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Significant accounting policies (Policies)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Basis of preparation Basis of preparationThe accompanying consolidated financial statements and notes have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (“U.S. GAAP”) and follow disclosure required under Regulation S-X provided by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
Basis of consolidation Basis of consolidationThe accompanying consolidated financial statements of AQN include the accounts of AQN, its wholly owned subsidiaries and variable interest entities (“VIEs”) where the Company is the primary beneficiary (note 1(m)). Intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated. Interests in subsidiaries owned by third parties are included in non-controlling interests (note 1(s)).
Business combinations, intangible assets and goodwill Business combinations, intangible assets and goodwill
The Company accounts for acquisitions of entities or assets that meet the definition of a business as business combinations. Business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition method. Assets acquired and liabilities assumed are measured at their fair value at the acquisition date, except for deferred income taxes, which are accounted for as described in note 1(v). Acquisition costs are expensed in the period incurred. When the set of activities does not represent a business, the transaction is accounted for as an asset acquisition and includes acquisition costs.
Intangible assets acquired are recognized separately at fair value if they arise from contractual or other legal rights or are separable. Power sales contracts are amortized on a straight-line basis over the remaining term of the contract ranging from 6 to 25 years from the date of acquisition. Interconnection agreements are amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated life of 40 years. The majority of the Company's customer relationships are amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated lives of 25 to 40 years. Certain customer relationships and water rights in Chile as well as brand names are considered indefinite-lived intangibles and are not amortized, but assessed annually for indicators of impairment. Miscellaneous intangibles include renewable energy credits that are purchased by the Company's electric utilities to satisfy renewable portfolio standard obligations. These intangibles are not amortized but are derecognized when remitted to the respective state authority to satisfy the compliance obligation.
Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price of an acquired business over the fair value of the net assets acquired. Goodwill is generally not included in the rate base on which regulated utilities are allowed to earn a return and is not amortized.
As at September 30 of each year, the Company assesses qualitative and quantitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit to which goodwill is attributed is less than its carrying amount. If it is more likely than not that a reporting unit’s fair value is less than its carrying amount or if a quantitative assessment is elected, the Company calculates the fair value of the reporting unit. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit as a whole exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value, an impairment charge is recorded in an amount of that excess, limited to the total amount of goodwill allocated to that reporting unit. Goodwill is tested for impairment between annual tests if an event occurs or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount.
Accounting for rate regulated operations Accounting for rate regulated operations
The operating companies within the Regulated Services Group are subject to rate regulation generally overseen by the regulatory authorities of the jurisdictions in which they operate (the “Regulator”). The Regulator provides the final determination of the rates charged to customers. AQN’s regulated operating companies are accounted for under the principles of U.S. Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) ASC Topic 980, Regulated Operations (“ASC 980”) except for AQN's Chilean operating company, Empresa de Servicios de Los Lagos S.A. (“ESSAL”), which was acquired in October 2020. The rates that are approved under the Chilean regulatory framework are designed to recover the costs of service of a model water utility. Because the rates are not designed to recover ESSAL's specific costs of service, the utility does not meet the criteria to follow the accounting guidance under ASC 980.
Under ASC 980, regulatory assets and liabilities are recorded to the extent that they represent probable future revenue or expenses associated with certain charges or credits that will be recovered from or refunded to customers through the rate making process. Included in note 7, “Regulatory matters”, are details of regulatory assets and liabilities, and their current regulatory treatment.
In the event the Company determines that its net regulatory assets are not probable of recovery, it would no longer apply the principles of the current accounting guidance for rate regulated enterprises and would be required to record an after-tax, non-cash charge or credit against earnings for any remaining regulatory assets or liabilities. The impact could be material to the Company’s reported financial condition and results of operations.
The U.S. electric, gas and water utilities’ accounts are maintained in accordance with the Uniform System of Accounts prescribed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (“FERC”), the applicable Regulator(s) and National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners in the United States. The New Brunswick Gas accounts are maintained in accordance with the New Brunswick Gas Distribution Act Uniform Accounting Regulation.
Cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalentsCash and cash equivalents include all highly liquid instruments with an original maturity of three months or less.
