Renewable Energy

Overview

From solar panels to wind turbines, renewable energy offers a world of potential. But as a relatively new sector, there are still many unique challenges and obstacles associated with alternative sources. Clients rely on our legal experts for strategic advice on the successful development of renewable energy projects.

Aird & Berlis offers expert knowledge and focus to guide clients through every phase of their energy matter, including site assessments, financing, construction, contract negotiations, permitting requirements and raw product supply.

Our practical, results-driven advice alongside our co-operative, team-oriented approach helps businesses achieve their objectives successfully and efficiently.

Drawing on lawyers from a range of practice areas, our dynamic advisory team assists with: 

• all phases of the development process for public and private sector developers of wind, solar, biogas, RNG, hydrogen, biofuel, waterpower, bulk storage and BESS (battery energy storage systems), including site acquisition, structuring and financing, EPC (engineering, procurement and construction) contracts, power purchase agreements, engineering, procurement, construction, connection and permitting requirements
• negotiation of partnership and joint venture agreements, including agreements with Indigenous communities
• representation at the Ontario Land Tribunal (formerly the Environmental Review Tribunal) to defend the issuance of the renewable energy approval
• refinancing, partnering or selling projects to assist developers in realizing the value of their investments at various stages
• consideration by land and building owners to permit the development of renewable energy facilities on their properties
• investment capital from financiers to developers and owners at all stages of a renewable energy initiative
• all phases of the connection process for distributors in renewable generating projects, including the negotiation of study, cost recovery and operating agreements
• negotiation of service agreements for owner/operators who have acquired renewable energy projects
• procurement for government and private “behind-the-meter” entities as they have contracted for the purchase of power generated by renewable energy facilities
• development of standard offer programs and management of contracted renewable energy facilities for government procurement agencies

Who We Help

Having been involved in the development and purchase of hundreds of generating facilities across all renewable energy sources, our lawyers understand what it takes to bring projects from conception to operation and realization to decommission.

Our depth of experience and breadth of legal skills allows us to assist a broad range of clients, including:

• Private and public developers of wind, solar, biogas, biomass, waterpower, bulk storage and BESS projects
• Distributors
• Land and building owners
• Producers
• Investors
• Owners/operators
• Government procurement agencies