UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 10-K/A

 

Amendment No. 1

(Mark One)

x Annual Report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

 

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016

 

¨ Transition Report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

 

For the transition period from _______to_______

 

Commission File Number 0-53713

 

OTTER TAIL CORPORATION

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

MINNESOTA 27-0383995
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

 

215 SOUTH CASCADE STREET, BOX 496, FERGUS FALLS, MINNESOTA 56538-0496
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)

 

Registrant's telephone number, including area code: 866-410-8780

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

 

  Title of each class Name of each exchange on which registered
  COMMON SHARES, par value $5.00 per share The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the

Securities Act. (Yes   x    No       )

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or

Section 15(d) of the Act. (Yes __ No x )

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. (Yes x    No      )

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). (Yes x      No       )

 

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein and will not be contained, to the best of the registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. ¨

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

 

  Large Accelerated Filer x Accelerated Filer ¨
  Non-Accelerated Filer ¨ Smaller Reporting Company ¨
  (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)  

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the

Exchange Act). (Yes __    No x )

 

The aggregate market value of common stock held by non-affiliates, computed by reference to the last sales price on June 30, 2016 was $1,260,418,253.

 

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the registrant's classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date: 39,410,825 Common Shares ($5 par value) as of February 10, 2017.

 

Documents Incorporated by Reference:

 

No documents are incorporated by reference into this Amendment No. 1 on Form 10-K/A. Certain information required by Part III of the Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 22, 2017, has been incorporated by reference from the 2017 Proxy Statement for the 2017 Annual Meeting.

 

 

 

 

 

 

EXPLANATORY NOTE

 

This Amendment No. 1 on Form 10-K/A (this “Amendment”) amends Otter Tail Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016, which was originally filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “Commission”) on February 22, 2017 (the “Original Filing”). Otter Tail Corporation is filing this Amendment for the sole purpose of refiling Exhibits 2-B and 2-C (the “Exhibits”) to the Original Filing in response to comments received from the staff of the Commission to Otter Tail Corporation’s request for confidential treatment with respect to certain portions of the Exhibits. The Exhibits filed with this Amendment supersede the Exhibits as previously filed as Exhibits 2-B and 2-C to the Original Filing. In addition, as required by Rule 12b-15 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, new certifications by our principal executive officer and principal financial officer are included herein as exhibits to this Amendment. Accordingly, Item 15 of Part IV of the Original Filing is being amended hereby to reflect the refiling of the Exhibits and the filing of these new certifications.

 

This Amendment does not make any other changes to the Original Filing and does not reflect events occurring after the Original Filing or modify or update any of the information contained therein in any way other than as expressly described in this Amendment.

 

PART IV

 

Item 15. EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

 

(a) List of documents filed as part of this report:

 

1. Financial Statements

 

Included in the Original Filing

 

2. Financial Statement Schedules

 

Included in the Original Filing

 

3. Exhibits

 

The following Exhibits are filed as part of, or incorporated by reference into, this report.

 

  Previously Filed  
  File No. As Exhibit No .  
2-A 8-K filed 7/1/09 2.1 —Plan of Merger, dated as of June 30, 2009, by and among Otter Tail Corporation (now known as Otter Tail Power Company), Otter Tail Holding Company (now known as Otter Tail Corporation) and Otter Tail Merger Sub Inc.
2-B     —Asset Purchase Agreement, dated as of November 16, 2016, among Otter Tail Power Company, EDF Renewable Development, Inc., Power Partners Midwest, LLC, EDF-RE US Development, LLC and Merricourt Power Partners, LLC.**/***
2-C     —Turnkey Engineering, Procurement and Construction Services Agreement, dated as of November 16, 2016, between Otter Tail Power Company and EDF-RE US Development, LLC.**/***
3-A 8-K filed 7/1/09 3.1 —Restated Articles of Incorporation.
3-B 8-K filed 7/1/09 3.2 —Restated Bylaws.
4-A 8-K filed 8/23/07 4.1 —Note Purchase Agreement, dated as of August 20, 2007.
4-A-1 8-K filed 12/20/07 4.3 —First Amendment, dated as of December 14, 2007, to Note Purchase Agreement, dated as of August 20, 2007.
4-A-2 8-K filed 9/15/08 4.1 —Second Amendment, dated as of September 11, 2008, to Note Purchase Agreement, dated as of August 20, 2007.

 

  1  

 

 

  Previously Filed  
  File No. As Exhibit No .  
4-A-3 8-K filed 7/1/09 4.2 —Third Amendment, dated as of June 26, 2009, to Note Purchase Agreement dated as of August 20, 2007.
4-B 8-K filed 11/2/12 4.1 —Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of October 29, 2012 among Otter Tail Corporation, the Banks named therein, Bank of America, N.A. and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Co-Syndication Agents, KeyBank National Association, as Documentation Agent, U.S. Bank National Association, as administration agent for the Banks and U.S. Bank National Association, Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated and J.P. Morgan Securities LLC, as Joint Lead Arrangers and Joint Book Runners.
4-B-1 8-K filed 11/1/13 4.1 —First Amendment to Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of October 29, 2013, among Otter Tail Corporation, U.S. Bank National Association, as Administrative Agent and as a Bank, Bank of America, N.A. and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., each as a Co-Syndication Agent and as a Bank, KeyBank National Association, as Documentation Agent and as a Bank, and Bank of the West and Union Bank, N.A., as Banks.
4-B-2 8-K filed 11/4/14 4.1 —Second Amendment to Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of November 3, 2014, among Otter Tail Corporation, U.S. Bank National Association, as Administrative Agent and as a Bank, Bank of America, N.A. and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., each as a Co-Syndication Agent and as a Bank, KeyBank National Association, as Documentation Agent and as a Bank, and Bank of the West as a Bank.
4-B-3 8-K filed 11/3/15 4.1 —Third Amendment to Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of October 29, 2015, among Otter Tail Corporation, U.S. Bank National Association, as Administrative Agent and as a Bank, Bank of America, N.A. and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., each as a Co-Syndication Agent and as a Bank, KeyBank National Association, as Documentation Agent and as a Bank, and Bank of the West as a Bank.
4-B-4 8-K filed 11/3/16 4.1 —Fourth Amendment to Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of October 31, 2016, among Otter Tail Corporation, U.S. Bank National Association, as Administrative Agent and as a Bank, Bank of America, N.A. and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., each as a Co-Syndication Agent and as a Bank, KeyBank National Association, as Documentation Agent and as a Bank, and Bank of the West as a Bank.
4-C 8-K filed 11/2/12 4.2 Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of October 29, 2012 among Otter Tail Power Company, the Banks named therein, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. and Bank of America, N.A., as Co-Syndication Agents, KeyBank National Association and CoBank, ACB, as Co-Documentation Agents, U.S. Bank National Association, as administrative agent for the Banks, and U.S. Bank National Association, Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated and J.P. Morgan Securities LLC, as Joint Lead Arrangers and Joint Book Runners.
4-C-1 8-K filed 11/1/13 4.2 First Amendment to Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of October 29, 2013, among Otter Tail Power Company, U.S. Bank National Association, as Administrative Agent and as a Bank, Bank of America, N.A. and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., each as a Co-Syndication Agent and as a Bank, KeyBank National Association, as Documentation Agent and as a Bank, CoBank, ACB, as a Co-Documentation Agent and as a Bank, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association and Union Bank, N.A., as Banks.

 

  2  

 

 

  Previously Filed  
  File No. As Exhibit No .  
4-C-2 8-K filed 11/4/14 4.2 Second Amendment to Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of November 3, 2014, among Otter Tail Power Company, U.S. Bank National Association, as Administrative Agent and as a Bank, Bank of America, N.A. and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., each as a Co-Syndication Agent and as a Bank, KeyBank National Association, as Documentation Agent and as a Bank, CoBank, ACB, as a Co-Documentation Agent and as a Bank, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association as a Bank.
4-C-3 8-K filed 11/3/15 4.2 Third Amendment to Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of October 29, 2015, among Otter Tail Power Company, U.S. Bank National Association, as Administrative Agent and as a Bank, Bank of America, N.A. and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., each as a Co-Syndication Agent and as a Bank, KeyBank National Association, as Documentation Agent and as a Bank, CoBank, ACB, as a Co-Documentation Agent and as a Bank, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association as a Bank.
4-C-4 8-K filed 11/3/16 4.2 Fourth Amendment to Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of October 31, 2016, among Otter Tail Power Company, U.S. Bank National Association, as Administrative Agent and as a Bank, Bank of America, N.A. and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., each as a Co-Syndication Agent and as a Bank, KeyBank National Association, as Documentation Agent and as a Bank, CoBank, ACB, as a Co-Documentation Agent and as a Bank, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association as a Bank.
4-D 8-K filed 8/3/11 4.1 —Note Purchase Agreement, dated as of July 29, 2011, between Otter Tail Power Company and the Purchasers named therein.
4-E 8-K filed 8/16/13 4.1 —Note Purchase Agreement dated as of August 14, 2013 between Otter Tail Power Company and the Purchasers named therein.
4-F 8-K filed 2/9/16 4.1 —Term Loan Agreement dated as of February 5, 2016 among Otter Tail Corporation, the Banks named therein and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent for the Banks, and J.P. Morgan Securities LLC, as Lead Arranger and Book Runner.
4-G 8-K filed 9/27/16 4.1 —Note Purchase Agreement dated as of September 23, 2016 between Otter Tail Corporation and the Purchasers named therein.
10-A 2-55813 5-F —Contract dated April 12, 1973, between the Bureau of Reclamation and the Company.
10-B 2-55813 5-G —Contract dated January 8, 1973, between East River Electric Power Cooperative and the Company.
10-B-1 2-62815 5-E-1 —Supplement One dated February 20, 1978.
10-B-2 10-K for year ended 12/31/89 10-E-3 —Supplement Two dated June 10, 1983.
10-B-3 10-K for year ended 12/31/90 10-E-4 —Supplement Three dated June 6, 1985.
10-B-4 10-K for year ended 12/31/92 10-E-5 —Supplement No. Four, dated as of September 10, 1986.
10-B-5 10-K for year ended 12/31/92 10-E-6 —Supplement No. Five, dated as of January 7, 1993.
10-B-6 10-K for year ended 12/31/93 10-E-7 —Supplement No. Six, dated as of December 2, 1993.
10-C 10-K for year ended 12/31/89 10-F —Agreement for Sharing Ownership of Generating Plant by and between the Company, Montana-Dakota Utilities Co., and Northwestern Public Service Company (dated as of January 7, 1970).

 

  3  

 

 

  Previously Filed  
  File No. As Exhibit No .  
10-C-1 10-K for year ended 12/31/89 10-F-1 —Letter of Intent for purchase of share of Big Stone Plant from Northwestern Public Service Company (dated as of May 8, 1984).
10-C-2 10-K for year ended 12/31/91 10-F-2 —Supplemental Agreement No. 1 to Agreement for Sharing Ownership of Big Stone Plant (dated as of July 1, 1983).
10-C-3 10-K for year ended 12/31/91 10-F-3 —Supplemental Agreement No. 2 to Agreement for Sharing Ownership of Big Stone Plant (dated as of March 1, 1985).
10-C-4 10-K for year ended 12/31/91 10-F-4 —Supplemental Agreement No. 3 to Agreement for Sharing Ownership of Big Stone Plant (dated as of March 31, 1986).
10-C-5 10-Q for quarter ended 9/30/03 10.1 —Supplemental Agreement No. 4 to Agreement for Sharing Ownership of Big Stone Plant (dated as of April 24, 2003).
10-C-6 10-K for year ended 12/31/92 10-F-5 —Amendment I to Letter of Intent dated May 8, 1984, for purchase of share of Big Stone Plant.
10-D 10-Q for quarter ended 6/30/15 10.3 —Big Stone South – Ellendale Project Ownership Agreement dated as of June 12, 2015 between Otter Tail Power Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of Otter Tail Corporation, and Montana-Dakota Utilities Co., a division of MDU Resources Group, Inc.**
10-E 2-61043 5-H —Agreement for Sharing Ownership of Coyote Station Generating Unit No. 1 by and between the Company, Minnkota Power Cooperative, Inc., Montana-Dakota Utilities Co., Northwestern Public Service Company and Minnesota Power & Light Company (dated as of July 1, 1977).
10-E-1 10-K for year ended 12/31/89 10-H-1 —Supplemental Agreement No. One, dated as of November 30, 1978, to Agreement for Sharing Ownership of Coyote Generating Unit No. 1.
10-E-2 10-K for year ended 12/31/89 10-H-2 —Supplemental Agreement No. Two, dated as of March 1, 1981, to Agreement for Sharing Ownership of Coyote Generating Unit No. 1 and Amendment No. 2 dated March 1, 1981, to Coyote Plant Coal Agreement.
10-E-3 10-K for year ended 12/31/89 10-H-3 —Amendment, dated as of July 29, 1983, to Agreement for Sharing Ownership of Coyote Generating Unit No. 1.
10-E-4 10-K for year ended 12/31/92 10-H-4 —Agreement, dated as of September 5, 1985, containing Amendment No. 3 to Agreement for Sharing Ownership of Coyote Generating Unit No. 1, dated as of July 1, 1977, and Amendment No. 5 to Coyote Plant Coal Agreement, dated as of January 1, 1978.
10-E-5 10-Q for quarter ended 9/30/01 10-A —Amendment, dated as of June 14, 2001, to Agreement for Sharing Ownership of Coyote Generating Unit No. 1.
10-E-6 10-Q for quarter ended 9/30/03 10.2 —Amendment, dated as of April 24, 2003, to Agreement for Sharing Ownership of Coyote Generating Unit No. 1.
10-F 2-63744 5-I —Coyote Plant Coal Agreement by and between the Company, Minnkota Power Cooperative, Inc., Montana-Dakota Utilities Co., Northwestern Public Service Company, Minnesota Power & Light Company, and Knife River Coal Mining Company (dated as of January 1, 1978).
10-F-1 10-K for year ended 12/31/92 10-I-1 —Addendum, dated as of March 10, 1980, to Coyote Plant Coal Agreement.
10-F-2 10-K for year ended 12/31/92 10-I-2 —Amendment (No. 3), dated as of May 28, 1980, to Coyote Plant Coal Agreement.
10-F-3 10-K for year ended 12/31/92 10-I-3 —Fourth Amendment, dated as of August 19, 1985, to Coyote Plant Coal Agreement.
10-F-4 10-Q for quarter ended 6/30/93 19-A —Sixth Amendment, dated as of February 17, 1993, to Coyote Plant Coal Agreement.
10-F-5 10-K for year ended 12/31/01 10-I-5 —Agreement and Consent to Assignment of the Coyote Plant Coal Agreement.

 

  4  

 

 

  Previously Filed  
  File No. As Exhibit No .  
10-G 10-K for year ended 12/31/12 10-J —Lignite Sales Agreement between Coyote Creek Mining Company, L.L.C. and Otter Tail Power Company, Northern Municipal Power Agency, Montana-Dakota Utilities Co., Northwestern Corporation, dated as of October 10, 2012.**
10-G-1 8-K filed 1/31/14 10.1 —First Amendment to Lignite Sales Agreement dated as of January 30, 2014 among Otter Tail Power Company, Northern Municipal Power Agency, Montana-Dakota Utilities Co., a division of MDU Resources Group, Inc., NorthWestern Corporation and Coyote Creek Mining Company, L.L.C.
10-G-2 8-K filed 3/18/15 10.1 —Second Amendment to Lignite Sales Agreement dated as of March 16, 2015 among Otter Tail Power Company, Northern Municipal Power Agency, Montana-Dakota Utilities Co., a division of MDU Resources Group, Inc., NorthWestern Corporation and Coyote Creek Mining Company, L.L.C.
10-H 10-Q for quarter ended 3/31/13 10.1 —General Work Construction Agreement, dated as of February 1, 2013, between Otter Tail Power Company, in its capacity as agent for itself, Northwestern Corporation d/b/a NorthWestern Energy and Montana-Dakota Utilities Co., a division of MDU Resources Group, Inc., and Graycor Industrial Constructors Inc.**
10-I 10-Q/A for quarter ended 6/30/13 10.1 —Wind Energy Purchase Agreement dated May 9, 2013 between Otter Tail Power Company and Ashtabula Wind III, LLC.**
10-J-1 10-K for year ended 12/31/02 10-N-1 —Deferred Compensation Plan for Directors, as amended.*
10-J-1a 10-K for year ended 12/31/10 10-N-1A —First Amendment of Deferred Compensation Plan for Directors (2003 Restatement), as amended.*
10-J-1b 8-K filed 4/17/14 10.5 —Second Amendment of Deferred Compensation Plan for Directors (2003 Restatement), as amended.*
10-J-2 8-K filed 2/04/05 10.1 —Executive Survivor and Supplemental Retirement Plan (2005 Restatement).*
10-J-2a 10-K for year ended 12/31/06 10-N-2a —First Amendment of Executive Survivor and Supplemental Retirement Plan (2005 Restatement).*
10-J-2b 10-K for year ended 12/31/10 10-N-2B —Second Amendment of Executive Survivor and Supplemental Retirement Plan (2005 Restatement).*
10-J-3 10-Q for quarter ended 9/30/11 10.1 —Nonqualified Retirement Plan (2011 Restatement).*
10-J-4 10-Q for  quarter ended 9/30/16 10.1 —1999 Employee Stock Purchase Plan, As Amended (2016).
10-J-5 8-K filed 4/13/06 10.4 —1999 Stock Incentive Plan, As Amended (2006).
10-J-6 8-K filed 4/19/12 10.2 —Form of 2012 Restricted Stock Award Agreement for Executive Officers.*
10-J-7 8-K filed 4/19/12 10.4 —Form of 2012 Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement.*
10-J-8 8-K filed 4/13/06 10.1 —Form of Restricted Stock Award Agreement for Directors.*
10-J-9 10-K for year ended 12/31/13 10-O-12 —2014 Executive Annual Incentive Plan.*
10-J-10 333-195337 4.1 —Otter Tail Corporation 2014 Stock Incentive Plan.
10-J-11 8-K filed 4/17/14 10.1 —Form of 2014 Performance Award Agreement.*
10-J-12 8-K filed 4/17/14 10.2 —Form of 2014 Restricted Stock Award Agreement for Executive Officers.*
10-J-13 8-K filed 4/17/14 10.3 —Form of 2014 Restricted Stock Award Agreement for Directors.*
10-J-14 10-K for year ended 12/31/16 10-J-14 —Summary of Non-Employee Director Compensation (2016).

 

  5  

 

 

  Previously Filed  
  File No. As Exhibit No .  
10-J-15 8-K filed 9/26/14 10.1 —Amendment to 2014 Performance Award Agreement with Edward J. McIntyre.*
10-J-16 8-K filed 2/11/15 10.1 —Form of 2015 Performance Award Agreement (Executives).*
10-J-17 8-K filed 2/11/15 10.2 —Form of 2015 Performance Award Agreement (Legacy).*
10-J-18 8-K filed 2/11/15 10.3 —Form of 2015 Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement (Executives).*
10-J-19 8-K filed 2/11/15 10.4 —Form of 2015 Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement (Legacy).*
10-J-20 8-K filed 2/11/15 10.5 —Otter Tail Corporation Executive Restoration Plus Plan, as Amended and Restated.
10-J-21 8-K filed 4/15/15 10.2 —Form of 2015 Restricted Stock Award Agreement for Directors.*
10-K 8-K filed 5/11/15 1.1 —Distribution Agreement dated May 11, 2015, between Otter Tail Corporation and J.P. Morgan Securities LLC.
10-L-1 10-K for year ended 12/31/12 10-O-1 —Executive Employment Agreement, Kevin Moug.*
10-L-2 10-K for year ended 12/31/12 10-O-2 —Executive Employment Agreement, George Koeck.*
10-M-1 10-K for year ended 12/31/10 10-Q-3 —Change in Control Severance Agreement, Kevin G. Moug.*
10-M-2 10-K for year ended 12/31/10 10-Q-4 —Change in Control Severance Agreement, George Koeck.*
10-M-3 10-K for year ended 12/31/11 10-Q-5 —Change in Control Severance Agreement, Chuck MacFarlane.*
10-M-4 10-Q for quarter ended 9/30/14 10.3 —Change in Control Severance Agreement, Timothy Rogelstad.*
10-M-5 10-Q for quarter ended 9/30/14 10.6 —Change in Control Severance Agreement, Paul Knutson.*
10-M-6 10-K for year ended 12/31/15 10-R-6 —Change in Control Severance Agreement, John Abbott.*
10-N 8-K filed 4/15/15 10.1 —Otter Tail Corporation Executive Severance Plan.*
12.1 10-K for year ended 12/31/16 12.1 —Calculation of Ratios of Earnings to Fixed Charges and Preferred Dividends.
21-A 10-K for year ended 12/31/16 21-A —Subsidiaries of Registrant.
23-A 10-K for year ended 12/31/16 23-A —Consent of Deloitte & Touche LLP.
24-A 10-K for year ended 12/31/16 24-A —Powers of Attorney.
31.1 10-K for year ended 12/31/16 31.1 —Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
31.2 10-K for year ended 12/31/16 31.2 —Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
31.3     —Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 relating to Form 10-K/A.
31.4     —Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 relating to Form 10-K/A.
32.1 10-K for year ended 12/31/16 32.1 —Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32.2 10-K for year ended 12/31/16 32.2 —Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

  6  

 

 

  Previously Filed  
  File No. As Exhibit No .  
101 10-K for year ended 12/31/16 101 —Financial statements from the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Otter Tail Corporation for the year ended December 31, 2016, formatted in Extensible Business Reporting Language: (i) the Consolidated Balance Sheets, (ii) the Consolidated Statements of Income, (iii) the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income, (iv) the Consolidated Statements of Common Shareholders’ Equity, (v) the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, (vi) the Consolidated Statements of Capitalization, (vii) the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements and (viii) Schedule I.

