Onshore Wind Farm Developments – From Land Control to Operation

Case Study
About this case

Onshore Wind Farm Development | Legal Framework from Land Control to Operation

Expertise: Energy & Infrastructure Law Real Estate & Land Law | Construction & Procurement | Regulatory & Permitting
Time Frame: 3+ Years
Installed Capacity: 138 MW and 90 MW

Successfully advised the developer on the onshore wind farm development of two utility-scale projects in Romania, with installed capacities of approximately 138 MW and 90 MW. The legal assistance covered the entire project lifecycle, beginning with the identification, acquisition, and concession of the land required for turbine placement, access roads, and grid connection infrastructure.

The mandates included the structuring and negotiation of all key project agreements, such as turbine supply contracts, balance-of-plant arrangements, construction works, and ancillary service agreements. In parallel, comprehensive legal due diligence was conducted in relation to land rights, zoning and urban planning documentation, environmental approvals, building permits, grid connection authorizations, and all relevant sector-specific regulatory approvals, as well as support throughout procurement, permitting, and operational readiness for the onshore wind farm development projects.

Overall, the legal framework implemented ensured secure land control, full regulatory compliance, and bankability at every stage of both projects, supporting their successful construction and long-term operation within the broader context of onshore wind farm development.

Challenge

Key areas involved:

  • Energy & Infrastructure Law
  • Business and Corporate Law
  • Construction and EPC Contracts
  • Real Estate and Land Acquisition
  • Regulatory and Permitting

Our Approach

1. Land Control and Project Structuring

Provided legal support for the acquisition and concession of land necessary for turbine locations, access roads, and ancillary infrastructure, addressing ownership, servitudes, zoning, and long-term land security.

2. Permitting and Regulatory Compliance

Conducted legal verification and coordination of all required permits and approvals, including urban planning, environmental, construction, and energy-sector authorizations, ensuring regulatory alignment throughout the lifecycle of both projects.

3. Procurement and Construction Framework

Drafted and negotiated turbine supply agreements, construction and infrastructure contracts, and related commercial arrangements, ensuring clear allocation of technical, timing, and performance risks.

4. Operational Readiness

Structured contractual and legal mechanisms to support grid connection, commissioning, and long-term operation of the wind farms under a stable and compliant legal framework.

Result

Both projects were successfully developed under a robust legal structure that secured land rights, ensured regulatory compliance, and supported the construction and operation of two landmark onshore wind farm developments. The integrated legal approach enabled efficient execution, mitigated systemic risks, and contributed to the long-term operational stability and commercial viability of these significant renewable energy investments.