NRG Energy to acquire Vivint Smart Home for $12 per share, or $2.8B cash

NRG Energy (NRG) and Vivint Smart Home (VVNT) announced they have entered into a definitive agreement under which NRG will acquire Vivint for $12 per share or $2.8B in an all-cash transaction with an implied multiple of 6.3x run-rate Enterprise Value to Adjusted EBITDA. The agreement has been unanimously approved by the boards of directors of both companies. NRG will acquire 100% of the outstanding equity of Vivint for a total transaction value of $5.2B, which consists of approximately $2.8B in cash and the assumption of $2.4B of debt (net of cash), which benefits from attractive terms and pricing. This consideration represents a premium of approximately 33% to Vivint’s closing share price on December 5, 2022. NRG’s capital allocation strategy will continue to opportunistically balance its growth, return of capital, and balance sheet objectives. NRG intends to complete its existing $1 billion share repurchase program over the near term, of which $360 million was remaining as of November 30, 2022. In 2023, NRG expects to use its excess free cash flow to fund the Vivint acquisition, reduce acquisition-related debt, and maintain its common stock dividend growth policy. In 2024, the Company intends to return to its 50% return of capital / 50% growth capital allocation policy. NRG remains highly committed to its dividend growth policy, which remains unchanged from previous guidance. Management remains committed to maintaining its strong balance sheet and credit ratings. The Company expects to achieve its investment grade credit metrics target of 2.50-2.75x Net Debt / Adjusted EBITDA by late 2025 to 2026 through the combination of debt reduction and growth. The transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of 2023 and is subject to customary closing conditions, including the expiration of the waiting period under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976. Upon completion of the transaction, NRG intends to maintain a significant presence in Utah.