The West Firm advises clients on a broad spectrum of energy projects, including solar arrays, wind farms, hydroelectric facilities, battery storage installations and oil and gas infrastructure. We assist clients from early site selection and permitting through financing and operation.

Our experience includes utility-scale projects as well as community and behind-the-meter renewable installations. Because every project has unique regulatory requirements, we tailor our approach to address local zoning, environmental review and interconnection rules while anticipating future compliance issues. Outside New York, we collaborate with co-counsel to support projects across the Northeast and in other states.

Whether you are planning a small distributed generation array or a multi-hundred-megawatt wind farm, The Firm can guide you through the process from concept to completion. To learn more about the specific projects we have handled or to schedule a consultation, visit our attorneys page or contact us.

Our due diligence process assesses title, zoning and permit compliance to ensure the project can secure the necessary approvals. We will coordinate Phase I environmental site assessments and, when necessary, more detailed investigations to identify potential contamination or ecological constraints. When due diligence uncovers issues, we work with engineers and regulators to develop mitigation strategies and negotiate liability protections. By addressing potential risks early, we help clients avoid costly delays and position their projects for successful financing.

 You can learn more about due diligence in energy projects on our blog or reach out through our contact page for tailored guidance.

Beyond environmental concerns, our due diligence process assesses title, zoning and permit compliance to ensure the project can secure the necessary approvals. By addressing potential risks early, we help clients avoid costly delays and position their projects for successful financing. You can learn more about due diligence in energy projects on our blog or reach out through our contact page for tailored guidance.

A power purchase agreement (PPA) is a contract in which a third-party developer installs, owns and operates a renewable energy system while the customer purchases electricity at a pre-determined rate for a set term. PPAs allow property owners to benefit from renewable energy without paying the up-front capital costs; the developer retains ownership of the system and assumes the performance risk. The agreement often specifies who owns the renewable energy certificates and may include options for transferring or retiring them. PPAs can be structured for on-site projects, where electricity is delivered behind the meter, or off-site projects that deliver power through the grid.

The Firm negotiates PPAs that align with project financing and regulatory requirements, ensuring clarity around price escalations, term length, maintenance responsibilities and termination provisions. Whether you are a project developer seeking a bankable contract or a corporate offtaker looking to lock in renewable power, our attorneys can structure PPAs that support your business goals. Review our blog posts on the pros and cons of buying electricity through a PPA.

Energy projects in New York must navigate a complex regulatory landscape. Depending on the project size and technology, developers may need certificates of public convenience and necessity from the FERC or the PSC, environmental permits from agencies such as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Department of Environmental Conservation and approvals from New York State Independent System Operator (NYISO). Local municipalities may also require site plan approval, building permits and tax abatements.

Our attorneys have extensive experience guiding clients through Article VII transmission line proceedings, Article 10 siting reviews and the newer Section 94-c process for large-scale renewables. We work closely with agency staff and consultants to prepare applications, address public comments and negotiate permit conditions. By anticipating regulatory hurdles and coordinating submissions, we help projects stay on schedule and avoid compliance pitfalls. Learn more about New York’s regulatory requirements on our blog or reach out via our contact page for assistance.

Financing renewable energy projects often involves a mix of equity, debt and tax equity. Tax credits, such as the federal Investment Tax Credit and Production Tax Credit, can significantly reduce project costs when monetized by tax equity investors. New York’s Green Bank and similar programs provide low-cost capital for qualifying projects. Developers may also secure grants and rebates from federal or state programs and negotiate payments in lieu of taxes (PILOT) agreements with local industrial development agencies to manage property tax burdens.

The West Firm works with financial institutions and investors to structure bankable deals and advises clients on incentive eligibility and compliance. We also assist with negotiating lease-leaseback arrangements, sale-leaseback transactions and joint ventures that can unlock additional capital. To explore financing strategies for your project, connect with our team through the contact page.

Yes. While The West Firm is rooted in Albany, New York, our attorneys regularly advise clients on projects across the United States. We represent developers, investors and utilities in matters involving federal agencies such as FERC and the EPA, so our experience naturally extends beyond New York. Through strategic partnerships with local counsel in other states, we help clients navigate regional permitting requirements, interconnection standards and incentive programs. Our national practice includes advising on solar, wind, hydroelectric and battery storage projects as well as traditional oil and gas infrastructure. Whether you are based in New York or pursuing a project elsewhere, our team brings the same depth of knowledge, proactive regulatory insight and commitment to client service. To discuss how we can support your project, please visit our about page or contact us directly.