SPRUCE POWER HOLDING CORP

Previous wording

An investment in our securities is speculative and involves a high degree of risk. Before deciding whether to invest in our securities, you should consider carefully the risks described below, together with other information in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and the other information and documents we file with the SEC. The occurrence of any of the following risks could have a material and adverse effect on our business, reputation, financial condition, results of operations and future growth prospects, as well as our ability to accomplish our strategic objectives. As a result, the trading price of our Common Stock could decline, and you could lose all or part of your investment. Additional risks and uncertainties not presently known to us or that we currently deem immaterial may also impair our business operations and stock price.

Current wording

An investment in our securities is speculative and involves a high degree of risk. Before deciding whether to invest in our securities, you should consider carefully the risks described below, together with other information in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and the other information and documents we file with the SEC. The occurrence of any of the following risks could have a material and adverse effect on our business, reputation, financial condition, results of operations and future growth prospects, as well as our ability to accomplish our strategic objectives. As a result, the trading price of our common stock could decline, and you could lose all or part of your investment. Additional risks and uncertainties not presently known to us or that we currently deem immaterial may also impair our business operations, financial condition, results of operations and stock price.

Previous wording

The solar energy industry is an emerging market which is constantly evolving and may not develop to the size or at the rate we expect. Demand for home solar systems may decline, cease or take longer to develop than we expect.

Current wording

The solar energy industry is an emerging market which is constantly evolving and may not develop to the size or at the rate we expect, which could cause an adverse effect on our business

Previous wording

The distributed home solar energy market is at a relatively early stage and is a constantly evolving market. We believe the solar energy industry is still developing and maturing, and we cannot be certain that the market will grow to the size or at the rate we expect. Any future growth of the solar energy market and the success of our solar service offerings depend on many factors beyond our control, including recognition and acceptance of the solar service market by consumers, the pricing of alternative sources of energy, a favorable regulatory environment, the continuation of expected tax benefits and other incentives, and our ability to provide our solar service offerings cost effectively. If the markets for solar energy do not develop to the size or at the rate we expect, or demand for distributed home solar energy systems fails to develop sufficiently, our business may be adversely affected.

Current wording

The distributed home solar energy market is at a relatively early stage of development and is a constantly evolving market. The solar energy industry is still developing and maturing, and as such, we cannot be certain that the market will grow to the size or at the rate we expect. Any future growth of the solar energy market and the success of our solar service offerings depend on many factors beyond our control, including recognition and acceptance of the solar service market by consumers, the pricing of alternative sources of energy, a favorable regulatory environment, the continuation of expected tax benefits and other incentives, and our ability to provide our solar service offerings cost effectively. If the markets for solar energy do not develop to the size or at the rate we expect, or demand for distributed home solar energy systems fails to develop sufficiently, our business may be adversely affected.

Previous wording

Solar energy has yet to achieve broad market acceptance and depends in part on continued support in the form of rebates, tax credits, and other incentives from federal, state and local governments. If this support diminishes materially, our ability to obtain external financing on acceptable terms, or at all, could be materially adversely affected. These types of funding limitations could lead to inadequate financing support for the anticipated growth in our business. We cannot be certain if historical growth rates reflect future opportunities or whether growth anticipated by us will be realized. Furthermore, growth in home solar energy depends in part on macroeconomic conditions, retail prices of electricity and customer preferences, each of which can change quickly. Declining macroeconomic conditions, including in the job markets and residential real estate markets, could contribute to instability and uncertainty among customers and impact their financial wherewithal, credit scores or interest in entering into long-term contracts, even if such contracts would generate immediate and long-term savings.

Current wording

Solar energy has yet to achieve broad market acceptance and depends in part on continued support in the form of rebates, tax credits, and other incentives from federal, state and local governments. If this support diminishes materially, our ability to obtain external financing on acceptable terms, or at all, could be materially adversely affected. These types of funding limitations could lead to inadequate financing support for the anticipated growth in our business, to renew financing for the acquisitions that we have completed, or to provide financing for acquisitions that we identify in the future. We cannot be certain if historical growth rates reflect future opportunities or whether growth anticipated by us will be realized. Furthermore, growth in home solar energy depends in part on macroeconomic conditions, retail prices of electricity and customer preferences, each of which can change quickly. Declining macroeconomic conditions, including in the job markets, commodity markets, and residential real estate markets, could contribute to instability and uncertainty among customers and impact their financial wherewithal, credit scores and ultimately, their demand for home solar energy systems or interest in entering into long-term contracts, even if such contracts would generate immediate and long-term savings.

Previous wording

We agree to maintain the solar energy systems and energy storage systems installed on our customers’ homes during the length of the term of our Customer Agreements, which are typically 20 years. We are exposed to any liabilities arising from the solar energy systems’ failure to operate properly and are generally under an obligation to ensure each solar energy system remains in good condition during the term of the Customer Agreement. We are the beneficiary of the manufacturers’ and system installers’ warranty coverage, typically of 20 years for equipment warranties and five to ten years for workmanship warranties. In the event that such warranty providers file for bankruptcy, cease operations or otherwise become unable or unwilling to fulfill their warranty or related maintenance obligations, we may not be adequately protected by such warranties or maintenance obligations. Even if such warranty providers fulfill their obligations, the warranty or maintenance obligations may not be sufficient to protect us against all of our losses. These warranties are subject to liability and other limits. If we seek warranty protection and a warranty provider is unable or unwilling to perform its warranty obligations, whether as a result of its financial condition, its ability to act in a timely manner, or otherwise, or if the term of the warranty or maintenance obligation has expired or a liability limit has been reached, there may be a reduction or loss of protection for the affected assets, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