Restricted cash Restricted cashRestricted cash represents reserves and amounts set aside pursuant to requirements of various debt agreements, deposits to be returned back to customers, and certain requirements related to generation and transmission operations. Cash reserves segregated from AQN’s cash balances are maintained in accounts administered by a separate agent and disclosed separately as restricted cash in these consolidated financial statements. AQN cannot access restricted cash without the prior authorization of parties not related to AQN.
Accounts receivable Accounts receivableTrade accounts receivable are recorded at the invoiced amount and do not bear interest. The Company maintains an allowance for doubtful accounts for estimated losses inherent in its accounts receivable portfolio. In establishing the required allowance, management considers historical losses adjusted to take into account current market conditions and customers’ financial condition, the amount of receivables in dispute, future economic conditions and outlook, and the receivables aging and current payment patterns. Account balances are charged against the allowance after all means of collection have been exhausted and the potential for recovery is considered remote. The Company does not have any off-balance sheet credit exposure related to its customers.
Fuel and natural gas in storage Fuel and natural gas in storageFuel and natural gas in storage is reflected at weighted average cost or first-in-first-out as required by regulators and represents fuel, natural gas and liquefied natural gas that will be utilized in the ordinary course of business of the gas utilities and some generating facilities. Existing rate orders and other contracts allow the Company to pass through the cost of gas purchased directly to the customers along with any applicable authorized delivery surcharge adjustments (note 7(a)). Accordingly, the net realizable value of fuel and gas in storage does not fall below the cost to the Company.
Supplies and consumables inventory Supplies and consumables inventorySupplies and consumables inventory (other than capital spares and rotatable spares, which are included in property, plant and equipment) are charged to inventory when purchased and then capitalized to plant or expensed, as appropriate, when installed, used or upon becoming obsolete. These items are stated at the lower of cost and net realizable value. Through rate orders and the regulatory environment, capitalized construction jobs are recovered through rate base and repair and maintenance expenses are recovered through a cost of service calculation. Accordingly, the cost usually reflects the net realizable value.
Property, plant and equipment Property, plant and equipment
Property, plant and equipment are recorded at cost. Capitalization of development projects begins when management with the relevant authority has authorized and committed to the funding of a project and it is probable that costs will be realized through the use of the asset or ultimate construction and operation of a facility. Project development costs for rate regulated entities, including expenditures for preliminary surveys, plans, investigations, environmental studies, regulatory applications and other costs incurred for the purpose of determining the feasibility of capital expansion projects, are capitalized either as property, plant and equipment or regulatory assets when it is determined that recovery of such costs through regulated revenue of the completed project is probable.
The costs of acquiring or constructing property, plant and equipment include the following: materials, labour, contractor and professional services, construction overhead directly attributable to the capital project (where applicable), interest for non-regulated property and allowance for funds used during construction (“AFUDC”) for regulated property. Where possible, individual components are recorded and depreciated separately in the books and records of the Company. Plant and equipment under finance leases are initially recorded at cost determined as the present value of lease payments to be made over the lease term.
AFUDC represents the cost of borrowed funds and a return on other funds. Under ASC 980, an allowance for funds used during construction projects that are included in rate base is capitalized. This allowance is designed to enable a utility to capitalize financing costs during periods of construction of property subject to rate regulation. For operations that do not apply regulatory accounting, interest related only to debt is capitalized as a cost of construction in accordance with ASC 835, Interest. The interest capitalized that relates to debt reduces interest expense on the consolidated statements of operations. The AFUDC capitalized that relates to equity funds is recorded as interest and other income under income from long-term investments on the consolidated statements of operations.
Improvements that increase or prolong the service life or capacity of an asset are capitalized. Costs incurred for major expenditures or overhauls that occur at regular intervals over the life of an asset are capitalized and depreciated over the related interval. Maintenance and repair costs are expensed as incurred. Grants related to capital expenditures are recorded as a reduction to the cost of assets and are amortized at the rate of the related asset as a reduction to depreciation expense. Grants related to operating expenses such as maintenance and repairs costs are recorded as a reduction of the related expense. Contributions in aid of construction represent amounts contributed by customers, governments and developers to assist with the funding of some or all of the cost of utility capital assets. They also include amounts initially recorded as advances in aid of construction (note 12(c)) but where the advance repayment period has expired. These contributions are recorded as a reduction in the cost of utility assets and are amortized at the rate of the related asset as a reduction to depreciation expense.