 

*Management contract, compensatory plan or arrangement required to be filed pursuant to Item 601(b)(10)(iii)(A) of Regulation S-K.

 

**Confidential information has been omitted from this Exhibit and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to a confidential treatment request under Rule 24b-2.

 

***Schedules and exhibits have been omitted pursuant to Item 601(b)(2) of Regulation S-K. The Company hereby undertakes to furnish copies of any of the omitted schedules and exhibits to the Securities and Exchange Commission upon request.

 

Pursuant to Item 601(b)(4)(iii) of Regulation S-K, copies of certain instruments defining the rights of holders of certain long-term debt of the Company are not filed, and in lieu thereof, the Company agrees to furnish copies thereof to the Securities and Exchange Commission upon request.

 

SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 

  OTTER TAIL CORPORATION
     
  By /s/ Kevin G. Moug
    Kevin G. Moug
    Chief Financial Officer and Senior Vice President
    (authorized officer and principal financial officer)
     
  Dated:   May 15, 2017

 

  7  

 

 

EXHIBIT INDEX

 

Exhibit Number   Description
     
2-B   Asset Purchase Agreement, dated as of November 16, 2016, among Otter Tail Power Company, EDF Renewable Development, Inc., Power Partners Midwest, LLC, EDF-RE US Development, LLC and Merricourt Power Partners, LLC.*/**
     
2-C   Turnkey Engineering, Procurement and Construction Services Agreement, dated as of November 16, 2016, between Otter Tail Power Company and EDF-RE US Development, LLC.*/**
     
31.3   Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 relating to Form 10-K/A.
     
31.4   Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 relating to Form 10-K/A.

 

* Confidential information has been omitted from this Exhibit and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to a confidential treatment request under Rule 24b-2.

 

** Schedules and exhibits have been omitted pursuant to Item 601(b)(2) of Regulation S-K. The Company hereby undertakes to furnish copies of any of the omitted schedules and exhibits to the Securities and Exchange Commission upon request.

 

 

 

 

Exhibit 2-B

 

Confidential treatment has been requested for portions of this exhibit pursuant to Rule 24b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The copy filed herewith omits the information subject to the confidentiality request. Omissions are designated as [**]. A complete version of this exhibit has been filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

 

Execution Version

 

 

ASSET PURCHASE AGREEMENT

by and among

EDF RENEWABLE DEVELOPMENT, INC.,

 

POWER PARTNERS MIDWEST, LLC,

 

EDF-RE US DEVELOPMENT, LLC,

 

MERRICOURT POWER PARTNERS, LLC

as Sellers

and

OTTER TAIL POWER COMPANY

as Buyer

dated as of November 16, 2016

 

Merricourt Wind Project

 

 

 

 

 

Table of Contents

 

    Page
Article 1 DEFINITIONS AND CONSTRUCTION 2
Section 1.1 Definitions 2
Section 1.2 Rules of Construction 16
     
Article 2 PURCHASE AND SALE 17
Section 2.1 Purchase and Sale of Assets 17
Section 2.2 Excluded Assets 18
Section 2.3 Assumed Liabilities 19
Section 2.4 Excluded Liabilities 19
Section 2.5 Purchase Price; Closing Payment 20
Section 2.6 Allocation of Purchase Price 20
     
Article 3 PURCHASE AND SALE AND CLOSING 21
Section 3.1 Closing 21
Section 3.2 Closing Deliveries by Sellers to Buyer 21
Section 3.3 Closing Deliveries by Buyer to Seller 22
Section 3.4 Exclusivity 22
     
Article 4 REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF SELLERS 22
Section 4.1 Organization 22
Section 4.2 Authority; Enforceability 23
Section 4.3 No Conflicts; Consents and Approvals 23
Section 4.4 Title to Assets 23
Section 4.5 Legal Proceedings 23
Section 4.6 Compliance with Laws 24
Section 4.7 Taxes 24
Section 4.8 Regulatory Status 24
Section 4.9 Contracts 25
Section 4.10 Real Property 25
Section 4.11 Permits 27
Section 4.12 Environmental Matters 27
Section 4.13 Brokers 28
Section 4.14 Wind Data 29
Section 4.15 Insurance 29
Section 4.16 PTCs 29
Section 4.17 No Other Agreements to Sell Purchased Assets 30
Section 4.18 Reports 30
     
Article 5 REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF BUYER 30
Section 5.1 Organization 30
Section 5.2 Authority; Enforceability 31
Section 5.3 No Conflicts 31
Section 5.4 Legal Proceedings 31
Section 5.5 Brokers 32
Section 5.6 Financial Resources 32

 

  - i -  

 

 

Table of Contents

(continued)

 

    Page
     
Section 5.7 Independent Investigation; No Knowledge of Misrepresentations or Omissions 32
     
Article 6 COVENANTS 32
Section 6.1 Books and Records 32
Section 6.2 Tax Matters 33
Section 6.3 Conduct of Sellers Prior to Closing 33
Section 6.4 Access to Information 34
Section 6.5 Efforts; Consents; Regulatory and Required Seller Approval 36
Section 6.6 Public Announcements 37
Section 6.7 Further Assurances 37
Section 6.8 Updated Schedules 38
Section 6.9 Representations and Warranties 38
Section 6.10 Interconnection Costs 38
Section 6.11 Easement Agreement Extensions 40
Section 6.12 Non-Compete 40
Section 6.13 Letters of Credit; Guaranty 41
Section 6.14 Title Commitment; Survey; Title Policy 42
Section 6.15 Site Plan 43
Section 6.16 5% Safe Harbor Turbines 44
     
Article 7 CONDITIONS TO CLOSING 44
Section 7.1 Conditions to Obligations of Each Party 44
Section 7.2 Additional Conditions to Obligations of Buyer 44
Section 7.3 Additional Conditions to Obligations of Seller 47
     
Article 8 Termination 47
Section 8.1 Termination 47
Section 8.2 Effect of Termination 50
     
Article 9 INDEMNIFICATION, LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY AND WAIVERS 50
Section 9.1 Survival 50
Section 9.2 Indemnification by Seller 50
Section 9.3 Indemnification by Buyer 51
Section 9.4 Limitations on Liability 51
Section 9.5 Procedures for Third Party Claims 52
Section 9.6 Indemnification Procedures 54
Section 9.7 Payments of Indemnity Amounts Payable by Buyer 56
Section 9.8 Payments of Indemnity Amounts Payable by Sellers 56
Section 9.9 Exclusive Remedy 56
     
Article 10 MISCELLANEOUS 56
Section 10.1 Notices 56
Section 10.2 Entire Agreement 58
Section 10.3 Expenses 58
Section 10.4 Disclosure 58

 

  - ii -  

 

 

Table of Contents

(continued)

 

    Page
     
Section 10.5 Waiver 59
Section 10.6 Amendment 59
Section 10.7 No Third Party Beneficiary 59
Section 10.8 Assignment; Binding Effect 59
Section 10.9 Headings 59
Section 10.10 Invalid Provisions 59
Section 10.11 Counterparts; Facsimile 60
Section 10.12 Governing Law; Venue; and Jurisdiction 60
Section 10.13 Specific Performance 61

 

 

  - iii -  

 

 

EXHIBITS

 

Exhibit A [Intentionally Omitted]
Exhibit B   Form of Assignment and Assumption Agreement
Exhibit C Form of Bill of Sale
Exhibit D Form of Warranty Deed
Exhibit E Site Description
Exhibit F [Intentionally Omitted]
Exhibit G [Intentionally Omitted]
Exhibit H [Intentionally Omitted]
Exhibit I Title Policy

 

SCHEDULES

 

1.1 Knowledge
4.3(a) Purchased Contract Conflicts
4.3(b) Seller Consents
4.5 Legal Proceedings
4.6 Compliance with Laws
4.7 Taxes
4.8 Regulatory Status
4.9 Purchased Contracts
4.10(a) Real Property
4.10(g) Land Contract Defaults
4.10(h) Condemnation Proceedings
4.10(i) Violations of Laws
4.10(j) Options; Zoning Changes
4.10(m) Mineral Developments
4.11(a) Permits
4.11(b) Additional Required Permits
4.11(c) Permit Noncompliance
4.11(d) Permit Conflicts
4.12 Environmental Matters
4.14 Wind Data
4.15 Insurance
4.16 Physical Work
4.18 Reports
5.3 Buyer Consents
6.3 Conduct of Business
6.5(d) BBCS Changes
6.14(a) Title Objection Letter

 

  - iv -  

 

 

ASSET PURCHASE AGREEMENT

 

This Asset Purchase Agreement, dated as of November 16, 2016 (this “ Agreement ”), is made by, between and between EDF Renewable Development, Inc., a Delaware corporation (“ EDF-RD ”), Power Partners Midwest, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“ PPM ”), EDF-RE US Development, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“ EDF-USD ”), and Merricourt Power Partners, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“ Merricourt ,” collectively, “ Sellers ”), on the one hand, and Otter Tail Power Company, a Minnesota corporation (“ Buyer ”), on the other hand.

 

W•I•T•N•E•S•S•E•T•H:

 

WHEREAS, Buyer desires to acquire a wind farm development site in the State of North Dakota and construct on such site seventy-five (75) Vestas-American Wind Technology, Inc., a California corporation (“ Vestas ”), 2.0 V110 wind turbine generators on eighty (80) meter towers (“ WTGs ” or each, a “ WTG ”) for a total nameplate capacity of one hundred fifty (150) megawatts;

 

WHEREAS, Sellers and their Affiliates are in the process of developing a site in McIntosh and Dickey Counties, North Dakota for a wind energy generation project capable of supporting the installation and operation of seventy-five (75) WTGs and in connection therewith have acquired certain real estate rights and other assets and commenced certain development activities;

 

WHEREAS, Sellers desire to sell and assign to Buyer, and Buyer desires to purchase and assume substantially all of the assets, and certain specified liabilities, related to the Project (as defined below), subject to the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in this Agreement;

 

WHEREAS, concurrently with the execution and delivery of this Agreement, as a condition and inducement to Buyer’s willingness to enter into this Agreement, EDF-USD, and Buyer are entering into a separate Turnkey Engineering, Procurement and Construction Agreement (the “ TEPC ”), pursuant to which EDF-USD will provide the engineering, procurement, construction, commissioning, start-up and related services, on a fixed price turnkey basis, to install the seventy-five (75) WTGs and to provide other services to Buyer as specified in the TEPC; and

 

WHEREAS, concurrently with the execution and delivery of this Agreement, as a condition and inducement to Buyer’s willingness to enter into this Agreement, EDF Énergies Nouvelles, S.A., a French société anonyme and an indirect parent company of Sellers (“ EDF-EN ”), is executing and delivering the EDF-EN Guaranty (as defined below) pursuant to which EDF-EN is guaranteeing Sellers’ full and timely payment of their obligations under this Agreement.

 

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and the mutual representations, warranties, covenants and agreements in this Agreement, and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Parties hereby agree as follows:

 

- 1

 

 

Article 1

DEFINITIONS AND CONSTRUCTION

 

Section 1.1            Definitions . As used in this Agreement, the following capitalized terms have the meanings set forth below:

 

5% Safe Harbor Turbines ” means [**] to be delivered under the Daughter Contract from Vestas to EDF-USD, as specified in Exhibit D of the Daughter Contract, for a purchase price of not less than [**] ($[**]).

 

Action ” means any legal, administrative, arbitral, mediation or other alternative dispute resolution procedure or other action, proceeding, claim, assessment, audit, inquiry or similar investigation before any court, arbitrator or other Governmental Authority.

 

Affiliate ” means, with respect to any Person, any other Person that directly or indirectly through one or more intermediaries, controls, is controlled by or is under common control with such Person. The term “control” (including, with correlative meaning, the terms “controlled by” and “under common control with”), as used with respect to any Person, means the possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to direct or cause the direction of the management and policies of such Person, whether through the ownership of voting securities or partnership interests, by contract or otherwise.

 

Agreement ” is defined in the introduction to this Agreement.

 

Ancillary Agreements ” means the Bill of Sale, the Assignment and Assumption Agreement, the Deed and the other documents and agreements to be delivered pursuant to this Agreement.

 

Assets ” of any Person means all assets, properties and rights of every kind, nature, character and description (whether real, personal or mixed, whether tangible or intangible and wherever situated), including the related goodwill, which assets and properties are operated, owned or leased by such Person.

 

Assignment and Assumption Agreement ” means an assignment and assumption agreement, substantially in the form attached as Exhibit B hereto.

 

Assumed Liabilities ” is defined in Section 2.3.

 

_____________________________

[**] Denotes confidential information that has been omitted from the exhibit and filed separately, accompanied by a confidential treatment request, with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Rule 24b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

 

 

- 2

 

 

Avian Assessment ” means the existing avian survey(s) of Sellers and any other avian survey(s) of Sellers currently underway related to the Project which shall be delivered to Buyer in final form pursuant to Section 7.2(n).

 

Backup LOC ” has the meaning given such term in the TEPC.

 

Bat Assessment ” means the existing bat survey(s) of Sellers related to the Project which shall be delivered to Buyer in final form pursuant to Section 7.2(n).

 

Bill of Sale ” means a bill of sale, substantially in the form attached as Exhibit C hereto.

 

Bird and Bat Conservation Strategy ” is a voluntary project specific document that describes the environmental studies that were undertaken to identify potential sensitive resources and incorporates best management practices that will be implemented in order to avoid and minimize impact to birds and bats, as well as documents, specific analyses and decisions consistent with the tiered approach and the USFWS Land-Based Wind Energy Guidelines (USFWS 2012).

 

Books and Records ” means any and all data, reports, studies, external, non-attorney-client privileged correspondence, maps, surveys and other business records of Sellers necessary or useful to the development, construction and operation of the Project.

 

Business Day ” means any day other than Saturday, a Sunday, or a holiday, on which banks are generally open for business in both Fargo, ND and Minneapolis, MN.

 

Buyer ” is defined in the introduction to this Agreement.

 

Buyer Group ” is defined in Section 9.2.

 

Certificate of Site Compatibility ” means the Certificate of Site Compatibility required by the NDPSC to construct the Project, updated to account for the WTGs that EDF-USD is to supply under the TEPC and including five (5) alternate WTG locations.

 

Claim ” means any demand, claim, action, investigation, legal proceeding (whether administrative or judicial, at law or in equity and whether informal or formal), arbitration or mediation.

 

Clean Water Act ” means the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, as amended by the Clean Water Act of 1977, 33 U.S.C. § 1251 et seq.

 

Closing ” means the closing of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, as provided for in Section 3.1.

 

Closing Date ” means the date on which Closing occurs.

 

COD Purchased Contracts ” means those Purchased Contracts identified as such on Schedule 4.9 and that will be assigned to Buyer on the Commercial Operation Date.

 

- 3

 

 

Code ” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended and in effect.

 

Commercial Operation Date ” means the date on which Project Commercial Operation is achieved.

 

Confidentiality Agreement ” means the Confidentiality and Nondisclosure Agreement by and between EDF Renewable Energy, Inc. and Buyer, dated as of March 24, 2016.

 

Consent ” means a consent, approval, authorization, waiver, filing, notice, registration, declaration or similar action of, with or by any Person.

 

Construction Period Guaranty ” has the meaning given such term in the TEPC.

 

Construction Period Guaranty Expiration ” has the meaning given such term in the TEPC.

 

Contract ” means any legally binding contract, lease, license, evidence of indebtedness, mortgage, indenture, purchase order, binding bid, letter of credit, security agreement or other legally binding arrangement, whether oral or written, but excludes Permits.

 

Credit Trigger Event ” means (a) with respect to EDF-EN, the failure of (i) Électricité de France S.A. to own, directly or indirectly, at least fifty percent (50%) of the issued and outstanding equity of EDF-EN, or (ii) EDF-EN to have a Tangible Net Worth of at least €1,750,000,000.00; (b) with respect to EDF-RE, the failure of EDF-RE to have a Tangible Net Worth of at least $50,000,000.00; and (c) with respect to Buyer, the downgrading of Buyer’s senior unsecured credit rating by any two Rating Agencies to below BBB- (or Baa3 in the case of Moody’s).

 

Cultural Resource Study ” means the cultural resource study to be prepared by Kadrmas, Lee & Jackson, or another consultant selected by Sellers and approved by Buyer (such approval not to be unreasonably withheld), which shall be delivered to Buyer in final form pursuant to Section 7.2(n).

 

Data Site ” means the electronic documentation site established by Sellers in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.

 

Daughter Contract ” means that certain contract between EDF-USD and Vestas splitting WTGs designated for the Project from the Framework Agreement and executed on November 16, 2016.

 

Deductible ” is defined in Section 9.4(c).

 

Deed ” means a warranty deed, substantially in the form attached as Exhibit D hereto.

 

Default ” means, with respect to any Person, any circumstance, event or condition that would constitute, with or without notice or the passage of time or both, a violation, breach, default, conflict with, or give rise to any right of termination, modification, cancellation, prepayment, suspension, limitation, revocation, purchase, re-purchase or acceleration.

 

- 4

 

 

Designated Representations ” means the representations and warranties contained in Section 4.1 (Organization), Section 4.2 (Authority; Enforceability), Section 4.4(a) (Title to Assets), Section 4.13 (Brokers), Section 5.1 (Organization), Section 5.2 (Authority; Enforceability) and Section 5.5 (Brokers).

 

Dispute Notice ” is defined in Section 9.6(b).

 

EDF-EN ” is defined in the recitals.

 

EDF-EN Guaranty ” has the meaning given such term in the TEPC.

 

EDF-EN Guaranty Expiration ” has the meaning given such term in the TEPC.

 

EDF-RD ” is defined in the introduction to this Agreement.

 

EDF-RE ” means EDF Renewable Energy, Inc., a Delaware corporation.

 

EDF-USD ” is defined in the introduction to this Agreement.

 

Energy Resource Interconnection Service ” has the meaning given to such term in the MISO FERC Electric Tariff.

 

Environmental Claim ” means any Claim or Loss arising out of or related to Hazardous Materials, environmental or workplace contamination or pollution, or any violation or alleged violation of Environmental Law.

 

Environmental Law ” means all Laws that regulate or relate to (a) the protection or clean-up of the environment; (b) the handling of Hazardous Materials; (c) the preservation or protection of waterways, groundwater, drinking water, air, wildlife, plants or other natural resources; and (d) the health and safety of persons or property, including, without limitation, protection of the health and safety of employees, including the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act, 42 U.S.C. § 9601 et seq.; the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, 42 U.S.C. § 6901 et seq.; the Clean Water Act; the Clean Air Act, 42 U.S.C. § 7401 et seq.; the Toxic Substances Control Act, 15 U.S.C. §§ 2601 through 2629; the Oil Pollution Act, 33 U.S.C. § 2701 et seq.; the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act, 42 U.S.C. § 11001 et seq.; the Safe Drinking Water Act, 42 U.S.C. §§ 300f through 300j; the Occupational Safety and Health Act, 29 U.S.C. § 651 et seq.; the Hazardous Materials Transportation Act, 49 U.S.C. § 5101 et seq.; the Endangered Species Act, 16 U.S.C. § 1531 et seq.; the Migratory Bird Treaty Act 16 U.S.C § 703 et seq.; the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act 16 U.S.C § 668 et seq; Centers for Disease Control guidelines, policies and procedures; and all other analogous or related Laws currently in effect (including implementing regulations promulgated pursuant thereto) of any Governmental Authority having jurisdiction over the assets in question addressing pollution control or protection of Protected Species, the environment, wildlife, plants, natural resources, or human health.

