Principles of Responsible Investment
1. Statement of Principles
Repsol Energy Ventures S.A. (hereinafter, "REV"), a 100% subsidiary of the Repsol Group (hereinafter, "Repsol"), acts as a strategic corporate venture capital initiative aimed at investing in innovative startups that maximize our contribution to sustainable development. Our goal is to satisfy the growing demand for energy and products in order to meet current needs without compromising the needs of future generations.
We are dedicated to identifying and empowering innovative startups that address decarbonization challenges and contribute to the Agenda for Sustainable Development, always with the aim of contributing to Repsol's commitment to being a net-zero emissions company by 2050 in line with the Paris Agreement.
To achieve this, REV manages assets that support the development and scaling of disruptive technologies in the energy sector, focusing on Europe (especially Spain) and North America. Our investment focuses on strategic areas such as the circular economy, low-carbon technologies, mobility solutions, renewable energies, and digital technologies for asset optimization, always seeking synergy between innovation and responsibility in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria.
Our Responsible Investment Policy is articulated around a clear purpose and strong values that underpin our approach to responsible investment, incorporating ESG criteria in the decision-making process. This not only improves risk management and profitability but also reflects our commitment to generating a positive impact on society and the environment.
We exclude relationships with counterparties involved in practices contrary to respect for human rights and ethical principles and values such as harm to people or the environment, corruption, money laundering, terrorism financing, and any other illegal or contrary actions to Repsol's policies.
2. Our Values
At REV, we are committed to creating economic value and a positive impact on society and the environment. Through our investments, we seek to be a catalyst for change towards a more sustainable future, aligning our efforts with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and actively contributing to the United Nations 2030 Agenda.
Here we highlight how our values and actions align with the SDGs to which Repsol seeks to contribute more significantly:
3. Resources and Team
ESG risk analysis occupies a central place in our investment process. At Repsol, we understand that considering these factors is essential for making sound and sustainable long-term financial decisions. This approach allows us to identify investment opportunities that not only generate attractive financial returns but are also aligned with the company's sustainability commitments.
ESG Coordinator
To effectively incorporate ESG criteria at all stages of the investment process, we have established the necessary resources and defined a specific role: the ESG Coordinator. This role enables the consolidation and reporting of ESG information for each participation, overseeing implementation and ensuring standards established by REV are maintained.
Investment Committee
The REV Investment Committee plays a fundamental role as a governing body responsible for overseeing and making strategic decisions regarding Repsol's investments. This committee works closely with the ESG Coordinator to ensure that ESG criteria are comprehensively considered in all investment decisions. The collaboration between the Investment Committee and the ESG Coordinator ensures that our investments meet financial objectives while promoting sustainable development.
4. Inclusion of ESG Criteria in the Investment Process
a. Planning
We define the sectors and challenges where innovation and investment can make an impact on sustainability, aligning REV's objectives with ESG principles and the SDGs. To achieve this, we explore opportunities in various industries, considering how our investments can contribute to environmental, social, and corporate governance aspects.
b. Sourcing
We preliminarily review candidate companies to ensure they contribute to achieving our sustainable development goals.
In this context, special attention is given to companies that have a potential impact on ESG matters and are aligned with the challenges and strategic objectives set by Repsol and the 2030 Agenda.
Activities contrary to responsible investment principles are excluded. During the preliminary search phase, the management team evaluates whether opportunities align with the criteria and objectives of the investment principles.
c. Initial Screening
We identify technical capabilities and assess technology alignment with our strategy, prioritizing ESG factors in the search and detection of opportunities.
d. Detailed Screening
We conduct a thorough analysis of the company's strategy and business plan, as well as an internal assessment of ESG impacts, risks, and opportunities.
This evaluation is carried out through a questionnaire to identify ESG risks and opportunities. This information helps us verify that the company incorporates sustainable practices into its activities and provides a comprehensive view of the company's ESG situation.
Additionally, at this stage of the process, the strategic collaboration between Repsol and the company being evaluated is defined, transaction terms are negotiated, and a reputational analysis report is obtained.
e. Due Diligence
A comprehensive due diligence process is conducted to assess the ESG risks and opportunities associated with each potential investment. This process includes evaluating:
a. Environmental and social impact
b. Occupational health and safety
c. Legal and regulatory compliance
d. Financial, legal, and accounting review
e. Anti-corruption policies
f. Human and labor rights
In the case of investment in funds, REV prioritizes venture capital funds classified as Article 9 (SFDR) or impact funds.
g. Deal Closing
The transaction closing process focuses on mitigating the risks identified during the due diligence. After obtaining approval according to the Company's Investment Standard, the team develops contractual agreements that specifically address ESG findings.
During this stage, contractual clauses are incorporated to mitigate identified risks, and a timeline is established to implement improvement actions during the investment period. These clauses must reflect clear commitments from the target company to ensure compliance with ESG standards.
h. Portfolio Management
Once REV materializes an investment, the investment team is committed to regularly monitoring the investee company to evaluate financial and operational results and the progress of ESG initiatives. This includes risk management and the implementation of recommendations identified during the due diligence or agreed upon later.
To ensure effective monitoring, a series of KPIs, including ESG metrics, are identified. These aspects are included as discussion points in board meetings, ensuring that ESG performance remains a continuous priority and aligns with REV's sustainability objectives.
i. Exit
Before proceeding with any divestment or financing round, a detailed evaluation of the ESG progress and achievements during the investment period is conducted. This evaluation highlights how ESG improvements contribute to creating a more valuable and sustainable company. The results of this analysis are carefully considered when planning an exit, ensuring that the divestment strategy reflects both financial performance and sustainability objectives and their continuity.
5. Transparency and Communication
At REV, we understand the importance of transparently communicating our responsible investment practices and follow the United Nations Principles for Responsible Investment (UN PRI).
We will periodically report on our progress and initiatives undertaken in ESG matters through repsol.com.
6. Responsible Internal and External Promotion of Responsible Investment
ESG principles are deeply integrated into how Repsol structures its internal governance and interacts with its stakeholders.
Repsol applies best practices in various areas:
Repsol is committed to promoting best practices in our operations and establishing action guidelines in line with the company values and code of conduct to guide professional and personal behavior:
Repsol's policies reflect this commitment, including:
We aspire to be a benchmark for good ESG practices for the investment community and our stakeholders, promoting responsible investment in our area of activity. At the same time, we foster continuous dialogue with our investees to drive their growth and maturity in ESG management.
7. Document Update
This statement of responsible investment principles was created in June 2024. This document will be reviewed and updated as necessary to reflect changes in applicable laws, regulations, standards, and market demands.