1.Significant accounting policies (continued)
(j)Property, plant and equipment (continued)

The Company’s depreciation is based on the estimated useful lives of the depreciable assets in each category and is determined using the straight-line method with the exception of certain wind assets, as described below. The ranges of estimated useful lives and the weighted average useful lives are summarized below:
Range of useful livesWeighted average useful lives
 2021202020212020
Generation
3-60
3-60
3333
Distribution
1-100
1-100
4040
Equipment
5-50
5-50
1111
The Company uses the unit-of-production method for certain components of its wind generating facilities where the useful life of the component is directly related to the amount of production. The benefits of components subject to wear and tear from the power generation process are best reflected through the unit-of-production method. The Company generally uses wind studies prepared by third parties to estimate the total expected production of each component.
In accordance with regulator-approved accounting policies, when depreciable property, plant and equipment of the Regulated Services Group are replaced or retired, the original cost plus any removal costs incurred (net of salvage) are charged to accumulated depreciation with no gain or loss reflected in results of operations. Gains and losses will be charged to results of operations in the future through adjustments to depreciation expense. In the absence of regulator-approved accounting policies, gains and losses on the disposition of property, plant and equipment are charged to earnings as incurred.
Commonly owned facilities Commonly owned facilitiesThe Regulated Services Group owns undivided interests in three electric generating facilities with ownership interest ranging from 7.52% to 60%, with a corresponding share of capacity and generation from the facility used to serve certain of its utility customers. The Company's investment in the undivided interest is recorded as plant in service and recovered through rate base. The Company's share of operating costs is recognized in operating, maintenance and fuel expenditures excluding depreciation expense.
Impairment of long-lived assets Impairment of long-lived assets
AQN reviews property, plant and equipment and finite-life intangible assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying amount may not be recoverable.
As at September 30 of each year, the Company assesses qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the indefinite-lived intangible is impaired. If it is more likely than not that the indefinite-lived intangible asset is impaired, the Company calculates the fair value of the intangible asset. If the carrying value of the intangible asset exceeds its fair value, the Company recognizes an impairment loss in an amount equal to that excess. Indefinite-life intangibles are tested for impairment between annual tests if an event occurs or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduces the fair value below its carrying amount.
Recoverability of assets expected to be held and used is measured by comparing the carrying amount of an asset to undiscounted expected future cash flows. If the carrying amount exceeds the recoverable amount, the asset is written down to its fair value.
Variable interest entities Variable interest entitiesThe Company performs analyses to assess whether its operations and investments represent VIEs. To identify potential VIEs, management reviews contracts under leases, long-term purchase power agreements and jointly owned facilities. VIEs for which the Company is deemed the primary beneficiary are consolidated. In circumstances where AQN is not deemed the primary beneficiary, the VIE is not consolidated (note 8).
1.Significant accounting policies (continued)
(m)Variable interest entities (continued)
The Company has equity and notes receivable interests in two power generating facilities. AQN has determined that these entities are considered VIEs mainly based on total equity at risk not being sufficient to permit the legal entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support. The key decisions that affect the generating facilities’ economic performance relate to siting, permitting, technology, construction, operations and maintenance and financing. As AQN has both the power to direct the activities of the entities that most significantly impact its economic performance and the right to receive benefits or the obligation to absorb losses of the entities that could potentially be significant to the entities, the Company is considered the primary beneficiary.
Long-term investments and notes receivable Long-term investments and notes receivable
Investments in which AQN has significant influence but not control are either accounted for using the equity method or at fair value. Equity-method investments are initially measured at cost including transaction costs and interest when applicable. AQN records its share in the income or loss of its equity-method investees in income from long-term investments in the consolidated statements of operations. AQN records in the consolidated statements of operations the fluctuations in the fair value of its investees held at fair value and dividend income when it is declared by the investee.
Notes receivable are financial assets with fixed or determined payments that are not quoted in an active market. Notes receivable are initially recorded at cost, which is generally face value. Subsequent to acquisition, the notes receivable are recorded at amortized cost using the effective interest method. The Company holds these notes receivable as long-term investments and does not intend to sell these instruments prior to maturity. Interest from long-term investments is recorded as earned and when collectability of both the interest and principal are reasonably assured.