 

- 5

 

 

ERIS Interconnection Costs ” means the sum of (i) the network upgrade costs associated with the New GIA for Energy Resource Interconnection Service plus (ii) the network upgrade costs required to obtain Network Integration Transmission Service for yearly “Firm Network Designated” service (as referenced in MISO Business Practice Manual 11 – Resource Adequacy, Articles 4.2.1.1 and 4.2.3.1) for 40% of the 150 MW to be requested by Buyer (the “Service Level Trigger”) on or before June 1, 2017; provided , that, if either Party deems the cost of one or more upgrades required to achieve the Service Level Trigger to be excessive in light of the increase in Firm Network Designated service obtained from such upgrade, the Parties shall negotiate in good faith to agree to a level of upgrade costs that is commercially reasonable in light of the Firm Network Designated service obtained by such costs; provided, further, that Buyer shall, in its reasonable discretion in light of the costs and benefits to Buyer, make any determination to accept “Firm Network Designated” service at a level below the Service Trigger Level. For the avoidance of doubt, ERIS Interconnection costs shall include network upgrade costs regardless of whether they are assigned to the Project by MISO or by any other RTO or transmission owner, but shall not include any reimbursable costs.

 

Estimated Interconnection Costs ” means the estimate for Interconnection Costs set forth in the New GIA and, if applicable, the service agreement applicable to the transmission service contemplated in clause (ii) of the definition of “ERIS Interconnection Costs.”

 

Excess Interconnection Costs ” is defined in Section 6.10(d).

 

Excluded Assets ” is defined in Section 2.2.

 

Excluded Liabilities ” is defined in Section 2.4.

 

Exclusivity Period ” is defined in Section 3.4.

 

Existing GIA ” means the Generator Interconnection Agreement made and entered into as of October 10, 2011 by and between EDF-RD (f/k/a enXco Development Corporation), Montana-Dakota Utilities Co., a division of MDU Resources Group Inc. and MISO and associated with MISO Interconnection Queue Request G359, together with all other rights in MISO Interconnection Queue Request G359 and all associated studies, reports and communications with MISO related thereto.

 

Existing Permitted Exceptions ” is defined in Section 6.14(a).

 

Existing Title Evidence ” is defined in Section 6.14(a).

 

Existing Title Objections ” is defined in Section 6.14(a). 

 

FAA ” means the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration.

 

FAA Determination ” means either an FAA No Hazard Determination or an FAA Determination Not to Exceed, in either case issued by the FAA with respect to a WTG Location.

 

FERC ” means the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

 

Final Order ” means a final order of a court of competent jurisdiction, (i) from which there is no right of appeal to a higher court or (ii) with respect to which either (A) all applicable time periods during which an appeal may be made have expired or (B) no appeal has been made within a period of two months from issuance of an appealable order, whichever is the earliest to occur.

 

- 6

 

 

Fitch ” means Fitch Ratings Inc.

 

FPA ” means the Federal Power Act, as amended.

 

Framework Agreement ” means that certain contract between EDF-EN and Vestas France SAS for the purchase of certain WTGs or components and executed on January 19, 2016.

 

Geotechnical Report ” means the report with respect to the geotechnical borings and analysis conducted for each WTG Location to be prepared by a geotechnical engineering firm selected by Sellers and approved by Buyer (such approval not to be unreasonably withheld), which shall be delivered to Buyer in final form pursuant to Section 7.2(n).

 

GIA ” means either (a) the Existing GIA, or (b) if the Existing GIA is not determined prior to Closing to be valid and outstanding and it is deemed to be terminated, the New GIA.

 

GIA Delay Damages ” means an amount of liquidated damages resulting from a failure of the closing condition in Section 7.2(t) to be met, equal to (a) $444, multiplied by (b) the number of megawatts of nameplate capacity which are not able to operate following the Commercial Operation Date until the limitations specified in the Interconnection Notice have been cured, multiplied by (c) the number of days in the period between the Commercial Operation Date until the date the limitations specified in the Interconnection Notice have been cured.

 

Governmental Authority ” means any court, tribunal, arbitrator, authority, agency, commission, official or other instrumentality of the United States or any state, county, city or other political subdivision or similar governing entity, and including any governmental, quasi-governmental or non-governmental body administering, regulating or having general oversight over natural gas, electricity, power or other markets.

 

Guarantor ” has the meaning given such term in the TEPC.

 

Hazardous Material ” means any substance pollutant, contaminant, chemical, material or waste that is regulated, listed or identified under any Environmental Law, or which is deemed or may be deemed hazardous, dangerous, damaging or toxic to living things or the environment, and shall include, without limitation, any flammable, explosive, or radioactive materials; hazardous materials; radioactive wastes; hazardous wastes; hazardous or toxic substances or related materials; polychlorinated biphenyls; petroleum products, fractions and by-products thereof; asbestos and asbestos-containing materials; medical waste, solid waste, and any excavated soil, debris, or groundwater that is contaminated with such materials; any hazardous substance under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act, as amended (42 U.S.C.A. § 9601 et seq.), any solid waste under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976, as amended (42 U.S.C.A. § 6901 et seq.), or any contaminant, pollutant, waste or toxic substance under the Clean Air Act, as amended (42 U.S.C.A. § 7401 et seq.), the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, as amended (33 U.S.C.A. § 1251 et seq.), the Safe Drinking Water Act, as amended (42 U.S.C.A. § 300f et seq.), the Emergency Planning and Community Right-To-Know Act, as amended (42 U.S.C.A. sec. 110001 et seq.), the Occupational Safety and Health Act, as amended (29 U.S.C.A. sec. 651 et seq.), the Hazardous Materials Transportation Act, as amended, (49 U.S.C.A. sec. 5101 et seq.) or the Toxic Substances Control Act, as amended (15 U.S.CA. § 2601 et seq.).

 

 

- 7

 

 

Indemnified Party ” means a Person entitled to be indemnified by another Person pursuant to the terms of this Agreement.

 

Indemnifying Party ” means a Person required to indemnify another Person pursuant to the terms of this Agreement.

 

Indemnity Amount Payable ” means any Indemnity Claim Amount which has become an Indemnity Amount Payable in accordance with Article 9, plus interest on such Indemnity Claim Amount at the Interest Rate commencing ten (10) Business Days after the date it becomes an Indemnity Amount Payable.

 

Indemnity Claim ” means any claim made for indemnification in accordance with Article 9.

 

Indemnity Claim Amount ” means the amount of Losses claimed in any Notice of Claim, which amount, if not finally determined, may be a good faith estimate of the Losses that may be subject to indemnification pursuant to this Agreement.

 

Independent Accountant ” means any of the “Big Four” independent accounting firms or such other accounting firm mutually selected by Buyer and Sellers, other than any such firm that regularly provides audit services to Buyer or Sellers.

 

Interconnection Costs ” means either the NRIS Interconnection Costs or the ERIS Interconnection Costs, as the case may be.

 

Interconnection Notice ” is defined in Section 8.1(d).

 

Interest Rate ” means LIBOR plus three percent (3%).

 

International Financial Reporting Standards ” or “ IFRS ” means the accounting standards developed and maintained by the International Accounting Standards Board.

 

Knowledge ” means, when used in a particular representation in this Agreement with respect to Sellers, the actual knowledge of any of the Persons listed on Schedule 1.1, together with such knowledge as such individuals would reasonably have obtained in the ordinary course of their duties.

 

- 8

 

 

Land Contracts ” means all easement and lease agreements contemplated to construct and operate the Project (together with any amendments thereto and any associated recorded memoranda), including (a) all easements required for sufficient land to site eighty (80) contiguous WTG Locations in accordance with the Site Plan (b) wind leases or easements for purposes of creating a leasehold and/or easement interest in wind rights associated with such real property included in the Site for buffers, set-backs or otherwise not associated with WTG Locations; and (c) to the extent not included in the foregoing, easements for collection cables, electrical transmission lines, crane paths and access road routes; provided, that, in each case, such easement and lease agreements shall have an operating period of at least thirty (30) years from the Commercial Operation Date (as extended pursuant to Section 6.11) and shall be freely transferable, in whole or in part, without consent of the landowners.

 

Laws ” means all laws, statutes, rules, regulations, ordinances, orders, decrees, court decisions, and other pronouncements having the effect of law of any Governmental Authority.

 

Liability ” or “ Liabilities ” means all debts, liabilities, obligations, Contracts and commitments, whether known or unknown, asserted or unasserted, fixed, absolute or contingent, matured or unmatured, accrued or unaccrued, liquidated or unliquidated, due or to become due, whenever or however arising (including, whether arising out of any Contract or tort based on negligence, strict liability or otherwise).

 

LIBOR ” means, for any day, a rate per annum equal to the “London Interbank Offered Rate (Libor)” for a three (3) month period as set forth in the Money Rates section of The Wall Street Journal, Western Regional Edition (“ The Wall Street Journal ”), on such day (or, if The Wall Street Journal is not published on such day, the next preceding Business Day on which The Wall Street Journal is so published); provided that, if The Wall Street Journal is no longer published or the applicable LIBOR rate is no longer quoted therein, then “LIBOR” shall be a reasonably comparable rate as shall be mutually agreed upon by Buyer and Sellers.

 

Lien ” means, with respect to any property or other assets of a Person, any lien, charge, claim, community property interest, pledge, mortgage, hypothecation, condition, equitable interest, option, security agreement, deed of trust, encumbrance, easement, encroachment, license, sublicense, right of first refusal, right of first offer, or other restriction of any kind, including any restrictions on use, voting, transfer receipt of income or exercise of any other attribute of ownership.

 

Loss ” means any and all actual losses, liabilities, amounts paid in settlement, damages, fines, penalties, costs, charges, Taxes, obligations, demands, fees, interest, losses and expenses (including court costs and reasonable fees of attorneys, accountants and other experts in connection with any Claim).

 

Material Adverse Effect ” means an event, change, occurrence, circumstance, development or effect, which, individually or when taken together with the effect of all other events or circumstances has had or could reasonably be expected to have a material adverse effect on the business, assets, properties, liabilities, condition (financial or otherwise) or results of operations of the Project or the Purchased Assets; provided , however, that the following will not be considered when determining whether a Material Adverse Effect has occurred: any change, event, effect or occurrence (or changes, events, effects or occurrences taken together) resulting from (a) any change generally affecting the international, national or regional electric generating, transmission or distribution industry; (b) any change generally affecting the international, national or regional wholesale or retail markets for electric power; (c) any change generally affecting the wind-generated energy business generally, (d) any change in general regulatory or political conditions, including any engagements of hostilities, acts of war or terrorist activities or changes imposed by a Governmental Authority associated with additional security; (e) any change in any Laws, IFRS or other applicable accounting or auditing standards or industry standards; (f) any change in the financial condition or results of operation of Sellers caused solely by the transactions contemplated by this Agreement; (g) any change in the financial, banking, or securities markets (including any suspension of trading in, or limitation on prices for, securities on the New York Stock Exchange, American Stock Exchange, or Nasdaq Stock Market) or any change in the general national or regional economic or financial conditions; or (h) any actions required to be taken pursuant to or in accordance with this Agreement, except in the case of (a), (b) and (c), to the extent such effect has a materially disproportionate impact on the Project as compared to other similarly situated wind development projects.

 

- 9

 

 

Merricourt ” is defined in the introduction to this Agreement.

 

MET Towers ” means four (4) temporary meteorological towers installed on the Site in accordance with industry practice and standards, with related meteorological equipment.

 

MISO ” means the Midcontinent Independent Transmission System Operator, Inc. or its successors.

 

MNPUC ” means the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission.

 

Moody’s ” means Moody’s Investors Service, Inc.

 

NDPSC ” means the North Dakota Public Service Commission.

 

Network Integration Transmission Service “ has the meaning given to such term in the MISO FERC Electric Tariff.

 

Network Resource Interconnection Service ” has the meaning given to such term in the MISO FERC Electric Tariff.

 

New Exceptions ” is defined in Section 6.14(c).

 

New GIA ” means the Generator Interconnection Agreement to be entered into for MISO Interconnection Queue Request J457, together with all other rights in MISO Interconnection Queue Request J457 and all associated studies, reports and communications with MISO related thereto.

 

Noise Study ” means a study with respect to the compliance of the Project as designed with noise standards to be completed by Sellers, or another qualified consultant selected by Sellers and approved by Buyer (such approval not to be unreasonably withheld) and delivered to Buyer in final pursuant to Section 7.2(n).

 

- 10

 

 

NRIS Interconnection Costs ” means the network upgrade costs associated with the New GIA for Network Resource Interconnection Service. For the avoidance of doubt, NRIS Interconnection costs shall include network upgrade costs regardless of whether they are assigned to the Project by MISO or by any other RTO or transmission owner, but shall not include any reimbursable costs.

 

Obstacle Evaluation Study ” means an obstacle evaluation study to be prepared by Capitol Airspace Group, or another consultant selected by Sellers and approved by Buyer (such approval not to be unreasonably withheld), which shall be delivered to Buyer in final form pursuant to Section 7.2(n).

 

Owned Real Property ” means the fee simple interests in real property, and the fixtures located thereon and affixed thereto, the privileges and appurtenances therein and thereto, suitable for an operating and maintenance facility and collection substation(s) within the Project boundaries in accordance with the Site Plan, which real property shall not be subject to any further governmental approval or conditions in order to initiate construction other than obtaining building permits, which building permits shall be obtained as provided in the TEPC.

 

Ordinary course of business ” means, with respect to any Person, its ordinary course of business consistent with its past practice.

 

Organizational Documents ” means, with respect to any Person, the articles or certificate of incorporation or organization and by-laws, the limited partnership agreement, the partnership agreement or the limited liability company agreement, member control agreement, trust agreement, or other organizational documents of such Person.

 

Outside Date ” means July 1, 2019; provided that if, on or before July 1, 2019, Buyer issues a Limited Notice to Proceed (as defined in the TEPC) pursuant to the TEPC, the Outside Date shall be extended to September 1, 2019.

 

Parties ” means collectively, Buyer and Sellers.

 

Permits ” means all licenses, permits, certificates of authority, authorizations, approvals, registrations, franchises and similar consents and orders issued or granted by a Governmental Authority necessary for the siting, ownership and operation of the Project (other than permits to be delivered under the TEPC), including the Certificate of Site Compatibility.

 

Permitted Lien ” means (a) any Lien for Taxes not yet due and payable; (b) utility easements, building restrictions and such other imperfections of title that (i) are of a nature generally existing with respect to properties of a similar character, (ii) do not present any risk of sale or forfeiture of the Asset subject to the Lien, and (iii) which do not materially detract from the value or materially interfere with the construction, operation or maintenance of the Project as contemplated in the Site Plan; (c) mechanics', carriers', workmen's, repairmen’s or other like liens arising or incurred in the ordinary course of business that are not yet due and payable or being contested in good faith by appropriate procedures; (d) zoning ordinances affecting Project Real Property; (e) the terms and conditions of the Purchased Contracts and the Permits listed on Schedule 4.11(a); (f) Existing Permitted Exceptions; and (g) any other Lien created or permitted with the written consent of Buyer; provided , for the avoidance of doubt, that nothing in this definition shall limit Buyer’s right to indemnification under Section 9.2(e) related to Losses arising from Taxes accrued before or through the Closing Date.

 

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Person ” means any natural person, corporation, general partnership, limited partnership, limited liability company, proprietorship, other business organization, trust, union, association or Governmental Authority.

 

Post-Construction Guaranty ” has the meaning given such term in the TEPC.

 

Post-Construction Guaranty Expiration ” has the meaning given such term in the TEPC.

 

PPM ” is defined in the introduction to this Agreement.

 

Prime Subcontract ” has the meaning given it in the TEPC.

 

Project ” means the complete integrated wind-powered electricity generating plant, consisting of the infrastructure facilities and the WTGs, with a nominal nameplate capacity of 150 megawatts to be located on the Site to be developed, designed, procured, constructed, interconnected, tested and commissioned under TEPC, including all structures, facilities, appliances, lines, conductors, instruments, equipment, apparatus, components, roads and other real and personal property and/or Real Property Rights comprising and integrating the entire facility described generally in the Technical Specifications (as defined in the TEPC).

 

Project Commercial Operation ” means the achievement of Project Substantial Completion (as such term is defined in the TEPC).

 

Project Substantial Completion Date ” has the meaning given such term in the TEPC.

 

Project Surety Bond ” has the meaning given such term in the TEPC.

 

Protected Species” means all species and their associated habitat protected by the Endangered Species Act, 16 U.S.C. § 1531 et seq., the Migratory Bird Treaty Act 16 U.S.C § 703 et seq., the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act 16 U.S.C § 668 et seq., and applicable state and local counterparts, and their implementing regulations and guidance documents.

 

Prudent Industry Practices ” has the meaning given it in the TEPC.

 

PTC ” means production tax credits under Section 45 of the Code.

 

PTC Advance Payment ” means the payment described in Section 4.16(d).

 

PTC Guidance ” means any of IRS Notices 2013-29, 2013-60, 2014-46, 2015-25 or 2016-31 or any future written (electronic or otherwise) commentary, guidance, rule, regulation, notice or ruling in relation to the requirements under Section 45 of the Code.

 

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PTC Representations ” is defined in Section 9.1.

 

PUHCA ” means the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 2005, as amended.

 

Purchase Price ” is defined in Section 2.5(a).

 

Purchased Assets ” is defined in Section 2.1.

 

Purchased Contracts ” is defined in Section 4.9(a).

 

Qualified Institution ” means (i) the United States office of a commercial bank or trust company (which is not an Affiliate of either party) organized under the laws of the United States (or any state or a political subdivision thereof), or (ii) the United States branch of a foreign bank (which is not an Affiliate of either party), in either case having assets of at least $10 billion, and having Credit Ratings from two Ratings Agencies of at least A3 (in the case of Moody's) or A- (in the case of S&P or Fitch).

 

Rating Agencies ” means S&P, Moody’s and Fitch.

 

Real Property Interests ” means the real property interests created under the Land Contracts and the Owned Real Property.

 

Regulatory Approval ” means the following approvals from the specified Governmental Authorities: (i) the issuance of a final and nonappealable amended Certificate of Site Compatibility by the NDPSC; (ii) approval by the NDPSC of matters impacting the Project, including approval of the transfer to Buyer of the amended Certificate of Site Compatibility and approval of Buyer’s request for an advance determination of prudency, in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to Buyer, (iii) the approval of the MNPUC, in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to Buyer, and (iv) any other approvals that may be necessary for Buyer to purchase the Purchased Assets and construct, own and operate the Project but only to the extent such approvals relate to any new Laws or any amendments to existing Laws, in each case enacted after the date of this Agreement.

 

Release ” means any release, spill, emission, leaking, pumping, injection, deposit, pouring, emptying, leaching, dumping, disposal or discharge of any Hazardous Materials into the environment or workplace, and otherwise as defined in any Environmental Law.

 

Reports ” means (a) a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment dated within 180 days of the Closing Date and prepared by a qualified environmental consulting firm and any Phase II Environmental Site Assessments if required; (b) the Avian Assessment; (c) the Bat Assessment; (d) the Cultural Resource Study; (e) the Wetlands Assessment; (f) the Standard Broadcast Site Review Study; (g) the Obstacle Evaluation Study; (h) the Geotechnical Report; (i) the Noise Study; and (j) any additional study or report necessary for the development, permitting, construction, operation or transfer of the Project or the Purchased Assets.

 

Representatives ” means, as to any Person, its officers, directors, partners, members, stockholders, or other equity holders, and employees, counsel, accountants, financial advisors and consultants.

 

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Required Consents ” is defined in Section 7.2(i).

 

Review Period ” is defined in Section 6.15.

 

RTO ” means a Regional Transmission Organization, including, without limitation, MISO, the Southwest Power Pool, and PJM.

 

S&P ” means Standard and Poor’s Ratings Services, a division of The McGraw Hill Companies, Inc.

 

Schedules ” means the disclosure schedules for this Agreement.

 

Sellers ” is defined in the introduction to this Agreement.

 

Seller Group ” is defined in Section 9.3.

 

Signing Milestone Payment ” is defined in Section 2.5

 

Site ” means all those parcels of land that are subject to the Real Property Interests on which the Project will be located, as more particularly described in Exhibit E attached hereto.

 

Site Plan ” means the site layout of the Project, including the intended WTG Location of each of the seventy-five (75) WTGs, at least five (5) alternate WTG Locations, preliminary collection, substation and civil designs, access roads, communication lines, and set-backs of the WTG Locations from roads and other structures, which such Site Plan shall overlay the Site and show the location of existing roads, buildings, and other structures.

 

SMA ” is defined in Schedule 4.3(a).

 

Standard Broadcast Site Review Study ” means the Engineering Report Concerning Effects Upon FCC Licensed RF Facilities Due to Construction of the Project to be prepared by Evans Engineering Solutions, or another consultant selected by Sellers and approved by Buyer (such approval not to be unreasonably withheld), which shall be delivered to Buyer in final form pursuant to Section 7.2(n).

