Duncan, Weinberg, Genzer & Pembroke has provided federal advocacy on various legislative vehicles to advance the energy efficiency and renewable energy goals of several State and local entities. In particular, DWGP offers strategic counsel on energy-related matters that require interpretation or that might evolve through legislation over time. For example, on behalf of multiple clients, the Firm worked on the energy-related provisions and implementation of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007, the Energy Policy Act of 2005, the Energy Policy Act of 1992, the State Energy Efficiency Programs Improvement Act of 1990, as well as annual Congressional appropriations for governmental clients. The Firm continues those efforts on the energy legislation currently being considered by Congress. Additionally, DWGP has been a part of efforts to develop the Warehouse for Energy Efficiency Loans, "WHEEL," a secondary market residential energy efficiency financing project.
Duncan, Weinberg, Genzer & Pembroke has worked with numerous state, county and city clients on implementing energy efficiency projects. For example, DWGP has advised Hawaii on new solar energy financing programs (e.g., the Green Bank) and energy efficiency programs. DWGP has also worked with all the major trade associations on development of innovative energy efficiency programs, including the American Public Power Association, the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association and the Edison Electric Institute. In addition, the firm works closely with DC-based associations involved in energy efficiency, such as the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy, the Alliance to Save Energy, the National Association of Energy Service Companies, as well as the local government trade associations.
Duncan, Weinberg, Genzer & Pembroke has assisted clients in implementing various strategies, including participation in demand-side management, demand response programs, adoption of energy efficiency measures, the purchase and sale of Renewable Energy Credits, deployment of smart grid infrastructure, distributed generation, and sponsoring or developing a variety of renewable generation projects, including solar, wind, ocean thermal and biogas projects.
The Firm also advises clients on the implementation of Smart Grid infrastructure to reduce the economic costs and environmental impacts related to traditional meter-reading and physical grid repair through grid automation, and to develop a more responsive and efficient electric distribution system. The Firm has advised clients on customer privacy and data security related to the smart grid. The Firm has assisted clients in the preparation of successful applications to federal agencies for smart-grid related funding, including for the installation of Advanced Metering Infrastructure (“AMI”) facilities and work-force training. For the implementation of the Smart Grid and other critical energy infrastructure, the Firm also assists clients with their needs before the Federal Communications Commission.
Duncan, Weinberg, Genzer & Pembroke's services in the area of smart grid and energy efficiency projects include:
- Litigation and Arbitration
- Legislation and Rulemaking
- Incentives Leasing and Use of Public Lands
- Advanced Metering Infrastructure Cost Recovery
- Customer Privacy Concerns
- Regulatory Compliance
- Energy Facility Siting and Permitting
- Dynamic Rate Design and Demand Response
- Construction and Design, Operations and Maintenance
- Equipment Procurement
- Intellectual Property Protection
- Project Finance