If a loss in value of a long-term investment is considered other than temporary, an allowance for impairment on the investment is recorded for the amount of that loss. An allowance on notes receivable is recorded in order to present the net amount expected to be collected on the receivable. This allowance reflects the risk of loss over the remaining contractual life of the asset, taking into consideration historical experience, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts of future economic conditions. The impairment is measured based on the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the note’s effective interest rate.
Pension and other post-employment plans Pension and other post-employment plans
The Company has established defined contribution pension plans, defined benefit pension plans, other post-employment benefit (“OPEB”) plans, and supplemental retirement program (“SERP”) plans for its various employee groups. Employer contributions to the defined contribution pension plans are expensed as employees render service. The Company recognizes the funded status of its defined benefit pension plans, OPEB and SERP plans on the consolidated balance sheets. The Company’s expense and liabilities are determined by actuarial valuations, using assumptions that are evaluated annually as of December 31, including discount rates, mortality, assumed rates of return, compensation increases, turnover rates and healthcare cost trend rates. The impact of modifications to those assumptions and modifications to prior services are recorded as actuarial gains and losses in accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”) and amortized to net periodic cost over future periods using the corridor method. When settlements of the Company's pension plans occur, the Company recognizes associated gains or losses immediately in earnings if the cost of all settlements during the year is greater than the sum of the service cost and interest cost components of the pension plan for the year. The amount recognized is a pro rata portion of the gains and losses in AOCI equal to the percentage reduction in the projected benefit obligation as a result of the settlement.
The costs of the Company’s pension for employees are expensed over the periods during which employees render service and the service costs are recognized as part of administrative expenses in the consolidated statements of operations. The components of net periodic benefit cost other than the service cost component are included in other net losses in the consolidated statements of operations.
Asset retirement obligations Asset retirement obligationsThe Company recognizes a liability for asset retirement obligations based on the fair value of the liability when incurred, which is generally upon acquisition, during construction or through the normal operation of the asset. Concurrently, the Company also capitalizes an asset retirement cost, equal to the estimated fair value of the asset retirement obligation, by increasing the carrying value of the related long-lived asset. The asset retirement costs are depreciated over the asset’s estimated useful life and are included in depreciation and amortization expense on the consolidated statements of operations. Increases in the asset retirement obligation resulting from the passage of time are recorded as accretion of asset retirement obligation in the consolidated statements of operations. Actual expenditures incurred are charged against the obligation.
Leases Leases
The Company accounts for leases in accordance with ASC Topic 842, Leases. The Company leases land, buildings, vehicles, rail cars, and office equipment for use in its day-to-day operations. The Company has options to extend the lease term of many of its lease agreements, with renewal periods ranging from one to five years. As at the consolidated balance sheet date, the Company is not reasonably certain that these renewal options will be exercised.
The Renewable Energy Group enters into land easement agreements for the operation of its generation facilities. In assessing whether these contracts contain leases, the Company considers whether it has exclusive use of the land. In the majority of situations, the landowner or grantor of the easement still has full access to the land and can use the land in any capacity, as long as it does not interfere with the Company’s operations. Therefore, these land easement agreements do not contain leases. For land easement agreements that provide exclusive access to and use of the land, these agreements meet the definition of a lease and are within the scope of ASC 842.
The right-of-use assets are included in property, plant and equipment while lease liabilities are included in other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets. The discount rates used in the measurement of the Company's right-of-use assets and liabilities are the discount rates at the date of lease inception. The Company's lease balances as at December 31, 2021 and its expected lease payments for the next five years and thereafter are not significant.
Share-based compensation Share-based compensationThe Company has several share-based compensation plans: a share option plan; an employee share purchase plan (“ESPP”); a deferred share unit (“DSU”) plan; and a restricted share unit (“RSU”) and performance share unit (“PSU”) plan. Equity-classified awards are measured at the grant date fair value of the award. The Company estimates grant date fair value of options using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The fair value is recognized over the vesting period of the award granted, adjusted for estimated forfeitures. The compensation cost is recorded as administrative expenses in the consolidated statements of operations and additional paid-in capital in equity. Additional paid-in capital is reduced as the awards are exercised, and the amount initially recorded in additional paid-in capital is credited to common shares.
