UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
_______________________
FORM 6-K
_______________________
REPORT OF FOREIGN PRIVATE ISSUER
Pursuant to Rule 13a-16 or 15d-16 of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934
Date: March 8, 2024
Commission File Number: 001-37946
_______________________
| | |
|
| Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp. |
(Translation of registrant’s name into English)
_______________________
354 Davis Road
Oakville, Ontario, L6J 2X1, Canada
(Address of principal executive offices)
_______________________
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual reports under cover of Form 20-F or Form 40-F.
Form 20-F □ Form 40-F ☒
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(1): □
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(7): □
EXHIBIT INDEX
The following exhibits are filed as part of this Form 6-K:
| | | | | |
| Exhibit | Description |
| Code of Business Conduct and Ethics |
| |
| |
SIGNATURE
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
| | | | | |
|
| |
| | ALGONQUIN POWER & UTILITIES CORP. |
| | (registrant) |
| | |
| | |
| Date: March 8, 2024 | By: /s/ Darren Myers |
| | Name: Darren Myers |
| | Title: Chief Financial Officer |
| | |
Code of Business Conduct and Ethics |
| 100-600-100-001 |
| | | | | | | | |
| Name | |
| Code of Business Conduct and Ethics | |
| Doc No. | |
| 100-600-100-001 | |
| Owner | |
| Chief Legal Officer | |
| Approver | Date |
| Board of Directors | 03/7/2024 |
Code of Business Conduct and Ethics
1.INTRODUCTION
This code of business conduct and ethics (the “Code”) has been approved by the board of directors (the “Board”) of Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp. (the “Corporation”) to assist all directors, trustees, officers, employees, agents and contractors (collectively, the “Algonquin Representatives”) of the Corporation and each of its subsidiary entities (collectively, “Algonquin”) to maintain high standards of ethical conduct in affairs of Algonquin, including the affairs of any Algonquin joint venture or similar type of business arrangement. This Code is intended to comply with applicable legal requirements, including applicable securities laws.
The Board is ultimately responsible for implementation and administration of this Code. To assist the Board with these responsibilities, an Ethics Officer and an Assistant Ethics Officer have been designated who are responsible for the day-to-day implementation and administration of this Code. The current Ethics Officer and Assistant Ethics Officer and their contact information are set out in Schedule A. Algonquin Representatives should direct questions concerning this Code to the Ethics Officer or the Assistant Ethics Officer.
While this Code is designed to provide helpful guidelines, it is not intended to address every situation. Dishonest or unethical conduct or conduct that is illegal will constitute a violation of this Code, regardless of whether such conduct is specifically referenced in this Code. Algonquin Representatives should conduct their business affairs in such a manner that Algonquin’s reputation will not be impugned if the details of their dealings become public.
It is not intended that there be any waivers granted under this Code. In the unlikely event that a waiver is considered and granted, it must receive prior approval by the Board. Waivers will be disclosed promptly in accordance with applicable securities laws and the Corporation’s Disclosure Policy.
Algonquin also maintains other policies, handbooks, principles and guidelines that cover more fully many of the topics addressed in this Code.
| | |
Page 1 of 14 Uncontrolled if Printed |
| | |
Code of Business Conduct and Ethics |
| 100-600-100-001 |
If laws or other policies or codes of conduct differ from this Code, or if there is any question as to whether this Code applies to a particular situation, Algonquin Representatives should check with the Ethics Officer before acting. Every supervisor and manager is also responsible for helping employees to understand and comply with this Code.
Algonquin will take disciplinary, preventive or other action as it deems appropriate to address any existing or potential violation of this Code brought to its attention. Any Algonquin Representative in a situation or aware of a situation that he or she believes may violate or lead to a violation of this Code must follow the procedures described in the section entitled “Reporting of Violations Procedure” below.
2.COMPLIANCE WITH LAWS
A variety of laws apply to Algonquin and its operations. It is Algonquin’s policy to comply with all applicable laws, including employment, discrimination, health, safety, antitrust, securities, banking, privacy, anti-bribery, anti-corruption, trade, labour and environmental laws. No Algonquin Representative has authority to violate any law or to direct another Algonquin Representative or other person to violate any law on behalf of Algonquin. Each Algonquin Representative is expected to comply with all such laws, as well as rules and regulations adopted under such laws.
