Legal Manager - Contract Drafting - Litigation - Renewable Energy

Job Purpose

The Manager Legal for Land Acquisition in the Renewable Business is a critical role responsible for overseeing all legal aspects related to the acquisition of land for renewable energy projects in India. This position is crucial for ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations, negotiating land contracts, resolving legal issues, and mitigating potential risks associated with land acquisition. The manager will work closely with various internal teams, external stakeholders, government authorities, and legal experts to ensure smooth and successful land acquisition processes for renewable projects.

Principal Accountabilities

Accountability

Supporting Actions

Due Diligence

- Conduct comprehensive title due diligence on potential solar and wind project sites across India to assess the legal status of the land, identify any encumbrances or disputes, and evaluate associated risks.

- Highlighting issues and suggesting corrective measures to ensure clear title to the Company

- Collaborate with external legal experts and consultants, if required, to perform thorough land assessments.

- Implement risk management strategies to safeguard the organization's interests during the land acquisition process.

Legal Compliance

- Stay up-to-date with relevant laws, regulations, and policies related to land acquisition, environment, and renewable energy in India.

- Advise the management and project teams on legal implications and compliance requirements with central, state and local laws for land acquisition activities.

Land Acquisition Negotiations

- Drafting, reviewing, and standardization of land aggregation agreements, lawyer engagement, title deeds, affidavits, ATS/GPA, LOI etc.

- Review of loan agreements, facility agreements, deed of hypothecation with close co-ordination with lenders

- Co-ordination with Legal, Land and Finance team to ensure execution of mortgage documents within timelines as per loan agreements

- Providing overall legal advice on security creation in favor of lenders

Regulatory Approvals

- Coordinate with government agencies and regulatory bodies to obtain necessary permits, clearances, and approvals for land acquisition and renewable projects.

- Ensure compliance with all statutory requirements for land acquisition and project development

Dispute Resolution

- Proactively identify potential disputes related to land acquisition and work towards their resolution through negotiations, mediation, or legal proceedings if necessary.

- Liaise with external legal counsel when required to handle disputes and litigation related to land matters

Documentation and Recordkeeping

- Maintain accurate and organized records of all legal documents, contracts, and agreements related to land acquisition and project development.

Stakeholder Engagement

- Collaborate with internal teams, including project managers, finance, and compliance, to ensure effective coordination and alignment of land acquisition activities.

- Build and maintain positive relationships with landowners, communities, and local stakeholders to foster successful project development.