Scott Birse

Scott brings a unique blend of expertise to the table, combining his knowledge of environmental law, energy regulation, and the intricacies of administrative and Indigenous law issues. His work is pivotal in guiding clients through the complex landscape of regulatory and environmental matters. This includes securing necessary approvals, navigating compliance challenges, and engaging in public consultations and negotiations concerning surface land rights.

His proficiency extends to advising on the environmental impact assessments and the management of contaminated sites, ensuring due diligence and minimizing liability in corporate engagements. Scott's role is crucial in obtaining regulatory green lights for significant projects within the renewable sectors such as wind, solar, electricity transmission, and pipelines. He skillfully handles commercial transactions, stakeholder consultations, decommissioning plans, and enforcement actions related to environmental regulations.

His legal acumen has been instrumental in representing clients across various regulatory bodies, including the Canada Energy Regulator and provincial commissions, to secure approvals for ambitious energy projects. Scott's background as an archaeologist before turning to law gives him a unique perspective on the environmental and regulatory challenges faced by energy and natural resource development projects.

His contributions have supported projects like the Hand Hills wind project and the Buffalo Plains Wind Farm, demonstrating his ability to navigate the regulatory landscape for renewable energy initiatives. Moreover, Scott's experience includes representing clients in land rights and utility crossing proceedings, as well as engaging in noise compliance and contaminated site remediation cases.

A member of multiple law societies and bar associations, Scott is also a thought leader in environmental and energy law, contributing to significant publications on greenhouse gas regulations and the legal frameworks surrounding impact assessments.

Educated in law and archaeology at the University of Manitoba, Scott's journey from the field to the courtroom has equipped him with a profound understanding of the legal and practical challenges in the sectors he serves. His membership in the Law Societies of Alberta and Manitoba, alongside his involvement with the Canadian and Calgary Bar Associations, underscores his commitment to his practice and professional development.