Best Renewable & Alternative Energy Lawyers in China

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Huarong Law Firm
Shanghai, China

Founded in 1996
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
Shanghai Huarong Law Firm is one of the leading professional and comprehensive Shanghai law firms in the field of legal services in China. There are more than 100 people in the law firm. Huarong Shanghai lawyers have good educational background, profound legal foundation and rich practical...
Boheng Law Firm
Beijing, China

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
About BohengBeijing Boheng Law Firm is a foreign-related partnership law firm jointly established by senior lawyers who studied in the European Union and the United States and approved by the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Justice. It is based on the country and faces the world. It develops both...
Hengliang Law Firm
Shanghai, China

Founded in 2008
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
Outstanding because of professionalismShanghai Hengliang Law Firm is a partnership law firm registered in the Shanghai Municipal Justice Bureau and invested and cooperated with Shanghai Jiao Tong University Logistics Group. It is one of the few boutique lawyers in Shanghai that fully relies on...
US Legal Group 美国法律集团律师事务所
Beijing, China

Founded in 2021
17 people in their team
English
Chinese
US Legal Group - Legal Excellence Sponsoring Success - We, United Securities Legal Group (a.k.a. US Legal Group, www.USLegal.Group), is a full-service California law firm headquartered in Los Angeles (Laguna Beach) with our local teams in Hong Kong & China (Beijing, Shanghai &...

Founded in 1996
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
Guangsheng & Partners Law Offices (“G&P”) is a full-range service law firm based in Beijing with branch office in Shanghai.  As one of the leading and largest law firms in China, G&P was originated from China Legal Affairs Center established in 1985, which was affiliated...
ZY Partners
Beijing, China

Founded in 1998
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
Established in 1998, ZY Partners is recognized as one of the leading firms in the field of intellectual property and areas within its immediate reticular formation such as anti-trust, fair-competition, employment, standards, investment, product liability and administrative law.  Given the...
Tiance Law Firm
Shanghai, China

Founded in 1986
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
About TianceTiance Law Firm ("Tiance") was founded in 1986. It is a well-known large-scale comprehensive law firm in China and a leading law firm in the Yangtze River Delta region. It is also recognized by the market as an elite law firm with excellent professional service capabilities. . Tiance...
King & Wood PRC Lawyers
Beijing, China

Founded in 1993
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
We are a law firm born in Asia with an Asian perspective and world-class service capabilities.King & Wood Mallesons has more than 3,000 lawyers in 31 offices around the world. Our lawyers are well versed in Eastern and Western cultures, and rely on diversified thinking, profound professional...
Xinnuo Law Firm
Beijing, China

Founded in 2001
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
Sino Pro Law Firm was established under the Lawyers Law of the People’s Republic of China and with the approval of the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Justice. It has more than 400 practicing lawyers. As a comprehensive legal services institution, it has sufficient experience in...
Stabit Advocates
Hongkou, China

Founded in 2000
173 people in their team
Chinese
English
French
Stabit Advocates LLP (https://www.stabitadvocates.com) is one of the top law firms in the world and stands as a beacon of legal excellence, recognized as one of the top law firms in East Africa, Africa and Globally with over 75 practice areas. Our firm is synonymous with top-tier legal expertise,...
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About Renewable & Alternative Energy Law in China

Renewable and alternative energy has become a major priority in China as the country seeks to address environmental challenges, promote sustainable development, and reduce its reliance on fossil fuels. The Chinese government has introduced a comprehensive framework of laws, regulations, and policies to encourage the development, production, and use of clean energy sources such as solar, wind, hydropower, biomass, and geothermal energy. These legal measures are designed to support the country’s ambitious goals for energy transformation and emissions reduction while fostering technological innovation and investment in the sector.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Legal assistance is often crucial for individuals, companies, or investors involved in renewable and alternative energy in China. Here are some common situations where a lawyer’s guidance can be invaluable:

  • Setting up a renewable energy project, including site acquisition, construction permits, and regulatory approvals
  • Drafting or reviewing investment agreements, joint ventures, or partnerships with local entities
  • Understanding and securing incentives, subsidies, feed-in tariffs, or government grants
  • Ensuring compliance with complex environmental, safety, and energy-related regulations
  • Resolving disputes with contractors, suppliers, partners, or government bureaus
  • Protecting intellectual property rights and navigating technology licensing issues
  • Navigating import and export requirements for renewable energy equipment
  • Participating in public or private tenders for renewable energy projects
  • Addressing land use, zoning, and grid connection challenges
  • Responding to administrative enforcement or investigations related to environmental or energy laws

