Adani's Unveiled: Bribery Probe and TotalEnergies' Stake

The Adani Group, India's second-largest conglomerate, has found itself embroiled in a high-profile scandal as U.S. prosecutors allege that the company's executives knew of an ongoing bribery investigation when they sold stakes in a solar park to French energy giant TotalEnergies. This revelation has raised questions about the Adani Group's ethical conduct and its impact on the renewable energy sector in India.

Prosecutors claim that Gautam and Sagar Adani, the chairman and nephew of the Adani Group, were aware of the U.S. investigation into suspected bribery related to the Khavda solar park when they sold a 50% stake in the project to TotalEnergies in September 2024. The French company, which is not named in the criminal case, has not yet commented on its awareness of the probe during the asset purchase.

The Adani Group has vehemently denied the allegations, maintaining that the claims are baseless. However, the incident has significantly tarnished the conglomerate's reputation, with Adani Green Energy Limited's stock price plummeting by approximately 29.42% in the past five days. TotalEnergies has also suspended its deal with the Adani Group, further damaging the company's investment portfolio.

The U.S. indictment alleges that the Adani family, along with other executives and a former CEO, promised and made improper payments to Indian officials between July 2021 and 2024 to secure the success of the solar project. The bribe payments totaled approximately ₹2,029 crore ($265 million), with the aim of persuading government officials to cause state electricity distribution companies to enter into Power Supply Agreements (PSAs) with the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI).


The incident has raised concerns about the Adani Group's ethical conduct and the broader implications for the renewable energy sector in India. Investors have expressed caution, and regulatory scrutiny may increase, potentially impacting the conglomerate's operations and expansion plans in the sector.

TotalEnergies, for its part, may face legal and financial consequences due to its investment in the Adani Group. As Gautam and Sagar Adani knew about the U.S. investigation when they sold the stake, TotalEnergies could be accused of complicity or negligence. The French company may face fines, reputational damage, and potential divestment from the Adani Group's assets.

The incident may also deter international energy companies from partnering with the Adani Group due to reputational risks and potential legal liabilities. Future collaborations may hinge on thorough due diligence and clean compliance records.

In conclusion, the Adani Group's alleged involvement in a bribery scheme has significant implications for the renewable energy sector in India. The revelations have raised questions about corporate governance and ethics, potentially impacting investor sentiment and the regulatory environment. As the investigation unfolds, investors and stakeholders will closely monitor the situation, evaluating the impact on the Adani Group's reputation, investment portfolio, and future collaborations.