We agree to maintain the solar energy systems during the length of the term of our Customer Agreements, which are typically 20 years. We are exposed to any liabilities arising from the solar energy systems’ failure to operate properly and are generally under an obligation to ensure each solar energy system remains in good condition during the term of the Customer Agreement. We are the beneficiary of the manufacturers’ and system installers’ warranty coverage, typically of 20 years for equipment warranties and five to ten years for workmanship warranties. In the event that such warranty providers file for bankruptcy, cease operations or otherwise become unable or unwilling to fulfill their warranty or related maintenance obligations, we may not be adequately protected by such warranties or maintenance obligations. Even if such warranty providers fulfill their obligations, the warranty or maintenance obligations may not be sufficient to protect us against all of our losses. These warranties are subject to liability and other limits. If we seek warranty protection and a warranty provider is unable or unwilling to perform its warranty obligations, whether as a result of its financial condition, its ability to act in a timely manner, or otherwise, or if the term of the warranty or maintenance obligation has expired or a liability limit has been reached, there may be a reduction or loss of protection for the affected assets, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Additionally, it is possible that the solar energy systems could cause injuries or property damage due to product malfunctions, defects or other causes. The solar energy systems or their components could also be subject to recalls either due to production defects or malfunctions, which could be expensive to resolve and may divert management’s attention. In addition, product liability claims, injuries, defects or other problems experienced by other companies could lead to unfavorable market conditions to the industry as a whole and may have an adverse effect on our ability to expand our portfolio of customer agreements and related solar energy systems, which could affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

We made these assumptions based on the historic performance of similar solar energy systems or on accelerated life cycle testing. Our assumptions could prove to be materially different from the actual performance of our solar energy systems, causing us to incur substantial expense to repair or replace defective solar energy systems in the future or to compensate customers for solar energy systems that do not meet their performance guarantees. Equipment defects, serial defects or operational deficiencies also would reduce our revenue from Customer Agreements because the customer payments under such Customer Agreements are dependent on solar energy system production or would require us to make refunds under performance guarantees. Any widespread product failures or operating deficiencies may damage our market reputation and adversely impact our financial results.

Current wording

Our failure to accurately predict future liabilities related to material quality or performance expenses could result in unexpected volatility in our financial condition. Due to the long estimated useful life of our solar energy systems, we have been required to make assumptions and apply judgments regarding a number of factors, including our anticipated rate of warranty claims and the durability, performance and reliability of our solar energy systems. We made these assumptions based on the historic performance of similar solar energy systems or on accelerated life cycle testing. Our assumptions could prove to be materially different from the actual performance of our solar energy systems, causing us to incur substantial expense to repair or replace defective solar energy systems in the future or to compensate customers for solar energy systems that do not meet their performance guarantees. Equipment defects, serial defects or operational deficiencies also would reduce our revenue from Customer Agreements since the customer payments under such Customer Agreements are dependent on solar energy system production or would require us to make refunds under performance guarantees. Any widespread product failures or operating deficiencies may damage our market reputation and adversely impact our financial results.

Previous wording

Developments in technology or improvements in distributed solar energy generation and related technologies or components may materially adversely affect demand for our offerings

Current wording

Developments in technology or improvements in distributed solar energy generation and related technologies or components may materially adversely affect our ability to retain customers

Previous wording

Significant developments in technology, such as advances in distributed solar power generation, energy storage solutions such as batteries, energy storage management systems, the widespread use or adoption of fuel cells for residential or commercial properties or improvements in other forms of distributed or centralized power production may materially and adversely affect demand for our offerings and otherwise affect our business. Future technological advancements may result in reduced prices to consumers or more efficient solar energy systems than those available today, either of which may result in current customer dissatisfaction. We may not be able to adopt these new technologies as quickly as our competitors or on a cost-effective basis.

Current wording

Significant developments in technology, such as advances in distributed solar power generation, energy storage solutions such as batteries, energy storage management systems, the widespread use or adoption of fuel cells for residential or commercial properties or improvements in other forms of distributed or centralized power production may materially and adversely affect our ability to retain customers and otherwise affect our business. Future technological advancements may result in reduced prices to consumers or more efficient solar energy systems than those available today, and we may not be able to adopt these new technologies as quickly as our competitors or on a cost-effective basis. This could result in current customer dissatisfaction, resulting in customers switching to competitor service providers who provide these new technologies more quickly or more cost-effectively.

Previous wording

Due to the length of our Customer Agreements, the solar energy system deployed on a customer's residence may be outdated prior to the expiration of the term of the related Customer Agreement, reducing the likelihood of renewal of our Customer Agreement at the end of the applicable term and possibly increasing the occurrence of customers seeking to terminate or cancel their Customer Agreements or customer defaults. If current customers become dissatisfied with the price they pay for their solar energy system under our Customer Agreements relative to prices that may be available in the future or if customers become dissatisfied by the output generated by their solar energy systems relative to future solar energy system production capabilities, or both, this may lead to customers seeking to terminate or cancel their Customer Agreements or to higher rates of customer default and have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Additionally, recent technological advancements may impact our business in ways we do not currently anticipate. Any failure by us to adopt or have access to new or enhanced technologies or processes, or to react to changes in existing technologies, could result in product obsolescence or the loss of competitiveness of and decreased consumer interest in our solar energy services, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

