Nicole Bakker

Nicole has carved a niche for herself in the legal landscape, focusing primarily on energy regulation, environmental law, and administrative proceedings. Her expertise spans a wide array of regulatory and litigation scenarios, including securing regulatory and environmental approvals, ensuring regulatory compliance, handling public consultations, advising on corporate matters, and managing surface land rights for acquisition and compensation.

Her proficiency has been sought after in proceedings across various regulatory bodies including the Canada Energy Regulator, Alberta Energy Regulator, Alberta Utilities Commission, and similar entities in British Columbia. Nicole's legal acumen has been instrumental in several high-stakes projects.

She played a pivotal role in advocating for EDP Renewables Canada Ltd.'s ambition to launch the 300 MW Sharp Hills wind farm, presenting their case to the Alberta Utilities Commission. Her legal guidance also supported Pattern Energy's endeavor to establish the 280 MW Lanfine wind power project, underlining her commitment to renewable energy projects.

Nicole's expertise benefited Enel Alberta Wind Inc., assisting with the regulatory proceedings for the Riverview Wind Project and Castle Rock Ridge Phase 2 Project, both aimed at bolstering Alberta's wind energy capacity. Her advocacy extended to the Canadian Solar Industries Association, navigating the procedural waters of the Alberta Utilities Commission regarding Alberta's Capacity Market.

Her involvement with BluEarth Renewables Inc. showcased her ability to address and resolve complaints related to tariff compliance and corporate conduct, ensuring fair treatment and adherence to regulatory standards. Nicole also contributed to the strategic acquisition of AltaGas Canada Inc. by the Public Sector Pension Investment Board and the Alberta Teachers' Retirement Fund Board, a transaction valued at C$1.7-billion.

Her legal prowess further extends to representing companies in noise compliance proceedings, offering counsel on regulatory appeals, and advising on due diligence for mergers and acquisitions. Nicole's advice has been crucial for pipeline construction applications, embodying a comprehensive approach to engineering, environmental, and stakeholder consultation issues.

Beyond her casework, Nicole's engagement with the professional community includes membership in the Law Society of Alberta, the Canadian Bar Association, and active participation in the Calgary Bar Association and Women at Blakes Network. Her contributions to legal scholarship include co-authoring publications on environmental and energy regulatory developments, reflecting her commitment to advancing legal practices in her fields of expertise.

Nicole's journey through law is marked by her dedication to merging legal expertise with environmental stewardship, aiming to pave the way for a sustainable future through the lens of legal frameworks and regulatory compliance. Her work not only represents her clients' interests but also contributes to the broader dialogue on renewable energy and environmental protection