Local Laws Overview

China’s legal landscape for renewable and alternative energy is shaped by a variety of national laws, local regulations, and policy directives. Key aspects include:

  • Renewable Energy Law of the PRC: The foundational law establishing government support for renewable energy development, including mandatory grid connection and purchase policies, and financial incentives.
  • Feed-in Tariffs: Special tariffs guarantee purchase prices for renewable electricity, providing income certainty to energy producers.
  • Project Approvals: New projects generally require multiple approvals including environmental impact assessments, construction permits, and grid connection agreements.
  • Local Implementation Rules: Provincial and municipal regulations may impose additional standards, incentives, or restrictions based on local energy priorities.
  • Foreign Investment Rules: While some restrictions have been relaxed, foreign entities may still face regulatory hurdles or limits in certain sub-sectors.
  • Carbon Trading and Emissions Reduction: National and regional programs affect renewable energy projects, particularly related to carbon credits and emissions trading.
  • Grid Connection: State-owned grid operators must provide access but bottlenecks and curtailment remain challenges in some regions.
  • Technology Standards and Certification: Products and installations must meet national safety, quality, and performance standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of renewable energy are most widely used in China?

The most common types are hydropower, wind power, solar energy, and biomass. China leads the world in installed capacity for both wind and solar power.

Can foreign companies invest in China’s renewable energy sector?

Yes, foreign investment is encouraged in most areas, though some sub-sectors or locations may have restrictions or require special permits. Joint ventures with local entities are common.

How does the government support renewable energy projects?

Through financial incentives such as feed-in tariffs, subsidies, tax breaks, and special financing arrangements. Some local governments also provide land discounts or R and D support.

What approvals are needed to launch a renewable energy project?

Key permits include project filing or approval with local authorities, environmental impact assessment, construction permit, and grid connection agreement.

Is environmental assessment mandatory for new energy projects?

Yes, environmental impact assessments are mandatory for most new projects and must be approved by relevant government departments before construction can begin.

What is the process for connecting a renewable energy project to the grid?

Developers must obtain grid connection approval from the local grid company, install required technical equipment, and sign a purchase agreement before supplying energy.

Are there penalties for non-compliance with renewable energy regulations?

Yes, violations can result in administrative fines, suspension of operations, withdrawal of permits, or, in serious cases, criminal liability.

How are disputes in renewable energy projects resolved?

Disputes may be settled through negotiation, arbitration, or litigation in Chinese courts, depending on the terms of the contract and parties involved.

What intellectual property issues arise in renewable energy?

Developers must protect patents, copyrights, and trade secrets, especially when transferring technology or using foreign technologies in China. Consulting an IP lawyer is advised.

Are there government organizations that oversee renewable energy development?

Yes, the National Energy Administration and the Ministry of Ecology and Environment are primary regulators. Local development and reform commissions also play important roles.

Additional Resources

If you need more information on renewable and alternative energy law in China, consider reaching out to the following:

  • National Energy Administration - for policy updates and regulatory guidance
  • Ministry of Ecology and Environment - for environmental regulations and impact assessment requirements
  • Provincial and municipal Development and Reform Commissions - for local implementation rules and project approvals
  • China Renewable Energy Society - for industry events and technical resources
  • Chambers of Commerce and Trade Associations - for networking and partnership opportunities
  • Local law firms specializing in energy and environmental law

Next Steps

If you are considering involvement in the renewable or alternative energy sector in China and need legal advice, the following steps can help you get started:

  • Clarify your project or legal issue and gather all relevant documentation
  • Consult with a lawyer who has experience in energy and environmental law, preferably with knowledge of local requirements
  • Prepare specific questions or goals to discuss with your legal advisor
  • Review any contracts or regulatory documents with your lawyer before signing or committing
  • Stay updated on new regulations and government policies affecting renewable energy
  • Engage with relevant industry groups or government bodies for the latest information and opportunities

Obtaining specialized legal advice early in your project can help prevent costly mistakes, ensure compliance, and support a successful renewable energy venture in China.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in China 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 Renewable & Alternative Energy, 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 China - 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.