Due to the length of our Customer Agreements, the solar energy system deployed on a customer's residence may be outdated prior to the expiration of the term of the related Customer Agreement, reducing the likelihood of renewal of our Customer Agreement at the end of the applicable term and possibly increasing the occurrence of customers seeking to terminate or cancel their Customer Agreements or customer defaults. If current customers become dissatisfied with the price they pay for their solar energy system under our Customer Agreements relative to prices that may be available in the future or if customers become dissatisfied by the output generated by their solar energy systems relative to future solar energy system production capabilities, or both, this may lead to customers seeking to terminate or cancel their Customer Agreements or to higher rates of customer default and have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Additionally, recent technological advancements may impact our business in ways we do not currently anticipate. Any failure by us to adopt or have access to new or enhanced technologies or processes, or to react to changes in existing technologies, could result in product obsolescence or the loss of competitiveness of and decreased consumer retention for our solar energy services, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

Our solar energy systems and energy storage systems depend heavily on suitable solar and meteorological conditions. Seasonality fluctuations and effects of climate change could adversely affect our results of operations

Current wording

Our solar energy systems depend heavily on suitable solar and meteorological conditions, which may be impacted by the effects of climate change. Seasonality fluctuations and effects of climate change could adversely affect our results of operations

Previous wording

The energy produced and the revenue and cash receipts generated by a solar energy system depend on suitable solar, atmospheric, and weather conditions, all of which are beyond our control. Shifts in weather are difficult to predict and may not be immediately apparent, and the impact of these changes is difficult to quantify from period to period. Our economic model and projected returns on our solar energy systems require achievement of certain production results from our systems and, in some cases, we guarantee these results to our consumers. There can be no assurance we will be successful in implementing effective strategies to counter these shifts in weather. If the solar energy systems underperform for any reason, our business could suffer. For example, the amount of revenue we recognize in a given period and the amount of our obligations under the performance guarantees of our Customer Agreements are dependent in part on the amount of energy generated by solar energy systems under such Customer Agreements. Furthermore, climate change could exacerbate the frequency and severity of weather events in all areas where we operate. Climate change or other factors could also cause prevailing weather patterns to materially change in the future, making it harder to predict the average annual amount of sunlight striking each location where our solar energy systems and energy storage systems are. Potential negative effects of climate change include, among others, a temporary decrease in solar availability in certain locations, disruptions in transmission grids and delays or reductions in new installations. These or other effects could make our solar energy systems less economical overall or make individual solar energy systems less economical. Any of these effects on meteorological conditions could harm our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Current wording

The energy produced and the revenue and cash receipts generated by a solar energy system depend on suitable solar, atmospheric and weather conditions, all of which are beyond our control. Furthermore, our systems could be damaged by severe weather or natural catastrophes, such as hurricanes, freezes, hailstorms, tornadoes, fires or earthquakes. Shifts in weather are difficult to predict and may not be immediately apparent, and the impact of these changes is difficult to quantify from period to period. Our economic model and projected returns on our solar energy systems require achievement of certain production results from our systems and, in some cases, we guarantee these results to our consumers. There can be no assurance we will be successful in implementing effective strategies to counter these shifts in weather. If the solar energy systems underperform for any reason, our business could suffer. For example, the amount of revenue we recognize in a given period and the amount of our obligations under the performance guarantees of our Customer Agreements are dependent in part on the amount of energy generated by solar energy systems under such Customer Agreements. Furthermore, climate change could exacerbate the frequency and severity of weather events in all areas where we operate. Climate change or other factors could also cause prevailing weather patterns to materially change in the future, making it harder to predict the average annual amount of sunlight striking each location where our solar energy systems are. Potential negative effects of climate change include, among others, a temporary decrease in solar availability in certain locations, disruptions in transmission grids and delays or reductions in new installations. These or other effects could make our solar energy systems less economical overall or make individual solar energy systems less economical. Any of these effects on meteorological conditions could harm our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

We typically bear the risk of loss and are generally obligated to cover the cost of maintenance, repair, and removal for any of our solar energy systems. Under our Customer Agreements, we agree to operate and maintain the solar energy system for a fixed fee calculated to cover our future expected maintenance costs. If our solar energy systems require an above-average amount of repairs or if the cost of repairing the solar energy systems is higher than our estimate, we would need to perform such repairs without additional compensation. If our solar energy systems are damaged as the result of a natural disaster beyond our control, losses could exceed or be excluded from our insurance policy limits and we could incur unforeseen costs that could harm our business and financial condition. We may also incur significant costs for taking other actions in preparation for, or in reaction to, such events. We purchase property insurance with industry standard coverage and limits to hedge against such risk, but such coverage may not cover our losses.

Current wording

We typically bear the risk of loss and are generally obligated to cover the cost of maintenance, repair and removal for any of our solar energy systems. Under our Customer Agreements, we agree to operate and maintain the solar energy system for a fixed fee calculated to cover our future expected maintenance costs. If our solar energy systems require an above-average amount of repairs or if the cost of repairing the solar energy systems is higher than our estimate, we would need to perform such repairs without additional compensation. If our solar energy systems are damaged as the result of a natural disaster beyond our control, losses could exceed or be excluded from our insurance policy limits and we could incur unforeseen costs that could harm our business and financial condition. We may also incur significant costs for taking other actions in preparation for, or in reaction to, such events. We purchase property insurance with industry standard coverage and limits to protect against such risk, but such coverage may not cover our losses.

