their payment obligations to us on a timely basis or at all, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

We may not realize the anticipated benefits of past or future acquisitions, and integration of these acquisitions may disrupt our business.

Current wording

We may not realize the anticipated benefits of past or future acquisitions, including the transactions under the APA with SunPower, and integration of these acquisitions may disrupt our business.

Previous wording

In November 2022, we acquired The Solaria Corporation (“Solaria”), after which Complete Solar was renamed “Complete Solaria, Inc.” In October 2023, we subsequently sold solar panel assets of Solaria, including intellectual property and customer contracts, to Maxeon Solar Technologies, Ltd., which resulted in an impairment loss of $147.5 million and loss on disposal of $1.8 million. In the future, we may acquire additional companies, project pipelines, products, or technologies, or enter into joint ventures or other strategic initiatives. Our ability as an organization to integrate acquisitions is unproven. We may not realize the anticipated benefits of our acquisitions or any other future acquisition or the acquisition may be viewed negatively by customers, financial markets or investors.

Current wording

In November 2022, we acquired The Solaria Corporation (“Solaria”), after which Complete Solar was renamed “Complete Solaria, Inc.” In October 2023, we subsequently sold solar panel assets of Solaria, including intellectual property and customer contracts, to Maxeon Solar Technologies, Ltd., which resulted in an impairment loss of $147.5 million and loss on disposal of $1.8 million. On September 30, 2024, we completed the acquisition of the Acquired Assets under the APA with SunPower, which resulted in our acquisition of the SunPower Businesses and a significant expansion of our business operations and headcount. In the future, we may acquire additional companies, project pipelines, products, or technologies, or enter into joint ventures or other strategic initiatives. Our ability as an organization to integrate acquisitions is unproven. We may not realize the anticipated benefits of our acquisitions or any other future acquisition or the acquisition may be viewed negatively by customers, financial markets or investors.

Previous wording

Our business substantially focuses on solar service agreements and transactions with residential customers. We offer leases, loans and other products and services to consumers by contractors in our dealer networks, who utilize sales people employed by or engaged as third-party service providers of such contractors. We and our dealers must comply with numerous federal, state and local laws and regulations that govern matters relating to interactions with residential consumers, including those pertaining to consumer protection, marketing and sales, privacy and data security, consumer financial and credit transactions, mortgages and refinancings, home improvement contracts, warranties and various means of customer solicitation, including under the laws described below in “As sales to residential customers have grown, we have increasingly become subject to substantial financing and consumer protection laws and regulations.” These laws and regulations are dynamic and subject to potentially differing interpretations and various federal, state and local legislative and regulatory bodies may initiate investigations, expand current laws or regulations, or enact new laws and regulations regarding these matters. Changes in these laws or regulations or their interpretation could dramatically affect how we and our dealers do business, acquire customers and manage and use information collected from and about current and prospective customers and the costs associated therewith. We and our dealers strive to comply with all applicable laws and regulations relating to interactions with residential customers. It is possible, however, these requirements may be interpreted and applied in a manner inconsistent from one jurisdiction to another and may conflict with other rules or our practices or the practices of our dealers.

Current wording

Our business substantially focuses on home improvement contracts for the installation of solar systems for residential customers. We offer leases, loans and other products and services directly to consumers and through sales partners in our dealer networks, who utilize sales people employed by or engaged as third-party service providers of such contractors. We and our dealers must comply with numerous federal, state and local laws and regulations that govern matters relating to interactions with residential consumers, including those pertaining to consumer protection, marketing and sales, privacy and data security, consumer financial and credit transactions, mortgages and refinancings, home improvement contracts, warranties and various means of customer solicitation, including under the laws described below in “As sales to residential customers have grown, we have increasingly become subject to substantial financing and consumer protection laws and regulations.” These laws and regulations are dynamic and subject to potentially differing interpretations and various federal, state and local legislative and regulatory bodies may initiate investigations, expand current laws or regulations, or enact new laws and regulations regarding these matters. Changes in these laws or regulations or their interpretation could dramatically affect how we and our dealers do business, acquire customers and manage and use information collected from and about current and prospective customers and the costs associated therewith. We and our dealers strive to comply with all applicable laws and regulations relating to interactions with residential customers. It is possible, however, that these requirements may be interpreted and applied in a manner inconsistent from one jurisdiction to another and may conflict with other rules or our practices or the practices of our dealers.