Non-controlling interests Non-controlling interests
Non-controlling interests represent the portion of equity ownership in subsidiaries that is not attributable to the equity holders of AQN. Non-controlling interests are initially recorded at fair value and subsequently adjusted for the proportionate share of earnings and other comprehensive income (“OCI”) attributable to the non-controlling interests and any dividends or distributions paid to the non-controlling interests.
If a transaction results in the acquisition of all, or part, of a non-controlling interest in a consolidated subsidiary, the acquisition of the non-controlling interest is accounted for as an equity transaction. No gain or loss is recognized in net earnings or comprehensive income as a result of changes in the non-controlling interest, unless a change results in the loss of control by the Company.
Certain of the Company’s U.S. based wind and solar businesses are organized as limited liability corporations (“LLCs”) and partnerships and have non-controlling membership equity investors (“tax equity partnership units”, or “Tax Equity Investors”), which are entitled to allocations of earnings, tax attributes and cash flows in accordance with contractual agreements. These LLCs and partnership agreements have liquidation rights and priorities that are different from the underlying percentage ownership interests. In those situations, simply applying the percentage ownership interest to U.S. GAAP net income in order to determine earnings or losses would not accurately represent the income allocation and cash flow distributions that will ultimately be received by the investors. As such, the share of earnings attributable to the non-controlling interest holders in these entities is calculated using the Hypothetical Liquidation at Book Value (“HLBV”) method of accounting (note 17).
The HLBV method uses a balance sheet approach. A calculation is prepared at each balance sheet date to
determine the amount that Tax Equity Investors would receive if an equity investment entity were to liquidate all of its assets and distribute that cash to the investors based on the contractually defined liquidation priorities. The difference between the calculated liquidation distribution amounts at the beginning and the end of the reporting period is the Tax Equity Investors' share of the earnings or losses from the investment for that period.
Equity instruments subject to redemption upon the occurrence of uncertain events not solely within AQN’s control are classified as temporary equity and presented as redeemable non-controlling interests on the consolidated balance sheets. The Company records temporary equity at issuance based on cash received less any transaction costs. As needed, the Company reevaluates the classification of its redeemable instruments, as well as the probability of redemption. If the redemption amount is probable or currently redeemable, the Company records the instruments at their redemption value. Increases or decreases in the carrying amount of a redeemable instrument are recorded within deficit. When the redemption feature lapses or other events cause the classification of an equity instrument as temporary equity to be no longer required, the existing carrying amount of the equity instrument is reclassified to permanent equity at the date of the event that caused the reclassification.
Recognition of revenue Recognition of revenue
Revenue is recognized when control of the promised goods or services is transferred to the Company’s customers in an amount that reflects the consideration the Company expects to be entitled to in exchange for those goods or services.
Refer to note 21, “Segmented information” for details of revenue disaggregation by business units.
1.Significant accounting policies (continued)
(t)Recognition of revenue (continued)
Regulated Services Group revenue
Regulated Services Group revenue derives primarily from the distribution of electricity, natural gas, and water.
Revenue related to utility electricity and natural gas sales and distribution is recognized over time as the energy is delivered. At the end of each month, the electricity and natural gas delivered to the customers from the date of their last meter read to the end of the month is estimated and the corresponding unbilled revenue is recorded. These estimates of unbilled revenue and sales are based on the ratio of billable days versus unbilled days, amount of electricity or natural gas procured during that month, historical customer class usage patterns, weather, line loss, unaccounted-for gas and current tariffs. Unbilled receivables are typically billed within the next month. Some customers elect to pay their bill on an equal monthly plan.
As a result, in some months cash is received in advance of the delivery of electricity. Deferred revenue is recorded for that amount. The amount of revenue recognized in the period from the balance of deferred revenue is not significant.
Water reclamation and distribution revenue is recognized over time when water is processed or delivered to customers. At the end of each month, the water delivered and wastewater collected from the customers from the date of their last meter read to the end of the month are estimated and the corresponding unbilled revenue is recorded. These estimates of unbilled revenue are based on the ratio of billable days versus unbilled days, amount of water procured and collected during that month, historical customer class usage patterns and current tariffs. Unbilled receivables are typically billed within the next month.
