The purpose of this course is to introduce students to a wide range of issues in the fields of natural resources and energy law, with particular focus on several key emerging and critical areas and issues.
As a survey course, our objective is to lay the foundation for understanding critical legal issues in these areas, including a review and analysis of key legislation (federal and provincial), case law and certain key contractual terms. We will address important concerns, problems, opportunities and potential solutions in these areas. In addition, this course is designed to help students develop the critical analytical skills necessary to understand and interpret complex legal issues, including as they relate to various levels of regulatory schemes.
The course will cover natural resources and energy law. Although there will be overlap between the two, particular issues in each of these areas will be addressed individually. The energy law portion will primarily focus on the electricity sector. In addition to an overview of legal issues that relate to both areas, specific topics for discussion will include:
Natural Resources
• Mining (minerals, oil and gas)
• Major Projects, including Environmental Assessments and other Approvals
• Climate Change/Greenhouse Gases/Sustainability
• First Nations
Energy
• Overview of Ontario electricity market
• Renewable Energy
• Nuclear Power
Class materials will mostly consist of various federal and provincial legislation, case law, government publications, academic/industry literature and sample contracts. Guest speakers may address certain topics.
