Power and Energy

Young, Sommer . . . LLC offers extensive experience and high level contacts in New York State government concerning emerging markets for electric power services.  The firm represents clients  in power plant siting, including Article X proceedings, generator/transmission interconnection agreements, New York Independent Systems Operator (ISO) procedures, power purchase agreements, clean energy fund applications, representation before the New York Public Service Commission (NYPSC), lobbying in the New York State Legislature in electric sector issues, energy efficiency incentives, distribution utility relations, and green power marketing.  Douglas Ward and David Wooley have represented clients before the NYPSC since 1990, a period which included the move from traditional cost-based electric utility regulation toward competitive wholesale and retail electric markets.  Members of the firm participated in the Public Service Commission's deregulation proceeding, the formation of the New York ISO, key utility merger proceedings, and a variety of cases involving the gradual evolution of competitive retail markets.  The firm's successes include major modifications to the Independent System Operator tariff, the creation of the Public Benefits Fund, successful applications at FERC for exempt wholesale generator and market-based rate determinations and negotiation of distribution interconnection agreements.

The firm is also involved with policy and market issues associated with renewable energy development in New York.  In 2001, David Wooley (of counsel) received the American Wind Energy Association's State Leadership Award for his work in developing a favorable policy environment for wind energy in the Northeastern United States.  Members of the firm have worked with the New York State Legislature on a wide range of issues including electric utility legislation governing generator tax credits, standby rates, funding for renewable energy development, energy efficiency issues, and rules governing on-site generation.  The firm has represented clients in biomass energy development and regulatory matters, including issues involving environmental quality review and municipal law.  The firm can also offer assistance with policy issues concerning environmental facility permitting and environmental impact review under the New York State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA), municipal law experience in relation to environmental impacts/benefits of development and can help build partnerships with regional development agencies.
    
For information on the firm's Energy Practice, contact Douglas Ward.