EXHIBIT 10.10
BUSINESS LOAN AGREEMENT
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BORROWER: ASTROPOWER, INC. LENDER: ARTISANS'BANK
XXX XXXXX XXXX XXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXX, XX 00000 000 XXXX XXXXX XXXXXX
P. 0. XXX 000
XXXXXXXXXX, XX 00000
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THIS BUSINESS LOAN AGREEMENT BETWEEN ASTROPOWER, INC. ("BORROWER") AND
ARTISANS' BANK ("LENDER") IS MADE AND EXECUTED ON THE FOLLOWING TERMS AND
CONDITIONS. BORROWER HAS RECEIVED PRIOR COMMERCIAL LOANS FROM LENDER OR HAS
APPLIED TO LENDER FOR A COMMERCIAL LOAN OR LOANS AND OTHER FINANCIAL
ACCOMMODATIONS, INCLUDING THOSE WHICH MAY BE DESCRIBED ON ANY EXHIBIT OR
SCHEDULE ATTACHED TO THIS AGREEMENT. ALL SUCH LOANS AND FINANCIAL
ACCOMMODATIONS, TOGETHER WITH ALL FUTURE LOANS AND FINANCIAL ACCOMMODATIONS
FROM LENDER TO BORROWER, ARE REFERRED TO IN THIS AGREEMENT INDIVIDUALLY AS THE
"LOAN" AND COLLECTIVELY AS THE "LOANS." BORROWER UNDERSTANDS AND AGREES THAT:
(A) IN GRANTING, RENEWING, OR EXTENDING ANY LOAN, LENDER IS RELYING UPON
BORROWER'S REPRESENTATIONS, WARRANTIES, AND AGREEMENTS, AS SET FORTH IN THIS
AGREEMENT; (B)) THE GRANTING, RENEWING, OR EXTENDING OF ANY LOAN BY LENDER AT
ALL TIMES SHALL BE SUBJECT TO LENDER'S SOLE JUDGMENT AND DISCRETION; AND (C)
ALL SUCH LOANS SHALL BE AND SHALL REMAIN SUBJECT TO THE FOLLOWING TERMS AND
CONDITIONS OF THIS AGREEMENT.
TERM. This Agreement shall be effective as of January 10, 1996, and shall
continue thereafter until all Indebtedness of Borrower to Lender has been
performed in full and the parties terminate this Agreement in writing.
DEFINITIONS. The following words shall have the following meanings when used
In this Agreement. Terms not otherwise defined in this Agreement shall have
the meanings attributed to such terms in the Uniform Commercial Code. All
references to dollar amounts shall mean amounts in lawful money of the United
States of America.
AGREEMENT. The word "Agreement" means this Business Loan Agreement, as this
Business Loan Agreement may be amended or modified from time to time,
together with all exhibits and schedules attached to this Business Loan
Agreement from time to time.
BORROWER. The word "Borrower" means AstroPower, Inc.. The word "Borrower"
also includes, as applicable, all subsidiaries and affiliates of Borrower as
provided below in the paragraph titled "Subsidiaries and Affiliates."
CERCLA. The word "CERCLA" means the Comprehensive Environmental Response,
Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980, as amended.
CASH FLOW. The words "Cash Flow' mean net income after taxes, and exclusive
of extraordinary gains and income, plus depreciation and amortization.
COLLATERAL. The word "Collateral" means and includes without limitation all
property and assets granted as collateral security for a Loan, whether real
or personal property, whether granted directly or indirectly, whether
granted now or in the future, and whether granted in the form of a security
interest, mortgage, deed of trust, assignment, pledge, chattel mortgage,
chattel trust, factor's lien, equipment trust, conditional sale, trust
receipt, lien, charge, lien or title retention contract, lease or
consignment intended as a security device, or any other security or lien
interest whatsoever, whether created by law, contract, or otherwise.
DEBT. The word "Debt" means all of Borrower's liabilities excluding
Subordinated Debt.
ERISA. The word "ERISA" means the Employee Retirement Income Security Act
of 1974, as amended.
EVENT OF DEFAULT. The words "Event of Default" mean and include without
limitation any of the Events of Default set forth below in the section
titled "EVENTS OF DEFAULT."
GRANTOR. The word "Grantor" means and includes without limitation each and
all of the persons or entities granting a Security Interest in any
Collateral for the Indebtedness, including without limitation all Borrowers
granting such a Security Interest.
GUARANTOR. The word "Guarantor" means and includes without limitation each
and all of the guarantors, sureties, and accommodation parties In connection
with any Indebtedness.
INDEBTEDNESS. The word "Indebtedness" means and includes without limitation
all Loans, together with all other obligations, debts and liabilities of
Borrower to Lender, or any one or more of them, as well as all claims by
Lender against Borrower, or any one or more of them; whether now or
hereafter existing, voluntary or involuntary, due or not due, absolute or
contingent, liquidated or unliquidated; whether Borrower may be liable
individually or jointly with others; whether Borrower may be obligated as a
guarantor, surety, or otherwise; whether recovery upon such Indebtedness may
be or hereafter may become barred by any statute of limitations; and whether
such Indebtedness may be or hereafter may become otherwise unenforceable.
