New environmental regulations are requiring that energy companies recreate themselves—and fundamentally transform their business models. Indeed, rapid and significant regulatory changes are expected to continue for some time as the new energy economy evolves.

Faegre & Bensons's new energy team addresses the legal needs of businesses operating in this environment. We work with some of the country's leading energy companies to address the challenges posed by resource availability, energy generation and transmission infrastructure, and the regulation of carbon emissions. Our attorneys counsel energy clients in a range of sectors: utilities, oil and gas, electric transmission, biofuels, wind, solar and geothermal.

Our services include:

Environmental and Natural Resources. We counsel clients nationally in permitting, rulemaking, enforcement and litigation regarding air emissions, surface and storm water, waste management, site remediation and carbon sequestration issues. We also have experience with state and federal environmental review laws, siting proceedings, federal and Indian lands, wetlands and endangered species issues.

Real Estate and Land Use. We represent energy clients with respect to property acquisition and disposition, leasing, development, land assembly, land use permits and approvals and other aspects of developing, protecting and disposing of real estate assets.

Eminent Domain/Corridor Acquisition. We have assisted clients in acquiring thousands of miles of new rights of way for electric transmission and pipeline projects, as well as land needed for utility facilities and other energy infrastructure.

Corporate/Finance/Commercial Transactions. We handle new energy transactions throughout the United States and internationally. We have helped our clients develop, acquire and sell energy facilities, negotiate supply agreements and other commercial transactions, raise capital in the public and private markets and navigate the complexities of securities and tax laws, public offerings and mergers and acquisitions.

Construction. We draft and negotiate the full array of construction contracts. We handle government contracts, compliance with industry regulations, surety bonds, professional liability, mechanic's liens, public bidding and other construction issues.

Intellectual Property. We handle intellectual property litigation, patents, trademarks and brand management and technology and licensing transactions.

Litigation. We try cases around the country involving state and federal environmental statutes and handle a full range of construction disputes. In addition, we regularly engage in litigation involving governmental permits, citizen suits, real estate, federal lands, energy disputes, natural resource damages and other commercial disputes.