Previous wording

We may require additional financing to support the development of our business and implementation of our growth strategy

Current wording

We may require additional financing to support the development of our business and implementation of our growth strategy, and if financing is not available to us on acceptable terms when needed, our ability to continue to grow our business could be materially adversely affected

Previous wording

We expect to have sufficient capital for the next 12 months for our operations and strategic initiatives. However, we may require additional capital investment in the future to fund operations and support strategic initiatives. There can be no assurance that we will have access to the capital we need on favorable terms when required or at all. Additional financing may not be available on terms acceptable to us. If we are unable to obtain needed financing on acceptable terms, we may not be able to implement our business plan, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects. If we raise additional funds through the sale of equity, convertible debt or other equity-linked securities, our shareholders' ownership will be diluted. We may issue securities that have rights, preferences and privileges senior to our Common Stock.

Current wording

We may require additional capital investment in the future to fund operations and support strategic initiatives. There can be no assurance that we will have access to the capital we need on favorable terms when required or at all. Additional financing may not be available on terms acceptable to us. If we are unable to obtain needed financing on acceptable terms, we may not be able to implement our business plan, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects. If we raise additional funds through the sale of equity, convertible debt or other equity-linked securities, our shareholders’ ownership will be diluted. We may issue securities that have rights, preferences and privileges senior to our common stock.

Previous wording

Our executive officers have limited experience in the management of a publicly traded company. Management may not successfully or effectively manage a public company that is subject to significant regulatory oversight and reporting obligations under federal securities laws. Management’s limited experience in dealing with the increasingly complex laws pertaining to public companies could be a significant disadvantage in that it is likely that an increasing amount of their time may be devoted to these activities, which will result in less time being devoted to the management and growth of the post-combination company. Any failure to manage our growth effectively could materially and adversely affect our business, prospects, operating results and financial condition.

Current wording

Our executive officers have limited experience in the management of a publicly traded company. Management may not successfully or effectively manage a public company that is subject to significant regulatory oversight and reporting obligations under federal securities laws. Management’s limited experience in dealing with the increasingly complex laws pertaining to public companies could be a significant disadvantage in that it is likely that an increasing amount of their time may be devoted to these activities, which will result in less time being devoted to the management and our growth. Any failure to manage our growth effectively could materially and adversely affect our business, prospects, operating results and financial condition.

Previous wording

Rising interest rates could adversely affect our financial condition

Current wording

Rising interest rates could raise our cost of capital and may adversely affect our financial condition

Previous wording

We have$646.7 million of long-term debt outstanding as of December 31, 2023, which are secured by our solar assets and the majority of which is variable rate debt. Although we use interest rate swap contracts to mitigate the market risk associated with rising interest rates, significant increases in interest ratesmay still increase our cost of capital.

Current wording

We have$730.6 million of long-term debt outstanding as of December 31, 2024, which are secured by our solar assets, and the majority of which is variable rate debt. Increases in interest rates could result in an increase in our interest expense under our variable-rate borrowings and the costs of refinancing existing indebtedness or obtaining new debt, including debt to finance future acquisitions. Although we use interest rate swap contracts to mitigate the market risk associated with rising interest rates, including on our existing variable-rate debt, significant increases in interest rates or continued higher interest ratesmay still increase our cost of capital and may make it more difficult for us to finance our business.

Previous wording

Any security breach, unauthorized access or disclosure, or theft of data, including personal information, we, our third party service providers, or our suppliers gather, store, transmit or use, could harm our reputation, subject us to claims, litigation, and financial harm and have an adverse impact on our business.

Current wording

Any security breach, unauthorized access or disclosure, or theft of data, including personal information, we, our third party service providers, or our suppliers gather, store, transmit or use, or other hacking, cyber-attack, phishing attack, and unauthorized intrusions into or through our systems or those of our third-party service providers could harm our reputation, subject us to claims, litigation, and financial harm and have an adverse impact on our business

Previous wording

In the ordinary course of business, we, our third-party service providers and our suppliers receive, store, transmit, and use data, including the personal information of customers, such as names, addresses, email addresses, credit information and other housing and energy use data, as well as the personal information of our employees. Any unauthorized disclosure of such personal information, whether through a breach of our systems or those of our third-party service providers or suppliers by an unauthorized party, including, but not limited to hackers, threat actors, sophisticated nation-states or nation-state-supported actors, or through the personnel theft, or misuse of information, or otherwise, could harm our business. In addition, we, our third party service providers and our suppliers may be subject to a variety of evolving threats, such as computer malware (including as a result of advanced persistent threat intrusions), ransomware, malicious code (such as viruses or worms), social engineering (including spear phishing and smishing attacks), telecommunications failures, natural disasters and extreme weather events, general hacking and other similar threats.

Current wording

In the ordinary course of business, we, our third-party service providers and our suppliers receive, store, transmit and use proprietary, confidential and sensitive data, including the personal information of customers, such as names, addresses, email addresses, credit information and other housing and energy use data, as well as the personal information of our employees. Any unauthorized disclosure of such proprietary, confidential or sensitive data, including personal information, whether through a breach of our systems or those of our third-party service providers or suppliers by an unauthorized party, including, but not limited to hackers, threat actors, sophisticated nation-states or nation-state-supported actors, or through the personnel theft, or misuse of information, or otherwise, could harm our business. In addition, we, our third party service providers and our suppliers may be subject to a variety of evolving threats, such as computer malware (including as a result of advanced persistent threat intrusions), ransomware, malicious code (such as viruses or worms), social engineering (including spear phishing and smishing attacks), telecommunications failures, natural disasters and extreme weather events, general hacking, and other similar threats.

Previous wording

Cybersecurity incidents have become more prevalent and could occur on our systems and those of our third parties in the future. Our team members who work remotely pose increased risks to our information technology systems and data, because many of them utilize less secure network connections outside our premises.

