Energy development
The energy sector is a major growth area for New Zealand. Renewable projects; wind, hydro, geothermal are being developed across the country where ever the resource resides.
Te Nahu Lovell & Co provide advice to a number of Māori entities developing their energy assets. We have extensive knowledge of the energy industry.
Recent projects have involved working with Rotorua based Maori Incorporation, the Proprietors of Taheke 8C Incorporation as they negotiate the development of the natural resources - geothermal and hydro on their land.
Using the example of the geothermal we have worked alongside the Committee of Management and their Project manager to implement strategies and develop projects that meet their goals and needs. Developers were invited to participate in the project on that basis and fit, cultural and environmental protection for the long term was paramount.
The Taheke/Contact geothermal project is designed for the long haul and is based on sound principles of partnership, respect, trust and commercial benefit for all participants.
We also work with indigenous Hawaiian developers Innovations Development Group to create and develop projects which include land owners in projects. IDG operates according to the principles of the UN Declaration of Indigenous Rights. This recognises a philosophy in respect to commercial deals which provides for:
- participation in the project by indigenous resource owners, including equity participation should they desire this;
- protection of cultural and environmental values;
- profitability for all partners.
IDG brings commercial knowledge and finance to indigenous projects both in New Zealand and overseas.
Te Nahu Lovell & Co provide legal advice to IDG and actively assists them in negotiations and project management in respect of their New Zealand and international projects.
The firm have provided advice to generators, developers and land owners. We have and are negotiating complex agreements between Māori land owners and generators incorporating equity interests and the protection of Māori cultural and environmental interests.
Te Nahu Lovell & Co have extensive networks within the generation field and have negotiated on the other side of most generators and developers and have the experience to draft the range of documents required including incorporated or unincorporated joint ventures, special partnerships, project/development agreements, management agreements, shareholders agreements and leases.
Contact our Rotorua or Wellington Office for more details and assistance.
