Best Energy Regulatory Law Lawyers in Phoenix

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Founded in 1977
5,000 people in their team
English
About UsAt Ogletree Deakins, we provide coverage through 59 offices in 31 U.S. states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and in Canada, Mexico, and Europe. We represent employers of all sizes and across many industries, from small businesses to Fortune 500 companies.At Ogletree...
Cohen Dowd Quigley P.C.
Phoenix, United States

Founded in 1991
50 people in their team
English
Ron Cohen founded Cohen Dowd Quigley in 1991 after an outstanding career as one of the first partners of the Streich Lang law firm. Ron had a clear vision of CDQ’s present and future professional profile. CDQ would be a small, boutique law firm, specializing in complex commercial litigation....
Burch & Cracchiolo, P.A.
Phoenix, United States

Founded in 1970
200 people in their team
English
About Burch & CracchioloNow with 50+ law professionals in its Phoenix office, Burch & Cracchiolo, P.A. is one of the Southwest's premier law firms. Our firm was founded 54 years ago by Haze Burch and Dan Cracchiolo, both now deceased. Today, our lawyers are among the most highly...
Engelman Berger, PC
Phoenix, United States

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
English
Engelman Berger is comprised of experienced lawyers who are well recognized for their expertise and commitment to resolve commercial disputes and assist clients in preventing legal problems through proper planning. The firms’ clients are national and local lenders, borrowers, lessors, tenants,...
Phillips Law Group
Phoenix, United States

Founded in 1993
200 people in their team
English
Jeffrey Phillips is an experienced trial lawyer and founding partner of Phillips Law Group, the founder of Phillips & Associates Law Firm, and other Phillips & Associates firms. He and his firms have represented more than 155,000 consumer clients over the past 27 years in Arizona,...
Coppersmith Brockelman PLC
Phoenix, United States

Founded in 1995
50 people in their team
English
At Coppersmith Brockelman, we believe that law firms have too many rules.  Here are ours:  Work at the highest level of our profession.  Think creatively and find practical solutions.  Do the right thing.  Maintain our sense of humor.  Build community - with clients,...
Zwillinger Wulkan
Phoenix, United States

Founded in 2021
50 people in their team
English
Delivering Effective Solutions Consistent ResultsZwillinger Wulkan is a leading Arizona law firm with a single goal:  finding solutions to complex problems.We offer expertise and results clients expect from large national firms, but with the personal touch only smaller firms can provide.By...
Tiffany & Bosco P.A.
Phoenix, United States

Founded in 1967
50 people in their team
English
A Full Service Law FirmAs client needs, business, and the economy have evolved, so has our level of legal services. For over 50 years, we have based our legal services on understanding and meeting our clients’ ever-changing legal needs. From the most prominent legal specializations to emerging...
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About Energy Regulatory Law in Phoenix, United States

Energy Regulatory Law in Phoenix, Arizona, centers around the rules, policies, and legal standards governing the development, production, distribution, and sale of energy. This includes electricity, natural gas, renewable energy, and other utilities. Energy law is shaped by a combination of federal, state, and municipal regulations designed to promote reliable energy access, protect consumers, encourage sustainable practices, and support economic growth. In Phoenix, the local climate and rapid population growth put unique demands on the energy infrastructure, making regulatory compliance a crucial concern for businesses, utilities, developers, and property owners.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Securing legal counsel specializing in Energy Regulatory Law can be essential in a range of situations. Common scenarios include:

  • Starting or expanding a business that relies heavily on energy use or production
  • Navigating Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) regulations
  • Developing renewable energy projects, such as solar or wind installations
  • Dealing with rate disputes with utility providers
  • Negotiating interconnection agreements for distributed generation
  • Complying with environmental requirements related to energy generation or transmission
  • Seeking incentives or grants for energy efficiency initiatives
  • Understanding energy infrastructure impacts on property rights
  • Addressing zoning or permitting issues for energy facilities
  • Responding to enforcement actions or regulatory investigations

An experienced energy regulatory lawyer can help you understand complex laws, represent your interests before regulatory agencies, and advocate for favorable outcomes in disputes or negotiations.

