New Haven Geothermal Project Finance Legal Services

The City of New Haven is seeking qualified law firms to provide specialized legal services for the development and implementation of the Union Station Area Thermal Energy Network project. This initiative aims to establish a geothermal ground loop serving Union Station and nearby housing units developed by Elm City Communities, with partial funding from an EPA Climate Pollution Reduction Grant. The project involves constructing the geothermal system, retrofitting Union Station with a ground source heat pump, and utilizing federal and state clean energy incentives, including the geothermal investment tax credit and Energize CT rebates, to reimburse the City for project costs. To finance the remaining expenses, the City plans to secure a bridge loan from the Connecticut Green Bank. The project site includes public rights-of-way and Elm City Communities properties, with the ground loop located accordingly. The selected legal firm will work closely with the City, its partners, and stakeholders to navigate complex legal, financial, and regulatory challenges associated with this innovative clean energy initiative. The contract, titled "New Haven Geothermal Project Finance Legal Services," is a solicitation issued by the City of New Haven, with a response deadline of February 18, 2025. It involves professional legal services with a contract size estimated between $500,000 and $2,000,000. The scope includes addressing legal aspects related to project financing, regulatory compliance, and contractual obligations. The engagement will be governed by standard terms and conditions outlined in the City’s professional services agreement template and related documents, which specify personnel requirements, compliance with federal and state laws, nondiscrimination policies, and reporting obligations. The legal services will support the City in managing the complex legal framework necessary to successfully execute the geothermal energy project, ensuring adherence to applicable laws, securing funding, and facilitating smooth project implementation. The primary point of contact for this solicitation is Steven Winter, reachable via email and phone.