Energy
The energy transition is the largest infrastructure undertaking of our time – and it requires legal advice that is as ambitious as the objectives it serves.
ARQIS advises energy corporations, municipal utilities and project developers across the entire value chain of the new energy landscape: from the initial project concept through to grid connection.
Renewable Energy Solar & Wind
Solar and wind are the leading technologies of the energy transition. We support our clients with the planning, permitting and realisation of generation facilities of all scales – from individual ground-mounted installations to large-scale wind farms. We combine an in-depth understanding of the technical framework with the regulatory expertise that complex permitting processes demand. We are well-versed in the specifics of each technology, the relevant subsidy mechanisms and the requirements of competitive tendering procedures.
Battery Energy Storage Systems
Large-scale battery energy storage systems (BESS) are a cornerstone of the energy transition: they balance the intermittent feed-in from wind and solar energy and stabilise the grid. ARQIS advises investors, project developers and energy suppliers across the entire lifecycle of storage projects – from site selection and land acquisition through construction and emissions control permits to grid connection agreements and the marketing of balancing energy. We are well-versed in the regulatory specifics of energy storage under energy industry law, advise on charge exemptions and network tariff structures, and support transactions in the BESS sector – whether acquisitions, divestments or the project financing of storage facilities.
Energy Sector Regulation
Cities and municipal utilities face the challenge of ensuring a secure, affordable and sustainable energy supply in a rapidly changing regulatory environment. ARQIS provides comprehensive advice to municipal enterprises and public sector entities on all energy law matters arising in their day-to-day operations. Our advisory services range from energy procurement and purchasing strategies through the structuring of supply contracts to customer management and the complex billing issues that arise with electricity, gas and heat customers. We keep a close eye on the regulatory requirements of the Federal Network Agency (Bundesnetzagentur), the provisions of the German Energy Industry Act (EnWG) and the latest developments in energy pricing law. Whether concession agreements, tariff regulation or the legally compliant implementation of new pricing models – we are a reliable partner for our clients in the daily business of energy supply.
Site Acquisition & Lease Agreements
Every project starts with the right site. We secure locations through comprehensive legal support – from negotiating long-term lease agreements and structuring land use rights to resolving competing claims. Our advisory services cover the full spectrum of site acquisition, including cooperation with municipalities and landowners.
Accelerated Expansion & Planning Law
The German legislature has fundamentally redesigned the framework for accelerated renewable energy expansion. We are well-versed in the latest instruments for fast-tracking projects and deploy them strategically – from simplified permitting procedures and the overriding public interest doctrine to the specifics of the Onshore Wind Energy Act and privileged developments in non-designated areas. We get your projects from planning to implementation faster.
Grid Connection & Network Infrastructure
The best wind farm is of little use without grid access. We advise on all aspects of grid connection, feed-in remuneration and network expansion. We represent generation companies and grid operators alike and are thoroughly familiar with the interfaces between energy industry law, regulatory law and technical planning.
Mining Law & Land Reclamation
Transforming former lignite mining regions is one of the most compelling tasks of the energy transition. We advise on the reclamation and repurposing of former opencast mining sites, mining law permitting procedures and the development of new land use concepts – whether solar parks on recultivated land, pumped-storage facilities in former open-pit mines or innovative hydrogen projects. In doing so, we draw on our combined expertise in mining law, water law and planning law.
Water Law
From cooling water extraction for conventional power plants and water law permits for hydrogen production to the management of post-mining lakes – water law issues permeate the entire field of energy law. We advise on obtaining and defending water law permits and authorisations and represent our clients in proceedings before the competent water authorities.
Hydrogen
Green hydrogen is widely regarded as a key technology for decarbonising industry and transport. We provide comprehensive advice to our clients on the realisation of hydrogen projects – from the planning and permitting of electrolyser facilities to connection with existing and new transport infrastructure and storage solutions. Our team guides you through the rapidly evolving European regulatory landscape, including the Delegated Acts defining green hydrogen, the national hydrogen strategy and the funding framework at both federal and EU level.
How can we support you?
If you have any questions about energy, please write to us.