LENDER. The word "Lender" means Artisans' Bank, its successors and assigns.
LIQUID ASSETS. The words "Liquid Assets" mean Borrower's cash on hand plus
Borrower's readily marketable securities.
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LOAN. The word "Loan" or "Loans" means and includes without limitation any
and all commercial loans and financial accommodations from Lender to
Borrower, whether now or hereafter existing, and however evidenced,
including without limitation those loans and financial accommodations
described herein or described on any exhibit or schedule attached to this
Agreement from time to time.
NOTE. The word "Note" means and includes without limitation Borrower's
promissory note or notes, if any, evidencing Borrower's Loan obligations in
favor of Lender, as well as any substitute, replacement or refinancing note
or notes therefor.
PERMITTED LIENS. The words "Permitted Liens" mean: (a) liens and security
interests securing Indebtedness owed by Borrower to Lender: (b) liens for
taxes, assessments, or similar charges either not yet due or being contested
in good faith; (c) liens of materialmen, mechanics, warehousemen, or
carriers, or other like liens arising in the ordinary course of business and
securing obligations which are not yet delinquent; (d) purchase money liens
or purchase money security interests upon or in any property acquired or
held by Borrower in the ordinary course of business to secure indebtedness
outstanding on the date of this Agreement or permitted to be incurred under
the paragraph of this Agreement titled "Indebtedness and Liens"; (e) liens
and security interests which, as of the date of this Agreement, have been
disclosed to and approved by the Lender in writing; and (f) those liens and
security interests which in the aggregate constitute an immaterial and
insignificant monetary amount with respect to the net value of Borrower's
assets.
RELATED DOCUMENTS. The words "Related Documents" mean and include without
limitation all promissory notes, credit agreements, loan agreements,
environmental agreements, guaranties, security agreements, mortgages, deeds
of trust, and all other instruments, agreements and documents, whether now
or hereafter existing, executed in connection with the Indebtedness.
SECURITY AGREEMENT. The words "Security Agreement" mean and include without
limitation any agreements, promises, covenants, arrangements. understandings
or other agreements, whether created by law, contract, or otherwise,
evidencing, governing, representing, or creating a Security Interest.
SECURITY INTEREST. The words "Security Interest" mean and include without
limitation any type of collateral security, whether in the form of a lien,
charge, mortgage, deed of trust, assignment, pledge, chattel mortgage,
chattel trust. factor's lien, equipment trust, conditional sale, trust
receipt, lien or title retention contract, lease or consignment intended as
a security device, or any other security or lien interest whatsoever,
whether created by law, contract, or otherwise.
XXXX. The word "XXXX" means the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization
Act of 1986 as now or hereafter amended.
SUBORDINATED DEBT. The words "Subordinated Debt" mean indebtedness and
liabilities of Borrower which have been subordinated by written agreement to
indebtedness owed by Borrower to Lender in form and substance acceptable to
Lender.
TANGIBLE NET WORTH. The words "Tangible Net Worth" mean Borrower's total
assets excluding all intangible assets (i.e., goodwill, trademarks, patents,
copyrights, organizational expenses, and similar intangible items, but
including leaseholds and leasehold improvements) less total Debt.
WORKING CAPITAL. The words 'Working Capital" mean Borrower's current
assets, excluding prepaid expenses, less Borrower's current liabilities.
CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO EACH ADVANCE. Lender's obligation to make the initial
Loan Advance and each subsequent Loan Advance under this Agreement shall be
subject to the fulfillment to Lender's satisfaction of all of the conditions
set forth in this Agreement and in the Related Documents.
LOAN DOCUMENTS. Borrower shall provide to Lender in form satisfactory to
Lender the following documents for the Loan: (a) the Note, (b) Security
Agreements granting to Lender security interests in the Collateral, (c)
Financing Statements perfecting Lender's Security Interests; (d) evidence of
insurance as required below; and (e) any other documents required under this
Agreement or by Lender or its counsel, including without limitation any
guaranties described below.
BORROWER'S AUTHORIZATION. Borrower shall have provided in form and
substance satisfactory to Lender properly certified resolutions, duly
authorizing the execution and delivery of this Agreement, the Note and the
Related Documents, and such other authorizations and other documents and
instruments as Lender or its counsel, in their sole discretion, may require.
PAYMENT OF FEES AND EXPENSES. Borrower shall have paid to Lender all fees,
charges, and other expenses which are then due and payable as specified in
this Agreement or any Related Document.
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES. The representations and warranties set forth
in this Agreement, in the Related Documents, and in any document or
certificate delivered to Lender under this Agreement are true and correct.
NO EVENT OF DEFAULT. There shall not exist at the time of any advance a
condition which would constitute an Event of Default under this Agreement.
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES. Borrower represents and warrants to Lender, as
of the date of this Agreement, as of the date of each disbursement of Loan
proceeds, as of the date of any renewal, extension or modification of any Loan,
and at all times any Indebtedness exists:
ORGANIZATION. Borrower is a corporation which is duly organized, validly
existing, and in good standing under the laws of the State of Delaware and is
validly existing and in good standing in all states in which Borrower is
doing business. Borrower has the full power and authority to own its
properties and to transact the businesses in which it is presently engaged or
presently proposes to engage. Borrower also is duly qualified as a foreign
corporation and is in good standing in all states in which the failure to so
qualify would have a material adverse effect on its businesses or financial
condition.
