Highlighted as a leader for ‘regulatory and strategic policy development advice’, Norton Rose Fulbright’s power group is additionally equipped to handle transactions and project development. Regulatory specialist Matthew Keen (Vancouver/Calgary) heads the practice and recently advised the Alberta Electric System Operator on its successful application to the Alberta Utilities Commission for approval of its Demand Opportunity Service rate. Next-generation partner duo Kaitlin Long (Calgary) and Michael Manhas (Vancouver) are also noted for regulatory work. Traditionally focused on Western Canada, the team bolstered both its Toronto and transactional offerings with the recent hire of Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP’s former power head Vivian Kung. Projects partners David Eeles (Calgary) and Alison Babbitt (Ottawa) are also recommended.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Matthew Keen and Michael Manhas are leaders in providing regulatory and strategic policy development advice related to public utilities. The firm helps us to advocate for policies and regulations that keep electricity costs competitively priced for industrial customers in our province.’
‘The practice is unique because of its ability to excel in customer service, addressing issues, ensuring we get connected to the right people within the firm and collaborating with the client to come to a solution on all matters.’
‘I work closely with Vivian Kung and she is exceptional at what she does. She is professional, driven, hard working, has the tools to assist at her fingertips, responsive and a really good problem solver. She is a model of excellence.’
‘NRF stands out for its familiarity with our organization and expertise in renewables, power, utilities and projects. It has a strong understanding of the commercial, complex challenges faced by developers and lenders and excels in delivering practical solutions addressing the needs of project stakeholders.’
‘Norton Rose Fulbright has been an exceptional partner due to its practical, business-focused mindset and deep understanding of our industry. What sets it apart are its responsiveness and solution-driven support. NRF doesn’t just identify problems, it helps us to work through them.’
‘What sets Vivian Kung apart is her ability to be highly responsive and detail-oriented and to consistently deliver clear, actionable advice. Her professionalism and collaborative style make her a standout.’
Key clients
- Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO)
- Toronto Hydro Corporation
- Export Development Canada
- Innergex Renewable Energy
- Association of Major Power Customers of BC
Work highlights
Represented the Alberta Electric System Operator in its application to the Alberta Utilities Commission for approval of ISO rules to implement the Supply Cushion Regulation and Market Power Mitigation Regulations.
Represented the Association of Major Power Customers of BC in matters concerning rate-related applications before the BC Utilities Commission.
Advised Toronto Hydro Corporation on several mandates, including on the City of Toronto’s agreement to make new equity investments in Toronto Hydro, totalling C$300m.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Vivian Kung
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Matthew Keen
Other key lawyers
Vivian Kung; Kaitlin Long; Michael Manhas; David Eeles; Alison Babbitt; Lincoln Mitchell