 

Survey ” means a survey prepared by Kadrmas, Lee & Jackson (or such other firm reasonably acceptable to Sellers, Buyer and the Title Company licensed in the State of North Dakota) of the Owned Real Property and the real property covered by the Land Contracts certified to Buyer and the Title Company, in form and substance reasonably acceptable to Buyer, including an overlay of the Site Plan and sufficient for the Title Company to provide survey coverage in the Title Policy in compliance with the “2016 Minimum Standard Detail Requirements for ALTA/NSPS Land Title Surveys” jointly established and adopted by the American Land Title Association and the National Society of Professional Surveyors effective February 23, 2016 showing and including optional items 3, 4, 6(b), 7(a), 7(c) for the Owned Real Property, 8, 11, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18 and 19 and disclosing the location of all improvements, plottable easements, encroachments, roadways, utility lines, set back lines, wetlands and other matters shown customarily on such windpark surveys, and showing access affirmatively to public streets and roads.

 

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Tangible Net Worth ” means, with respect to any Person, the aggregate of its tangible assets (total assets less intangibles) less the aggregate of its liabilities as documented in its annual audited financial statement.

 

Tax ” or “ Taxes ” means any federal, state, local or foreign income, gross receipts, ad valorem, sales and use, employment, social security, disability, occupation, property, severance, value added, transfer, capital stock, excise, withholding, premium, occupation or other taxes, levies or other like assessments, customs, duties, imposts, charges surcharges or fees imposed by or on behalf of any Governmental Authority, including any interest, penalty thereon or addition thereto.

 

Tax Authority ” means, with respect to any Tax, the governmental entity or political subdivision thereof that imposes such Tax, and the agency (if any) charged with the collection of such Tax for such entity or subdivision.

 

Tax Counsel ” means Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld, or other nationally recognized tax counsel selected by Buyer and reasonably acceptable to Sellers.

 

Tax Return ” means any report, form, claim for refund, return, statement or other information (including any amendments) required to be supplied to any Person with respect to Taxes, including information returns, any amendments thereof or schedule or attachment thereto.

 

TEPC ” is defined in the recitals to this Agreement.

 

Third-Party Claim ” is defined in Section 9.5(a).

 

Title Commitment ” means an irrevocable American Land Title Association (ALTA) 2006 Commitment for Title Insurance prepared by the Title Company for the Owned Real Property and each parcel of real property covered by the Land Contracts, and including searches for real estate taxes, pending and levied special assessments, judgments, bankruptcies and state and federal tax liens as of the date of the Title Commitment, together with a legible copy of all underlying documents identified on the Title Commitment.

 

Title Company” means Chicago Title Insurance Company or such other title company mutually acceptable to the Parties.

 

Title Evidence ” is defined in Section 6.14(c).

 

Title Objection ” is defined in Section 6.14(c).

 

Title Objection Letter ” is defined in Section 6.14(c).

 

Title Policy ” means an American Land Title Association (ALTA) 2006 Owner’s Policy of Title Insurance, insuring the Real Property Interests in an amount equal to the sum of the Purchase Price and the Agreement Price (as such term is defined in the TEPC) or such other amount specified by Buyer and issued by the Title Company, subject only to the Permitted Liens and in form and substance reasonably acceptable to Buyer, and providing for (a) full extended coverage over all general title exceptions contained in such policy provided that such coverage is available in the state of North Dakota, (b) the special endorsements set forth on Exhibit I with full extended coverage, (c) deletion of standard exceptions, including but not limited those general standard exceptions based on (i) mechanics or materialmen’s liens, (ii) matters affecting title that may be disclosed by an accurate survey, and (iii) the rights of parties in possession except tenants in possession, (d) endorsements for zoning, survey, owner’s comprehensive, non-imputation, access, deletion of mandatory arbitration, subdivision, contiguity, tax parcel, environmental, energy and any other endorsements reasonably requested by the Buyer and available in North Dakota, and (e) such additional affirmative coverage as the Buyer may reasonably request.

 

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Turbine Supply Agreement ” has the meaning given it in the TEPC.

 

Update ” is defined in Section 6.8.

 

USFWS ” means the United States Fish & Wildlife Service.

 

Vestas ” is defined in the recitals to this Agreement.

 

Wetlands Assessment ” means the wetlands study with respect to the Site to be prepared by Kadrmas, Lee & Jackson, or another consultant selected by Sellers and approved by Buyer (such approval not to be unreasonably withheld), which does not indicate any further permitting or mitigation required pursuant to the Clean Water Act and which shall be delivered to Buyer in final form pursuant to Section 7.2(n).

 

Wind Data ” means any and all raw wind speed data and other relevant wind characteristics data obtained by or on behalf of Sellers or any of their Affiliates or representatives in respect to the Project, along with all supporting documentation.

 

Wind Study ” means the wind data study prepared by AWS Truepower, Inc. and delivered to Buyer prior to the date of this Agreement.

 

WTG ” or “ WTGs ” is defined in the recitals to this Agreement.

 

WTG Location ” means the location of each of seventy-five (75) WTGs and at least five (5) additional alternate WTG locations, in each case as shown in the Site Plan.

 

Section 1.2            Rules of Construction .

 

(a)          All article, section, subsection, schedule and exhibit references used in this Agreement are to articles, sections, subsections, schedules and exhibits to this Agreement unless otherwise specified. The exhibits and schedules attached to this Agreement constitute a part of this Agreement and are incorporated in this Agreement for all purposes.

 

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(b)          If a term is defined as one part of speech (such as a noun), it will have a corresponding meaning when used as another part of speech (such as a verb). Unless the context of this Agreement clearly requires otherwise, words importing the masculine gender will include the feminine and neutral genders and vice versa. The words “includes” or “including” will mean “including without limitation,” the words “hereof,” “hereby,” “herein,” “hereunder” and similar terms in this Agreement will refer to this Agreement as a whole and not any particular Section or article in which such words appear. The term “will” and “shall” have the same meaning. Any reference to a Law includes any amendment thereof or any successor thereto and any rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, whether prior to or after the date of this Agreement. Any reference to a Contract will be to that Contract as it may have been amended, modified, supplemented or restated prior to the date hereof. Currency amounts referenced in this Agreement are in U.S. Dollars. The words “unreasonably withheld” and similar terms in this Agreement will mean “unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed”.

 

(c)          Whenever this Agreement refers to a number of days, such number will refer to calendar days unless Business Days are specified. Whenever any action must be taken hereunder on or by a day that is not a Business Day, then such action may be validly taken on or by the next day that is a Business Day. For determining any period of time, “from” means “including and after,” “to” means “to but excluding” and “through” means “through and including.”

 

(d)          Each Party acknowledges that it and its attorneys have been given an equal opportunity to negotiate the terms and conditions of this Agreement and that any rule of construction to the effect that ambiguities are to be resolved against the drafting Party or any similar rule operating against the drafter of an agreement will not be applicable to the construction or interpretation of this Agreement.

 

(e)          All accounting terms used herein and not expressly defined herein will have the respective meanings given such terms under IFRS.

 

(f)          Whenever this Agreement states that any document has been “made available,” unless otherwise expressly provided herein, that means the document was available in the Data Site or otherwise delivered to Buyer or any of its Affiliates prior to the date such statement is effective.

 

Article 2

PURCHASE AND SALE

 

Section 2.1            Purchase and Sale of Assets . On the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in this Agreement, on the Closing Date, or in the case of the COD Purchased Contracts, on the Commercial Operation Date, Sellers shall sell, assign, transfer, convey and deliver to Buyer (or its assignees as to certain assets), and Buyer shall purchase from Sellers, free and clear of any Liens other than Permitted Liens, all right, title and interest in, to and under all of the Assets of Sellers related to the development, construction and operation of the Project, wherever located and whether now existing or hereafter acquired (other than the Excluded Assets) (collectively, the “ Purchased Assets ”) in accordance with the Deeds, Bills of Sale and Assignment and Assumption Agreements, including, without limitation, the following:

 

(a)          the Permits and Permit applications;

 

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(b)          the Owned Real Property, including all ownership documents related thereto;

 

(c)          the Land Contracts;

 

(d)          the Purchased Contracts, including the GIA;

 

(e)          an FAA Determination with respect to each WTG Location;

 

(f)           the final versions of the Reports;

 

(g)          the Bird and Bat Conservation Strategy;

 

(h)          the Site Plan;

 

(i)           the Wind Data ( provided , that EDF-USD automatically and without further action shall be granted an irrevocable, perpetual, royalty-free, non-exclusive license to use such Wind Data);

 

(j)           the MET Towers;

 

(k)          the 5% Safe Harbor Turbines, provided, that in the event that some or all of the 5% Safe Harbor Turbines are determined prior to the Closing Date not to qualify the Project for 100% PTCs, then in accordance with Section 6.16 such other Vestas 2.0MW V110 wind turbine components owned by Sellers or any Affiliates of Seller necessary for the Project to qualify for 100% PTCs shall be substituted for the 5% Safe Harbor Turbines;

 

(l)           any other Books and Records; and

 

(m)         any other assets reasonably necessary to achieve Project Commercial Operation.

 

Section 2.2            Excluded Assets . Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Purchased Assets shall not include the following assets (all Assets other than the Purchased Assets, collectively, the “ Excluded Assets ”):

 

(a)          any equity interests of Sellers or owned by Sellers;

 

(b)          all identification numbers, seals, minute books, software, and other documents relating to the organization, maintenance, and existence of Sellers or their Affiliates as business entities;

 

(c)          cash and cash equivalents; and

 

(d)          any of the rights of Sellers or their Affiliates under this Agreement, the Ancillary Agreements or the TEPC.

 

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Section 2.3            Assumed Liabilities . Subject to the terms and conditions set forth herein, Buyer shall assume and agree to pay, perform and discharge only the following Liabilities of Sellers (collectively, the “ Assumed Liabilities ”) in accordance with the Assignment and Assumption Agreements, and no other Liabilities:

 

(a)          the Permitted Liens;

 

(b)          those obligations of Sellers accruing or arising, or covenants or agreements of Sellers to be performed (other than indemnification obligations for matters accruing or arising prior to the Closing Date), from and after the Closing Date under the Land Contracts, Purchased Contracts (other than the GIA and the COD Purchased Contracts), Permits, and Permit applications;

 

(c)           Buyer’s portion of the costs associated with the GIA as set forth in Section 6.10;

 

(d)           Those obligations of EDF-USD accruing or arising, or covenants or agreements of Sellers to be performed (other than indemnification obligations for matters accruing or arising prior to the Project Substantial Completion Date), from and after the Project Substantial Completion Date under the SMA; and

 

(e)           other than as provided for in this Agreement, any Liability arising from and after the Closing Date with respect to the ownership or operation of the Purchased Assets and the Project.

 

Section 2.4            Excluded Liabilities . Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 2.3 or any other provision in this Agreement to the contrary, Buyer shall not assume and shall not be responsible to pay, perform or discharge any Liabilities of Sellers or any of their Affiliates of any kind or nature whatsoever other than the Assumed Liabilities (the “ Excluded Liabilities ”). Sellers shall, and shall cause each of their Affiliates to, pay and satisfy in due course all Excluded Liabilities which they are obligated to pay and satisfy. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the Excluded Liabilities shall include, but not be limited to, the following:

 

(a)           any Liabilities relating to the Project or any present or former developer, owner or operator of the Project incurred prior to the Closing Date, whether or not associated with, or arising from, any of the Purchased Assets, and whether fixed, contingent or otherwise, known or unknown;

 

(b)           any Liabilities related to the Excluded Assets;

 

(c)           any Liability of Sellers for Taxes accrued before or through the Closing Date with respect to Purchased Assets;

 

(d)           any Liability of Sellers for costs and expenses incurred in connection with this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby;

 

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(e)           any Liability under the Land Contracts, Purchased Contracts (other than the GIA), Permits or Permit applications to the extent such Liability, but for a breach or default by Sellers or a waiver or extension given to or by Sellers, would have been paid, performed or otherwise discharged on or prior to the Closing Date or to the extent such Liability arises out of any such breach, default, waiver or extension given to or by Sellers;

 

(f)           any obligations owed to any Governmental Authority arising out of commitments (other than Permits or Purchased Contracts) which were made by Sellers prior to the Closing Date;

 

(g)           Sellers’ portion of the costs associated with the GIA as set forth in Section 6.10;

 

(h)           any Environmental Claims, or Liabilities under Environmental Laws, to the extent arising out of any actions or omissions of Sellers on or prior to the Closing Date; and

 

(i)            any Liabilities arising out of, in respect of or in connection with the failure by Sellers or any of their Affiliates to comply with any Law on or prior to the Closing Date.

 

Section 2.5            Purchase Price; Closing Payment .

 

(a)          The purchase price (the “ Purchase Price ”) for the purchase and sale described in Section 2.1 is equal to $34,682,118.

 

(b)          On the date hereof, Buyer shall pay to Sellers by wire transfer of immediately available funds (to such account or accounts as Sellers will have notified Buyer of no later than two (2) Business Days prior to the date hereof) an amount equal to [**] ($[**]) (the “ Signing Milestone Payment ”), which amount shall be nonrefundable absent fraud or intentional misconduct or a termination of this Agreement by Sellers pursuant to Section 8.1(l).

 

(c)          At the Closing, Buyer shall pay to Sellers by wire transfer of immediately available funds (to such account or accounts as Sellers will have notified Buyer of no later than two (2) Business Days prior to the Closing Date) an amount equal to the Purchase Price, less the Signing Milestone Payment.

 

Section 2.6            Allocation of Purchase Price . Within ninety (90) days after Closing, Buyer will provide Sellers a schedule proposing how to allocate the Purchase Price among the Purchased Assets.  Sellers will have thirty (30) Business Days following receipt of Buyer’s proposed allocation to propose changes.  In the event there are proposed changes, the Parties will work promptly and in good faith to resolve the differences. Failing agreement, they will jointly select an Independent Accountant to resolve the differences. Except to the extent otherwise required by Law, Buyer and Sellers will, and will cause their Affiliates to, report the transaction for Tax and other purposes consistently with the final Purchase Price allocation.

 

_____________________________

[**] Denotes confidential information that has been omitted from the exhibit and filed separately, accompanied by a confidential treatment request, with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Rule 24b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

 

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Article 3

PURCHASE AND SALE AND CLOSING

 

Section 3.1            Closing . The Closing will take place at the offices of Dorsey & Whitney LLP, 50 South Sixth Street, Suite 1500, Minneapolis, Minnesota, or by remote electronic exchange of documents (by facsimile, .pdf, e-mail, or other form of electronic communication) on the later to occur of (a) July 1, 2018 and (b) a mutually acceptable date within fifteen (15) days after satisfaction of all closing conditions, including either execution of the New GIA or reinstatement of the Existing GIA, or at such other time, place and date as the Parties may agree in writing. All actions listed in Section 3.2 or Section 3.3 that occur on the Closing Date will be deemed to occur simultaneously at the Closing. The Closing will be deemed to be effective as of 11:59:59 p.m. Central Time on the Closing Date.

 

Section 3.2            Closing Deliveries by Sellers to Buyer . At the Closing, Sellers shall deliver to Buyer (or the Title Company in the case of (i) and (k)):

 

(a)          a Deed for the Owned Real Property;

 

(b)          an executed counterpart by each Seller of an Assignment and Assumption Agreement;

 

(c)          an executed counterpart by each Seller of a Bill of Sale;

 

(d)          a certification of non-foreign status in the form prescribed by Treasury Regulation Section 1.1445-2(b) with respect to each Seller;

 

(e)          an executed counterpart by each Seller of each other Ancillary Agreement to be executed and delivered at the Closing to which Seller is a party;

 

(f)           the Closing deliverables described in Section 7.2 below;

 

(g)          copies of the Required Consents;

 

(h)          a standard form of seller’s affidavit of title as required by the Title Company;

 

(i)           the Title Policy, payment of the fees incurred for the Title Commitments, Surveys and those fees and costs allocated to and payable by Sellers in accordance with the Title Company’s settlement statement;

 

(j)           a recordable assignment and assumption agreement for each Land Contract; and

 

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(k)          any other documents reasonably determined by the Title Company to be necessary to transfer the Owned Real Property to Buyer.

 

Section 3.3            Closing Deliveries by Buyer to Sellers . At the Closing, Buyer shall deliver to Sellers (or the Title Company in the case of (f)):

 

(a)          an executed counterpart by Buyer of the Assignment and Assumption Agreement;

 

(b)          an executed counterpart by Buyer of a Bill of Sale;

 

(c)          payment of the Purchase Price (less the Signing Milestone Payment;

 

(d)          the Closing deliverables described in Section 7.3 below;

 

(e)          an executed counterpart by Buyer of each other Ancillary Agreement to be executed and delivered at the Closing to which Buyer is a party; and

 

(f)           payment of the Title Policy premium and those fees and costs allocated to and payable by Buyer in accordance with the Title Company’s settlement statement.

 

Section 3.4            Exclusivity . From and after the date of execution and until Closing or this Agreement is otherwise terminated in accordance with its terms (“ Exclusivity Period ”), Sellers shall not contract or negotiate to contract for the sale, lease, or hypothecation of the Project or the Purchased Assets, or for the sale of energy from the Project, and no commitment with respect to the Project will be entered into during the Exclusivity Period to proceed with any third party immediately following termination of this Agreement.

 

Article 4

REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF SELLERS

 

The Sellers hereby jointly and severally represent and warrant to Buyer that each and all of the following representations and warranties set forth in this Article 4 (as modified by the applicable section of the Schedules) are true and correct as of the date of this Agreement and as of the Closing Date (except for such representations and warranties that speak as of a specific date, in which case such representations and warranties are true and correct as of such date):

 

Section 4.1            Organization . Such Seller is validly existing and in good standing under the Laws of the State of Delaware, and has all requisite power and authority to conduct its business as it is now being conducted and to develop, own, operate, lease and sell the Purchased Assets. Such Seller is duly qualified or licensed to do business and is in good standing in each jurisdiction in which such qualification or licensure is necessary, except in those jurisdictions where the failure to be so duly qualified or licensed would not have a Material Adverse Effect. Sellers have made available to Buyer all of the Organizational Documents of Sellers as in effect on the date of this Agreement.

 

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Section 4.2            Authority; Enforceability . Such Seller has all requisite limited liability company or corporate power and authority to execute and deliver this Agreement and the Ancillary Agreements to which such Seller is a party, to perform its obligations hereunder and thereunder and to consummate the transactions contemplated hereby and thereby. The execution and delivery by such Seller of this Agreement and the Ancillary Agreements to which such Seller is a party, and the performance by such Seller of its obligations hereunder and thereunder, have been duly and validly authorized by all necessary limited liability company or corporate action. This Agreement has been, and each Ancillary Agreement to which such Seller is a party has been, duly and validly executed and delivered by such Seller and constitutes the legal, valid and binding obligation of such Seller enforceable against such Seller in accordance with its terms, except as the same may be limited by bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, fraudulent conveyance, arrangement, moratorium or other similar Laws relating to or affecting the rights of creditors generally, or by general equitable principles.

 

Section 4.3            No Conflicts; Consents and Approvals .

 

(a)          The execution and delivery by Sellers of this Agreement and the Ancillary Agreements to which each Seller is a party, the performance by Sellers of their obligations hereunder and thereunder and the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby and thereby and the taking of any action contemplated to be taken by Sellers hereunder or thereunder do not (i) result in a violation or breach of any of the terms, conditions or provisions of the Organizational Documents of Sellers; (ii) except as set forth on Schedule 4.3(a), (A) result in a violation or breach of any term or provision of any Law, Permit or order applicable to Sellers or any of the Purchased Assets; or (B) cause a Default, or require the Consent of any Person, under any Purchased Contract, Land Contract, Real Property Interest or Permit; or (iii) result in the imposition or creation of any Lien, other than Permitted Liens, on any of the Purchased Assets or the Project.

 

(b)          Other than as set out in Schedule 4.3(b), no Consent of any Governmental Authority or any other Person is required to be made or obtained by Sellers in connection with the execution and delivery of this Agreement and the Ancillary Agreements or the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby and thereby.

 

Section 4.4            Title to Assets

 

(a)          Sellers have good, valid and marketable title to, or rights by Contract or other agreement to use, all of the Purchased Assets free and clear of all Liens (except for Permitted Liens).

 

(b)          As of the Closing, the Purchased Assets, together with all rights of Buyer under the TEPC, will constitute Assets sufficient to reach Project Commercial Operation, subject to the terms and conditions under the TEPC.