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AUTHORIZATION. The execution, delivery, and performance of this Agreement
and all Related Documents by Borrower, to the extent to be executed,
delivered or performed by Borrower, have been duly authorized by all
necessary action by Borrower; do not require the consent or approval of any
other person, regulatory authority or governmental body; and do not conflict
with, result in a violation of, or constitute a default under (a) any
provision of its articles of incorporation or organization, or bylaws, or
any agreement or other instrument binding upon Borrower or (b) any law,
governmental regulation, court decree, or order applicable to Borrower.
FINANCIAL INFORMATION. Each financial statement of Borrower supplied to
Lender truly and completely disclosed Borrower's financial condition as of
the date of the statement, and there has been no material adverse change in
Borrower's financial condition subsequent to the date of the most recent
financial statement supplied to Lender. Borrower has no material contingent
obligations except as disclosed in such financial statements.
LEGAL EFFECT. This Agreement constitutes, and any instrument or agreement
required hereunder to be given by Borrower when delivered will constitute,
legal, valid and binding obligations of Borrower enforceable against Borrower
in accordance with their respective terms.
PROPERTIES. Except as contemplated by this Agreement or as previously
disclosed in Borrower's financial statements or in writing to Lender and as
accepted by Lender, and except for property tax liens for taxes not presently
due and payable, Borrower owns and has good title to all of Borrower's
properties free and clear of all Security Interests, and has not executed any
security documents or financing statements relating to such properties. All
of Borrower's properties are titled in Borrower's legal name, and Borrower
has not used. or filed a financing statement under, any other name for at
least the last five (5) years.
HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES. The terms "hazardous waste," "hazardous substance,"
"disposal," "release," and "threatened release," as used in this Agreement,
shall have the same meanings as set forth in the "CERCLA," "XXXX," the
Hazardous Materials Transportation Act, 49 U.S.C. Section 1801, et seq., the
Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, 42 U.S.C. Section 6901, et seq., or
other applicable state or Federal laws, rules, or regulations adopted
pursuant to any of the foregoing. Except as disclosed to and acknowledged by
Lender in writing, Borrower represents and warrants that: (a) During the
period of Borrower's ownership of the properties, there has been no use,
generation, manufacture, storage, treatment, disposal, release or threatened
release of any hazardous waste or substance by any person on, under, about or
from any of the properties. (b) Borrower has no knowledge of, or reason to
believe that there has been (i) any use, generation, manufacture, storage,
treatment, disposal, release, or threatened release of any hazardous waste or
substance on, under, about or from the properties by any prior owners or
occupants of any of the properties, or (ii) any actual or threatened
litigation or claims of any kind by any person relating to such matters. (c)
Neither Borrower nor any tenant, contractor, agent or other authorized user
of any of the properties shall use, generate, manufacture, store, treat,
dispose of, or release any hazardous waste or substance on, under, about or
from any of the properties; and any such activity shall be conducted in
compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations,
and ordinances, including without limitation those laws, regulations and
ordinances described above. Borrower authorizes Lender and its agents to
enter upon the properties to make such inspections and tests as Lender may
deem appropriate to determine compliance of the properties with this section
of the Agreement. Any inspections or tests made by Lender shall be at
Borrower's expense and for Lender's purposes only and shall not be construed
to create any responsibility or liability on the part of Lender to Borrower
or to any other person. The representations and warranties contained herein
are based on Borrower's due diligence in investigating the properties for
hazardous waste and hazardous substances. Borrower hereby (a) releases and
waives any future claims against Lender for indemnity or contribution in the
event Borrower becomes liable for cleanup or other costs under any such laws,
and (b) agrees to indemnify and hold harmless Lender against any and all
claims, losses, liabilities, damages, penalties, and expenses which Lender
may directly or indirectly sustain or suffer resulting from a breach of this
section of the Agreement or as a consequence of any use, generation,
manufacture, storage, disposal, release or threatened release occurring prior
to Borrower's ownership or interest in the properties, whether or not the
same was or should have been known to Borrower. The provisions of this
section of the Agreement, including the obligation to indemnify, shall
survive the payment of the Indebtedness and the termination or expiration of
this Agreement and shall not be affected by Lender's acquisition of any
interest in any of the properties, whether by foreclosure or otherwise.
LITIGATION AND CLAIMS. No litigation, claim, investigation, administrative
proceeding or similar action (including those for unpaid taxes) against
Borrower is pending or threatened, and no other event has occurred which may
materially adversely affect Borrower's financial condition or properties,
other than litigation, claims, or other events, if any, that have been
disclosed to and acknowledged by Lender in writing.
TAXES. To the best of Borrower's knowledge, all tax returns and reports of
Borrower that are or were required to be filed, have been filed, and all
taxes, assessments and other governmental charges have been paid in full,
except those presently being or to be contested by Borrower in good faith in
the ordinary course of business and for which adequate reserves have been
provided.