Previous wording

From time to time, we have been included in lawsuits brought by the consumer customers of certain contractors in our networks, citing claims based on the sales practices of these contractors. While we have paid only minimal damages to date, we cannot be sure that a court of law would not determine that we are liable for the actions of the contractors in our networks or that a regulator or state attorney general’s office may hold us accountable for violations of consumer protection or other applicable laws by. Our risk mitigation processes may not be sufficient to mitigate financial harm associated with violations of applicable law by our contractors or ensure that any such contractor is able to satisfy its indemnification obligations to us. Any significant judgment against us could expose it to broader liabilities, a need to adjust our distribution channels for products and services or otherwise change our business model and could adversely impact the business.

Current wording

From time to time, we have been included in lawsuits brought by the consumer customers of certain contractors in our networks, citing claims based on the sales practices of these contractors. We cannot be sure that a court of law would not determine that we are liable for the actions of the contractors in our networks or that a regulator or state attorney general’s office may hold us accountable for violations of consumer protection or other applicable laws by. Our risk mitigation processes may not be sufficient to mitigate financial harm associated with violations of applicable law by our contractors or ensure that any such contractor is able to satisfy its indemnification obligations to us. Any significant judgment against us could expose it to broader liabilities, a need to adjust our distribution channels for products and services or otherwise change our business model and could adversely impact the business.

Previous wording

Our success depends on the continuing contributions of key personnel.

Current wording

Our success depends on the continuing contributions of key personnel, including Thurman J. Rodgers. If we are unable to attract and retain key employees and qualified personnel, our business and prospects could be harmed.

Previous wording

We rely heavily on the services of our key executive officers and the loss of services of any principal member of the management team could adversely affect operations. There have been, and from time to time there may continue to be, changes in our management team resulting from the hiring or departure of executives and key employees, or the transition of executives within our business, which could disrupt our business.

Current wording

We rely heavily on the services of our key executive officers and other key employees, in particular Thurman J. Rodgers, and the loss of services of any principal member of the management team or other key employees could adversely affect our operations. There have been, and from time to time there may continue to be, changes in our management team resulting from the hiring or departure of executives and key employees, or the transition of executives within our business, which could disrupt our business. For example, during 2023 and 2024, we had turnover in key positions, including our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer. As a result of the SunPower Acquisition, we also appointed new employees to key positions and restructured our management reporting lines. Such changes in our executive management team or workforce may be disruptive to our business, divert management’s attention, result in a loss of knowledge and negatively impact employee morale. If we encounter further turnover or difficulties associated with the transition or departure of our executive officers and key employees, or if we are unsuccessful in recruiting new personnel or in retaining and motivating existing personnel, our operations may be disrupted, which could harm our business.

Previous wording

We are investing significant resources in developing new members of management as we complete our restructuring and strategic transformation. We also anticipate that over time we will need to hire a number of highly skilled technical, sales, marketing, administrative, and accounting personnel. The competition for qualified personnel is intense in this industry. We may not be successful in attracting and retaining sufficient numbers of qualified personnel to support its anticipated growth. We cannot guarantee that any employee will remain employed with us for any definite period of time since all employees, including key executive officers, serve at-will and may terminate their employment at any time for any reason.

Current wording

We are investing significant resources in developing new members of management as we complete our restructuring and strategic transformation, including as a result of the SunPower Acquisition. We also anticipate that over time we will need to hire a number of highly skilled technical, sales, marketing, administrative, and accounting personnel. The competition for qualified personnel is intense in this industry. We may not be successful in attracting and retaining sufficient numbers of qualified personnel to support its anticipated growth. We cannot guarantee that any employee will remain employed with us for any definite period of time since all employees, including key executive officers, serve at-will and may terminate their employment at any time for any reason.

Previous wording

We devote resources to network security, data encryption, and other security measures to protect our systems and data, but these security measures cannot provide absolute security. Because the techniques used to obtain unauthorized access, disable or degrade service, or sabotage systems change frequently, target end users through phishing and other malicious techniques, and/or may be difficult to detect for long periods of time, we may be unable to anticipate these techniques or implement adequate preventative measures. As a result, we may experience a breach of our systems in the future that reduces our ability to protect sensitive data. In addition, hardware, software, or applications we develop or procures from third parties may contain defects in design or manufacture or other problems that could unexpectedly compromise information security. Unauthorized parties may also attempt to gain access to our systems or facilities through fraud, trickery or other forms of deceiving team members, contractors and temporary staff. If we experience, or are perceived to have experienced, a significant data security breach, fail to detect and appropriately respond to a significant data security breach, or fail to implement disclosure controls and procedures that provide for timely disclosure of data security breaches deemed material to our business, including corrections or updates to previous disclosures, we could be exposed to a risk of loss, increased insurance costs, remediation and prospective prevention costs, damage to our reputation and brand, litigation and possible liability, or government enforcement actions, any of which could detrimentally affect our business, results of operations, and financial condition.