 

Section 4.5            Legal Proceedings . Except as set forth on Schedule 4.5, no Claim is pending, and to Seller’s Knowledge, none has been threatened in writing, (a) relating to, arising out of or affecting the Purchased Assets or the Project or (b) seeking a writ, judgment, order, injunction or decree restraining, enjoining or otherwise prohibiting or making illegal any of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.

 

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Section 4.6            Compliance with Laws . Except as set forth on Schedule 4.6, with respect to the Project and the Purchased Assets, each Seller currently is in compliance in all material respects with all Laws and orders of all Governmental Authorities applicable to it, the Project and the Purchased Assets, and Sellers have not received any notification indicating any violation of such Laws and orders.

 

Section 4.7            Taxes .

 

Except as set forth on Schedule 4.7:

 

(a)          Each Seller has filed all Tax Returns, if any, required to be filed with Tax Authorities relating to the Project or the Purchased Assets, and all such Taxes required to be paid or withheld by such Seller have been paid or withheld as required by Law.

 

(b)          No Tax Returns of any Seller with respect to the Project or any Purchased Assets have been audited or examined by any Tax Authority.  There are no ongoing or pending or threatened in writing Tax audits, examinations, claims, assessments or proposed deficiencies against any Seller with respect to the Project or the Purchased Assets.

 

(c)          No Tax Authority in a jurisdiction where any Seller does not file a Tax Return has made a claim or assertion in writing, or threatened in writing, that the Project or any of the Purchased Assets is or may be subject to Tax by such jurisdiction.

 

(d)          No Seller is a party to a Tax allocation or Tax sharing agreement or Tax indemnity or similar arrangement with respect to the Project or the Purchased Assets.

 

(e)          No Seller has been issued or is the subject of any ruling from any Taxing Authority with respect to its Taxes with respect to the Project or the Purchased Assets or has entered into (or is subject to) any contract with a Taxing Authority with respect to its Taxes related to the Project or the Purchased Assets.

 

(f)           No Seller has entered into a closing agreement pursuant to Section 7121 of the Code (or any similar provision of state, local or foreign law) with respect to the Project or the Purchased Assets.

 

Section 4.8            Regulatory Status . Except as set forth on Schedule 4.8, each Seller is not subject to or is exempt from, (i) regulation under the PUHCA and (ii) regulation by FERC as a public utility under the FPA. Furthermore, each Seller does not provide electric service directly to the public in Minnesota, North Dakota or South Dakota as of the date of this Agreement nor will it as of the Closing Date.

 

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Section 4.9            Contracts .

 

(a)          Schedule 4.9 sets forth a list, as of the date of this Agreement, of all Contracts (other than the Land Contracts) by which the Purchased Assets are bound or to which any Seller is a party to the extent related to the Purchased Assets (collectively, the “ Purchased Contracts ”).

 

(b)          Sellers have made available to Buyer true, correct and complete copies of all Purchased Contracts, including all amendments, material waivers or modifications thereto.

 

(c)          Each of the Purchased Contracts is in full force and effect and constitutes a legal, valid and binding obligation of the applicable Seller, and, to Sellers’ Knowledge, of the other parties thereto.

 

(d)          Except as set forth on Schedule 4.9, no Seller is in breach or default under any Purchased Contract and, to Sellers’ Knowledge, no other party to any of the Purchased Contracts is in breach or default thereunder. No event has occurred that (with or without notice, lapse of time or both) could reasonably be expected to constitute a material default by any Seller under any such Purchased Contract. No Seller has received any written notice or, to Sellers’ Knowledge, oral notice, from any counterparties in connection with any of the Purchased Contracts of (i) any material breach or default under any Purchased Contract, (ii) the fact that any such party will terminate, not renew, cancel or substantially decrease its business with any Seller, or (iii) any claim for damages or indemnification with respect to the products or performance of services pursuant to any Purchased Contract.

 

(e)          The consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement will not require the consent or approval of any party to a Purchased Contract except as specifically set forth on Schedule 4.3(a).

 

Section 4.10          Real Property .

 

(a)          Schedule 4.10(a) sets forth a list of all Land Contracts and the Owned Real Property.

 

(b)          Sellers have made available to Buyer copies of all Land Contracts, and those copies are complete and accurate in all respects.

 

(c)          Other than the Real Property Interests, the Purchased Assets do not include any other rights or interests in real property.

 

(d)          Sellers hold good, insurable and valid title to the Real Property Interests free and clear of all Liens (other than Permitted Liens), adverse claims and other matters materially adversely affecting Sellers’ title to such Real Property Interests.

 

(e)          There are no leases or possessory rights of any party other than Sellers regarding the Owned Real Property.

 

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(f)          Each Land Contract (i) is a legal, valid and binding agreement of the applicable Seller party thereto, (ii) is in full force and effect, (iii) is enforceable against the applicable Seller party thereto, and to the Knowledge of the Sellers, each other Person that is a party thereto, and (iv) will continue to be legal, valid and binding and enforceable against the Seller Party thereto, and to the Knowledge of the Sellers, each other Person thereto, on identical terms immediately following the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby. No Land Contract requires the consent or approval of any counterparties thereto in order to consummate the transactions contemplated hereby (including the construction and operation of the Project and the sale of the Purchased Assets to Buyer), or if required on or prior to the date this representation is made, such consent has already been obtained, or if not yet required, Sellers have no reason to believe such consent will not be given in due course. Sellers have paid, or caused to be paid, all amounts currently due and payable with respect to each Land Contract.

 

(g)          Except as set forth on Schedule 4.10(g), there exists no default under any Land Contract by Sellers or, to Sellers’ Knowledge, any other Person that is a party thereto.

 

(h)          Except as set forth on Schedule 4.10(h), there are no pending, or, to Sellers’ Knowledge, threatened appropriation, condemnation or like proceedings relating to the Owned Real Property, and to Sellers’ Knowledge, there are no pending or threatened appropriation, condemnation or like proceedings relating to any real property encumbered by the Land Contracts, the Project or any portion thereof.

 

(i)          Except as set forth on Schedule 4.10(i), no Seller has received any written notice from a Governmental Authority of any violation of any applicable zoning law, regulation or rule or other Law relating to or affecting any of such real property.

 

(j)          No Seller has granted any options or rights of first offer or first refusal to purchase or lease any Real Property Interest, or any portion thereof or interest therein. Except as set forth on Schedule 4.10(j), to Sellers’ knowledge the zoning and any public or private land use restrictions for the Owned Real Property or the real property which is the subject of the Land Contracts permits the development, construction, and operation of the Project thereon. Except as set forth on Schedule 4.10(j), to Sellers’ Knowledge there is no action pending before any Governmental Authority to change the applicable zoning or building ordinances or any other Law affecting the Real Property Interests that could reasonably be expected to have an adverse effect on the Project.

 

(k)          No Seller has assigned, transferred, conveyed, mortgaged, deeded in trust or encumbered any of the Real Property Interests.

 

(l)          There are no rents, royalties, fees or other amounts (except for potential indemnity claims) receivable by Sellers in connection with the Land Contracts.

 

(m)          Except as set forth on Schedule 4.10(m), to Sellers’ Knowledge, there are no development activities ongoing or contemplated related to any mineral, oil or gas rights on the Site.

 

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(n)          As of the Closing Date, all Land Contracts will comply with applicable Laws, including, without limitation, North Dakota Century Code, Chapter 17-04.

 

Section 4.11          Permits .

 

(a)          Schedule 4.11(a) (as may be updated pursuant to Section 6.8) sets forth all (i) Permits held by Sellers, (ii) applications for Permits which have been filed by Sellers in connection with the Project, and (iii) to the extent not listed in response to (i) or (ii), Permits that will be required to achieve Project Commercial Operation (other than permits to be issued pursuant to the TEPC).

 

(b)          Except as set forth on Schedule 4.11(b), as of the Closing, all Permits included in the Purchased Assets (together with all permits to be issued pursuant to the TEPC) will constitute all Permits necessary to achieve Project Commercial Operation, except for any Permits that are required exclusively as a result of Buyer’s ownership of the Purchased Assets and the Project.

 

(c)          Except as set forth on Schedule 4.11(c): (i) all Permits and applications for Permits set forth on Schedule 4.11(a) currently held by Sellers are valid and in full force and effect, and Sellers have performed in all material respects and are in compliance in all material respects with such Permits and applications for Permits; (ii) to Sellers’ Knowledge, all other parties to such Permits have performed in all material respects and are in compliance in all material respects with the Permits; and (iii) no event has occurred that (with or without notice, lapse of time or both) could reasonably be expected to constitute a material default by any Seller under any such Permit.

 

(d)          Except as set forth on Schedule 4.11(d), the consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement will not affect the legality, validity, binding nature, enforceability or force and effect of any Permit listed on Schedule 4.11(a).

 

Section 4.12          Environmental Matters .

 

(a)          Except as set forth on Schedule 4.12:

 

(i)          With respect to the Project and the Purchased Assets, each Seller is, and since its formation has been, in compliance in all material respects with applicable Environmental Laws, and no Seller has any Liabilities under Environmental Laws related to the Project and the Purchased Assets, except for Liabilities set forth in the Permits;

 

(ii)         Sellers have obtained, maintained and complied with all Permits necessary under any applicable Environmental Law for the Project, each of which Permits is set forth on Schedule 4.12, and such Permits are in full force and effect and not subject to appeal (except pursuant to applicable Law);

 

(iii)        no Seller has been served with written notice of any Environmental Claims with respect to the Project or the Purchased Assets that are currently outstanding, and no such Environmental Claims are pending or, to Sellers’ Knowledge, threatened, against Sellers under any Environmental Laws;

 

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(iv)         to Sellers’ Knowledge, there are no current or previous facts, circumstances, conditions or occurrences relating to the Purchased Assets that would be expected to form the basis of a claim under any Environmental Law against Sellers or their Affiliates;

 

(v)          to Sellers’ Knowledge, no portion of the Site contains or has ever contained any underground storage tank, surface impoundment or similar device used for the management of wastewater, or other waste management unit dedicated to the disposal, treatment, or long-term storage (greater than thirty (30) days) of waste materials;

 

(vi)         there is no site to which any Seller has transported or arranged for the transport of Hazardous Materials associated with the Project or the Purchased Assets which, to Sellers’ Knowledge, is the subject of any environmental action that would result in an Environmental Claim; and

 

(vii)        there has been no Release of any Hazardous Material at or from the Project in connection with or Sellers’ operations at the Project that would result in an Environmental Claim.

 

(b)          In August 2015, representatives of Sellers had a telephone conversation with representatives of the USFWS in which Sellers’ representatives stated that Sellers did not intend to pursue an incidental take permit for the piping plover or whooping crane and describing the measures to be taken at the Site to protect these species. On September 3, 2015, Sellers hosted a webinar with the USFWS that further specified the avoidance and minimization measures. During that webinar, Kevin Shelley, USFWS Acting North Dakota Field Supervisor, North Dakota Field Office, stated that neither a habitat conservation plan nor an incidental take permit was recommended if the proposed avoidance and minimization measures for piping plover and whooping crane were implemented. EDF-RE, on behalf of Merricourt, submitted a letter to the USFWS on September 11, 2015 confirming its commitment to the proposed avoidance and minimization measures. To Sellers’ Knowledge, USFWS does not intend to formally respond to the September 11, 2015 letter, nor has the USFWS communicated to Sellers any objection to the September 11, 2015 letter or information presented therein.

 

(c)          The representations and warranties set forth in this Section 4.12, Section 4.11 and Section 4.18 are Seller’s sole and exclusive representations and warranties concerning environmental matters, including Environmental Laws, Environmental Claims and Permits.

 

Section 4.13          Brokers . Sellers do not have any liability or obligation to pay fees or commissions to any broker, finder or agent with respect to the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.

 

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Section 4.14          Wind Data . Schedule 4.14 sets forth a list of all books and records containing Wind Data, and Sellers have delivered to Buyer true, correct and complete copies of all such books and records, including records documenting the installation of the temporary meteorological towers. The Wind Data were collected at the locations and during the times set forth in such documents. To Sellers’ Knowledge, the Wind Data is true, accurate and correct in all material respects. No Seller has omitted or failed to provide to Buyer any Wind Data measured and recorded at the Site on or before the dates specified on Schedule 4.14 by or on behalf of such Seller or any of its Affiliates, to the extent that the same are in such Seller’s or its Affiliates’, representatives or agents’ possession or under such Seller’s or its Affiliates’, representatives or agents’ control prepared by or on behalf of any other Person.

 

Section 4.15          Insurance . Schedule 4.15 sets forth all policies of fire, liability and other forms of insurance insuring the Purchased Assets. Such policies are in full force and effect, all premiums with respect thereto covering all periods up to and including the date as of which this representation is being made have been paid (other than retroactive premiums which may be payable with respect to comprehensive general liability insurance policies), and no written notice of cancellation or termination has been received by the owner or holder of any such policy with respect to any such policy which was not replaced on substantially similar terms prior to the date of such cancellation. No pending claims by or for the benefit of Sellers exist under any such policies of insurance.

 

Section 4.16          PTCs .

 

(a)           The only physical work performed prior to January 1, 2016 with respect to the Project (or any other project on the Site), either on the Site or with respect to equipment that will be incorporated into the Project, is set forth on Schedule 4.16.

 

(b)          The aggregate cost basis for federal income tax purposes of the Sellers (including affiliates or predecessors in interest), with respect to the Project or any other project on the Site prior to January 1, 2016, was not more than $[**].

 

(c)          Merricourt is a “disregarded entity” that is considered part of EDF-USD as one taxpayer for federal income tax purposes.

 

(d)          On or after December 27, 2016, but before December 31, 2016, EDF-USD will pay in full to Vestas for the 5% Safe Harbor Turbines an aggregate amount of not less than [**] ($[**]) (the “ PTC Advance Payment ”).

 

(e)          Neither EDF-USD nor an Affiliate will have a right to cancel the order for the 5% Safe Harbor Turbines or receive a refund of the PTC Advance Payment, in each case, except in the case of certain breaches by Vestas or force majeure.

 

(f)          The PTC Advance Payment will not be paid as compensation for any on-site storage, any warranty or any other equipment, component or service, other than the 5% Safe Harbor Turbines. Transportation or storage costs will be paid separately from the PTC Advance Payment.

 

_____________________________

[**] Denotes confidential information that has been omitted from the exhibit and filed separately, accompanied by a confidential treatment request, with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Rule 24b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

 

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(g)          No portion of the PTC Advance Payment will be or was loaned to EDF-USD, or any Affiliate of EDF-USD, by Vestas or any Affiliate of Vestas.

 

(h)          EDF-USD is an accrual basis taxpayer for federal income tax purposes.

 

(i)           For federal income tax purposes, EDF-USD may utilize, as a method of accounting, the rule described in Treasury Regulation 1.461-4(d)(6)(ii).

 

(j)           EDF-USD and/or Merricourt will be, or were, responsible for insurance of the 5% Safe Harbor Turbines as of the “Ex Works Date” (as defined in the Daughter Contract) and will take, or took, title and risk of loss for, and will or did contractually accept under the Daughter Contract, each such 5% Safe Harbor Turbine on or before such Ex Work Date.

 

(k)          The Ex Works Date (as defined in the Daughter Contract) for each 5% Safe Harbor Turbine will occur before three and one half months of the date of the PTC Advance Payment (the “ PTC Deadline ”).

 

(l)           On or before the Ex Works Date (as defined in the Daughter Contract), for each 5% Safe Harbor Turbine, either EDF-USD or Merricourt, or Vestas (as agent or bailee or warehouseman for EDF-USD or Merricourt) shall have physical custody, care and control of such 5% Safe Harbor Turbine; provided that any storage fees will be payable by EDF-USD or Merricourt.

 

(m)          After the PTC Advance Payment is made or was made, no change to the Framework Agreement (to the extent such change could affect the WTGs purchased under the Daughter Contract) or the Daughter Contract that reduces the amount described in Section 4.16(d) for the 5% Safe Harbor Turbines will occur.

 

Section 4.17          No Other Agreements to Sell Purchased Assets . Sellers do not have any legal obligation to, or non-binding agreement in principle with, any other person (a) to sell or effect a sale of all, or any portion of the Purchased Assets or (b) related to the sale of energy upon development of the Site.

 

Section 4.18          Reports . Except as set forth in Schedule 4.18, to Sellers’ Knowledge, there has been no change in circumstances in any material matters described in a Report or in the Wind Study that would have a Material Adverse Effect.

 

Article 5

REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF BUYER

 

Buyer hereby represents and warrants to Sellers that:

 

Section 5.1            Organization . Buyer is a corporation, validly existing and in good standing under the Laws of the State of Minnesota. Buyer is duly qualified or licensed to do business in each other jurisdiction where the actions to be performed by it under this Agreement makes such qualification or licensing necessary, except in those jurisdictions where the failure to be so qualified or licensed would not have a material adverse effect on its ability to perform such actions. Buyer has delivered to Sellers all of the Organizational Documents of Buyer as in effect on the date of this Agreement.

 

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Section 5.2            Authority; Enforceability . Buyer has all requisite corporate power and authority to enter into this Agreement and the Ancillary Agreements to which Buyer is a party, to perform its obligations hereunder and thereunder and to consummate the transactions contemplated hereby and thereby. The execution and delivery by Buyer of this Agreement and the Ancillary Agreements to which Buyer is a party and the performance by Buyer of its obligations under this Agreement and the Ancillary Agreements to which Buyer is a party have been duly and validly authorized by all necessary corporate action. This Agreement and each Ancillary Agreement to which Buyer is a party has been duly and validly executed and delivered by Buyer and constitutes the legal, valid and binding obligation of Buyer enforceable against Buyer in accordance with its terms except as the same may be limited by bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, fraudulent conveyance, arrangement, moratorium or other similar Laws relating to or affecting the rights of creditors generally or by general equitable principles.

 

Section 5.3            No Conflicts ; Consents and Approvals. The execution and delivery by Buyer of this Agreement and the Ancillary Agreements to which Buyer is a party do not, and the performance by Buyer of its obligations hereunder and thereunder and the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby and thereby will not:

 

(a)          result in a violation of or a breach of any of the terms, conditions or provisions of the Organizational Documents of Buyer;

 

(b)          result in a Default under any material Contract to which Buyer is a party, except for any such Default which would not, in the aggregate, have a material adverse effect on Buyer’s ability to perform its obligations under this Agreement or any Ancillary Agreements to which Buyer is or will be a party; or

 

(c)          (i) violate or breach any term or provision of any Law applicable to Buyer or any of its Assets, except as would not have a material adverse effect on Buyer’s ability to perform its obligations under this Agreement or any Ancillary Agreements to which Buyer is a party or (ii) require any material Consent of any Governmental Authority under any applicable Law, other than (A) the Regulatory Approvals, and (B) such Consents, which, if not made or obtained, would not have a material adverse effect on Buyer’s ability to perform its obligations under this Agreement or any Ancillary Agreements to which Buyer is a party.

 

Other than as set out in Schedule 5.3, no Consent of any Governmental Authority or any other Person, is required to be made or obtained by Buyer in connection with the execution and delivery of this Agreement and the Ancillary Agreements or the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby and thereby.

 

Section 5.4            Legal Proceedings . Buyer has not been served with notice of any Claim, and to Buyer’s knowledge, none is threatened in writing, against Buyer which seeks a writ, judgment, order or decree restraining, enjoining or otherwise prohibiting or making illegal any of the transactions contemplated under this Agreement or any Ancillary Agreements to which Buyer is a party.

 

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Section 5.5            Brokers . Buyer does not have any liability or obligation to pay fees or commissions to any broker, finder or agent with respect to the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.

 

Section 5.6            Financial Resources . Buyer currently has, and will have available at the Closing Date, funds sufficient to meet all its obligations under this Agreement and pay the amount payable by Buyer to Sellers pursuant to Section 2.5.

 

Section 5.7            Independent Investigation; No Knowledge of Misrepresentations or Omissions . Buyer has such knowledge and experience in financial and business matters, as well as the electric and wind energy businesses, that it is capable of evaluating the merits and risks of its participation in the transactions contemplated by this Agreement. In entering into this Agreement, Buyer has relied solely upon its own review and analysis and the specific representations and warranties of the Sellers expressly set forth in Article 4 and the TEPC. Buyer acknowledges that, except for the representations and warranties expressly set forth in Article 4 and the TEPC, none of the Sellers, their respective Affiliates or any of their respective Representatives has made or makes, and Buyer has not relied on and is not relying on, any representation, warranty or statement, either express or implied, (a) as to the accuracy or completeness of any of the information delivered or made available to Buyer, any of its Affiliates or any of its or their respective Representatives and (b) with respect to any projections, forecasts, estimates, plans or budgets of future revenues, expenses or expenditures, future results of operations (or any component thereof), future cash flows (or any component thereof) or future financial condition (or any component thereof) of the Purchased Assets or the Project delivered or made available to Buyer, any of its Affiliates or any of its Representatives. Buyer confirms that the Sellers have made available to Buyer and its Representatives, and they have been given the opportunity to ask questions of, the Representatives of the Sellers to Buyer’s satisfaction. Buyer does not have actual knowledge of a breach of any representation and warranty set forth in Article 4 of this Agreement or in the TEPC; provided , that, the mere existence of any information in the electronic data room provided by Seller shall not, in and of itself, be deemed to be actual knowledge of Buyer.