Violations of laws may subject an Algonquin Representative to individual criminal or civil liability, as well as to discipline by Algonquin. Such individual violations may also subject Algonquin to civil or criminal liability or the loss of reputation or business.
Many of the laws applicable to Algonquin and Algonquin Representatives are complex and fact specific. If any Algonquin Representative has questions concerning a specific situation, he or she should contact the Ethics Officer before taking any action.
3.CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
(a)General
Algonquin Representatives are expected to make or participate in business decisions and actions based on the best interests of Algonquin and not based on personal relationships or benefits.
A conflict of interest can occur or appear to occur in a wide variety of situations. In general, a conflict of interest occurs when the personal interest of an Algonquin Representative, an immediate family member of an Algonquin Representative, or a person with whom an Algonquin Representative has a close personal relationship interferes with, or has the potential to interfere with, the interests or business of Algonquin. For example, a conflict of interest may occur where an Algonquin Representative, his or her family member or person with whom he or she has a close personal relationship receives a gift, a unique advantage (including a contract or employment), or an improper personal benefit as a result of the Algonquin
| | |
Page 2 of 14 Uncontrolled if Printed |
| | |
Code of Business Conduct and Ethics |
| 100-600-100-001 |
Representative’s position at Algonquin. A conflict of interest could make it difficult for an Algonquin Representative to perform his or her duties objectively and effectively because he or she has a competing interest.
(b)Common Areas in which Conflicts Arise
The following are common areas that raise conflict of interest issues. However, a conflict of interest can occur in a variety of situations. Algonquin Representatives must be alert to recognize any situation that may raise conflict of interest issues and must disclose to the Ethics Officer any material transaction or relationship (including a business, personal or family relationship) that reasonably could be expected to give rise to actual, potential or apparent conflicts of interest with Algonquin.
i.Outside Activities/Employment
Any outside activity must not significantly encroach on the time and attention Algonquin Representatives devote to their duties for Algonquin and should not adversely affect the quality or quantity of their work. In addition, Algonquin Representatives may not imply Algonquin’s sponsorship or support of any outside activity that is not official Algonquin business, and under no circumstances are Algonquin Representatives permitted to take for themselves or their family members business opportunities that are discovered or made available by virtue of their positions at Algonquin. Moreover, except as permitted by the following paragraph or by the Board, no Algonquin employee may perform services for or have a material financial interest in any entity that is, or to such employee’s knowledge may become, a vendor, client or competitor of Algonquin. Algonquin employees are prohibited from taking part in any outside employment or directorships without the prior written approval of the Ethics Officer, except for minor and unrelated employment and for directorships on charitable boards that in each case do not interfere with the employee’s duties to Algonquin.
No Algonquin employee may acquire securities of a customer, supplier or other party if ownership of the securities would be likely to affect adversely either the employee’s ability to exercise independent judgment on behalf of Algonquin or the quality of such employee’s work. Algonquin Representatives must always follow Algonquin’s other policies concerning the trading of securities, including the Corporation’s Disclosure Policy and Insider Trading Policy.
ii.Civic/Political Activities
Algonquin Representatives are at liberty to participate in civic, charitable or political activities so long as such participation does not encroach on the time and attention they are expected to devote to their Algonquin-related duties. Such activities are to be conducted in a manner that does not create an appearance of Algonquin’s involvement or endorsement.
| | |
Page 3 of 14 Uncontrolled if Printed |
| | |
Code of Business Conduct and Ethics |
| 100-600-100-001 |
(c)Exceptions
Transactions as defined in applicable securities regulations between related parties will not be conflicts of interest under this Code if they are reviewed and approved in accordance with the requirements of those regulations. Transactions or other activities by directors, officers or employees of Algonquin will not be conflicts of interest under this Code if they have been approved by the Board or disclosed in accordance with this Policy.
4.BRIBERY AND OTHER IMPROPER PAYMENTS
(a)General
Algonquin strictly prohibits bribery in all forms and requires all Algonquin Representatives to comply with all applicable anti-bribery and anti-corruption laws and Algonquin’s Anti-Bribery and Anti-Corruption Policy.
No Algonquin Representative may, directly or indirectly, give, offer, demand, solicit or accept any improper payment to or from anyone while conducting business on behalf of Algonquin. Improper payments include bribes, facilitation payments and kickbacks, whether monetary or non-monetary.