On occasion, a utility is permitted to implement new rates that have not been formally approved by the regulatory commission, which are subject to refund. The Company recognizes revenue based on the interim rate and, if needed, establishes a reserve for amounts that could be refunded based on experience for the jurisdiction in which the rates were implemented.
Revenue for certain of the Company’s regulated utilities is subject to alternative revenue programs approved by their respective regulators. Under these programs, the Company charges approved annual delivery revenue on a systematic basis over the fiscal year. As a result, the difference between delivery revenue calculated based on metered consumption and approved delivery revenue is disclosed as alternative revenue in note 21, “Segmented information” and is recorded as a regulatory asset or liability to reflect future recovery or refund, respectively, from customers (note 7). The amount subsequently billed to customers is recorded as a recovery of the regulatory asset.
Renewable Energy Group revenue
Renewable Energy Group's revenue derives primarily from the sale of electricity, capacity, and renewable energy credits.
Revenue related to the sale of electricity is recognized over time as the electricity is delivered. The electricity represents a single performance obligation that represents a promise to transfer to the customer a series of distinct goods that are substantially the same and that have the same pattern of transfer to the customer.
Revenue related to the sale of capacity is recognized over time as the capacity is provided. The nature of the promise to provide capacity is that of a stand-ready obligation. The capacity is generally expressed in monthly volumes and prices. The capacity represents a single performance obligation that represents a promise to transfer to the customer a series of distinct services that are substantially the same and that have the same pattern of transfer to the customer.
1.Significant accounting policies (continued)
(t)Recognition of revenue (continued)
Renewable Energy Group revenue (continued)
Qualifying renewable energy projects receive renewable energy credits (“RECs”) and solar renewable energy credits (“SRECs”) for the generation and delivery of renewable energy to the power grid. The energy credit certificates represent proof that 1 MW of electricity was generated from an eligible energy source. The RECs and SRECs can be traded and the owner of the RECs or SRECs can claim to have purchased renewable energy. RECs and SRECs are primarily sold under fixed contracts, and revenue for these contracts is recognized at a point in time, upon generation of the associated electricity. Any RECs or SRECs generated above contracted amounts are held in inventory, with the offset recorded as a decrease in operating expenses.
The Company applies the invoicing expedient to the electricity and capacity in the Renewable Energy Group contracts. As such, revenue is recognized at the amount to which the Company has the right to invoice for services performed. Revenue is recorded net of sales taxes.
Foreign currency translation Foreign currency translation
AQN’s reporting currency is the U.S. dollar. Within these consolidated financial statements, the Company denotes any amounts denominated in Canadian dollars with “C$”, in Chilean pesos with “CLP” and in Chilean Unidad de Fomento with “CLF” immediately prior to the stated amounts.
Effective January 1, 2020, the functional currency of AQN, the non-consolidated parent entity, changed from the Canadian dollar to the U.S. dollar based on a balance of facts taking into consideration its operating, financing and investing activities. As a result of the entity's change of functional currency, changes were made to certain hedging relationships to mitigate the remaining Canadian dollar risk.
The Company’s Canadian operations still have the Canadian dollar as their functional currency since the preponderance of operating, financing and investing transactions are denominated in Canadian dollars. Similarly, the Company's Chilean and Bermudian operations' functional currency is the Chilean peso and the Bermudian dollar, respectively. The financial statements of these operations are translated into U.S. dollars using the current rate method, whereby assets and liabilities are translated at the rate prevailing at the balance sheet date, and revenue and expenses are translated using average rates for the period. Unrealized gains or losses arising as a result of the translation of the financial statements of these entities are reported as a component of OCI and are accumulated in a component of equity on the consolidated balance sheets, and are not recorded in income unless there is a complete or substantially complete sale or liquidation of the investment.
Income taxes Income taxesIncome taxes are accounted for using the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. A valuation allowance is recorded against deferred tax assets to the extent that it is considered more likely than not that the deferred tax asset will not be realized. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in earnings in the period that includes the date of enactment. Investment tax credits for the rate regulated operations are deferred and amortized as a reduction to income tax expense over the estimated useful lives of the properties. Investment tax credits along with other income tax credits in the non-regulated operations are treated as a reduction to income tax expense in the year the credit arises.