LIEN PRIORITY. Unless otherwise previously disclosed to Lender in writing,
Borrower has not entered into or granted any Security Agreements, or
permitted the filing or attachment of any Security Interests on or affecting
any of the Collateral directly or indirectly securing repayment of Borrower's
Loan and Note, that would be prior or that may in any way be superior to
Lender's Security Interests and rights in and to such Collateral.
BINDING EFFECT. This Agreement, the Note, all Security Agreements directly
or indirectly securing repayment of Borrower's Loan and Note and all of the
Related Documents are binding upon Borrower as well as upon Borrower's
successors, representatives and assigns, and are legally enforceable in
accordance with their respective terms.
COMMERCIAL PURPOSES. Borrower intends to use the Loan proceeds solely for
business or commercial related purposes.
EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS. Each employee benefit plan as to which Borrower may
have any liability complies in all material respects with all applicable
requirements of law and regulations, and (i) no Reportable Event nor
Prohibited Transaction (as defined in ERISA) has occurred with respect to any
such plan, (ii) Borrower has not withdrawn from any such plan or initiated
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steps to do so, (iii) no steps have been taken to terminate any such plan,
and (jv) there are no unfunded liabilities other than those previously
disclosed to Lender in writing.
LOCATION OF BORROWER'S OFFICES AND RECORDS. Borrower's place of business, or
Borrower's Chief executive office, if Borrower has more than one place of
business, is located at Xxx Xxxxx Xxxx, Xxxxxx, XX 00000. Unless Borrower
has designated otherwise in writing this location is also the office or
offices where Borrower keeps its records concerning the Collateral.
INFORMATION. All information heretofore or contemporaneously herewith
furnished by Borrower to Lender for the purposes of or in connection with
this Agreement or any transaction contemplated hereby is, and all information
hereafter furnished by or on behalf of Borrower to Lender will be, true and
accurate in every material respect on the date as of which such information
is dated or certified; and none of such information is or will be incomplete
by omitting to state any material fact necessary to make such information not
misleading.
SURVIVAL OF REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES. Borrower understands and agrees
that Lender, without independent investigation, is relying upon the above
representations and warranties in making the above referenced Loan to
Borrower. Borrower further agrees that the foregoing representations' and
warranties shall be continuing in nature and shall remain in full force and
effect until such time as Borrower's Indebtedness shall be paid in full, or
until this Agreement shall be terminated in the manner provided above,
whichever is the last to occur.
AFFIRMATIVE COVENANTS. Borrower covenants and agrees with Lender that, while
this Agreement is in effect, Borrower will:
LITIGATION. Promptly inform Lender in writing of (a) all material adverse
changes in Borrower's financial condition, and (b) all existing and all
threatened litigation, claims, investigations, administrative proceedings or
similar actions affecting Borrower or any Guararitor which could materially
affect the financial condition of Borrower or the financial condition of any
Guarantor.
FINANCIAL RECORDS. Maintain its books and records in accordance with
generally accepted accounting principles, applied on a consistent basis, and
permit Lender to examine and audit Borrower's books and records at all
reasonable times.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS. Furnish Lender with, as soon as available, but In no
event later than one hundred twenty (120) days after the end of each fiscal
year, Borrower's balance sheet and income statement for the year ended,
audited by a certified public accountant satisfactory to Lender, and, as soon
as available, but in no event later than thirty (30) days after the and of
each month, Borrower's balance sheet and profit and loss statement for the
period ended, prepared and certified as correct to the best knowledge and
belief by Borrower's chief financial officer or other officer or person
acceptable to Lender. All financial reports required to be provided under
this Agreement shall be prepared in accordance with generally accepted
accounting principles, applied on a consistent basis, and certified by
Borrower as being true and correct.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. Furnish such additional Information and statements,
lists of assets and liabilities, agings of receivables and payables,
Inventory schedules, budgets, forecasts, tax returns, and other reports with
respect to Borrower's financial condition and business operations as Lender
may request from time to time.
FINANCIAL COVENANTS AND RATIOS. Comply with the following covenants and
ratios:
NET WORTH RATIO. Maintain a ratio of Total Liabilities to Tangible Net Worth
of less than 2.25 to 1.00:Except as provided above, all computations made to
determine compliance with the requirements contained in this paragraph shall
be made in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, applied
on a consistent basis, and certified by Borrower as being true and correct.
INSURANCE. Maintain fire and other risk insurance, public liability
Insurance, and such other insurance as Lender may require with respect to
Borrower's properties and operations, in form, amounts, coverages and with
insurance companies reasonably acceptable to Lender. Borrower, upon
request of Lender, will deliver to Lender from time to time the policies
or certificates of insurance in form satisfactory to Lender, including
stipulations that coverages will not be canceled or diminished without at
least ten (10) days' prior written notice to Lender. Each insurance
policy also shall include an endorsement providing that coverage in favor
of Lender will not be impaired in any way by any act. omission or default
of Borrower or any other person. In connection with all policies covering
assets in which Lender holds or is offered a security Interest for the
Loans, Borrower will provide Lender with such loss payable or other
endorsements as Lender may require.