Current wording

We devote resources to network security, data encryption, and other security measures to protect our systems and data, but these security measures cannot provide absolute security. Because the techniques used to obtain unauthorized access, disable or degrade service, or sabotage systems change frequently, target end users through phishing and other malicious techniques, and/or may be difficult to detect for long periods of time, we may be unable to anticipate these techniques or implement adequate preventative measures. As a result, we may experience a breach of our systems in the future that reduces our ability to protect sensitive data. In addition, hardware, software, or applications we develop or procure from third parties may contain defects in design or manufacture or other problems that could unexpectedly compromise information security. Unauthorized parties may also attempt to gain access to our systems or facilities through fraud, trickery or other forms of deceiving team members, contractors and temporary staff. If we experience, or are perceived to have experienced, a significant data security breach, fail to detect and appropriately respond to a significant data security breach, or fail to implement disclosure controls and procedures that provide for timely disclosure of data security breaches deemed material to our business, including corrections or updates to previous disclosures, we could be exposed to a risk of loss, increased insurance costs, remediation and prospective prevention costs, damage to our reputation and brand, litigation and possible liability, or government enforcement actions, any of which could detrimentally affect our business, results of operations, and financial condition.

Previous wording

We are a licensed contractor in certain communities that we service and are ultimately responsible as the contracting party for every solar energy system installation. A significant portion of our business depends on obtaining and maintaining required licenses in various jurisdictions. All such licenses are subject to audit by the relevant government agency. Our failure to obtain or maintain required licenses could result in the termination of certain of our contracts. For example, we hold a license with California’s Contractors State License Board (the “CSLB”) and that license is currently under probation with the CSLB. If we fail to comply with the CSLB’s law and regulations, it could result in termination of certain of our contracts, monetary penalties, extension of the license probation period or revocation of its license in California. In addition, we may be liable, either directly or through its solar partners, to homeowners for any damage we causes to them, their home, belongings or property during the installation of our systems. For example, we either directly or through its solar partners, frequently penetrate homeowners’ roofs during the installation process and may incur liability for the failure to adequately weatherproof such penetrations following the completion of construction. In addition, because the solar energy systems we or our solar partners deploy are high voltage energy systems, we may incur liability for failing to comply with electrical standards and manufacturer recommendations.

Current wording

We are a licensed contractor in certain communities that we service and are ultimately responsible as the contracting party for every solar energy system installation. A significant portion of our business depends on obtaining and maintaining required licenses in various jurisdictions. All such licenses are subject to audit by the relevant government agency. Our failure to obtain or maintain required licenses could result in the termination of certain of our contracts. For example, we hold a license with California’s Contractors State License Board (the “CSLB”) and that license is currently under probation with the CSLB. If we fail to comply with the CSLB’s law and regulations, it could result in termination of certain of our contracts, monetary penalties, extension of the license probation period or revocation of its license in California. In addition, we may be liable, either directly or through its solar partners, to homeowners for any damage we cause to them, their home, belongings or property during the installation of our systems. For example, we either directly or through its solar partners, frequently penetrate homeowners’ roofs during the installation process and may incur liability for the failure to adequately weatherproof such penetrations following the completion of construction. In addition, because the solar energy systems we or our solar partners deploy are high voltage energy systems, we may incur liability for failing to comply with electrical standards and manufacturer recommendations.

Previous wording

Further, we or our solar partners may face construction delays or cost overruns, which may adversely affect our or our solar partners’ ability to ramp up the volume of installation in accordance with our plans. Such delays or overruns may occur as a result of a variety of factors, such as labor shortages, defects in materials and workmanship, adverse weather conditions, transportation constraints, construction change orders, site changes, labor issues and other unforeseen difficulties, any of which could lead to increased cancellation rates, reputational harm and other adverse effects.

Current wording

Further, we or our installation partners may face construction delays or cost overruns, which may adversely affect our or our sales partners’ ability to ramp up the volume of installation in accordance with our plans. Such delays or overruns may occur as a result of a variety of factors, such as labor shortages, defects in materials and workmanship, adverse weather conditions, transportation constraints, construction change orders, site changes, labor issues and other unforeseen difficulties, any of which could lead to increased cancellation rates, reputational harm and other adverse effects.

Previous wording

We provide warranties that cover parts performance and labor to purchasers of our solar modules. We maintain a warranty reserve on our financial statements, and our warranty claims may exceed the warranty reserve. Any significant warranty expenses could adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations. Significant warranty problems could impair our reputation which could result in lower revenue and a lower gross margin.