1.Significant accounting policies (continued)
(v)Income taxes (continued)
The organizational structure of AQN and its subsidiaries is complex and the related tax interpretations, regulations and legislation in the tax jurisdictions in which they operate are continually changing. As a result, there can be tax matters that have uncertain tax positions. The Company recognizes the effect of income tax positions only if those positions are more likely than not of being sustained. Recognized income tax positions are measured at the largest amount that is greater than 50% likely of being realized. Changes in recognition or measurement are reflected in the period in which the change in judgment occurs.
Financial instruments and derivatives Financial instruments and derivatives
Accounts receivable and notes receivable are measured at amortized cost. Long-term debt and preferred shares, Series C are measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method, adjusted for the amortization or accretion of premiums or discounts.
Transaction costs that are directly attributable to the acquisition of financial assets are accounted for as part of the asset’s carrying value at inception. Transaction costs related to a recognized debt liability are presented in the consolidated balance sheets as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of that debt liability, consistent with debt discounts and premiums. Costs of arranging the Company’s revolving credit facilities and intercompany loans are recorded in other assets. Deferred financing costs, premiums and discounts on long-term debt are amortized using the effective interest method while deferred financing costs relating to the revolving credit facilities and intercompany loans are amortized on a straight-line basis over the term of the respective instrument.
The Company uses derivative financial instruments as one method to manage exposures to fluctuations in exchange rates, interest rates and commodity prices. AQN recognizes all derivative instruments as either assets or liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets at their respective fair values. The fair value recognized on derivative instruments executed with the same counterparty under a master netting arrangement are presented on a gross basis on the consolidated balance sheets. The amounts that could net settle are not significant. The Company applies hedge accounting to some of its financial instruments used to manage its foreign currency risk, interest rate risk and price risk exposures associated with sales of generated electricity.
For derivatives designated in a cash flow hedge relationship, the change in fair value is recognized in OCI.
The amount recognized in AOCI is reclassified to earnings in the same period as the hedged cash flows affect earnings under the same line item in the consolidated statements of operations as the hedged item. If the hedging instrument no longer meets the criteria for hedge accounting, expires or is sold, terminated, exercised, or the designation is revoked, then hedge accounting is discontinued prospectively. The amount remaining in AOCI is transferred to the consolidated statements of operations in the same period that the hedged item affects earnings. If the forecasted transaction is no longer expected to occur, then the balance in AOCI is recognized immediately in earnings.
Foreign currency gain or loss on derivative or financial instruments designated as a hedge of the foreign currency exposure of a net investment in foreign operations that are effective as a hedge is reported in the same manner as the translation adjustment (in OCI) related to the net investment.
The Company’s electric distribution and thermal generation facilities enter into power and gas purchase contracts for load serving and generation requirements. These contracts meet the exemption for normal purchase and normal sales and, as such, are not required to be recorded at fair value as derivatives and are accounted for on an accrual basis. Counterparties are evaluated on an ongoing basis for non-performance risk to ensure it does not impact the conclusion with respect to this exemption.
Fair value measurements Fair value measurements
The Company utilizes valuation techniques that maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs to the extent possible. The Company determines fair value based on assumptions that market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability in the principal or most advantageous market. When considering market participant assumptions in fair value measurements, the following fair value hierarchy distinguishes between observable and unobservable inputs, which are categorized in one of the following levels:
•Level 1 Inputs: Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities accessible to the reporting entity at the measurement date.
•Level 2 Inputs: Other than quoted prices included in level 1, inputs that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the asset or liability.
•Level 3 Inputs: Unobservable inputs for the asset or liability used to measure fair value to the extent that observable inputs are not available, thereby allowing for situations in which there is little, if any, market activity for the asset or liability at the measurement date.
Commitments and contingencies Commitments and contingenciesLiabilities for loss contingencies arising from environmental remediation, claims, assessments, litigation, fines, penalties and other sources are recorded when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount can be reasonably estimated. Legal costs incurred in connection with loss contingencies are expensed as incurred.
Use of estimates Use of estimatesThe preparation of financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of these consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the year. Actual results could differ from those estimates. During the years presented, management has made a number of estimates and valuation assumptions, including the useful lives and recoverability of property, plant and equipment, intangible assets and goodwill; the recoverability of notes receivable and long-term investments; the recoverability of deferred tax assets; assessments of unbilled revenue; pension and OPEB obligations; timing effect of regulated assets and liabilities; contingencies related to environmental matters; the fair value of assets and liabilities acquired in a business combination; and the fair value of financial instruments. These estimates and valuation assumptions are based on present conditions and management’s planned course of action, as well as assumptions about future business and economic conditions. Should the underlying valuation assumptions and estimates change, the recorded amounts could change by a material amount.