INSURANCE REPORTS. Furnish to Lender, upon request of Lender, reports on
each existing insurance policy showing such information as Lender may
reasonably request, including without limitation the following: (a) the name
of the Insurer; (b) the risks insured: (c) the amount of the policy; (d) the
properties insured; (a) the then current property values on the basis of
which insurance has been obtained. and the manner of determining those
values; and (f) the expiration date of the policy. In addition, upon request
of Lender (however not more often than annually), Borrower will have an
independent appraiser satisfactory to Lender determine, as applicable, the
actual cash value or replacement cost of any Collateral. The cost of such
appraisal shall be paid by Borrower.
GUARANTIES. Prior to disbursement of any Loan proceeds, furnish executed
guaranties of the Loans In favor of Lender, on Lender's forms, and In the
amount and by the guarantor named below:
GUARANTOR AMOUNT
--------- ------
Xxxxx Xxxxxxx 100.000% of $750,000.00
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OTHER AGREEMENTS. Comply with all terms and conditions of all other
agreements, whether now or hereafter existing, between Borrower and any other
party and notify Lender immediately in writing of any default in connection
with any other such agreements.
LOAN PROCEEDS. Use all Loan proceeds solely for Borrower's business
operations, unless specifically consented to the contrary by Lender in
writing.
TAXES, CHARGES AND LIENS. Pay and discharge when due all of its Indebtedness
and obligations, including without limitation all assessments, taxes,
governmental charges, levies and liens, of every kind and nature, imposed
upon Borrower or its properties, income, or profits, prior to the date on
which penalties would attach, and all lawful claims that, if unpaid, might
become a lien or charge upon any of Borrower's properties, income, or
profits. Provided however, Borrower will not be required to pay and
discharge any such assessment, tax, charge, xxxx, xxxx or claim so long as
(a) the legality of the same shall be contested in good faith by appropriate
proceedings. and (b) Borrower shall have established on its books adequate
reserves with respect to such contested assessment, tax, charge, levy, lien,
or claim in accordance with generally accepted accounting practices.
Borrower, upon demand of Lender, will furnish to Lender evidence of payment
of the assessments, taxes, charges, levies. liens and claims and will
authorize the appropriate governmental official to deliver to Lender at any
time a written statement of any assessments, taxes, charges, levies, liens
and claims against Borrower's properties, income, or profits.
PERFORMANCE. Perform and comply with all terms, conditions, and provisions
set forth In this Agreement and in the Related Documents in a timely manner,
and promptly notify Lender it Borrower learns of the occurrence of any event
which constitutes an Event of Default under this Agreement or under any of
the Related Documents.
OPERATIONS. Maintain executive and management personnel with substantially
the same qualifications and experience as the present executive and
management personnel; provide written notice to Lender of any change in
executive and management personnel; conduct its business affairs in a
reasonable and prudent manner and in compliance with all applicable federal,
state and municipal laws, ordinances, rules and regulations respecting its
properties, charters, businesses and operations, including without
limitation, compliance with the Americans With Disabilities Act and with all
minimum funding standards and other requirements of ERISA and other laws
applicable to Borrower's employee benefit plans.
INSPECTION. Permit employees or agents of Lender at any reasonable time to
inspect any and all Collateral for the Loan or Loans and Borrower's other
properties and to examine or audit Borrower's books. accounts, and records
and to make copies arid memoranda of Borrower's books. accounts, and records.
It Borrower now or at any time hereafter maintains any records (including
without limitation computer generated records and computer software programs
for the generation of such records) in the possession of a third party,
Borrower, upon request of Lender, shall notify such party to permit Lender
free access to such records at all reasonable times and to provide Lender
with copies of any records it may request, all at Borrower's expense.
COMPLIANCE CERTIFICATE. Unless waived in writing by Lender, provide Lender
at least annually and at the time of each disbursement of Loan proceeds with
a certificate executed by Borrower's chief financial officer, or other
officer or person acceptable to Lender, certifying that the representations
and warranties set forth in this Agreement are true and correct as of the
date of the certificate and further certifying that, as of the date of the
certificate, no Event of Default exists under this Agreement.
ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND REPORTS. Borrower shall comply in all respects
with all environmental protection federal, state and local laws, statutes,
regulations and ordinances; not cause or permit to exist, as a result of an
intentional or unintentional action or omission on its part or on the part of
any third party, on property owned and/or occupied by Borrower, any
environmental activity where damage may result to the environment, unless
such environmental activity is pursuant to and in compliance with the
conditions of a permit issued by the appropriate federal, state or local
governmental authorities; shall furnish to Lender promptly and in any event
within thirty (30) days after receipt thereof a copy of any notice, summons,
lien, citation, directive, letter or other communication from any
governmental agency or instrumentality concerning any Intentional or
unintentional action or omission on Borrower's part in connection with any
environmental activity whether or not there is damage to the environment
and/or other natural resources.
ADDITIONAL ASSURANCES. Make, execute and deliver to Lender such promissory
notes, mortgages, deeds of trust, security agreements, financing statements,
Instruments, documents and other agreements as Lender or Its attorneys may
reasonably request to evidence and secure the Loans and to perfect all
Security Interests.
