A minnow with real potential

Anybody of reasonably sound mind who is constructing an equity portfolio will stick the bulk of the loot into heavyweights of decent quality, which should contribute to the desired eight hours of the dreamless, safe in the knowledge that nothing too catastrophic will happen over the long term. There’s always the chance of a rogue Steinhoff, but in general the chance of flattening your savings should be slim. However, there is fun to be had in sticking a slice into the minnows in the hope that you hit something with real growth potential.

As SA’S first listed alternative and renewable energy company, Renergen has plonked itself into a space that is gaining real traction internationally as realisation dawns that we had better start thinking more intelligently about the energy we are using before we destroy the environment entirely. These are early days for Renergen, established only in 2014, and it is still making substantial losses as it seeks to identify and deliver a number of early-stage projects across Africa.

The company struggled to raise funds but eventually managed to raise a rights issue of R125m, which will enable it to start construction of its liquid natural gas and liquid helium plants. The latter looks particularly interesting due to supply shortages that saw the US crude helium price shoot up by 135% year on year.

Clearly there’s many a slip twixt cup and lip, and the company remains a long way from breaking even, let alone returning money to investors. But if it manages to succeed it could be an unusually green addition to a portfolio.

If it manages to succeed it could be an unusually green addition to a portfolio