Current wording

Cybersecurity incidents have become more prevalent and could occur on our systems and those of our third parties in the future. Our team members who work remotely pose increased risks to our information technology systems and data, since many of them utilize less secure network connections outside our premises.

Previous wording

Inadvertent disclosure of confidential data or unauthorized access by a third party could result in future claims or litigation arising from damages suffered by those affected, government enforcement actions (for example, investigations, fines, penalties, audits, and inspections), additional reporting requirements and/or oversight, indemnification obligations, reputational harm, interruptions in our operations, financial loss, and other similar harms. In addition, we could incur significant costs in complying with the multitude of federal, state, and local laws, and applicable independent security control frameworks, regarding the unauthorized disclosure of personal information. Although we have not experienced a material information security breach in the past and have developed systems and processes to prevent or detect security breaches and protect the confidential information we receive, store, transmit, and use, we cannot assure that such measures will provide adequate security. Finally, any perceived or actual unauthorized disclosure of such information, unauthorized intrusion, or other cyberthreat could harm our reputation, substantially impair our ability to attract and retain customers, interrupt our operations, and have an adverse impact on our business.

Current wording

Applicable data privacy and security obligations may require us to notify relevant stakeholders, including affected individuals, customers, regulators and investors, of security incidents. Such disclosures are costly, and the disclosure or the failure to comply with such requirements could lead to adverse consequences. Inadvertent disclosure of confidential data or unauthorized access by a third party could result in future claims or litigation arising from damages suffered by those affected, government enforcement actions (for example, investigations, fines, penalties, audits and inspections), additional reporting requirements and/or oversight, indemnification obligations, reputational harm, interruptions in our operations, financial loss and other similar harms. In addition, we could incur significant costs in complying with the multitude of federal, state, and local laws, and applicable independent security control frameworks, regarding the unauthorized disclosure of personal information. Although we have not experienced a material information security breach in the past and have developed systems and processes to prevent or detect security breaches and protect the confidential information we receive, store, transmit, and use, we cannot assure that such measures will provide adequate security. Finally, any perceived or actual unauthorized disclosure of such information, unauthorized intrusion, or other cyberthreat could harm our reputation, substantially impair our ability to attract and retain customers, interrupt our operations and have an adverse impact on our business.

Previous wording

Recent negative publicity has adversely affected our brand and reputation and our stock price. Negative publicity may result from allegations of fraud, improper business practices, employee misconduct or any other matters that could give rise to litigation and/or governmental investigations. Unfavorable publicity relating to us or those affiliated with us has and may in the future adversely affect public perception of the entire company. Adverse publicity and its effect on overall public perceptions of our brand, or our failure to respond effectively to adverse publicity, could have a material adverse effect on our business.

Current wording

Recent negative publicity has adversely affected, and may in the future affect, our industry, brand, reputation, and stock price, which may make it difficult for us to attract and retain employees, partners and customers, reduce confidence in our services, harm investor confidence and the market price of our securities, and invite legislative and regulatory scrutiny, litigation and government investigations. Negative publicity may result from allegations of fraud, improper business practices, employee misconduct or any other matters that could give rise to litigation and/or governmental investigations. Unfavorable publicity relating to us or those affiliated with us has and may in the future adversely affect public perception of the entire company. Adverse publicity and its effect on overall public perceptions of our brand, or our failure to respond effectively to adverse publicity, could have a material adverse effect on our business.

Previous wording

We have been named as a defendant in certain stockholder class actions, which like many litigation matters, could result in substantial damages and other related costs and may require management-level attention

Current wording

We are subject to legal proceedings and litigation and have been, and may in the future be, named as a defendant in legal proceedings, including certain stockholder class actions, which like many litigation matters, could result in substantial damages and other related costs and may require management-level attention

Previous wording

Beginning on March 8, 2021, two putative class action complaints were filed in the federal district court for the Southern District of New York against us and certain of our current officers and directors. The cases were consolidated as In re XL Fleet Corp. Securities Litigation, Case No. 1:21-cv-02171, a lead plaintiff was appointed, and an amended consolidated complaint was filed on July 20, 2021. The amended complaint alleges that certain public statements made by the defendants between September 18, 2020, and March 31, 2021 violated Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Exchange Act and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder. Our motion to dismiss the amended complaint was denied on February 17, 2022. We reached a settlement with the plaintiffs, which is currently pending approval by the court.

Current wording

Beginning on March 8, 2021, two putative class action complaints were filed in the federal district court for the Southern District of New York against us and certain of our current officers and directors. The cases were consolidated as In re XL Fleet Corp. Securities Litigation, Case No. 1:21-cv-02171, a lead plaintiff was appointed in June 2021. On July 20, 2021, an amended complaint was filed alleging that certain public statements made by the defendants between October 2,

Previous wording

On September 20, 2021, and October 19, 2021, two class action complaints were filed in the Delaware Court of Chancery against certain of our current officers and directors, and the company’s sponsor of its SPAC merger, Pivotal Investment Holdings II LLC. The actions were consolidated, and a consolidated amended complaint was filed on January 31, 2022, alleging various breaches of fiduciary duty, and aiding and abetting breaches of fiduciary duty, for purported actions relating to the negotiation and approval of the December 21, 2020, merger and organization of Legacy XL to become XL Fleet, and purportedly materially misleading statements made in connection with the merger. Although we believe that the allegations asserted in both actions are without merit, we are pursuing a settlement of these matters.

