The green energy sector is experiencing rapid expansion, driven by escalating global concerns about climate change, supportive government policies, and continuous technological innovation. This growth presents considerable investment opportunities but also significant challenges. While large-cap companies often capture much of the media attention, many promising green energy stocks with growth potential are waiting to be discovered. While these companies are making significant strides in renewable energy projects, they have maintained a comparatively low profile in mainstream financial news, potentially representing attractive opportunities for investors willing to dig for hidden gems.

Uncovering Value in Green Energy

The allure of the green energy sector is undeniable. However, this rapid expansion masks considerable challenges for investors. Renewable energy projects demand significant upfront capital and often have extended lead times before generating substantial revenue, contributing to market volatility. This is compounded by intense competition and the ever-shifting terrain of government regulations and subsidies. These are factors that can severely impact a company’s profitability and long-term outlook. These inherent risks and the lengthy path to profitability can cause some well-positioned companies to remain relatively un-noticed within the sector.

Hannon Armstrong: Financing a Sustainable Future

Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure Capital, Inc. (NYSE: HASI) is a specialized financier of climate solutions, offering investors a unique opportunity to participate in the transition to a more sustainable economy. Unlike traditional renewable energy companies that develop and operate projects, HASI provides the crucial capital needed to bring these projects to life. Rather than direct project development, this focus on financing gives HASI a distinct advantage by reducing its exposure to the operational risks associated with construction and operation. Furthermore, HASI's target investments include renewable energy projects, energy efficiency improvements, and sustainable infrastructure, providing investors with exposure to a diversified slice of the ESG sector.

HASI's earnings report for the second quarter of 2024 (Q2 FY2024) showcased a solid financial performance, as illustrated by its Q2 EPS of $0.63, which significantly beat the consensus estimate of $0.51. Moreover, revenue for the same quarter reached $94.52 million, exceeding Hannon Armstrong’s analyst community’s expectations by a wide margin and surpassing the estimated revenue of $30.97 million. 

Hannon’s trailing 12-month return on equity (ROE) stands at an impressive 11.53%, complemented by a net margin of 59.56%, figures exceeding most traditional utility companies. The company's success extends beyond core operations. HASI actively strengthens its market position through strategic partnerships and ventures. For example, its participation in the financing of Pivot Energy's distributed generation portfolios showcases HASI's commitment to expanding its reach and impact across the sustainable energy sector.

With a consensus rating of Buy from 13 analysts and a high MarketRank™ score of 98%, investor sentiment is largely positive. HASI offers a compelling annual dividend of $1.66 per share, with a dividend yield of 5.93%, another factor attracting investors to the growing company. While HASI has a payout ratio of 93.26%, suggesting the company is paying out more in dividends than it earns, earnings estimates suggest this will balance out as the company continues to grow.

Brookfield Renewable Partners: A Diversified Powerhouse

Brookfield Renewable Partners (NYSE: BEP) boasts a geographically diversified portfolio of renewable power-generating assets across North America, Colombia, and Brazil. Its diverse technological approach, which encompasses hydroelectric, wind, solar, distributed generation, and pumped storage technologies, as well as renewable natural gas, carbon capture and storage, recycling, and cogeneration biomass projects, significantly reduces reliance on any single energy source.

Brookfield Renewable Partner’s earnings report for the third quarter of fiscal year 2024 (Q3 FY2024)  presented a mixed picture. While Funds From Operations (FFO) reached $278 million, representing an 11% increase year over year, it missed Brookfield’s analyst community expectations. This divergence stems from non-cash accounting adjustments, including the marking-to-market of hedging instruments. 

While these non-cash items impact reported earnings per share (EPS), they are less indicative of Brookfield's core operational performance and long-term outlook. In the renewable energy sector, where long-term contracts and project lifecycles are key, FFO often provides a better measure of a company’s ability to fund operations and future growth.

BEP's growth prospects remain substantial. The company is aggressively expanding its development pipeline, actively commissioning new capacity, and securing long-term contracts. Eight analysts project an average price target of $31.89, representing considerable upside potential. While BEP's debt-to-equity ratio of 0.93 may raise some concerns, a return on equity of 0.24% and a net margin of 1.16% suggest a promising financial outlook. 

Finding Your Fit in Green Energy

Choosing between Brookfield Renewable Partners (BEP) and Hannon Armstrong (HASI) depends mainly on your investment strategy and risk tolerance.

Income-Oriented Investors

HASI's high dividend yield (5.93%) makes it particularly attractive for investors focused on generating consistent income. While the payout ratio (93.26%) based on trailing 12-month earnings) currently exceeds earnings, earnings projections for the next fiscal year suggest a more sustainable payout ratio. The lower beta (1.93) also suggests lower volatility compared to BEP. This is further reduced because Hannon Armstrong's business model involves financing a diversified portfolio of projects, lowering the risk of reliance on any single project's success. The high net margins (59.56%) and ROE (11.53%) also support this.

Growth-Oriented Investors

Brookfield Renewable Partners offers significant growth potential despite the recent EPS miss. Analysts project a considerable upside, with an average price target of $31.89. BEP's diversified portfolio and aggressive expansion strategy contribute to its growth potential. Although the higher beta (0.93) suggests increased volatility compared to HASI, the substantial projected growth makes it appealing to those seeking higher returns at a higher risk level.

Balanced Investors

Investors seeking a balance between income and growth may find both stocks appealing. HASI could provide a stable income stream, and BEP offers the potential for capital appreciation. 

Harvesting the Green Energy Revolution

Brookfield Renewable Partners and Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure present distinct but complementary investment strategies within the green energy sector. BEP's diversified portfolio and operational focus offer a balance of income and growth potential. At the same time, HASI's financing-centric approach provides exposure to a broad range of climate solutions with potentially higher margins. By carefully assessing their respective strengths and risks, investors can strategically build diversified portfolios designed to capture the rewards of the green energy revolution.