Current wording

We provide warranties that cover parts performance and labor to purchasers of our solar modules. We also have legacy warranty and performance obligations from our former business manufacturing solar panels. We maintain a warranty reserve on our financial statements, and our warranty claims may exceed the warranty reserve. Any significant warranty expenses could adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations. Significant warranty problems could impair our reputation which could result in lower revenue and a lower gross margin.

Previous wording

We are involved in claims, legal proceedings that arise from normal business activities. In addition, from time to time, third parties may assert claims against us. We evaluate all claims, lawsuits and investigations with respect to their potential merits, our potential defenses and counter claims, settlement or litigation potential and the expected effect on us. In the event that we are involved in significant disputes or are the subject of a formal action by a regulatory agency, we could be exposed to costly and time-consuming legal proceedings that could result in any number of outcomes. Although outcomes of such actions vary, any claims, proceedings or regulatory actions initiated by or against us whether successful or not, could result in expensive costs of defense, costly damage awards, injunctive relief, increased costs of business, fines or orders to change certain business practices, significant dedication of management time, diversion of significant operational resources or some other harm to the business. In any of these cases, our business, financial condition or results of operations could be negatively impacted. We make a provision for a liability relating to legal matters when it is both probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. These provisions are reviewed at least quarterly and adjusted to reflect the impacts of negotiations, estimated settlements, legal rulings, advice of legal counsel and other information and events pertaining to a particular matter. Depending on the nature and timing of any such controversy, an unfavorable resolution of a matter could materially affect our future business, financial condition or results of operations, or all of the foregoing, in a particular quarter.

Current wording

We are involved in claims, legal proceedings that arise from normal business activities. In addition, from time to time, third parties have asserted and may in the future assert claims against us. We evaluate all claims, lawsuits and investigations with respect to their potential merits, our potential defenses and counter claims, settlement or litigation potential and the expected effect on us. In the event that we are involved in significant disputes, including the legal claims noted below, or are the subject of a formal action by a regulatory agency, we could be exposed to costly and time-consuming legal proceedings that could result in any number of outcomes. Although outcomes of such actions vary, any claims, proceedings or regulatory actions initiated by or against us whether successful or not, could result in expensive costs of defense, costly damage awards, injunctive relief, increased costs of business, fines or orders to change certain business practices, significant dedication of management time, diversion of significant operational resources or some other harm to the business. In any of these cases, our business, financial condition or results of operations could be negatively impacted. We make a provision for a liability relating to legal matters when it is both probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. These provisions are reviewed at least quarterly and adjusted to reflect the impacts of negotiations, estimated settlements, legal rulings, advice of legal counsel and other information and events pertaining to a particular matter. Depending on the nature and timing of any such controversy, an unfavorable resolution of a matter could materially affect our future business, financial condition or results of operations, or all of the foregoing, in a particular quarter.

Previous wording

Fluctuations in the price of our securities could contribute to the loss of all or part of your investment. Prior to the Business Combination, there was no public market for Solaria’s stock and trading in the shares of our common stock (prior to consummation of the Business Combination, “FACT Common Stock”) was not active. Accordingly, the valuation ascribed to Solaria and FACT Common Stock in the Business Combination may not have been indicative of the price that will prevail in the trading market following the Business Combination. If an active market for our securities develops and continues, the trading price of our securities could be volatile and subject to wide fluctuations in response to various factors, some of which are beyond our control. Any of the factors listed below could have a material adverse effect on your investment in our securities and our securities may trade at prices significantly below the price you paid for them. In such circumstances, the trading price of our securities may not recover and may experience a further decline.

Current wording

Fluctuations in the price of our securities could contribute to the loss of all or part of your investment. The trading price of our securities could be volatile and subject to wide fluctuations in response to various factors, some of which are beyond our control. Any of the factors listed below could have a material adverse effect on your investment in our securities and our securities may trade at prices significantly below the price you paid for them. In such circumstances, the trading price of our securities may not recover and may experience a further decline.

Previous wording

We may be required to repurchase up to 6,720,000 shares of common stock from the investors with whom we entered into Forward Purchase Agreements in connection with the closing of the Business Combination, which would reduce the amount of cash available to us to fund our growth plan.

Current wording

We may be required to repurchase up to 5,618,488 shares of common stock from the investors with whom we entered into Forward Purchase Agreements in connection with the closing of the Business Combination, which would reduce the amount of cash available to us to fund our growth plan.