Focusing on regulatory and transactional law within the energy sector, Chris Zentz has significant experience representing a diverse array of clients, including investor-owned utilities, public power entities, independent power producers, renewable developers, investors, governmental entities, and power marketers. His practice spans both energy transactions and regulatory proceedings, reflecting his broad expertise in the industry.
Chris's transactional work involves negotiating key project contracts necessary for the construction and financing of generation projects. He leverages his business acumen to develop solutions-focused strategies for complex contractual arrangements. His experience includes advising clients on due diligence and obtaining necessary regulatory approvals at both federal and state levels.
In his regulatory practice, Chris assists clients with federal compliance issues, including transmission and ancillary service rate cases, Open Access Transmission Tariff (OATT) compliance, generator interconnection issues, and the FERC Standards of Conduct. He also advises on interlocking directorate issues and transmission planning. His work often involves navigating FERC regulatory matters, such as obtaining market-based rate authorizations and prior authorizations under Section 203 of the Federal Power Act, as well as ensuring compliance with federal statutes like the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act and the Public Utility Holding Company Act.
Chris's background includes in-house experience and entrepreneurship, which allows him to understand the pressures and demands his clients face. He immerses himself in his clients' businesses to tailor his legal advice effectively, aiming to achieve practical and efficient outcomes that align with their business objectives.