COVID-19 pandemic COVID-19 pandemic
The ongoing outbreak of the novel strain of coronavirus (“COVID-19”) has resulted in business suspensions and shutdowns that have changed consumption patterns of residential, commercial and industrial customers across all three modalities of utility services, including decreased consumption among certain commercial and industrial customers.
In each of the jurisdictions where the Company's major renewable energy construction projects are located, construction of new renewable energy generation has been considered an essential activity exempt from government-mandated business shutdowns. As a result, construction activities have proceeded at all of the Company's major renewable energy construction projects throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. In the second quarter of 2020, the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) extended by one year the “continuity safe harbor” deadline by which renewable projects must be placed in service to qualify for the maximum permissible U.S. federal tax credits. In 2021, IRS further extended the deadline (six years for renewable energy facilities that began construction in 2016 through 2019, five years for renewable energy facilities that began construction in 2020) to address continuing delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
1.Significant accounting policies (continued)
(aa)COVID-19 pandemic (continued)
The Company’s business, financial condition, cash flows and results of operations are subject to actual and potential future impacts resulting from COVID-19, the full extent of which is not currently known. The extent of the future impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Company will depend on, among other things, the duration of the pandemic, the extent of the related public health response measures taken in response to the pandemic and the Company's efforts to mitigate the impact on its operations. The Company has made estimates of the impact of COVID-19 within its consolidated financial statements and there may be changes to those estimates in future periods.
Recently adopted and issued accounting pronouncements Recently issued accounting pronouncements
(a)Recently adopted accounting pronouncements
The Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued ASU 2020-01, Investments — Equity Securities (Topic 321), Investments — Equity Method and Joint Ventures (Topic 323), and Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Clarifying the Interactions between Topic 321, Topic 323, and Topic 815 to address the diversity in practice associated with accounting for certain equity securities upon the application or discontinuation of the equity method of accounting and certain scope considerations for forward contracts and purchased options. The adoption of this update did not have an impact on the consolidated financial statements.
The FASB issued ASU 2019-12, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes to reduce complexity in the accounting standards generally. The update removed certain exceptions to the general principles of Topic 740, Income Taxes and made certain amendments to improve consistent application of other areas of Topic 740. The adoption of this update did not have an impact on the consolidated financial statements.
(b)Recently issued accounting guidance not yet adopted
The FASB issued ASU 2021-05, Leases (Topic 842): Lessors — Certain Leases with Variable Lease Payments to address concerns relating to day-one losses for sales-type or direct financing leases with variable payments that do not depend on a reference index or rate. The update amends the lease classification requirements for lessors to align them with past practice under Topic 840, Leases. The amendments in this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2021, including interim periods within those fiscal years. The Company is currently assessing the impact of this update.
The FASB issued ASU 2020-06, Debt — Debt with Conversion and Other Options (Subtopic 470-20) and Derivatives and Hedging — Contracts in Entity's Own Equity (Subtopic 815-40): Accounting for Convertible Instruments and Contracts in an Entity's Own Equity to address the complexity associated with accounting for certain financial instruments with characteristics of liabilities and equity. The number of accounting models for convertible debt instruments and convertible preferred stock is being reduced and the guidance has been amended for the derivatives scope exception for contracts in an entity's own equity to reduce form-over-substance-based accounting conclusions. The amendments in this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2021, including interim periods within those fiscal years. The Company is currently assessing the impact of this update.
The FASB issued ASU 2020-04, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting, which provides optional expedients and exceptions to ease the potential burden in accounting for reference rate reform. The amendments apply to contracts, hedging relationships, and other transactions that reference LIBOR or another reference rate expected to be discontinued because of the reference rate reform. The amendments in this update are effective for all entities as at March 12, 2020 through December 31, 2022. The FASB issued an update to Topic 848 in ASU 2021-01 to clarify that the scope of Topic 848 includes derivatives affected by the discounting transition. The Company is currently assessing the impact of the reference rate reform and this update.