Micro Hydro Law

Even though large-scale hydroelectric power projects are technically a renewable energy, they often have serious impacts on the environment.   Small scale hydropower, or micro hydro, creates unlimited supply of clean energy, but without the negative environmental impacts. Furthermore, micro hydro projects are less demanding to permit.  CLP has been involve in helping our clients obtain permits, water rights, and other necessary steps with regard to water quality, wildlife issues, and FERC licensing. Cleantech Law Partners has been honored to be apart of this fledgling sector of the renewable energy industry and serve as legal counsel to the leading developers of micro hydro projects and technologies.

Specialties:

  • FERC regulations and applications
  • Administrative hearings
  • Clean water act compliance
  • Endangered species act compliance
  • Financing micro hydro energy projects
  • Micro hydro technology startups
  • Renewable energy related agreements
  • Permitting micro hydro projects
  • Leasing & acquisition of land for micro hydro projects
  • Land use and water rights issues
  • Federal and state environmental compliance

Representative matters:

  • Representation of leading micro hydro developer in various financing, development and compliance matters
  • Advised on micro hydro permitting requirements for project developer
  • Representation during several rounds of funding for micro hydro startup company
  • Interfaced with U.S. Department of Energy’s Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) on behalf of client