We determine which permits are required for the operation of your electricity generation facility—whether under the State Electricity Act, the Water Rights Act (WRG), or other applicable public law regulations.
Energy law
Energy Law – Legal Certainty for Energy Producers, Grid Operators, and Individuals
We have many years of experience advising and representing companies in the energy sector, in particular in the fields of electricity generation, electricity trading, and grid operation.We guide you through the legal and regulatory challenges of energy law and represent your interests effectively—both in dealings with authorities and in disputes with energy supply companies.
We also advise and represent private individuals in energy law matters.
Permits for Electricity Generation Facilities
Small-Scale Hydropower: Direct Lines & Grid Acces
If you operate a small-scale hydropower plant and intend to supply electricity directly to a customer (“direct line”), we support you in:
- Assessing whether your infrastructure qualifies as a “direct line”
- Enforcing grid access rights under civil and administrative law
- Representing you in dealings with the local energy utility (EVU)
Construction of Transmission Lines
If you are planning to construct transmission lines to distribute electricity, we assist you in obtaining the necessary approvals, in particular under:
- the High-Voltage Lines Act
- Naturschutzgapplicable state nature conservation lawsesetzen der Bundesländer
- other relevant administrative regulations
We also guide you through the entire approval process to ensure that your project is implemented in full compliance with applicable law.
Expropriation Proceedings and Compulsory Rights
Where the construction of energy infrastructure requires compulsory rights over real property—including expropriation—we advise and represent you in all related administrative proceedings.
Right-of-Way and Expropriation in the Energy Sector
Compulsory rights allow the use of third-party land for the construction and operation of electricity infrastructure.
Such rights typically include the construction, maintenance, and operation of electrical facilities, the removal of obstructive vegetation, and access via the public road network. They become relevant where no agreement can be reached with the landowner under private law. In such cases, the granting of compulsory rights may be sought in exchange for appropriate compensation.
Any such rights must interfere with the use of the affected property only to the extent strictly necessary.
Energy law:
Your Advantages with Rihs
- Specialized expertise in energy law: Many years of experience advising energy producers and grid operators.
- Strategic legal advice: We analyze the applicable legal framework and develop practical, solution-oriented strategies.
- Efficient approval processes: Our structured approach helps to avoid delays and ensures smooth project implementation.
- Representation of property owners: We protect and enforce your rights in dealings with grid operators and in expropriation proceedings.
If you require advice on an energy law matter, please contact us for a personal consultation.