NEGATIVE COVENANTS. Borrower covenants and agrees with Lender that while this
Agreement is in effect, Borrower shall not, without the prior written consent of
Lender;
INDEBTEDNESS. Except for trade debt incurred in the normal course of
business and Indebtedness to Lender contemplated by this Agreement, create,
incur or assume indebtedness for borrowed money, including capital leases.
CONTINUITY OF OPERATIONS. (a) Engage in any business activities substantially
different than those in which Borrower is presently engaged, (b) cease
operations, liquidate, merge, transfer, acquire or consolidate with any other
entity, change ownership, change its name, dissolve or transfer or sell
Collateral out of the ordinary course of business, (c) pay any dividends on
Borrower's stock (other than dividends payable in its stock), provided,
however that notwithstanding the foregoing, but only so long as no Event of
Default has occurred and is continuing or would result from the payment of
dividends, if Borrower is a "Subchapter S Corporation" (as defined in the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended), Borrower may pay cash dividends
on its stock to its shareholders from time to time in amounts necessary to
enable the shareholders to pay income taxes and make estimated income tax
payments to satisfy their liabilities under federal and state law which arise
solely from their status as Shareholders of a Subchapter S Corporation
because of their ownership of shares of stock of Borrower, or (d) purchase or
retire any of Borrower's outstanding shares or alter or amend Borrower's
capital structure.
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CESSATION OF ADVANCES. If Lender has made any commitment to make any Loan to
Borrower, whether under this Agreement or under any other agrp-2ment, Lender
shall have no obligation to make Loan Advances or to disburse Loan proceeds if:
(a) Borrower or any Guarantor is In default under the terms of this Agreement or
any of the Related Documents or any other agreement that Borrower or any
Guarantor has with Lender: (b) Borrower or any Guarantor becomes insolvent,
files a petition in bankruptcy or similar proceedings, or is adjudged a
bankrupt; (c) there occurs a material adverse change in Borrower's financial
condition, in the financial condition of any Guarantor, or in the value of any
Collateral securing any Loan; or (d) any Guarantor seeks, claims or otherwise
attempts to limit, modify or revoke such Guarantor's guaranty of the Loan or any
other loan with Lender.
RIGHT TO CURE. Advent International Corporation, Arete Ventures, Inc., Material
Ventures Associates L.P. and Ventures West Management Ill. Ltd. as venture
capital firms investing in Borrower, will be provided the option to cure an
Event of Default of Borrower, within 30 days of notification by Bank to both
AstroPower, Inc. and the venture capital firms, that an Event of Default has
occurred.
ADDITIONAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS. Borrower agrees that the equipment
financed under this Loan Agreement represents a purchase money interest.
FINANCIAL REPORTING. Borrower agrees to provide to Lender the following: -
Monthly internally prepared balance sheet and income statements. -Fiscal year
end audited statements within one hundred twenty days (1 20) from fiscal year
end. -Guarantor to provide annual tax returns within one hundred twenty (1 20)
days from calendar year end.
RIGHT OF SETOFF. Borrower grants to Lender a contractual possessory security
interest in, and hereby assigns, conveys, delivers, pledges, and transfers to
Lender all Borrower's right, title and interest in and to, Borrower's accounts
with Lender (whether checking, savings, or some other account), including
without limitation all accounts held jointly with someone else and all accounts
Borrower may open in the future, excluding however all XXX and Xxxxx accounts,
and all trust accounts for which the grant of a security interest would be
prohibited by law. Borrower authorizes Lender, to the extent permitted by
applicable law, to charge or setoff all sums owing on the Indebtedness against
any and all such accounts.
EVENTS OF DEFAULT. Each of the following shall constitute an Event of Default
under this Agreement:
DEFAULT ON INDEBTEDNESS. Failure of Borrower to make any payment when due on
the Loans.
OTHER DEFAULTS. Failure of Borrower or any Grantor to comply with or to
perform when due any other term, obligation, covenant or condition contained
in this Agreement or in any of the Related Documents, or failure of Borrower
to comply with or to perform any other term, obligation, covenant or
condition contained in any other agreement between Lender and Borrower.
DEFAULT IN FAVOR OF THIRD PARTIES. Should Borrower or any Grantor default
under any loan, extension of credit, security agreement, purchase or sales
agreement, or any other agreement, in favor of any other creditor or person
that may materially affect any of Borrower's property or Borrower's or any
Grantor's ability to repay the Loans or perform their respective obligations
under this Agreement or any of the Related Documents.
FALSE STATEMENTS. Any warranty, representation or statement made or
furnished to Lender by or on behalf of Borrower or any Grantor under this
Agreement or the Related Documents is false or misleading in any material
respect at the time made or furnished, or becomes false or misleading at any
time thereafter.
DEFECTIVE COLLATERALIZATION. This Agreement or any of the Related Documents
ceases to be In full force and effect (including failure of any Security
Agreement to create a valid and perfected Security Interest) at any time and
for any reason.
