Torys

Energy, Power

By applying creative solutions and managing strong relationships among numerous project participants, Valerie supports clients to progress some of the country’s most complex multi-party infrastructure and energy projects.

Valerie has been at the forefront of the development and financing of renewable energy projects across Canada. She worked on some of the earliest and most innovative renewable projects, including Erie Shores Wind Farm, Grand Renewables Solar and Henvey Inlet Wind Farm, as well as PPAs in connection with Emera’s proposed Atlantic Link Project. Valerie acts for the spectrum of clients involved in project development and financing, including Indigenous groups, project proponents, lenders, investors, contractors and governmental authorities.

Trusted counsel to Indigenous and non-Indigenous project participants, Valerie often advises on complex infrastructure projects impacting Indigenous interests and parties, where she brings a robust perspective on different parties’ interests and priorities. She is the co-head of Torys’ Indigenous practice and her recent project work related to Indigenous involvement notably includes the Wataynikaneyap Transmission Project in northwestern Ontario and working with The Honorable Frank Iacobucci in advising the Government of Canada in its re-initiated consultation process with Indigenous groups on the Trans Mountain Pipeline Expansion Project.

Valerie has held various industry appointments in the power sector including serving as a board member of the Canadian Wind Energy Association, past Chair of the Ontario Waterpower Association, and past member of the Independent Electricity System Operator Stakeholder Advisory Committee.

Ontario Bar, 1996

Valerie served on the Board of Directors for the Canadian Wind Energy Association from 2014 to 2020. In addition, she was a member of the Board of Directors for the Ontario Waterpower Association from 2008 to 2017, where she served as Chair from 2010 to 2016. Valerie was also an appointee to the Stakeholder Advisory Committee for the Independent Electricity System Operator and an Advisor for the Rift Valley Energy Advisory Committee from 2013 to 2015.

In the community, Valerie is a former director of the North Toronto Soccer Association and previously served on the Board of Directors for the Young People’s Theatre (2013 to 2016) and the e.p.i.c. School (2009 to 2012).