Similarly, a third-party intermediary, such as an agent or family member, cannot be used to further any improper payment or otherwise violate the spirit of this Code.
(b)Dealings with Government and Public Officials
Algonquin strictly prohibits directly or indirectly offering, providing or receiving any improper payment or anything of value, whether monetary or non-monetary, to or from any public official. Any offer of or request for any improper payment must be reported promptly to the Ethics Officer.
(c)Political and Charitable Contributions
Algonquin prohibits corporate contributions to federal, state, provincial or local candidates for public office or to political parties or committees.
Algonquin Representatives may make personal political and charitable contributions in accordance with section 3(b)(ii) of this Code and the Political Participation Policy.
(d)Gifts and Business Courtesies
Algonquin strictly prohibits any payment to any person that violates the laws of any jurisdiction in which Algonquin operates. Except to the extent specified in section 3(e) of this Code, Algonquin strictly prohibits any person from giving, offering, promising, demanding, soliciting or receiving, directly or indirectly, anything of value, including a gift or other business courtesy, using corporate or personal funds, while representing
| | |
Page 4 of 14 Uncontrolled if Printed |
| | |
Code of Business Conduct and Ethics |
| 100-600-100-001 |
Algonquin or in the course of conducting Algonquin business. Any offer of or request for such a gift or other business courtesy must be reported to the Ethics Officer. Business courtesies include: gifts; meals; entertainment; travel; business opportunities; discounted or free products or services (including gift cards); employment opportunities; loans; cash and per diems. Questions respecting what constitute appropriate gifts or other business courtesies should be directed to the Ethics Officer.
(e)Exceptions
Algonquin does not prohibit:
•the giving or receiving of gifts of nominal value to or from non-government suppliers and customers, provided that they are not for the express purpose of obtaining or retaining business or some other advantage for Algonquin and provided that they are otherwise lawful;
•expenditures of amounts for meals, entertainment and travel expenses for non- government suppliers and customers that are ordinary and customary business expenses, if they are otherwise lawful (these expenditures should be included on expense reports and approved pursuant to Algonquin’s standard procedures); or
•payments made that are otherwise lawful in respect of reasonable expenses incurred in good faith by or on behalf of a public official that are directly related to the promotion, demonstration or explanation of Algonquin’s business, or the execution or performance of a contract between Algonquin and the government for which the official performs duties or functions. The Ethics Officer should be consulted prior to providing any such payments to a public official.
Caution should be exercised with respect to these exceptions. If there is any doubt as to the legitimacy or legality of a payment or business courtesy under this Code, any other Algonquin policy or under any applicable law, advice should be sought in advance from the Ethics Officer.
5.INSIDER TRADING AND TIPPING
The purchase and sale of the Corporation’s securities may only be done in accordance with the Corporation’s Insider Trading Policy.
A violation of the Insider Trading Policy is also a violation of this Code. Any violation of insider trading, tipping, recommending, market manipulation, fraud or insider reporting laws by any Algonquin Representative may subject the Algonquin Representative to disciplinary action by Algonquin, up to and including termination of the Algonquin Representative’s relationship with Algonquin. The Algonquin Representative may also be accountable to the Corporation for any benefit or advantage received as a result of insider trading. Engaging in prohibited insider trading, tipping, recommending, market manipulation or fraud, or violating insider reporting requirements, may also have severe consequences, including fines, imprisonment and civil liability.
| | |
Page 5 of 14 Uncontrolled if Printed |
| | |
Code of Business Conduct and Ethics |
| 100-600-100-001 |
6.PUBLIC DISCLOSURE
The Corporation has an obligation under applicable laws to make full, fair, accurate, timely and understandable disclosure in its financial records and statements, in reports and documents that it files with or submits to securities regulatory authorities and in its other public communications.
In furtherance of this obligation, each Algonquin Representative in performing his or her duties shall act in good faith, responsibly, with due care, competence and diligence, without misrepresenting material facts or allowing one’s independent judgment to be subordinated, in order to ensure that to the best of his or her knowledge Algonquin’s books, records, accounts and financial statements are maintained accurately and in reasonable detail, appropriately reflect Algonquin’s transactions, are honestly and accurately reflected in its publicly available reports and communications and conform to applicable legal requirements and Algonquin’s system of internal controls, including the Corporation’s Disclosure Policy.