 

Article 6

COVENANTS

 

The Parties hereby covenant and agree as follows:

 

Section 6.1            Books and Records .

 

(a)          From and after Closing, Buyer will preserve and keep the Books and Records related to the Purchased Assets that relate to the period prior to the Closing Date (including all accounting records) for a period of seven (7) years from the Closing, or for any longer periods as may be required by any Governmental Authority or ongoing litigation. From and after Closing, Buyer, upon reasonable prior notice from Sellers, will provide to Sellers and its Representatives access to or copies of Books and Records of Seller to the extent relating to events that occurred prior to Closing and to the extent needed for a legitimate business purpose or to enforce rights under this Agreement provided that all such Books and Records shall be confidential and the information therein not used or disclosed except as required by law, for a legitimate business purpose, or to enforce rights under this Agreement.

 

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(b)          Sellers will deliver the Books and Records in Seller’s possession to Buyer as promptly as practicable following the Closing Date. Sellers may retain a copy of such Books and Records.

 

Section 6.2            Tax Matters .

 

(a)          Except as set forth in Section 6.2(b), the Purchase Price includes all Taxes. The Purchase Price shall not be increased with respect to any Taxes that Buyer may be required to make as part of the Closing. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Sellers shall not be liable for, and the Purchase Price shall not include any taxes for which Buyer is responsible pursuant to Section 6.2(b). Sellers shall provide to Buyer all information reasonably requested by Buyer to confirm that the correct amount of sales and use tax or other like taxes will be paid on the Purchased Assets.

 

(b)          Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, the Purchase Price shall not include, but Buyer shall pay or reimburse Sellers for, any sales, use, or transfer tax levied by any state, county or local government with respect to the purchase of the Purchase Assets (“ Sales Tax ”), without regard to whether the person required by law to report, collect or pay such Sales Tax was Buyer or Sellers, or any other person.

 

(c)          The Party required by Law to file a Tax Return related to Taxes described in Section 6.2(a) in connection with the Closing will do so within the time period required by Law and provide a copy of the return to the other Parties, but will alert the other Parties of the need to file such a return first in writing in case there is any disagreement about whether Sales Taxes are owed and work in good faith to resolve any disagreement.

 

(d)          The Parties agree that prior to the Closing, none of the Parties will negotiate with any taxing authority regarding tax rates or structures for the Project without the prior written reasonable consent of the other Parties, and that if such consent to negotiate is provided, any such agreement regarding tax rates or structures entered into prior to the Closing is also subject to the prior written consent of the other Parties (which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld).

 

(e)          Sellers will reasonably cooperate with Buyer in connection with any request made by Tax Counsel, the IRS, or any state, county, or local taxing authority.

 

Section 6.3            Conduct of Sellers Prior to Closing . Except as described in Schedule 6.3, as contemplated, permitted or required by this Agreement, or as required by applicable Laws, between the date hereof and the Closing, each Seller will conduct its business with respect to the Project and use commercially reasonable efforts to preserve the Purchased Assets in the ordinary course of business. Notwithstanding the preceding sentence, between the date hereof and the earlier to occur of the Closing and the termination of this Agreement, except as permitted or contemplated by the terms of this Agreement, without the prior written consent of Buyer (which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld), no Seller shall do any of the following:

 

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(a)          take any action which would materially interfere with or prevent the consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement;

 

(b)          except for actions taken pursuant to Section 6.11, enter into, amend, modify, cancel or terminate any (i) Contract which would be a material Purchased Contract or (ii) Land Contract, in each case, in a manner that would have an adverse impact on the ownership or operation of the Project or increase the liability of Buyer under such Land Contract or Contract after Closing; provided , that Sellers may enter into Land Contracts that are in substantially the same form as the Land Contracts provided to Buyer for review prior to the date of this Agreement (so long as such new Land Contracts have a term of at least 60 years from the Commercial Operation Date and Seller uses commercially reasonable efforts to have a lease term of 99 years from the Commercial Operation Date, and further such new Land Contracts shall conform to all applicable Laws, including the requirements of North Dakota Century Code, Chapter 17-04);

 

(c)          amend the organizational documents of any Seller in a manner that would have an adverse impact on such Seller’s ability to perform its obligations under this Agreement, the TEPC or the Ancillary Agreements;

 

(d)          adopt a voluntary plan of complete or partial liquidation or dissolution;

 

(e)          sell, lease, license, encumber or otherwise dispose of any Purchased Assets or enter into any written or oral agreement with a third party with respect to the distribution or sale of any Purchased Assets or electricity produced by any Purchased Assets;

 

(f)           make any request for a ruling or guidance to the IRS with respect to the applicability of Section 45 of the Code to the Project;

 

(g)          amend the Daughter Contract without the consent of Buyer, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld; or

 

(h)          commit to do any of the foregoing.

 

Section 6.4            Access to Information .

 

(a)          Subject to the terms of the Confidentiality Agreement, from the date hereof until the earlier of (a) the Closing and (b) the termination of this Agreement in accordance with Article 8, upon reasonable notice, each Seller will (i) afford Buyer and its authorized representatives reasonable access to the Site, representatives, Contracts, and Books and Records of Purchased Assets and the Project; (ii) furnish to Buyer and authorized representatives of Buyer such additional financial and operating data and other information regarding the Project (or copies thereof) as Buyer may from time to time reasonably request; and (iii) furnish to Buyer and authorized representatives of Buyer any other information concerning or otherwise relating to the Purchased Assets and the Project as Buyer or its representatives may reasonably request.

 

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(b)          Subject to the terms of the Confidentiality Agreement, from the date hereof until the Commercial Operation Date, each Seller will (i) afford Buyer and its authorized representatives reasonable access to the Site, representatives, Contracts, and Books and Records of Purchased Assets and the Project; (ii) furnish to Buyer and authorized representatives of Buyer such additional financial and operating data and other information regarding Sellers and the Project (or copies thereof) as Buyer may from time to time reasonably request; and (iii) furnish to Buyer and authorized representatives of Buyer any other information, in each case to the extent reasonably related to facts and circumstances relevant to the Project’s qualification for 100% PTCs.

 

(c)          Subject to the terms of the Confidentiality Agreement, from the date hereof until the sixth anniversary of the Commercial Operation Date, Sellers will deliver to Buyer (i) within 90 days after the close of each of the fiscal years of EDF-EN, a consolidated balance sheet and income statement of EDF-EN as of the end of such fiscal year, together with related consolidated statements of cash flows for such fiscal year, setting forth in comparative form consolidated figures for the preceding fiscal year, all such consolidated financial information described above to be in reasonable form and detail and accompanied by an unqualified opinion of KPMG S.A. or other independent certified public accountants of recognized international standing reasonably acceptable to Buyer, which opinion shall state that such financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial condition of EDF-EN and its results of operations and cash flows and have been prepared in conformity with International Financial Reporting Standards, and that the examination of such accountants in connection with such financial statements has been made in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards, and that such audit provides a reasonable basis for such opinion in the circumstances and (ii) within 90 days after the close of the second quarterly period of each of the fiscal years of EDF-EN, an unaudited consolidated balance sheet and income statement of EDF-EN, as of the end of such fiscal semester or half year, together with related consolidated statements of cash flows for such fiscal semester or half year, all in reasonable detail, prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards applicable to semester or half year financial statements generally, and fairly presenting, in all material respects, the financial condition of the companies being reported on and their results of operations and cash flows, subject to changes resulting from year-end adjustments.

 

(d)          Subject to the terms of the Confidentiality Agreement, from the date hereof until the sixth anniversary of the Commercial Operation Date, Sellers will deliver to Buyer (i) within 90 days after the close of each of the fiscal years of EDF-RE, a consolidated balance sheet and income statement of EDF-RE as of the end of such fiscal year, together with related consolidated statements of cash flows for such fiscal year, setting forth in comparative form consolidated figures for the preceding fiscal year, all such consolidated financial information described above to be in reasonable form and detail and accompanied by a certificate of KPMG S.A. or other independent certified public accountants of recognized international standing reasonably acceptable to Buyer, which opinion shall state that such financial statements are the financial statements of EDF-RE that were incorporated into the audited financial statements of EDF-EN delivered to Buyer pursuant to Section 6.4(c) and (ii) within 90 days after the close of the second quarterly period of each of the fiscal years of EDF-RE, an unaudited consolidated balance sheet and income statement of EDF-RE, as of the end of such fiscal semester or half year, together with related consolidated statements of cash flows for such fiscal semester or half year, all in reasonable detail, prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards applicable to semester or half year financial statements generally, and fairly presenting, in all material respects, the financial condition of the companies being reported on and their results of operations and cash flows, subject to changes resulting from year-end adjustments.

 

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Section 6.5            Efforts; Consents; Regulatory and Required Seller Approval .

 

(a)          Each Party will use diligent and commercially reasonable efforts to (i) take, or cause to be taken, all appropriate action, and do, or cause to be done, all things necessary, proper or advisable under applicable Laws or otherwise to promptly consummate and make effective the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, including cooperating with the other Parties; (ii) obtain all authorizations, consents, orders and approvals of, and give all notices to and make all filings with, all Governmental Authorities and other third parties that may be or become necessary for the performance of its obligations under this Agreement and the consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, or that may be or become necessary, proper or advisable pursuant to any Permit, Land Contract or Purchased Contract to which Sellers is bound or by which any of Seller’s assets or properties are bound, including the Regulatory Approvals and (iii) satisfy all conditions to such Party’s obligations under this Agreement. Notwithstanding the foregoing or anything to the contrary set forth in this Agreement, in connection with obtaining such authorizations, consents, orders and approvals from Governmental Authorities or third parties, no Party will be required to make payments (other than the payment of routine filing fees), commence legal or regulatory proceedings (other than the Regulatory Approvals) or agree to modifications of the terms and conditions of any agreements with third parties or Permits. Nothing in this Section 6.5 shall require any Party to (A) consent to any action or omission by the other Party or its Affiliates that would be inconsistent with Section 6.3 absent such consent or (B) agree to amend or waive any provision of this Agreement. Each Party shall reasonably cooperate with the other Party in performing the obligations required by this Section 6.5(a), including the negotiation, execution, and assignment of Land Contracts, Purchased Contracts and other agreements related to the Project. The Parties will not take any action that is reasonably likely to have the effect of unreasonably delaying, impairing or impeding the receipt of any required authorizations, consents, orders or approvals.

 

(b)          Within 30 days following the execution of this Agreement, Sellers shall send the USFWS a letter, email, or other written communication informing the USFWS that (i) Sellers and Buyer have entered into an agreement under which Buyer will purchase the Project from Sellers, (ii) the Parties intend to proceed with construction of the Project, and (iii) the Parties do not intend to obtain an incidental take permit in connection with the Project. Seller must allow Buyer a reasonable opportunity to review and comment on any such written communication prior to submission, and any proposed edits shall not be unreasonably rejected.

 

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(c)          From time to time, but no less often than once a year following the execution of this Agreement and prior to the Closing, Sellers shall send the USFWS a letter, email, or other written communication informing the USFWS in summary form on new developments relating to the Project. Seller must allow Buyer a reasonable opportunity to review and comment on any such written communication prior to submission, and any proposed edits shall not be unreasonably rejected.

 

(d)          At least 30 days prior to the Closing Date, Sellers shall submit the final version of the Bird and Bat Conservation Strategy to the USFWS (and provide a copy thereof to Buyer). Sellers must allow Buyer a reasonable opportunity to comment on the Bird and Bat Conservation Strategy prior to submission, and any proposed edits shall not be unreasonably rejected. Sellers agree that the comments set forth in Schedule 6.5(d) are reasonable and shall be reflected in the final Bird and Bat Conservation Strategy.

 

Section 6.6            Public Announcements . Subject to a Party’s reasonable judgment that it is required by Law or by the rules of a national securities exchange to make such disclosure, no Party shall issue any public announcement or other statement with respect to this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby without the prior consent of the other Parties. Additionally, subject to Buyer providing Sellers with advance written notice and an opportunity to review and comment on such disclosures, each Seller hereby consents to the disclosure of confidential information regarding the Project and its current status in public filings and informal communications with regulators to be made by Buyer, but only to the extent that such confidential information is reasonably necessary or required (based on the advice of counsel) in connection with seeking approval of the transaction contemplated by this Agreement and in developing the Project; and hereby waives any confidentiality provisions relating thereto currently in effect. Notwithstanding the immediately preceding sentence, Buyer shall not make any disclosure of confidential information related to the Prime Subcontract or Turbine Supply Agreement; provided , that Buyer may disclose such confidential information if it is required by a regulator and Buyer uses reasonable efforts to seek trade secret protection.

 

Section 6.7            Further Assurances . Subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, at any time or from time to time after the Closing, at any Party’s request and without further consideration, the other Parties will execute and deliver to such Party such other instruments of sale, transfer, conveyance, assignment and confirmation, provide such materials and information and take such other actions as such Party may reasonably request in order to consummate the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.

 

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Section 6.8            Updated Schedules . From time to time prior to and up to ten (10) Days prior to the Closing Date, a disclosing Party shall provide written notice to the other Party of any fact, matter, condition, event or circumstance that occurs following the date of this Agreement and that, individually or in the aggregate, renders the disclosing Party unable, without amending the Schedules, to satisfy their condition precedent under Article 7 (each, an “ Update ”). In the event the other Party does not terminate this Agreement pursuant to Article 8 following delivery of such Update, the disclosing Party shall be permitted to update the applicable Schedule(s) to properly reflect the fact, matter, condition, event or circumstance disclosed to the other Party in such Update, and all of the disclosing Party’s representations and warranties set forth in this Agreement made following the Update shall be subject to the Schedules attached hereto, as modified or amended by such an Update, for purposes of satisfying the conditions to Closing set forth in Article 7; provided , further , that, if the Closing occurs, such Update shall not be deemed to have modified the Schedules for purposes of determining whether there has been a breach of the applicable representations and warranties related to Sellers’ indemnification obligations in Section 9.2. Notwithstanding the foregoing, to the extent Buyer has a claim for indemnification in accordance with Section 9.2 resulting from a breach of the applicable representations and warranties based on the fact, matter, condition, event or circumstance described in the Update, Buyer shall provide Seller with written notice of such claim in accordance with Article 9 (such notice, an “ Update Indemnification Notice ”) within ten (10) days of receiving the Update, which notice shall include a description of the claim and Buyer’s good faith estimate of the amount of such claim; provided , that, in the event that Buyer delivers an Update Indemnification Notice within such ten (10)-day period, Seller shall have a termination right in accordance with Section 8.1(l). If Buyer fails to deliver an Update Indemnification Notice within such ten (10)-day period, then Buyer be deemed to have irrevocably waived such claim.

 

Section 6.9            Representations and Warranties . Subject to Section 5.7 of this Agreement, Buyer shall have the right to rely on the representations set forth in Article 4 regardless of (a) any due diligence done by Buyer and its representatives and (b) any knowledge or information known or available to Buyer from Sellers or any other source.

 

Section 6.10          Interconnection Costs .

 

(a)          The Parties hereby agree to cooperate in good faith to evaluate interconnection studies and share information related to the timing and costs of the Project interconnection. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, Sellers shall (i) promptly upon receipt thereof, provide copies of all studies and other communications received from MISO or any other RTO or transmission owner with respect to MISO Interconnection Queue Request J457; (ii) promptly provide Buyer with copies all drafts of the New GIA and any facility construction agreements received from MISO or the applicable transmission owner prior to Closing; (iii) provide Buyer a period of not less than ten (10) days following Buyer’s receipt from Sellers of copies of such draft documents to review and comment on such draft documents; and (iv) allow Buyer to participate in any telephone calls or negotiating sessions regarding the same.

 

(b)          If the Existing GIA is assigned to Buyer at Closing pursuant to Section 2.1, then (i) Sellers shall bear, and Buyer shall have no obligation with respect to, the historic costs associated with the Existing GIA prior to the Closing, (ii) Buyer shall bear 100% of any additional costs assessed by MISO with respect to the Existing GIA following the Closing, and (iii) Sellers shall be entitled to any MISO refunds arising from the pre-Closing termination or withdrawal of MISO Interconnection Queue Request J457.

 

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(c)          From time to time as the study process associated with MISO Interconnection Queue Request J457 progresses, Buyer and Sellers will in good faith consider whether the NRIS Interconnection Costs or the ERIS Interconnection Costs will be lower, and if the ERIS Interconnection Costs are lower, consider whether Sellers should amend MISO Interconnection Queue Request J457 to request “ERIS;” provided , that Buyer acknowledges and agrees that the final decision as to whether to amend MISO Interconnection Queue Request J457 shall be in the sole discretion of Sellers; provided, further , that if (i) Buyer requests that Sellers amend MISO Interconnection Queue Request J457 to request “ERIS,” (ii) at the time Buyer requests “ERIS,” the ERIS Interconnection Costs are estimated to be lower than the NRIS Interconnection Costs, and (iii) Sellers do not amend MISO Interconnection Queue Request J457 to request “ERIS” prior to the expiration of the time during which such amendment is permitted, then, notwithstanding Sections 6.10(d) and (e), Sellers agree to pay all Interconnection Costs in excess of the ERIS Interconnection Costs.

 

(d)          Subject to Section 6.10(c), if, following completion of all system impact and facilities studies, the Estimated Interconnection Costs exceed $[**] (such excess amount, the “ Excess Interconnection Costs ”), this Agreement shall automatically terminate within thirty (30) days after such determination unless any Party provides written notice to the other Parties within such 30-day period that it will pay such Excess Interconnection Costs. For the avoidance of doubt, the Parties agree that the Estimated Interconnection Costs cannot be determined prior to completion of all system impact and facilities studies associated with MISO Interconnection Queue Request J457.

 

(e)          Subject to Section 6.10(c), if the New GIA is assigned to Buyer at Closing pursuant to Section 2.1, then the responsibility for the Interconnection Costs shall be as follows:

 

(i)          Buyer shall pay all Interconnection Costs up to the base cost of $[**].

 

(ii)         If the Interconnection Costs are between $[**] and $[**], such incremental costs shall be paid one-half by Buyer and one-half by Sellers.

 

(iii)        If the Interconnection Costs exceed an amount equal to the higher of (A) $[**] or (B) any higher amount agreed to be paid by a Party pursuant to Section 6.10(d)), then Buyer will pay the amount of such excess.

 

(iv)         If Sellers make a cash payment of any portion of the Interconnection Costs owed by Buyer pursuant to this Section 6.10(e) prior to Closing, and have not received a refund of such amount, Buyer shall reimburse Sellers for such amounts at Closing. If Sellers subsequently receive a refund of any amounts reimbursed by Buyer, Sellers shall pay such refund to Buyer. If Buyer pays any portion of the costs associated with the interconnection studies for MISO Interconnection Queue Request J457 (whether before or after Closing), Sellers shall promptly reimburse Buyer for such amount upon request. Any difference between the Estimated Interconnection Costs and the actual Interconnection Costs incurred shall be trued up between the Parties at the Commercial Operation Date; provided, that (A) subject to Sections 6.10(c) and (d), following the Closing Buyer shall bear all Excess Interconnection Costs and (B) following the Commercial Operation Date, Buyer shall (1) bear any new interconnection costs in addition to those known and allocated between the parties before such date and (2) be entitled to receive 100% of any refunds related to the New GIA that aren’t known as of the Commercial Operation Date.

_____________________________

[**] Denotes confidential information that has been omitted from the exhibit and filed separately, accompanied by a confidential treatment request, with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Rule 24b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

 

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(v)          Sellers shall be entitled to any MISO refunds arising from termination or withdrawal of the Existing GIA.

 

Section 6.11          Easement Agreement Extensions and Amendments . Prior to the Closing Date, Sellers shall (a) use commercially reasonably efforts to extend the term of all Land Contracts covering [**] contiguous WTG Locations to [**] years from the Commercial Operation Date; provided , that, Sellers must, at a minimum, extend the term of Land Contracts covering [**] contiguous WTG Locations to at least [**] years from the Commercial Operation Date; provided , further, that all Land Contracts not so extended pursuant to this Section 6.11 shall have a term of at least [**] years from the Commercial Operation Date and (b) amend all Land Contracts not conforming to the requirements of North Dakota Century Code, Chapter 17-04 so as to conform with such Laws. At Closing, Buyer shall reimburse Sellers for the amount of any upfront payments paid to landowners by Sellers to obtain such amendments to the Land Contracts in an amount not to exceed [**] ($[**]) per landowner or [**] ($[**]) in the aggregate.

