A Skilled Legal Team Handling Solar Energy Projects
Last updated on July 22, 2024
For more than 40 years, Wetsel & Lederle, LLP, has been representing landowners, energy companies and other business entities with energy-related projects. Located in Sweetwater and Lubbock, Texas, the firm’s attorneys are at the forefront of renewable energy law. In fact, attorney Jake Lederle wrote one of the first published papers on solar energy in Texas. Landowners throughout the Southwest turn to the firm for assistance in analyzing, negotiating and resolving disputes involving solar energy projects.
Protecting Your Long-Term Interests
Solar energy leases are often long in duration, impacting generations of landowners. When negotiating leases and other property agreements, the attorneys at Wetsel & Lederle, LLP, are cognizant of the long-term effects.
The lawyers take all necessary steps, including obtaining bonds and other security measures, to ensure that the financial interests of current and future owners are protected first and foremost. They also negotiate terms that ensure land is well-maintained during the term of the project and that solar panels will be properly removed at the end of the project so the land can return to its former use.
Analyzing The Opportunities And Drawbacks Of A Proposed Project
Unlike wind energy and oil and gas, solar farms often require exclusive use of the land. This means the land can no longer be used for ranching or farming.
Before agreeing to a solar energy project, the financial impacts of the lease must be analyzed. At Wetsel & Lederle, LLP, the attorneys carefully evaluate the proposed project to determine whether the financial benefits outweigh the lost land use. If you decide to go ahead with the project, the firm will represent your interests during every stage of the project, including negotiating leases, rights of way and other governing instruments; resolving title issues and land use disputes; and resolving any disputes that arise during the project.
Common Concerns In Solar Energy Projects
As leaders in renewable energy law, the attorneys at Wetsel & Lederle, LLP, understand that landowners often have concerns when considering solar energy projects. The firm’s extensive experience allows them to address these issues, ensuring clients make informed decisions. Some common concerns include:
- Land use restrictions: Solar farms often require exclusive use of the land, potentially limiting traditional farming or ranching activities. The firm’s attorneys carefully evaluate how this might impact a landowner’s current and future land use plans.
- Long-term financial implications: With leases often spanning decades, it’s crucial to understand the long-term financial impact. The firm’s lawyers analyze proposed projects to ensure the financial benefits outweigh any potential drawbacks.
- Environmental impact: Concerns about local wildlife, particularly birds, are common. The firm’s attorneys are well-versed in environmental regulations and can provide guidance on this issue. For a detailed discussion on the impact of solar projects on local birds, readers can refer to the firm’s informative blog post: “Is concern about local birds a valid reason to oppose a solar project?“
- Property value effects: Landowners often worry about how solar installations might affect their property values. The firm’s legal professionals can provide insights based on market trends and previous projects.
- End-of-project considerations: Questions about land restoration after the project ends are common. The firm’s attorneys negotiate terms to ensure proper equipment removal and land rehabilitation.
- Mineral rights conflicts: In regions with valuable mineral deposits, conflicts can arise between surface owners and mineral rights owners. The firm’s lawyers are adept at resolving these complex issues.
- Community impact: Large-scale solar projects can affect local communities. The firm’s attorneys can advise on navigating potential community concerns and local regulations.
- Grid connection and infrastructure: Technical aspects of connecting to the power grid and necessary infrastructure improvements are often overlooked. The firm ensures these crucial details are addressed in agreements.
The attorneys Wetsel & Lederle, LLP, are committed to addressing these and any other concerns their clients may have. Drawing from their deep knowledge of solar energy law, the legal team offers comprehensive guidance to help landowners make informed decisions that protect their interests both in the present and future.
Title And Division Issues
Because solar projects require extensive, if not exclusive, use of surface areas, conflict can arise between surface owners and mineral rights owners. Wetsel & Lederle, LLP, helps resolve these conflicts and develops title opinions so projects can continue without restricting one owner’s financial opportunities.
Schedule A Consultation
If you are considering a solar energy project, reach out to one of the top renewable energy law firms. Call 800-787-0784 to schedule a consultation or send an online email.