All media relations are to be co-ordinated through the Corporation’s Disclosure Committee and in accordance with the Disclosure Policy. Algonquin Representatives should not comment on any inquiry from the media, no matter how innocuous the inquiry may appear, unless specifically authorized to do so. Any employee who is asked for a statement by the media should refer the matter to any member of the Disclosure Committee.
7.HANDLING OF CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION
At all times, Algonquin Representatives must take appropriate steps to protect confidential information. In addition to the restrictions regarding material non-public information set forth in the Disclosure Policy, Algonquin Representatives should observe the confidentiality of information that they acquire by virtue of their relationship with Algonquin, including information concerning Algonquin and its customers, suppliers and competitors and other Algonquin Representatives, except where disclosure is approved by an executive officer of the Corporation or otherwise legally mandated. In addition, Algonquin Representatives must safeguard proprietary information, which includes information that is not generally known to the public and has commercial value in Algonquin’s business. Proprietary information includes, among other things, business methods, analytical tools, software programs, trade secrets, ideas, techniques, inventions and other information relating to economic analysis, designs, algorithms and research. It also includes information relating to finances, facilities, markets and terms of compensation for Algonquin Representatives. The obligation to preserve proprietary information continues even after employment ends. In addition to violating this Code and Algonquin policy, unauthorized use or distribution of proprietary information could be illegal and result in civil or even criminal penalties. Algonquin considers its confidential and proprietary information important assets and may bring suit against Algonquin Representatives or former Algonquin Representatives to defend its interests.
| | |
Page 6 of 14 Uncontrolled if Printed |
| | |
Code of Business Conduct and Ethics |
| 100-600-100-001 |
8.USE OF ALGONQUIN ASSETS
Algonquin assets, including facilities, funds, materials, supplies, time, information, intellectual property, computers, mobile devices, information technology hardware and software, facilities and other assets owned or leased by Algonquin, or that are otherwise in Algonquin’s possession, may be used only for legitimate business purposes of Algonquin. Algonquin assets are not to be misappropriated, loaned to others, donated, sold or used for personal use, except for any activities that have been approved by the Board or the Ethics Officer in advance, or for personal usage that is minor in amount and reasonable. Algonquin Representatives are to report any theft or suspected theft of Algonquin assets to the Ethics Officer.
9.FAIR DEALING
Each Algonquin Representative should deal fairly and in good faith with other Algonquin Representatives, securityholders, customers, suppliers, regulators, business partners and competitors. No Algonquin Representative may take unfair advantage of anyone through manipulation, concealment, misrepresentation, inappropriate threats, fraud, abuse of confidential information or any other intentional unfair-dealing practice.
10.PRIVACY AND PERSONAL INFORMATION
Algonquin is accountable for personal information under its control and custody and strives to comply with all applicable privacy laws and regulations. Algonquin maintains policies for protecting privacy which supplement this Code and with which all Algonquin Representatives must comply.
The collection of personal information is to be limited to that which is necessary for business, legal, security or contractual purposes and is to be collected by fair and lawful means. Collection of personal information requires the knowledge and informed consent of the individual from whom the information is being collected, except as permitted or required by law. Access to personal information shall be limited to those with a need to know for a legitimate business purpose. Algonquin will enable individuals to exercise their rights under applicable privacy laws and Algonquin’s policies, such as the ability to access and correct their personal information. Personal information shall not be used or disclosed for purposes other than those for which it was collected, except with the knowledge and informed consent of the individual or as permitted or required by law. Personal information shall be retained only for as long as necessary for the fulfilment of those purposes. Personal information shall also be kept sufficiently accurate, complete and up to date to minimize the possibility that inappropriate information may be used or disclosed.
Algonquin Representatives must observe applicable obligations of confidentiality and non-disclosure of personal information, including personal information of Algonquin’s employees and customers, with the same degree of diligence that employees are expected to use in protecting confidential information relating to Algonquin or Algonquin Representatives. Algonquin is responsible for all personal information in its control or custody, including personal information that has been transferred to a third party for processing or use, and all
| | |
Page 7 of 14 Uncontrolled if Printed |
| | |
Code of Business Conduct and Ethics |
| 100-600-100-001 |
Algonquin Representatives shall adhere to Algonquin’s policies and procedures in place to protect personal information against loss or theft, as well as unauthorized collection, access, disclosure, copying, use, modification, erasure or destruction. Algonquin Representatives must also comply with all applicable laws relating to the disclosure of personal information and managing and reporting of privacy breaches.