INSOLVENCY. The dissolution or termination of Borrower's existence as a
going business, the insolvency of Borrower, the appointment of a receiver for
any part of Borrower's property, any assignment for the benefit of creditors,
any type of creditor workout, or the commencement of any proceeding under any
bankruptcy or insolvency laws by or against Borrower.
CREDITOR OR FORFEITURE PROCEEDINGS. Commencement of foreclosure or
forfeiture proceedings, whether by judicial proceeding, self-help,
repossession or any other method, by any creditor of Borrower, any creditor
of any Grantor against any collateral securing the Indebtedness, or by any
governmental agency. This includes a garnishment, attachment, or levy on or
of any of Borrower's deposit accounts with Lender.
EVENTS AFFECTING GUARANTOR. Any of the preceding events occurs with respect
to any Guarantor of any of the Indebtedness or any Guarantor dies or becomes
incompetent, or revokes or disputes the validity of, or liability under, any
Guaranty of the Indebtedness.
CHANGE IN OWNERSHIP. Any change in ownership of twenty-five percent (25%) or
more of the common stock of Borrower.
ADVERSE CHANGE. A material adverse change occurs in Borrower's financial
condition, or Lender believes the prospect of payment or performance of the
Indebtedness is impaired.
EFFECT OF AN EVENT OF DEFAULT. If any Event of Default shall occur, except
where otherwise provided in this Agreement or the Related Documents, all
commitments and obligations of Lender under this Agreement or the Related
Documents or any other agreement immediately will terminate and, at Lender's
option, all Indebtedness immediately will become due and payable, all without
notice of any kind to Borrower, except that in the case of an Event of Default
of the type described in the "Insolvency" subsection above, such acceleration
shall be automatic and not optional. In addition, Lender shall have all the
rights and remedies provided in the Related Documents or available at law, in
equity, or otherwise. Except as may be prohibited by applicable law, all of
Lender's rights and remedies shall be cumulative and may be exercised singularly
or concurrently. Election by Lender to pursue any
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remedy shall not exclude pursuit of any other remedy, and an election to make
expenditures or to take action to perform an obligation of Borrower or of any
Grantor shall not affect Lender's right to declare a default and to exercise its
rights and remedies.
MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS. The following miscellaneous provisions are a part of
this Agreement:
AMENDMENTS. This Agreement, together with any Related Documents, constitutes
the entire understanding and agreement of the parties as to the matters set
forth in this Agreement. No alteration of or amendment to this Agreement
shall be effective unless given in writing and signed by the party or parties
sought to be charged or bound by the alteration or amendment.
APPLICABLE LAW. This Agreement has been delivered to Lender and accepted by
Lender in the State of Delaware. If there Is a lawsuit, Borrower agrees upon
Lender's request to submit to the jurisdiction of the courts of New Castle
County, the State of Delaware Subject to the provisions on arbitration, this
Agreement shall be governed by and construed In accordance with the laws of
the State of Delaware.
ARBITRATION. Lender and Borrower agree that all disputes, claims and
controversies between them, whether individual, joint, or class In nature,
arising from this Agreement or otherwise, including without limitation
contract and tort disputes, shall be arbitrated pursuant to the Rules of the
American Arbitration Association, upon request of either party. No act to
take or dispose of any Collateral shall constitute a waiver of this
arbitration agreement or be prohibited by this arbitration agreement. This
includes, without limitation, obtaining injunctive relief or a temporary
restraining order; invoking a power of sale under any deed of trust or
mortgage; obtaining a writ of attachment or imposition of a receiver; or
exercising any rights relating to personal property, including taking or
disposing of such property with or without judicial process pursuant to
Article 9 of the Uniform Commercial Code. Any disputes, claims, or
controversies concerning the lawfulness or reasonableness of any act, or
exercise of any right, concerning any Collateral, including any claim to
rescind, reform, or otherwise modify any agreement relating to the
Collateral, shall also be arbitrated, provided however that no arbitrator
shall have the right or the power to enjoin or restrain any act of any party.
Judgment upon any award rendered by any arbitrator may be entered in any
court having jurisdiction. Nothing in this Agreement shall preclude any
party from seeking equitable relief from a court of competent jurisdiction.
The statute of limitations, estoppel, waiver, laches, and similar doctrines
which would otherwise be applicable in an action brought by a party shall be
applicable in any arbitration proceeding, and the commencement of an
arbitration proceeding shall be deemed the commencement of an action for
these purposes. The Federal Arbitration Act shall apply to the construction,
interpretation, and enforcement of this arbitration provision.
CAPTION HEADINGS. Caption headings in this Agreement are for convenience
purposes only and are not to be used to interpret or define the provisions of
this Agreement.
CONSENT TO LOAN PARTICIPATION. Borrower agrees and consents to Lender's sale
or transfer, whether now or later, of one or more participation interests in
the Loans to one or more purchasers, whether related or unrelated to Lender.
