Gas-fired generation is an energy-efficient technology and combined heat and power (CHP) offers an even more efficient means of generating energy that substantially reduces fuel consumption without compromising the reliability and quality of the energy supply to consumers. The cogeneration of electricity and steam is utilized globally as an environmentally superior, clean technology alternative to traditional power sources.
We provide clients with cutting-edge strategic insight, regulatory guidance and unparalleled legal counsel. Our lawyers have advised on many of Canada’s largest, most complex and innovative power projects, including the development of gas-fired and cogeneration facilities, systems and operations, facilities management, mergers and acquisitions, regulatory compliance, environmental law, resolution of Indigenous issues, and a wide range of other concerns impacting thermal energy producers and customers.
Owners, developers, operators and financiers of gas-fired and cogeneration projects and facilities across North America rely on Blakes for expertise that extends beyond traditional legal advice. This includes providing clients with the business understanding necessary to effectively negotiate energy-specific PPAs, deal with CHP and cooling and waste heat recovery sources, and understand operating considerations. Clients also seek our representation when negotiating the acquisition or disposition of thermal facilities, including advice on operating considerations, procurement, construction, and employment and labour challenges.
Blakes Power lawyers have extensive experience drafting and negotiating industry contracts, including power purchase agreements (PPAs), engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contracts, turbine and equipment supply agreements, long-term maintenance agreements, off-take agreements, and steam supply agreements. We regularly advise on all forms of fuel supply, including thermal/gas-fired options. The Ontario Power Authority retained Blakes to advise on its CHP projects, requests for proposals (RFPs) and vendor selection processes, making us a firm of choice to counsel vendors and suppliers when developing or responding to RFPs.
Heartland Generation Ltd. (a wholly owned affiliate of Energy Capital Partners) in the C$40-million acquisition of SaskPower’s 30 per cent share in the Muskeg River Cogeneration Station.
Capstone Infrastructure Corporation in respect of the C$83-million credit facilities provided to Cardinal Power of Canada, L.P. to refinance its 156 MW natural-gas cogeneration facility.
ENMAX Corporation on all commercial arrangements for the ownership and operation of Alberta’s largest natural gas-fired power facility, located in southeast Calgary in the community of Shepard. The facility will have a generation capacity of 800 MW, comprised of two 240 MW natural-gas-fired turbine generators and one 320 MW steam turbine generator.
The Ontario Power Authority on the development of a province-wide 1,000 MW RFP for district energy and cogeneration projects (CHP I), one of the largest solicitations of its kind in North America, and on the development of a further RFP on similar terms (CHP II).
A developer in connection with the development, construction and financing of a 500 MW natural-gas-fired generating facility located in southwestern Ontario.
A large U.S. utility in connection with its acquisition and financing of a 50 per cent interest in a natural-gas-fired cogeneration facility located in southeastern Ontario.