11.RECORDING OF TRANSACTIONS AND REPORTING OF FINANCIAL INFORMATION
The Corporation’s books and records must fully and fairly disclose, in an accurate, timely and understandable manner, all transactions and assets of the Corporation. The integrity of the Corporation’s record-keeping and reporting systems shall be maintained at all times. Algonquin Representatives must document and record all transactions in accordance with the Corporation’s internal control procedures and in compliance with all applicable accounting principles, laws, rules and regulations. Algonquin Representatives are forbidden to use, authorize, or condone the use of “off-the-books” record-keeping or any other device that could be utilized to distort records or reports of the Corporation’s true operating results and financial condition. Maintenance of falsified, inaccurate or incomplete records can subject the offending individual and the Corporation to civil and criminal penalties.
All assets are to be recorded and disclosed. The use of Algonquin’s assets for any unlawful or improper purpose is strictly prohibited, and those responsible for the accounting and record-keeping functions are expected to be vigilant in ensuring enforcement of this prohibition. Algonquin Representatives with responsibility for reporting financial information shall provide information that is accurate, complete, objective, timely and understandable and complies with all applicable laws relating to the recording and disclosure of financial information. Complaints and concerns regarding accounting, internal accounting controls or auditing matters may be made through the Ethics Hotline in accordance with the Corporation’s Ethics Reporting Policy, or through one of the other procedures described in the section entitled “Reporting of Violations Procedure” below.
12.IMPROPER INFLUENCE ON CONDUCT OF AUDITS
Algonquin Representatives will not improperly influence, manipulate or mislead any auditor engaged in the performance of an audit of the Corporation’s financial information or financial statements.
The honesty and integrity of those who represent the Corporation must underlie all of Algonquin’s relationships, including those with shareholders, customers, suppliers, governments, regulators, professional service providers and others. The integrity of the Corporation’s financial reporting is of particular importance as shareholders rely on the Corporation to provide complete and accurate information. The dissemination of financial statements that contain materially misleading information can cause serious legal difficulties for both the Corporation and the Algonquin Representative. As mentioned above, complaints and concerns regarding accounting, internal accounting controls or auditing matters may be made through the Ethics Hotline in accordance with the Corporation’s Ethics Reporting Policy, or through one of the other procedures described in the section entitled “Reporting of Violations Procedure” below.
| | |
Page 8 of 14 Uncontrolled if Printed |
| | |
Code of Business Conduct and Ethics |
| 100-600-100-001 |
13.RECORDS RETENTION
Certain records received or generated at Algonquin must be retained for specified periods of time; other records should be purged on a regular basis. Legal and regulatory practice requires the retention of certain records for various periods of time, particularly in the tax, personnel, health and safety, environmental and financial areas. Failure to retain documents for such minimum periods may subject Algonquin to penalties and fines or place Algonquin at a serious disadvantage in litigation. In addition, when litigation or a governmental investigation or audit is pending or imminent, relevant records must not be altered or destroyed until the matter is closed. Destruction of records to avoid disclosure in a legal or governmental proceeding may constitute a criminal offence.
14.HEALTH AND SAFETY
Algonquin strives to provide each Algonquin Representative with a safe and healthy work environment. Each Algonquin Representative has responsibility for maintaining a safe and healthy workplace for all Algonquin Representatives by following safety and health rules and practices and promptly reporting accidents, injuries and unsafe equipment, practices or conditions. Violence and threatening behaviour will not be tolerated.
Algonquin Representatives should report to work in condition to perform their duties, free from the influence of alcohol, illicit drugs or other mood-altering substances (including marijuana / cannabis). Outside of Algonquin-sponsored events, the use, possession, distribution, offering or sale of alcohol, illicit drug or other mood-altering substances (including marijuana / cannabis) in the workplace will not be tolerated.
Certain exceptions exist for the use of medications in accordance with this Code. Employees are required to responsibly use medications (which may include marijuana / cannabis), whether obtained via a prescription or over-the-counter. Medications of concern are those that may inhibit an individual’s ability to perform his or her job safely and productively. If an employee’s use of medication may affect his or her ability to perform their job safely and productively or may create a safety concern, the employee must report the use of the medication (which may include marijuana / cannabis) to their supervisor or manager along with acceptable medical documentation confirming the need for such use.