Lender may provide, without any limitation whatsoever, to any one or more
purchasers, or potential purchasers, any information or knowledge Lender may
have about Borrower or about any other matter relating to the Loan, and
Borrower hereby waives any rights to privacy it may have with respect to such
matters. Borrower additionally waives any and all notices of sale of
participation interests, as well as all notices of any repurchase of such
participation interests. Borrower also agrees that the purchasers of any
such participation interests will be considered as the absolute owners of
such interests in the Loans and will have all the rights granted under the
participation agreement or agreements governing the sale of such
participation interests. Borrower further waives all rights of offset or
counterclaim that it may have now or later against Lender or against any
purchaser of such a participation interest and unconditionally agrees that
either Lender or such purchaser may enforce Borrower's obligation under the
Loans irrespective of the failure or insolvency of any holder of any interest
in the Loans. Borrower further agrees that the purchaser of any such
participation interests may enforce its interests irrespective of any
personal claims or defenses that Borrower may have against Lender.
COSTS AND EXPENSES. Borrower agrees to pay upon demand all of Lender's
expenses, including without limitation reasonable attorneys' fees, incurred
in connection with the preparation, execution, enforcement, modification and
collection of this Agreement or in connection with the Loans made pursuant to
this Agreement. Lender may pay someone else to help collect the Loans and to
enforce this Agreement, and Borrower will pay that amount. This includes,
subject to any limits under applicable law, Lender's reasonable attorneys'
fees and Lender's legal expenses, whether or not there is a lawsuit,
including reasonable attorneys' fees for bankruptcy proceedings (including
efforts to modify or vacate any automatic stay or injunction), appeals, and
any anticipated post-judgment collection services. Borrower also will pay
any court costs, in addition to all other sums provided by law.
NOTICES. All notices required to be given under this Agreement shall be
given in writing, may be sent by telefacsimilie, and shall be effective when
actually delivered or when deposited with a nationally recognized overnight
courier or deposited In the United States mail, first class, postage prepaid,
addressed to the party to whom the notice is to be given at the address shown
above. Any party may change its address for notices under this Agreement by
giving formal written notice to the other parties, specifying that the
purpose of the notice is to change the party's address. To the extent
permitted by applicable law, if there is more than one Borrower, notice to
any Borrower will constitute notice to all Borrowers. For notice purposes,
Borrower will keep Lender informed at all times of Borrower's current
address(es).
SEVERABILITY. If a court of competent jurisdiction finds any provision of
this Agreement to be invalid or unenforceable as to any person or
circumstance, such finding shall not render that provision invalid or
unenforceable as to any other persons or circumstances. If feasible, any
such offending provision shall be deemed to be modified to be within the
limits of enforceability or validity; however, if the offending provision
cannot be so modified, it shall be stricken and all other provisions of this
Agreement in all other respects shall remain valid and enforceable.
SUBSIDIARIES AND AFFILIATES OF BORROWER. To the extent the context of any
provisions of this Agreement makes it appropriate, including without
limitation any representation, warranty or covenant, the word "Borrower" as
used herein shall include all subsidiaries and affiliates of Borrower.
Notwithstanding the foregoing however, under no circumstances shall this
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Agreement be construed to require Lender to make any Loan or other financial
accommodation to any subsidiary or affiliate of Borrower.
SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS. All covenants and agreements contained by or on
behalf of Borrower shall bind its successors and assigns and shall inure to
the benefit of Lender, its successors and assigns. Borrower shall not,
however, have the right to assign its rights under this Agreement or any
interest therein, without the prior written consent of Lender.
SURVIVAL. All warranties, representations, and covenants made by Borrower
in this Agreement or in any certificate or other instrument delivered by
Borrower to Lender under this Agreement shall be considered to have been
relied upon by Lender and will survive the making of the Loan and delivery
to Lender of the Related Documents, regardless of any investigation made by
Lender or on Lender's behalf.
TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE. Time is of the essence in the performance of this
Agreement.
WAIVER. Lender shall not be deemed to have waived any rights under this
Agreement unless such waiver is given In writing and signed by Lender. No
delay or omission on the part of Lender in exercising any right shall
operate as a waiver of such right or any other right. A waiver by Lender of
a provision of this Agreement shall not prejudice or constitute a waiver of
Lender's right otherwise to demand strict compliance with that provision or
any other provision of this Agreement. No prior waiver by Lender, nor any
course of dealing between Lender and Borrower, or between Lender and any
Grantor, shall constitute a waiver of any of Lender's rights or of any
obligations of Borrower or of any Grantor as to any future transactions.
Whenever the consent of Lender is required under this Agreement, the
granting of such consent by Lender in any instance shall not constitute
continuing consent in subsequent instances where such consent is required,
and in all cases such consent may be granted or withheld in the sole
discretion of Lender.
BORROWER ACKNOWLEDGES HAVING READ ALL THE PROVISIONS OF THIS BUSINESS LOAN
AGREEMENT, AND BORROWER AGREES TO ITS TERMS. THIS AGREEMENT IS DATED AS OF
JANUARY 10, 1997.
BORROWER:
ASTROPOWER, INC.
BY: /S/ XXXXXX X. XXXXXX, VICE PRESIDENT, CONTROLLER AND TREASURER (SEAL)
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ATTEST:
By: /S/ XXXXXX X. XXXX (CORPORATE SEAL)
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Secretary or Assistant Secretary
LENDER:
ARTISANS' BANK
By: /S/ XXXXX X XXXXX, V.P.
----------------------
Authorized Officer
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