Local Laws Overview

Energy regulation in Phoenix is governed by a framework that involves several key authorities:

  • Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) - The principal state regulator overseeing electric, gas, and water utilities. The ACC manages issues such as rate setting, service territories, energy resource planning, and renewable energy standards.
  • Phoenix Municipal Code - City rules impacting local energy efficiency, building codes, and solar installations.
  • Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) - Ensures environmental compliance in energy-related projects, including air and water quality standards.
  • Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) - Has jurisdiction over interstate energy transmission, affecting utilities operating in Phoenix.
  • Renewable Energy Standards - Arizona requires electric utilities to increase their use of renewable resources through the state’s Renewable Energy Standard and Tariff (REST) rules.

Staying compliant means understanding how multiple layers of regulation intersect and which agencies have jurisdiction over specific issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Arizona Corporation Commission do regarding energy?

The ACC sets rates, oversees utility service, enforces consumer protections, and promotes renewable energy development throughout the state, including Phoenix.

Do I need permits for installing solar panels in Phoenix?

Yes. Both city permitting and compliance with utility interconnection standards are usually required for solar installations on residential or commercial properties.

How are electric utility rates determined?

Rates are established through a formal process run by the ACC that considers utility costs, infrastructure needs, customer usage, and public comments.

Are there local incentives for using renewable energy?

There are state and, at times, local programs offering tax incentives, rebates, and grants to encourage renewable energy adoption in Phoenix.

What should I do if I have a dispute with my utility provider?

Begin by contacting the utility to resolve the issue. If unresolved, you may file a complaint with the ACC or seek the help of a lawyer experienced in utility law.

Can homeowners associations restrict solar installations?

Arizona law limits the ability of HOAs to prohibit solar energy devices, but there may still be some restrictions related to aesthetics or placement.

Who regulates natural gas providers in Phoenix?

The ACC regulates investor-owned gas utilities, while municipal providers may be governed by local ordinances.

How do environmental regulations affect energy projects?

Projects must comply with state and federal environmental standards, which may include air and water quality permits and compliance monitoring.

What are the Renewable Energy Standard and Tariff (REST) rules?

REST rules require Arizona’s regulated electric utilities to gradually increase the amount of energy generated from renewable sources, impacting project planning and utility operations.

How can a lawyer help with energy regulatory matters?

Lawyers can clarify your rights and obligations, represent you before regulatory agencies, draft contracts, negotiate agreements, and help resolve disputes.

Additional Resources

  • Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) - Primary oversight agency for utilities in Arizona.
  • Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) - Regulates environmental impacts of energy facilities.
  • City of Phoenix Planning and Development Department - Responsible for building permits, including for energy installations.
  • Arizona Solar Energy Industries Association (AriSEIA) - Industry group providing information on solar energy and state regulations.
  • U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), Phoenix Office - Offers updates on federal initiatives and local energy programs.

These organizations can provide guidance, forms, complaint procedures, and updates on relevant laws and incentives.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance in Energy Regulatory Law in Phoenix, start by identifying the specific issue you are facing, such as a dispute with a utility, compliance with a new development, or questions about renewables. Gather all relevant documents, such as contracts, permits, correspondence with agencies, or utility bills.

Research and consult with attorneys who have experience in Arizona’s energy regulatory framework. Prepare a summary of your situation to discuss during consultations. Many attorneys offer initial consultations to help you determine if legal assistance is needed, and what your options may be.

Staying informed and consulting with qualified professionals will help you navigate complex regulatory requirements and protect your interests in the evolving energy sector of Phoenix.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Phoenix through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Energy Regulatory Law, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Phoenix, United States - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.