15.DISCRIMINATION AND HARASSMENT
Algonquin is committed to maintaining a fair and inclusive workplace that recognizes the importance of providing an environment free from all barriers in order to promote diversity. Algonquin is firmly committed to providing equal opportunity in all aspects of employment and will not tolerate any illegal discrimination or harassment of any kind. Examples of conduct that will not be tolerated include derogatory comments based on race, ethnicity, nationality, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation or religion and unwelcome sexual advances.
| | |
Page 9 of 14 Uncontrolled if Printed |
| | |
Code of Business Conduct and Ethics |
| 100-600-100-001 |
16.COMPUTING TECHNOLOGY
Algonquin Representatives with access to Algonquin computing and communication devices must use them in a responsible manner for the benefit of Algonquin and Algonquin Representatives should ensure that they are used appropriately and with care. While incidental personal use may occasionally occur and is acceptable, these resources are intended for Algonquin’s benefit and use, and employees shall not create or transmit any unsolicited commercial, advertising or recreational material, or use any system resources for political activities, or to advance the interests of any party other than Algonquin.
Information transmitted through Algonquin resources implies affiliation with the Corporation and should therefore reflect positively upon the Corporation. Algonquin Representatives shall not create, access or transmit any material, data, text, audio or images, or material, which is offensive, obscene, indecent, libellous, slanderous, harassing or defamatory. Algonquin Representatives are expected to discourage others from transmitting such information to their internet address. Algonquin Representatives must also comply with all laws including those in respect to all forms of intellectual property rights, trademarks, copyrights and harassment.
Algonquin Representatives must use facilities efficiently, minimize unnecessary messages to others, and refrain from activities that will jeopardize the normal business operation of the system. Computer system passwords and/or user identifications must not be disclosed to anyone except in accordance with Algonquin’s policies. Normal standards of professionalism should govern when deciding whether to make information available on Algonquin’s computing and communication devices. All use by Algonquin Representatives of Algonquin’s technology, systems or internet is subject to monitoring and periodic audit by authorized personnel.
17.REPORTING OF VIOLATIONS PROCEDURE
(a)General Policy Regarding Violations Reports
Algonquin Representatives who observe, learn of, or, in good faith, suspect a violation of this Code must promptly report the violation to the Ethics Officer, Assistant Ethics Officer, Chair of the Risk Committee of the Board, or Chair of the Audit & Finance Committee of the Board. Complaints or concerns may be made anonymously through the Ethics Hotline or through another reporting method set out in the Corporation’s Ethics Reporting Policy. Alternatively, Algonquin Representatives may report a violation or suspected violation of this Code directly to the Ontario Securities Commission or another regulatory authority or law enforcement agency with jurisdiction over the subject matter of the complaint. Nothing in this Code limits in any way the ability of an Algonquin Representative to communicate directly with a relevant governmental or regulatory agency without notifying or receiving consent from any person within Algonquin.
Algonquin Representatives who report violations or suspected violations in good faith will not be subject to retaliation of any kind. Reported violations will be investigated
| | |
Page 10 of 14 Uncontrolled if Printed |
| | |
Code of Business Conduct and Ethics |
| 100-600-100-001 |
and addressed promptly and will be treated confidentially to the extent possible. A violation of this Code may result in disciplinary action, which may include termination of an Algonquin Representative’s relationship with Algonquin.
It is unacceptable to submit a complaint knowing it is false.
(b)Investigation Procedure
i.Investigation
Reports of violations will be investigated under the supervision of the Compliance and Ethics Committee (minus any implicated member). Relevant corporate records will be reviewed and pertinent Algonquin Representatives and others may be interviewed in order to determine the existence and extent of any violation. Algonquin Representatives are expected to cooperate in the investigation of reported violations. The Compliance and Ethics Committee will report on the fact of the commencement of the investigation and the conclusions of the investigation to the Risk Committee of the Board and/or such other committee of the Board that has oversight responsibility for the subject matter of the complaint.
ii.Confidentiality
Except as may be required by law or the requirements of the resulting investigation, the Compliance and Ethics Committee shall not disclose the identity of anyone who reports a suspected violation if anonymity is requested. Except as may be required by law or the requirements of the resulting investigation, all reports of violations and related consultations will be kept confidential to the extent possible under the circumstances.
iii.Protection Against Retaliation
Retaliation in any form against an individual who reports an alleged violation of this Code in good faith, even if the report is mistaken, or who participates in the investigation of a report, may itself be a violation of law and is a serious violation of this Code. Any alleged act of retaliation must be reported promptly to the Ethics Officer. If determined to have in fact occurred, any act of retaliation will result in appropriate disciplinary action, which may include termination of the Algonquin Representative’s relationship with Algonquin.