 

Section 6.12          Non-Compete .

 

(a)          For a period beginning on the date of this Agreement and ending on the date that is three (3) years following the Commercial Operation Date, none of Sellers or any of their respective Affiliates will develop, construct, own or operate a wind energy facility within three (3) miles of a Project WTG.

 

(b)          Each Seller acknowledges that a breach or threatened breach of this Section 6.12 would give rise to irreparable harm to Buyer, for which monetary damages would not be an adequate remedy, and hereby agrees that in the event of a breach or a threatened breach by such Seller or its Affiliates of any such obligations, Buyer shall, in addition to any and all other rights and remedies that may be available to it in respect of such breach, be entitled to equitable relief, including a temporary restraining order, an injunction, specific performance and any other relief that may be available from a court of competent jurisdiction (without any requirement to post bond).

 

_____________________________

[**] Denotes confidential information that has been omitted from the exhibit and filed separately, accompanied by a confidential treatment request, with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Rule 24b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

 

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(c)          Each Seller acknowledges that the restrictions contained in this Section 6.12 are reasonable and necessary to protect the legitimate interests of Buyer and constitute a material inducement to Buyer to enter into this Agreement and consummate the transactions contemplated by this Agreement. In the event that any covenant contained in this Section 6.12 should ever be adjudicated to exceed the time, geographic, product or service or other limitations permitted by applicable Law in any jurisdiction, then any court is expressly empowered to reform such covenant, and such covenant shall be deemed reformed, in such jurisdiction to the maximum time, geographic, product or service or other limitations permitted by applicable Law. The covenants contained in this Section 6.12 and each provision hereof are severable and distinct covenants and provisions. The invalidity or unenforceability of any such covenant or provision as written shall not invalidate or render unenforceable the remaining covenants or provisions hereof, and any such invalidity or unenforceability in any jurisdiction shall not invalidate or render unenforceable such covenant or provision in any other jurisdiction.

 

Section 6.13          Letters of Credit; Guaranty .

 

(a)          To fulfill Sellers’ full and timely payment obligations hereunder, Sellers shall cause (i) EDF-EN to execute and deliver to Buyer contemporaneous with the execution of this Agreement, and maintain in full force and effect, the EDF-EN Guaranty, which shall be subject to the limitations set forth therein, including the EDF-EN Guaranty Expiration; (ii) on or before January 1, 2018, either (x) EDF-EN to execute and deliver to Buyer and maintain in full force and effect, the Construction Period Guaranty, or (y) the execution and delivery to Buyer of the Project Surety Bond, in each case subject to the limitations set forth therein, including the Construction Period Guaranty Expiration; and (iii) EDF-RE to execute and deliver to Buyer on or prior to the Project Substantial Completion Date, and maintain in full force and effect, the Post-Construction Guaranty, subject to the limitations set forth therein, including the Post-Construction Guaranty Expiration. Upon the occurrence of a Credit Trigger Event with respect to a Guarantor, Sellers shall provide Buyer with a Backup LOC with respect to each Guaranty issued by such Guarantor and outstanding at the time of such Credit Trigger Event. Each such Backup LOC, if issued, shall secure (x) Guarantor’s obligations under the Guaranty with respect to which such Backup LOC was issued, (y) Sellers’ payment obligations under this Agreement, including all indemnity and liquidated damages obligations hereunder, and (z) EDF-USD’s payment obligations under the TEPC, including performance through the end of applicable Infrastructure Facilities Warranty Periods (as defined in the TEPC). The Backup LOC shall terminate on the sixth (6th) anniversary of the Project Substantial Completion Date. Buyer shall be entitled to draw on such letter of credit for any uncured breach by Sellers of this Agreement (to the extent Buyer is entitled to indemnification for Losses arising from such breach under Article 9), by EDF-USD under the TEPC or by the Guarantor of the applicable Guaranty. For the avoidance of doubt, the EDF-EN Guaranty, the Construction Period Guaranty, the Post-Construction Guaranty, and the Backup LOC(s), each referenced in this Section 6.13(a), are the same agreements as those referenced in the TEPC, and not in addition to such agreements.

 

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(b)          Upon the occurrence of a Credit Trigger Event with respect to Buyer, Buyer shall provide Sellers with an irrevocable letter of credit in the form attached as Exhibit 4.1.2 to the TEPC, issued by a Qualified Institution, with a drawable amount equal to Fifteen Million and 00/100 Dollars ($15,000,000). Such letter of credit, if issued, shall secure Buyer’s payment obligations, including Buyer’s indemnity obligations, hereunder. Sellers shall be entitled to draw on such letter of credit for any uncured breach by Buyer of this Agreement.

 

Section 6.14          Title Commitment; Survey; Title Policy .

 

(a)          Buyer has reviewed the Survey dated as of October 21, 2016 and the Title Commitment dated as of September 15, 2016 (collectively, the “ Existing Title Evidence ”) and accepts those documents and exceptions identified on such Title Commitment, except as identified in that certain title objection letter dated November 15, 2016 (the “ Title Objection Letter ”) attached as Schedule 6.14(a) hereto.  The matters, documents and exceptions not objected to in the Title Objection Letter shall be Permitted Liens (“ Existing Permitted Exceptions ”).  Based on Buyer’s review of the Existing Title Evidence, the Title Objection Letter also contains Buyer’s objections to, and Buyer’s proposed curative measures for, the Existing Title Evidence (“ Existing Title Objections ”).  Sellers have agreed to cure the Existing Title Objections prior to Closing as set forth in the Title Objection Letter.

 

(b)          Notwithstanding Section 6.14(a) or Section 6.14(c), Buyer reserves the right to object to the Existing Permitted Exceptions based upon its review of the then current Title Commitment and updated Survey delivered in connection with Closing pursuant to Section 6.14(c) below, the Site Plan, any changes in Laws, and the requirements of the Permits, provided, however, that such objections must result from changes in the Title Commitment, updated Survey, updated Site Plan or Permits which address matters that would materially detract from the value or materially interfere with the construction, operation or maintenance of the Project as contemplated in the Site Plan.

 

(c)          At least ninety (90) days prior to Closing, Sellers shall cause the Title Company to deliver to Buyer an updated Survey, which updated Survey shall depict the final Project layout pursuant to the Site Plan and include current wetland information and cultural data, and current Title Commitment, along with legible copies of all documents identified on such Title Commitment (“ Title Evidence ”). If the Title Evidence shows any new documents, new title exceptions or new survey issues not identified on the Existing Title Evidence (collectively, the “ New Exceptions ”), then Buyer shall have the right to reasonably approve or disapprove such New Exceptions. Within twenty (20) days after receipt of the last of the Title Evidence, Buyer shall provide Sellers with a title objection letter setting forth Buyer’s objections to items identified in the Title Evidence (“ Updated Title Objection Letter ”), other than, except as provided in Section 6.14(b), the Existing Permitted Exceptions (together with the Existing Title Objections, “ Title Objections ”). Sellers will use their commercially reasonable efforts to cure each Title Objection. Except for Permitted Liens, prior to the Closing, all Title Objections shall have been eliminated as an exception to the Title Policy, committed to be insured over by the Title Company in the Title Policy in form and substance reasonably acceptable to Buyer, or otherwise cured to Buyer’s reasonable satisfaction; provided that any fee mortgage of landowners under the Land Contracts, manure easement or tenant lease that is superior to the interest of Sellers and with respect to which a non-disturbance agreement in form and substance acceptable to Buyer has been obtained and delivered to Buyer at or prior to Closing shall be considered Permitted Liens at Closing.

 

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(d)          At Closing, Sellers shall cause the Title Company to issue the Title Policy. Sellers shall pay for the Survey (and any amendments, updates and supplements thereto) and the costs and search fees for the Title Commitments (and any amendments, updates and supplements thereto) and all recording charges and expenses incurred in connection with recording any Land Contract (or amendments or memoranda thereof) and any curative documents. Buyer shall pay all Title Policy premiums and the cost to record the Deed.

 

(e)          General real estate Taxes and installments of special assessments for the Owned Real Property shall be pro-rated as of the Closing Date, on a per diem basis based on the latest available data and in accordance with local custom, which proration will be final as of the Closing Date and not subject to recalculation after the Closing.

 

Section 6.15          Site Plan . Promptly following completion, and in any case prior to January 15, 2017, Sellers shall deliver the final Site Plan to Buyer. The Site Plan shall be reviewed by Buyer in collaboration with Sellers for a period of thirty (30) days following delivery thereof by Sellers (the “Review Period”). In the event Buyer fails to provide comments to Sellers prior to the expiration of the Review Period, the Site Plan shall be deemed approved by Buyer as of the date of delivery thereof by Sellers. In the event Buyer provides comments on the Site Plan to Sellers prior to the termination of the Review Period, Sellers shall review such Buyer comments and include them in the Site Plan so long as such Buyer comments do not result in an increase in Sellers’ costs or are consistent with Prudent Industry Practices. To the extent that Buyer still would like changes made that result in an increase in Sellers’ costs and which are not consistent with Prudent Industry Practices, Buyer shall be responsible for any such costs arising from those design changes requested by Buyer. Sellers shall deliver to Buyer a revised Site Plan that addresses Buyer’s comments as soon as reasonably possible after receipt of Buyer’s comments and Buyer shall approve or disapprove such revised Site Plan in accordance with the same procedures. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Sellers shall (a) use reasonable efforts and employ best practices to avoid impacts to aquatic features determined to be jurisdictional under the federal Clean Water Act, and in no case shall the impact to such jurisdictional waters require authorization from the US Army Corps of Engineers, (b) ensure that the Site Plan conforms in all material respects to all recommendations in the Bird and Bat Conservation Strategy, (c) use reasonable efforts and employ best practices to avoid impacts to areas which are enrolled as acreage under the Conservation Reserve Program except for areas with respect to which Sellers have secured authorization for permissive use consistent with standard industry practices from all relevant agencies, including the United States Department of Agriculture, (d) not locate WTGs in areas subject to Waterfowl Habitat Protection Easements, and (e) not locate any other facilities in areas subject to Waterfowl Habitat Protection Easements unless it has obtained appropriate consents from USFWS (for initial construction and all future maintenance and repair activities) and written confirmation from the USFWS that such consents will not create a federal nexus and require consultation under the Endangered Species Act.

 

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Section 6.16          5% Safe Harbor Turbines . In the event that some or all of the 5% Safe Harbor Turbines designated in the Daughter Contract are determined prior to the Closing Date not to qualify the Project for 100% PTCs due to a failure of one or more of the representations in Section 4.16 to be true, then to the extent owned by Sellers or any Affiliates of Sellers, Sellers shall, or shall cause their Affiliates to, allocate other Vestas 2.0MW V110 wind turbine components to the Project such that the Project will qualify for 100% PTCs.

 

Article 7

CONDITIONS TO CLOSING

 

Section 7.1            Conditions to Obligations of Each Party . The obligations of the Parties to effect the Closing are subject to the satisfaction prior to the Closing of the following conditions:

 

(a)          No Governmental Authority shall have instituted any Actions to restrain, prohibit or otherwise challenge the legality or validity of the transactions contemplated herein that has not been dismissed or otherwise resolved in a manner that does not materially adversely affect such transactions, and no Final Order shall be in effect that restrains or prohibits the consummation of such transactions.

 

(b)          All Regulatory Approvals shall have been obtained.

 

Section 7.2            Additional Conditions to Obligations of Buyer . The obligation of Buyer to effect the Closing is subject to the satisfaction at or before Closing of all of the following conditions, any one or more of which may be waived by Buyer in writing, in Buyer’s sole discretion:

 

(a)          each of the Designated Representations of Sellers will be true and correct in all respects, and each of the other representations and warranties of Sellers contained in this Agreement shall be true and correct in all material respects (other than such representations and warranties qualified by materiality or Material Adverse Effect, which shall be true and correct in all respects), in each case on and as of the Closing Date as though made on and as of the Closing Date;

 

(b)          Sellers shall have performed, and complied with, in all material respects all covenants and agreements required by this Agreement to be performed, and complied with, by Sellers on or before the Closing Date;

 

(c)          Sellers shall have delivered to Buyer a certificate from a duly authorized officer of each Seller, dated the Closing Date and executed by such officer, in a form reasonably acceptable to Buyer, certifying the items in Section 7.2(a) and Section 7.2(b);

 

(d)          Sellers shall have delivered (or caused to be delivered) to Buyer, the Closing deliverables described in Section 3.2 above;

 

(e)          Each Seller shall have delivered to Buyer a current Certificate of Good Standing;

 

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(f)          The Purchased Assets shall be free and clear of all Liens other than Permitted Liens, and each Seller shall have delivered to Buyer copies acceptable to Buyer of documentation releasing any such Liens;

 

(g)          Each Seller shall have delivered a copy, certified by the Secretary of Seller, of resolutions of such Seller authorizing and approving the transactions contemplated hereby;

 

(h)          No Material Adverse Effect shall have occurred since the date of this Agreement;

 

(i)          Sellers shall have obtained all Consents required in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement that are listed on Schedule 4.3(a) (the “ Required Consents ”);

 

(j)           Sellers shall not have sold, transferred or otherwise disposed of any Purchased Assets, except as otherwise permitted by this Agreement;

 

(k)          Subject to delivery of all Required Consents, all material Land Contracts and all other material Purchased Contracts shall be fully transferable to Buyer and shall be in full force and effect and not subject to any appeal or dispute;

 

(l)          Sellers shall have obtained all Permits which shall be in form reasonably satisfactory to Buyer and such Permits shall either be freely transferable to Buyer or Seller shall have obtained any necessary consent to such transfer;

 

(m)          Sellers shall have obtained and delivered to Buyer an FAA Determination for each WTG Location;

 

(n)          Sellers shall have delivered to Buyer the Reports in final form, which such Reports shall not indicate any issues that would have a Material Adverse Effect (or in the event a preliminary or draft Report was delivered to Buyer prior to the execution of this Agreement, such final Report shall not indicate any issues beyond those issues disclosed in the drafts of such Reports made available to Buyer prior to execution of this Agreement and that would have a Material Adverse Effect); provided , that in the event there is a change in any findings or conclusions of a Report delivered and accepted as satisfactory by Sellers prior to the Closing Date, Sellers shall redeliver such Report to Buyer in final form as revised to address such changes;

 

(o)          Sellers shall have obtained all Land Contracts covering eighty (80) contiguous WTG locations in substantially the form of the existing Land Contracts, including full satisfaction of the term, extension and amendment requirements set forth in Section 6.11;

 

(p)          Except for Permitted Liens, prior to the Closing, all Title Objections shall have been eliminated as an exception to the Title Policy, cured consistent with the Title Objection Letter and Updated Title Objection Letter or otherwise cured to Buyer’s reasonable satisfaction;

 

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(q)          The Title Company shall have issued the Title Policy;

 

(r)          The TEPC shall be in full force and effect and both the EDF-EN Guaranty and either the Construction Period Guaranty or the Project Surety Bond shall have been delivered to Buyer and both shall be in full force and effect.

 

(s)          The BOP Contract shall be executed at Closing and be in full force and effect;

 

(t)           The GIA shall (i) be executed and in full force and effect at Closing, and (ii) together with studies and other information, and subject to Section 8.1(d), shall not indicate network upgrades or other work that will prevent the full nameplate capacity of the Project to be interconnected to the grid and operated by no later than the Commercial Operation Date;

 

(u)          There shall have been no enactment, promulgation or issuance, as applicable, of any of the types of authorities described in Treasury Regulations Section 1.6662-4(d)(3) after the date hereof that has a material adverse effect on the qualification of the Project for 100% PTCs;

 

(v)          Buyer shall have received an opinion from Tax Counsel, bringing down the opinion received at signing of this Agreement and based upon any changes to relevant facts or federal income tax law (including any differences in facts identified by Buyer between signing and closing of this Agreement), to the effect that Project will qualify for 100% PTCs;

 

(w)         There shall have been no current issuance of a recommendation to seek a take permit by any state or federal wildlife agency with respect to the Project; and

 

(x)           Either (i) Sellers shall have obtained and delivered to Buyer and Title Company surface use agreements with respect to any severed mineral rights, or (ii) the Title Policy includes a special endorsement with respect to such severed mineral rights; in either case in form and substance reasonably acceptable to Buyer. If, after using diligent and commercially reasonable efforts (including the process set forth in Chapter 38-18.1 of the North Dakota Century Code), Sellers are unable to obtain surface use agreements or a special endorsement, in either case reasonably acceptable to Buyer:  (A) Buyer will waive the requirements of this Section 7.2(x) with respect to such parcels if the severed mineral rights on such parcels would not be reasonably likely to have a Material Adverse Effect or (B) allow Sellers to revise the Site Plan to avoid such parcels, subject to reasonable approval by Buyer (provided that any such revision which results in an overall Project net capacity factor of less than 50.0% shall be deemed reasonable cause to reject such revision); provided that if neither the conditions for Buyer waiver under (A) nor the Buyer approval under (B) is satisfied or obtained, respectively, Buyer and Sellers shall negotiate in good faith for a period of thirty (30) days to identify an alternative solution .

 

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(y)          Sellers shall have provided evidence of the payment to the United States Department of Agriculture of any amounts payable as a result of Project improvements in Conservation Reserve Program areas.

 

Section 7.3            Additional Conditions to Obligations of Seller . The obligation of Sellers to effect the Closing is subject to the satisfaction at or before Closing of all of the following conditions, any one or more of which may be waived by Sellers in writing, in Seller’s sole discretion:

 

(a)          each of the representations and warranties of Buyer contained in this Agreement shall be true and correct in all material respects (other than such representations and warranties qualified by materiality, which shall be true and correct in all respects), in each case on and as of the Closing Date as though made on and as of the Closing Date;

 

(b)          Buyer shall have performed, and complied with, in all material respects all covenants and agreements required by this Agreement to be performed, and complied with, by Buyer on or before the Closing Date;

 

(c)          Buyer shall have delivered to Sellers a certificate from a duly authorized officer of Buyer, dated the Closing Date and executed by such officer, in a form reasonably acceptable to Sellers, certifying the items in Section 7.3(a) and Section 7.3(b); and

 

(d)          Buyer shall have delivered (or caused to be delivered) to Sellers, the Closing deliverables described in Section 3.3 above.