Current wording

On September 20, 2021, and October 19, 2021, two class action complaints were filed in the Delaware Court of Chancery against certain of our current officers and directors, and the sponsor of our special purpose acquisition company merger, Pivotal Investment Holdings II LLC. The actions were consolidated, and a consolidated amended complaint was filed on January 31, 2022, alleging various breaches of fiduciary duty, and aiding and abetting breaches of fiduciary duty, for purported actions relating to the negotiation and approval of the December 21, 2020, merger and organization of XL Hybrids, Inc., a Delaware corporation (“Legacy XL”) to become XL Fleet, and purportedly materially misleading statements made in connection with the merger. On August 19, 2022, defendants moved to dismiss the second amended complaint, which was granted in part and denied in part on June 9, 2023. The parties then engaged in discovery. On November 13, 2024, we filed a stipulation and settlement agreement seeking court approval to settle this matter in full for $4.75 million. On March 26, 2025, the court approved the stipulation and settlement agreement.

Previous wording

In 2021, we received requests for information, including a subpoena, from the SEC related to, among other things, the XL Fleet business combination with Legacy XL and the related private investment in public equity financing, the Company’s sales pipeline and revenue projections, purchase orders, suppliers, California Air Resources Board approvals, fuel economy from our Power Drive products, customer complaints, and disclosures and other matters in connection with the foregoing. In September 2023, the SEC simultaneously filed and settled administrative proceedings alleging violations of the federal securities laws. Specifically, the settlement order requires that we: (i) cease and desist from committing or causing any violations and any future violations of Sections 17(a)(2) and 17(a)(3) of the Securities Act, Sections 13(a) and 14(a) of the Exchange Act and Rules 12b-20, 13a-11, and 14a-9 thereunder, and (ii) pay, a civil money penalty in the amount of$11.0 million to the SEC, which has been paid.

Current wording

In 2021, we received requests for information, including a subpoena, from the SEC related to, among other things, the XL Fleet business combination with Legacy XL and the related private investment in public equity financing, our sales pipeline and revenue projections, purchase orders, suppliers, California Air Resources Board approvals, fuel economy from our Power Drive products, customer complaints, and disclosures and other matters in connection with the foregoing. In September 2023, the SEC simultaneously filed and settled administrative proceedings alleging violations of the federal securities laws. Specifically, the settlement order requires that we: (i) cease and desist from committing or causing any violations and any future violations of Sections 17(a)(2) and 17(a)(3) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), Sections 13(a) and 14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”) and Rules 12b-20, 13a-11, and 14a-9 thereunder, and (ii) pay, a civil money penalty in the amount of$11.0 millionto the SEC, which has been paid.

Previous wording

These legal proceedings and any other similar or related legal proceedings or investigations are subject to inherent uncertainties, and the actual costs to be incurred relating to these matters will depend upon many unknown factors. The outcome of these legal proceedings is uncertain, and we could be forced to expend significant resources in the defense of these actions, and we may not prevail. Monitoring and defending against legal actions is time-consuming for Management and detracts from our ability to fully focus our internal resources on our business activities, which could result in delays of our testing or our development and commercialization efforts. In addition, we may incur substantial legal fees and costs in connection with these matters. We are also generally obligated, to the extent permitted by law, to indemnify our current and former directors and officers who are named as defendants in these and similar actions. We are not currently able to estimate the possible cost to us from these matters, as these actions are currently at an early stage, and we cannot be certain how long it may take to resolve these matters or the possible amount of any damages that we may be required to pay. It is possible that we could, in the future, incur judgments or enter into settlements of claims for monetary damages. Decisions adverse to our interests in these actions could result in the payment of substantial damages, or possibly fines, and could have a material adverse effect on our cash flow, results of operations and financial position. In addition, the uncertainty of the currently pending litigation could lead to increased volatility in our stock price.

Current wording

These legal proceedings and any other similar or related legal proceedings or investigations are subject to inherent uncertainties, and the actual costs to be incurred relating to these matters will depend upon many unknown factors. The outcome of these legal proceedings is uncertain, and we could be forced to expend significant resources in the defense of these actions, and we may not prevail. Monitoring and defending against legal actions is time-consuming for our Management and staff, and may detract from our ability to fully focus our internal resources on our business activities. We are also generally obligated, to the extent permitted by law, to indemnify our current and former directors and officers who are named as defendants in these and similar actions. We currently cannot estimate the possible costs stemming from these matters, and we also cannot be certain how long it may take to resolve them or the possible amount of any potential sanctions, penalties, or damages that we may incur. It is possible that we could, in the future, incur judgments or enter into settlements of claims for monetary damages. An adverse outcome in these matters that results in significant sanctions could have a material adverse effect on our cash flow, results of operations, financial position, or our stock price.

Previous wording

We may need to defend ourselves against patent, copyright or trademark infringement claims or trade secret misappropriation claims, which may be time-consuming and cause us to incur substantial costs

Current wording

We may need to defend ourselves against patent, copyright or trademark infringement claims or trade secret misappropriation claims, which may be time-consuming and cause us to incur substantial costs and could materially adversely affect our business, prospects, financial condition and operating results

Previous wording

Retail sales of electricity by third parties such as us face regulatory challenges in some states and jurisdictions, including states and jurisdictions we intend to enter where the laws and regulatory policies have not historically embraced competition to the service provided by the vertically integrated centralized electric utility. Some of the principal challenges pertain to whether third-party owned solar energy systems qualify for the same levels of rebates or other non-tax incentives available for customer owned solar energy systems, whether third-party owned solar energy systems are eligible at all for these incentives and whether third-party owned solar energy systems are eligible for net metering and the associated significant cost savings. Furthermore, in some states and utility territories third parties are limited in the way they may deliver solar energy to their customers. These regulatory constraints may, for example, give rise to various property tax issues. Changes in law and reductions in, eliminations of or additional requirements for, benefits such as rebates, tax incentives and favorable net metering policies decrease the attractiveness of new solar energy systems to distributed home solar power companies and the attractiveness of solar energy systems to customers, which could reduce our acquisition opportunities. Such a loss or reduction could also adversely impact our access to capital and reduce our willingness to pursue solar energy systems due to higher operating costs or lower revenues.