18.COMPLIANCE
(a)Adherence to Code; Disciplinary Action
All Algonquin Representatives have a responsibility to understand and follow this Code. In addition, all Algonquin Representatives are expected to perform their work with honesty and integrity in all areas not specifically addressed in this Code. Algonquin may discipline any Algonquin Representative who violates this Code or
| | |
Page 11 of 14 Uncontrolled if Printed |
| | |
Code of Business Conduct and Ethics |
| 100-600-100-001 |
related policies. Such discipline may include, among other things, written notice to the Algonquin Representative that Algonquin has determined that there has been a violation, censure by Algonquin, demotion or re-assignment, suspension with or without pay or benefits, or termination of the Algonquin Representative’s relationship with Algonquin.
Records of all violations of this Code and the disciplinary action taken will be maintained by the Ethics Officer and will be placed in the Algonquin Representative’s personnel file.
Algonquin will notify and cooperate with the police or other governmental authorities regarding acts of Algonquin Representatives involving violations of law. In addition, some violations may result in Algonquin bringing suit against Algonquin Representatives or former Algonquin Representatives to defend its interests.
(b)Communications
Algonquin strongly encourages dialogue among Algonquin Representatives and their supervisors to make everyone aware of situations that give rise to ethical questions and to articulate acceptable ways of handling those situations.
The Ethics Officer or his or her designee shall provide a report to the Risk Committee at least quarterly on investigations and other significant matters arising under this Code.
(c)Responsibility of Senior Employees
Algonquin Representatives who are officers or other managerial employees are expected to promote honest and ethical conduct, including the ethical handling of actual or apparent conflicts of interest between personal and professional relationships. Algonquin Representatives who are managerial employees may be disciplined if they condone misconduct, do not report misconduct, do not take reasonable measures to detect misconduct or do not demonstrate the appropriate leadership to promote compliance.
19.RELATED ALGONQUIN POLICIES
This Code should be read in conjunction with Algonquin’s other related policies, including the Corporation’s Disclosure Policy, Insider Trading Policy, Ethics Reporting Policy, Workplace Relationships Policy, Workplace Civility Policy, Political Participation Policy and Anti-Bribery and Anti-Corruption Policy. This Code supplements, but does not supersede, any contractual obligation any person may have under the terms of any agreements with Algonquin. This Code is not intended to create any contract (express or implied) with any person, including any employment or consulting contract, or to constitute any promise that a person’s employment or consulting arrangement will not be terminated except for cause.
| | |
Page 12 of 14 Uncontrolled if Printed |
| | |
Code of Business Conduct and Ethics |
| 100-600-100-001 |
20.AMENDMENT
Any amendment to this Code will be disclosed promptly to Algonquin Representatives and will be disclosed in accordance with applicable securities laws.
* * * * *
| | |
Page 13 of 14 Uncontrolled if Printed |
| | |
Code of Business Conduct and Ethics |
| 100-600-100-001 |
Schedule A
Ethics Officer:
Jennifer Tindale
Chief Legal Officer
Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp. 354 Davis Road
Oakville, Ontario L6J 2X1
Telephone: 905-699-2746
Email: jennifer.tindale@apucorp.com
Assistant Ethics Officer:
Dan Gilpin
Vice President, Compliance and Ethics
Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp. 354 Davis Road
Oakville, Ontario L6J 2X1
Telephone: 416-305-7935
Email: dan.gilpin@libertyutilities.com
| | |
Page 14 of 14 Uncontrolled if Printed |
Grafico Azioni Algonquin Power (NYSE:AQN)
Storico
Da Ott 2024 a Nov 2024
Grafico Azioni Algonquin Power (NYSE:AQN)
Storico
Da Nov 2023 a Nov 2024