Current wording

Retail sales of electricity by third parties such as us face regulatory challenges in some states and jurisdictions, including states and jurisdictions we intend to enter where the laws and regulatory policies have not historically embraced competition to the service provided by the vertically integrated centralized electric utility. Some of the principal challenges pertain to whether third-party owned solar energy systems qualify for the same levels of rebates or other non-tax incentives available for customer owned solar energy systems, whether third-party owned solar energy systems are eligible at all for these incentives and whether third-party owned solar energy systems are eligible for net metering and the associated significant cost savings. Furthermore, in some states and utility territories third parties are limited in the way they may deliver solar energy to their customers. These regulatory constraints may, for example, give rise to various property tax issues.

Previous wording

Compliance with occupational safety and health requirements can be costly and noncompliance with such requirements may result in potentially significant monetary penalties, operational delays and adverse publicity.

Current wording

Compliance with occupational safety and health and environmental requirements can be costly and noncompliance with such requirements may result in potentially significant monetary penalties, operational delays and adverse publicity

Previous wording

The ongoing operations and maintenance of solar energy systems and energy storage systems requires individuals hired by us or third-party contractors, potentially including our employees, to work at heights with complicated and potentially dangerous electrical systems. There is substantial risk of serious injury or death if proper safety procedures are not followed. Our operations are subject to regulation under Occupational Safety and Health Administration (“OSHA”), the U.S. Department of Transportation (“DOT”) regulations and equivalent state and local laws. Changes to OSHA or DOT requirements, or stricter interpretation or enforcement of existing laws or regulations, could result in increased costs. If we fail to comply with applicable OSHA or DOT regulations, even if no work-related serious injury or death occurs, we may be subject to civil or criminal enforcement and be required to pay substantial penalties, incur significant capital expenditures, or suspend or limit operations. Because individuals hired by us or on our behalf to perform ongoing operations and maintenance of our solar energy systems and energy storage systems, including third-party contractors, are compensated on a per project basis, they are incentivized to work more quickly than servicers compensated on an hourly basis. While we have not experienced a high level of injuries to date, this incentive structure may result in higher injury rates than others in the industry and could accordingly expose us to increased liability. Individuals hired by or on behalf of us may have workplace accidents and receive citations from OSHA regulators for alleged safety violations, resulting in fines. Any such accidents, citations, violations, injuries or failure to comply with industry best practices may subject us to adverse publicity, damage our reputation and competitive position and adversely affect our business.

Current wording

The ongoing operations and maintenance of solar energy systems requires individuals hired by us or third-party contractors, potentially including our employees, to work at heights with complicated and potentially dangerous electrical systems. There is substantial risk of serious injury or death if proper safety procedures are not followed. Certain of our operations are subject to regulation under OSHA and Wage and Hour Division, DOT regulations, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and equivalent state and local laws that protect and regulate employee health and safety and the environment. Changes to these requirements, or stricter interpretation or enforcement of existing laws or regulations, could result in increased costs. If we fail to comply with applicable occupational safety and health and environmental regulations, we may be subject to civil or criminal enforcement and be required to pay substantial penalties, incur significant capital expenditures, or suspend or limit operations. Since individuals hired by us or on our behalf to perform ongoing operations and maintenance of our solar energy systems, including third-party contractors, are compensated on a per project basis, they are incentivized to work more quickly than servicers compensated on an hourly basis. While we have not experienced a high level of injuries to date, this incentive structure may result in higher injury rates than others in the industry and could accordingly expose us to increased liability. Individuals hired by or on behalf of us may have workplace accidents and receive citations from OSHA regulators for alleged safety violations, resulting in fines. Any such accidents, citations, violations, injuries or failure to comply with industry best practices may subject us to adverse publicity, damage our reputation and competitive position and adversely affect our business.

Previous wording

A failure to comply with laws and regulations relating to interactions by us with current or prospective customers could result in negative publicity, claims, investigations and litigation and adversely affect our business.

Current wording

A failure to comply with laws and regulations relating to interactions by us with current or prospective customers, including consumer protection laws, could result in negative publicity, claims, investigations, and litigation and adversely affect our business

Previous wording

Our business substantially focuses on Customer Agreements and transactions with residential customers. We offer leases, loans and other products and services to consumers by contractors in our networks, who utilize sales people employed by or engaged as third-party service providers of such contractors. We 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. 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 do business, acquire customers, manage and use information collected from and about current and prospective customers and the costs associated therewith. We strive to comply with all applicable laws and regulations relating to interactions with 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.

Current wording

Our business substantially focuses on Customer Agreements and transactions with residential customers. We offer leases, loans and other products and services to consumers by contractors in our networks, who utilize sales people employed by or engaged as third-party service providers of such contractors. We 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. These laws and regulations are subject to change and to potentially differing interpretations. Additionally, various federal, state and local legislative and regulatory bodies may initiate investigations, which can lead to enforcement actions, 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 do business, acquire customers, manage and use information collected from and about current and prospective customers and the costs associated therewith. As a result, we are subject to a constantly evolving consumer protection environment that is difficult to predict and may affect our business. While we have developed policies and procedures designed to assist in compliance with these laws and regulations, no assurance is given that our compliance policies and procedures will be effective. Failure to comply with these laws and with regulatory requirements applicable to our business could subject us to, among other things, damages, class action lawsuits, enforcement actions, civil and criminal liability, settlements, changes in business practices, increased compliance costs, and reputational damage that may harm our business, results of operations, and financial condition.

Previous wording

We have received subpoenas from states attorneys general requesting information about our business. These investigations could result in substantial legal fees, fines, penalties or damages and may divert Management’s time and attention from our business

Current wording

We have received subpoenas from states attorneys general requesting information about our business. These investigations could result in fines, penalties or damages and may divert Management’s time and attention from our business

Previous wording

We have received subpoenas from the attorneys general for the states of Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, and Texas related to filed customer complaints each of which requested a substantial number of documents to be produced by the Company. While we are responding to these subpoenas with the assistance of counsel, it is possible that these investigations may result in a fine, penalty or injunction which may adversely affect our ability to operate in these states. In addition, responding to these requests for production may result in the diversion of Management’s attention and cause the Company to incur legal expenses.

Current wording

We have received subpoenas from certain state attorneys general requesting information about our business. These investigations could result in fines, penalties, or damages and may divert Management’s time and attention from our business. Specifically, we have received subpoenas from the attorneys general offices for the states of Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, and Texas regarding, among other things, certain sales, marketing, billing, and operations practices. We are timely responding to these subpoenas, and otherwise are cooperating with the states in connection with these investigations, each of which have involved requests for a substantial volume of documents. While we cannot now predict the outcome of these matters, it is possible that these investigations may result in a fine, penalty, or injunction which may impact our ability to operate in these states.

Previous wording

We are an early stage company with a history of losses, and we expect to incur significant expenses and continuing losses

Current wording

We have a history of losses, and we expect to incur significant expenses and continuing losses

Previous wording

We incurred net losses of approximately $65.8 million and $93.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. We believe that we will continue to incur operating and net losses through the near future. We completed the acquisition of Legacy Spruce Power and discontinued and disposed of our legacy businesses, and as a result our future net income or loss will depend upon the implementation of our strategy to expand our new solar power business. We expect the rate at which we will incur future losses will be impacted by the following:

Current wording

We incurred net losses of $70.5 million and $65.8 million for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. We believe that we will continue to incur operating and net losses through the near future. We completed the acquisition of Legacy Spruce Power and discontinued and disposed of our legacy businesses, and as a result our future net income or loss will depend upon the implementation of our strategy to expand our business. We expect the rate at which we will incur future losses will depend on a number of factors, including:

Previous wording

Because we will incur portions of the costs and expenses from these efforts before we receive the expected incremental revenues with respect thereto, our losses in future periods are expected to be significant. In addition, we may find that these efforts are more expensive than we currently anticipate or that these efforts may not result in revenues, which would have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and further increase our losses.

Current wording

We will incur portions of the costs and expenses from these efforts before we receive the expected incremental revenues with respect thereto, as such, we expect losses in future periods. In addition, we may find that these efforts are more expensive than we currently anticipate or that these efforts may not result in revenues, which would have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and further increase our losses.

Previous wording

Servicing our debt requires a significant amount of cash to comply with certain covenants and satisfy payment obligations, and we may not have sufficient cash flow from our business to pay our substantial debt and may be forced to take other actions to satisfy our obligations under our indebtedness, which may not be successful

Current wording

Servicing our existing debt requires a significant amount of cash to satisfy payment obligations. We may not have sufficient cash flow to service our debt, and we may be forced to take other actions to satisfy our obligations under our indebtedness, which may not be successful

Previous wording

We have $646.7 million of long-term debt outstanding as of December 31, 2023, as discussed in more detail in the section titled “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and our consolidated financial statements, in each case, included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Our ability to make scheduled payments of the principal of, to pay interest on or to refinance our indebtedness depends on our future performance, which is subject to economic, financial, competitive, and other factors beyond our control. Our business may not continue to generate cash flow from operations in the future sufficient to service our debt and make necessary capital expenditures to operate our business. If we are unable to generate such cash flow, we may be required to adopt one or more alternatives, such as selling assets, restructuring debt, or obtaining additional equity capital on terms that may be onerous or highly dilutive. Our ability to timely repay or otherwise refinance our indebtedness will depend on the capital markets and our financial condition at such time. We may not be able to engage in any of these activities or engage in these activities on desirable terms, which could result in a default on our debt obligations and negatively impact our financial condition and prospects.

Current wording

We have $730.6 million of long-term debt outstanding as of December 31, 2024, as discussed in more detail in the section titled “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and our consolidated financial statements, both included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Our ability to make scheduled principal payments, to pay interest on or to refinance our indebtedness depends on our future performance, which is subject to economic, financial, competitive and other factors beyond our control. We may not have sufficient cash flow in the future to service our debt. As a result, we may be required to adopt one or more alternatives, such as selling assets, restructuring debt, or obtaining additional equity capital on terms that may be onerous or highly dilutive. Our ability to timely repay or otherwise refinance our indebtedness will depend on the capital markets and our financial condition at such time. We may not be able to engage in any of these activities or engage in these activities on desirable terms, which could result in a default on our debt obligations and negatively impact our financial condition and prospects. Furthermore, we expect to incur additional debt in the future, and increases in our existing debt obligations would further heighten the debt related risk discussed above. In addition, we may not be able to enter into new debt instruments on acceptable terms or at all. If we were unable to satisfy the terms under existing or new instruments, or obtain waivers or forbearance from our lenders, or if we were unable to obtain refinancing or new financings for our working capital, equipment and other needs on acceptable terms if and when needed, our business would be adversely affected.