 

Article 8

Termination

 

Section 8.1            Termination . This Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby may be terminated at any time prior to the Closing:

 

(a)          by mutual written consent of the Parties;

 

(b)          by either Sellers on the one hand or Buyer on the other hand if the other Party (i) becomes insolvent, (ii) files a petition in bankruptcy (or has a petition filed against it that is not dismissed by the suffering party within thirty (30) days of such filing), or (iii) makes an assignment for benefit of its creditors;

 

(c)          by either Sellers on the one hand or Buyer on the other hand if the Closing shall not have occurred on or prior to the Outside Date for any reason whatsoever except to the extent the Closing shall have been delayed by a material breach of this Agreement by the Party seeking to terminate the Agreement;

 

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(d)          by either Sellers on the one hand or Buyer on the other hand if, following completion of all system impact and facilities studies associated with MISO Interconnection Queue Request J457, such Party determines that it is reasonably likely that the full nameplate capacity of the Project will not be fully interconnected to the grid and operated as of the Commercial Operation Date such that the closing condition set forth in Section 7.2(t) will not be met; provided , that such terminating Party has given the other Party at least thirty (30) days’ prior notice (the “ Interconnection Notice ”) of such fact, including a description of the limitations causing such condition not to be met; provided, further , that this Agreement shall not be terminated pursuant to this Section 8.1(d) if prior to the end of such 30-day period (i) Sellers undertake in writing to pay GIA Delay Damages to Buyer as they are determined (and such undertaking shall survive until the resolution of the issues identified in the Interconnection Notice); provided , that the aggregate GIA Delay Damages shall not exceed $10,000,000; or (ii) Buyer notifies Sellers in writing that Buyer is waiving such condition precedent set forth in Section 7.2(t) with respect to the limitation(s) specified in the Interconnection Notice;

 

(e)          by Buyer, if any condition in Section 7.1 or Section 7.2 becomes incapable of fulfillment by the Outside Date; or if Sellers are in material breach or violation of any provision of this Agreement; provided , that Buyer (i) has given Sellers at least sixty (60) days’ prior notice of the violation or breach and Sellers have not cured such violation or breach in all material respects during such sixty (60) day period, and (ii) has not waived such condition in writing;

 

(f)          by Buyer, if a fact, matter, condition, event or circumstance first disclosed in an Update from Sellers has had or would reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect; provided , that Buyer must give written notice of its intent to terminate with within 10 days of receipt of any such Update or it irrevocably waives its right to terminate this Agreement; and provide further , that (i) Buyer has given Sellers at least sixty (60) days’ prior notice of the intent to terminate and Sellers have not cured such Material Adverse Effect during such sixty (60) day period or such longer period as is reasonably necessary to cure such Material Adverse Effect, provided Seller diligently pursues such cure, and (ii) such event or occurrence was not caused by Buyer;

 

(g)          by Buyer if:

 

(i)          Sellers have not commenced micrositing with respect to the Project by January 31, 2017;

 

(ii)         Sellers have not filed for the FAA Determinations by March 31, 2017;

 

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(iii)        Sellers have not filed, by March 3, 2017, an application for an amendment of the Certificate of Site Compatibility to the NDPSC (which application for amendment notes the Sellers’ decisions, in connection with the Project and the Site, not to provide a buffer for all active sharp-tailed grouse leks and not to pursue an incidental take permit or prepare a habitat conservation plan for the whooping crane or the piping plover); provided , that such date shall be subject to an extension of thirty (30) days as long as (A) Sellers are diligently pursuing such application, (B) the filing of such application is reasonably achievable during such extension, and (C) such delay is not a direct result of any action or failure to act by Sellers; provided , further, that such extended date shall be subject to a further extension of thirty (30) days as long as (x) Sellers are continuing to diligently pursue the filing of such application, (y) the filing of such application is reasonably achievable during such extension, and (z) such delay is not a direct result of any action or failure to act by a Seller;

 

(iv)         Sellers shall have failed to satisfy the requirements of Section 6.11 by August 1, 2017; provided, that such date shall be subject to an extension of ninety (90) days as long as (A) Sellers are diligently pursuing the requirements of Section 6.11, (B) such requirements are reasonably achievable during such extension, and (C) such delay is not a direct result of any action or failure to act by Sellers; or

 

(v)          Sellers shall have failed to deliver to Buyer by December 31, 2017 a current Bird and Bat Conservation Strategy;

 

(h)          by Sellers, if any condition in Section 7.1 or Section 7.3 becomes incapable of fulfillment by the Outside Date; or if Buyer is in material breach or violation of any provision of this Agreement; provided , that Sellers (i) have given Buyer at least sixty (60) days’ prior notice of the violation or breach and Buyer has not cured such violation or breach in all material respects during such sixty (60) day period, and (ii) have not waived such condition in writing;

 

(i)          by Sellers, if a fact, matter, condition, event or circumstance first disclosed in an Update from Buyer has had or would reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect; provided , that Seller must give written notice of its intent to terminate with within 10 days of receipt of any such Update or it irrevocably waives it right to terminate this Agreement; and provide further , that (i) Sellers have given Buyer at least sixty (60) days’ prior notice of the intent to terminate and Buyer has not cured such Material Adverse Effect during such sixty (60) day period, or such longer period as is reasonably necessary to cure such Material Adverse Effect, provided Buyer diligently pursues such cure, and (ii) such event or occurrence was not caused by Sellers;

 

(j)          automatically in accordance with the terms of Section 6.10(d); or

 

(k)          automatically upon termination of the TEPC in accordance with its terms; or

 

(l)          by Sellers, if Buyer delivers an Update Indemnification Notice in accordance with Section 6.8; provided , that as a condition to such termination, Seller shall be required to pay Buyer an amount equal to the Signing Milestone Payment.

 

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Notwithstanding any term in this Section 8.1, a Party will not have the right to terminate this Agreement if the failure to satisfy any condition to the Closing or consummate the transactions contemplated in this Agreement resulted from the material breach by such Party of any of its representations, warranties, covenants or agreements herein, or if such Party is otherwise in material breach of this Agreement.

 

Section 8.2            Effect of Termination . In the event of the termination of this Agreement and the abandonment of the transactions contemplated hereby pursuant to this Article 8, this Agreement shall be of no further force or effect and there shall be no Liability to any Party hereunder in connection with this Agreement or the transactions contemplated by this Agreement; provided , however that nothing herein shall relieve any Party from liability or damages resulting from any breach of this Agreement prior to the effective date of termination; provided , further that the obligations of the parties set forth in this Section 8.2, Article 10 (including, in each case, the definitions of the terms set forth in Section 1.1) and the Confidentiality Agreement shall survive any such termination and shall be enforceable hereunder.

 

Article 9

INDEMNIFICATION, LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY AND WAIVERS

 

Section 9.1            Survival . All representations, warranties, covenants and obligations in this Agreement will survive the Closing; provided that, any Indemnity Claim based on a breach of any representation or warranty must be made in accordance with this Article 9 to the Indemnifying Party (or not at all) on or prior to the date that is eighteen (18) months following the Closing Date, except that (i) any Indemnity Claim for a breach of any Designated Representation or any Indemnity Claims based on fraud or intentional misconduct will survive until the end of the applicable statute of limitations and (ii) any Indemnity Claim for a breach of the representations and warranties set forth in Section 4.16 (the “ PTC Representations ”) shall survive until six (6) years following the Commercial Operation Date. The covenants and obligations of the Parties will survive the Closing and will remain in full force and effect until fully performed.

 

Section 9.2            Indemnification by Sellers . Subject to Sections 9.1 and 9.4, Sellers shall jointly and severally indemnify Buyer and its Affiliates and Representatives (the “ Buyer Group ”) from and against all Losses arising, directly or indirectly, from or in connection with:

 

(a)          any breach of any representation or warranty made in Article 4 of this Agreement other than Designated Representations;

 

(b)          any breach of any Designated Representation of Sellers;

 

(c)          any breach of the PTC Representations, provided, however, that the ability of the Project to qualify for 80% PTCs  or 60% PTCs, as the case may be, shall be taken into account in determining the Losses arising from such breach of the PTC Representations;

 

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(d)          any breach of any covenant, agreement or other obligation of Sellers contained in this Agreement; and

 

(e)          the retention of the Excluded Liabilities by Sellers.

 

Section 9.3            Indemnification by Buyer . Subject to Sections 9.1 and 9.4, Buyer will indemnify Sellers and their Affiliates and Representatives (the “ Seller Group ”) from and against all Losses arising, directly or indirectly, from or in connection with:

 

(a)          any breach of any representation or warranty made in Article 5 of this Agreement other than Designated Representations;

 

(b)          any breach of any Designated Representations of Buyer;

 

(c)          any breach of any covenant, agreement or other obligation of Buyer contained in this Agreement; and

 

(d)          the assumption of the Assumed Liabilities by Buyer.

 

Section 9.4            Limitations on Liability . Notwithstanding any contrary provision in this Agreement:

 

(a)           Time Bar on Claims . No Indemnified Party will be entitled to any recovery (including by way of off-set) from any Indemnifying Party unless a Notice of Claim has been given on or before the expiration of time period for survival set forth in Section 9.1.

 

(b)           Insurance Recoveries; Tax Gross-Up . Losses for which any Indemnified Party will be reimbursed hereunder will be decreased by insurance proceeds or payments from any other responsible parties actually received by such Indemnified Party (after deducting costs and expenses incurred in connection with recovery of such proceeds) and will be increased to take account of any net tax cost incurred by the Indemnified Party in the year any indemnification payment for such Losses was received (or an earlier year) arising from the receipt of any such payment hereunder (grossed up for such increase) and will be decreased to take into account any net tax benefit realized by the Indemnified Party in the year the Losses were incurred or paid (or an earlier year) arising from the incurrence or payment of any such Losses.)

 

(c)           Deductible . An Indemnified Party will be entitled to make an Indemnity Claim under Section 9.2 or 9.3 for any and all Indemnity Claims once the aggregate amount of all Indemnity Claims by such Indemnified Party exceeds [**] ($[**]) (the “ Deductible ”), in which case the Indemnifying Party shall be required to pay all such Losses in excess of the Deductible. Indemnity Claims based on fraud or intentional misconduct shall not be subject to the Deductible.

_____________________________

[**] Denotes confidential information that has been omitted from the exhibit and filed separately, accompanied by a confidential treatment request, with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Rule 24b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

 

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(d)           General Cap . Notwithstanding the foregoing, the aggregate amount of Losses for which an Indemnifying Party shall be liable pursuant to this Article 9 shall not exceed an amount equal to 50% of the Purchase Price; provided , that such limitation shall not apply to Losses arising out of (i) Indemnity Claims under Section 9.2(b) or Section 9.3(b) which shall not exceed the Purchase Price, and Section 9.2(c) which shall be limited in accordance with Section 9.4(e), (ii) Indemnity Claims based on fraud or willful misconduct or (iii) Indemnity Claims under Section 9.3(c) based on the failure of Buyer to pay the Purchase Price.

 

(e)           PTC Cap . Notwithstanding the foregoing, the aggregate amount of Losses for which Sellers shall be liable for Indemnity Claims under Section 9.2(c) arising from breaches of the PTC Representations set forth in Section 4.16 (after adjustment pursuant to Section 9.4(b)) shall not exceed an amount equal to one hundred million dollars ($100,000,000).

 

(f)           Tax Treatment . Any indemnity payment made pursuant to this Agreement will be treated as an adjustment to the Purchase Price for Tax purposes, unless an audit or other administrative or judicial action with respect to the Indemnified Party causes any such payment not to constitute an adjustment to the Purchase Price for U.S. federal income tax purposes.

 

(g)           NOTWITHSTANDING ANYTHING TO THE CONTRARY IN THIS SECTION 9.4, THE PARTIES RETAIN ALL RIGHTS AND REMEDIES AT LAW WITH RESPECT TO FRAUD OR ANY WILLFUL MISCONDUCT.

 

(h)          EXCEPT IN THE CASE OF AN INDEMNITY CLAIM UNDER SECTION 9.2(C), IN NO EVENT SHALL EITHER PARTY BE LIABLE FOR ANY LOST OR PROSPECTIVE PROFITS NOR ANY PUNITIVE, EXEMPLARY, CONSEQUENTIAL, INCIDENTAL OR INDIRECT LOSSES OR DAMAGES (IN TORT, CONTRACT OR OTHERWISE) UNDER OR IN RESPECT TO THIS AGREEMENT, OTHER THAN SUCH DAMAGES THAT ARISE OUT OF A CLAIM MADE BY A THIRD PARTY AGAINST BUYER OR SELLERS, AS APPLICABLE.

 

Section 9.5            Procedures for Third Party Claims .

 

(a)          Promptly after receipt by an Indemnified Party of notice of the commencement of any Action by a third party (a “ Third Party Claim ”) with respect to any matter for which indemnification is or may be owing pursuant to Section 9.2 or 9.3 hereof, the Indemnified Party will give notice thereof to the Indemnifying Party, provided , however , that the failure of the Indemnified Party to notify the Indemnifying Party will not relieve the Indemnifying Party of any of its obligations hereunder, except to the extent that the Indemnifying Party demonstrates that the defense of such Third Party Claim has been actually prejudiced by the Indemnified Party’s failure to give such notice.

 

 

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(b)          If any Action referred to in Section 9.5(a) is brought against an Indemnified Party and the Indemnified Party gives notice to the Indemnifying Party of the commencement of such Action, the Indemnifying Party will be entitled to participate in such Action, and (unless (x) the Indemnifying Party is also a party to such Action and the Indemnified Party determines in good faith that joint representation would be inappropriate upon the advice of outside counsel that a conflict of interest exists between the Indemnified Party and the Indemnifying Party with respect to such Action, or (y) the Indemnifying Party fails to provide reasonable assurance to the Indemnified Party of its financial capacity to defend such Action and provide indemnification with respect to such Action) may assume the defense of such Action with counsel satisfactory to the Indemnified Party and, after notice from the Indemnifying Party to the Indemnified Party of its election to assume the defense of such Action, the Indemnifying Party will not, as long as it diligently conducts such defense, be liable to the Indemnified Party under this Section 9.5 for any fees of other counsel with respect to the defense of such Action, in each case subsequently incurred by the Indemnified Party in connection with the defense of such Action.

 

(c)          If the Indemnifying Party is entitled to and assumes the defense of an Action, no compromise or settlement of such claims or Action may be effected by the Indemnifying Party without the Indemnified Party’s written consent (which shall not be unreasonably withheld) unless (i) there is no finding or admission of any violation of Law or any violation of the rights of any Person and no effect on or grounds for the basis of any other Claims that may be made against the Indemnified Party, and (ii) the sole relief provided is monetary damages that are paid in full by the Indemnifying Party; and the Indemnified Party will have no Liability with respect to any compromise or settlement of such claims or Action effected without Indemnified Party’s written consent. Notwithstanding the assumption by the Indemnifying Party of the defense of any Claim or Action, the Indemnified Party will be permitted to join in such defense and to employ counsel at its own expense. If notice pursuant to Section 9.5(a) is given to an Indemnified Party of the commencement of any Action and the Indemnifying Party does not, within ten (10) Business Days after such Indemnified Party’s notice is given, give notice to the Indemnified Party of its election to assume the defense of such Action, the Indemnifying Party will be bound by any determination made in such Action or any compromise or settlement effected by the Indemnified Party.

 

(d)          Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Indemnified Party determines in good faith that there is a reasonable probability that an Action may adversely affect the Indemnified Party or its Affiliates other than as a result of monetary Losses for which it would be entitled to indemnification under this Agreement, the Indemnified Party may, by notice to the Indemnifying Party, assume the exclusive right to defend, compromise or settle such Action, but the Indemnifying Party will not be bound by any compromise or settlement effected without its written consent (which may not be unreasonably withheld).

 

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(e)          The Indemnifying Party and the Indemnified Party agree to provide each other with reasonable access during regular business hours to the properties, books and records and Representatives of the other, as reasonably necessary in connection with the preparation for an existing or anticipated Action involving a Third Party Claim and its obligations with respect thereto pursuant to this Article 9.

 

Section 9.6            Indemnification Procedures . The following procedures will apply to any claim for indemnification by Buyer Group or the Seller Group that does not involve a Third Party Claim:

 

(a)           Notice of Claim . A Notice of Claim will be given as soon as practicable, but in no event later than sixty (60) days, after the Indemnified Party determines that it is or may be entitled to indemnification pursuant to this Agreement; provided , however , that failure to provide notice will not prejudice the Indemnified Party’s right to indemnity, except to the extent the Indemnifying Party is irrevocably prejudiced. Notice of Claim will be made as follows:

 

(i)          in the case of any Indemnity Claim by any member of Buyer Group, by Buyer to Sellers at the address and in the manner provided in Section 10.1 ( Notices ). Buyer will be the Indemnified Party with respect to Indemnity Claims pursuant to Section 9.2, and no liability in respect of any such Indemnity Claim will be contested, settled, admitted, litigated or otherwise dealt with by or on behalf of Buyer Group for this purpose by any person other than Buyer; and

 

(ii)         in the case of any Indemnity Claim by any member of the Seller Group against Buyer, by Sellers to Buyer at the address and in the manner provided in Section 10.1 (Notices). Sellers will be the Indemnified Party with respect to Indemnity Claims pursuant to Section 9.3, and no liability in respect of any such Indemnity Claim will be contested, settled, admitted, litigated or otherwise dealt with by or on behalf of the Seller Group for this purpose by any person other than Sellers.

 

(b)           Dispute Notice . If the Indemnifying Party disputes (x) its obligation to indemnify the Indemnified Party in respect of any Indemnity Claim set forth in a Notice of Claim, or (y) the Indemnity Claim Amount set forth in a Notice of Claim, a dispute notice (“ Dispute Notice ”) will be given as soon as practicable, but in no event later than forty-five (45) days, after the Notice of Claim is given, as follows:

 

(i)          in the case of any Indemnity Claim by any member of Buyer Group against Sellers, a Dispute Notice may be given only by Sellers, and if given, will be sent by Sellers to Buyer at the address and in the manner provided in Section 10.1 (Notices); and

 

(ii)         in the case of any Indemnity Claim by any member of the Seller Group against Buyer, a Dispute Notice may be given only by Buyer, and if given, will be sent by Buyer to Sellers at the address and in the manner provided in Section 10.1 ( Notices ).

 

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(A)         If no Dispute Notice is given within such thirty (30) day period, the validity of the claim for indemnification and the Indemnity Claim Amount, each as set forth in the Notice of Claim, will be deemed to be agreed, effective on the first (1st) day following such thirty (30) day period, and the Indemnity Claim Amount set forth in the Notice of Claim will immediately be an “Indemnity Amount Payable” of the relevant Indemnifying Party.

 

(B)         If a Dispute Notice is given within such thirty (30) day period, then:

 

(1)         The portion, if any, of the Indemnity Claim Amount which is not disputed in the Dispute Notice will immediately be an Indemnity Amount Payable of the relevant Indemnifying Party.

 

(2)         Buyer and Sellers will negotiate in good faith to settle the dispute, and the portion, if any, of the Indemnity Claim Amount which Buyer and Sellers agree in writing is payable will immediately be an Indemnity Amount Payable of the relevant Indemnifying Party.

 

(3)         If Buyer and Sellers are unable to resolve any portion of the Indemnity Claim Amount within two (2) months following the date the Dispute Notice is given, either Buyer or Sellers may initiate proceedings specified in Section 10.12 (Governing Law; Venue; and Jurisdiction) of this Agreement to obtain resolution of the dispute.

 

(4)         If neither Buyer nor any Seller initiates legal proceedings in respect of the dispute within twelve (12) months following the date the Dispute Notice is given, the portion of the Indemnity Claim Amount which is disputed will not be an Indemnity Amount Payable, and the Indemnified Party will have no further right, under this Agreement, to seek to recover such amount from the Indemnifying Party.

 

(5)         If Buyer or Sellers initiates legal proceedings within the twelve (12) month period specified in Section 9.6(b)(ii)(B)(4), the amount, if any, determined in a Final Order as payable by the Indemnifying Party will be an Indemnity Amount Payable of the relevant Indemnifying Party as of the date of such Final Order.

 

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Section 9.7            Payments of Indemnity Amounts Payable by Buyer . Subject to the limitations in Section 9.4, Buyer will pay to each relevant Indemnified Party any Indemnity Amount Payable by Buyer, by wire transfer of immediately available dollars (or as otherwise directed pursuant to any Final Order or as otherwise agreed by the Indemnified Party and the Indemnifying Party) to an account designated by Sellers, promptly and in no event later than ten (10) Business Days after such Indemnity Amount Payable is established in accordance with this Agreement.

 

Section 9.8            Payments of Indemnity Amounts Payable by Sellers . Subject to the limitations in Section 9.4, any Indemnity Amount Payable by Sellers to each relevant Indemnified Party will be paid by wire transfer of immediately available dollars (or as otherwise directed pursuant to any Final Order or as otherwise agreed by the Indemnified Party and the Indemnifying Party) to an account designated by Buyer, promptly and in no event later than ten (10) Business Days after such Indemnity Amount Payable is established in accordance with this Agreement.

 

Section 9.9            Exclusive Remedy . Except for fraud or willful misconduct, the sole and exclusive remedies for any breach of the terms and provisions of this Agreement (including any representations and warranties and covenants set forth herein, made in connection herewith or as an inducement to enter into this Agreement) or any claim or cause of action otherwise arising out of or related to the subject matter hereof, will be such remedies set forth in this Agreement, including and subject to the limitations set forth in this Article 9.

 

Article 10

MISCELLANEOUS

 

Section 10.1          Notices .

 

(a)          Unless this Agreement specifically requires otherwise, any notice, demand or request provided for in this Agreement, or served, given or made in connection with it, will be in writing and will be deemed properly served, given or made if delivered in person or sent by facsimile or email (in the case of delivery by facsimile or email, solely if receipt is confirmed) or sent by registered or certified mail, postage prepaid, or by a nationally recognized overnight courier service that provides a receipt of delivery, in each case, to the Parties at the addresses specified below:

 

If to Buyer, to:

 

Otter Tail Power Company
215 South Cascade Street

Fergus Falls, MN 56537

Attention: Harvey McMahon, Manager, Renewable Energy Construction & Operations

Telephone: (701) 253-4732

Facsimile: (218) 739-8629

Email: HMcMahon@otpco.com

 

With a copy to:

 

Otter Tail Power Company
215 South Cascade Street

Fergus Falls, MN 56537

Attention: Legal Department

Telephone: (218) 739-8922

Facsimile: (218) 998-3165

Email: mbring@otpco.com

 

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And a copy to:

 

Dorsey & Whitney LLP

Suite 1500

50 South Sixth Street

Minneapolis, MN 55402

Attention: John Seymour

Telephone: (612) 492-6020

Facsimile: (612) 340-2868

Email: Seymour.John@dorsey.com

 

If to Sellers, to:

 

EDF Renewable Energy

15445 Innovation Drive

San Diego, CA 92128

Attention: Sohinaz Sotoudeh

Telephone: (917) 549-3346

Facsimile: (858) 521-3333

Email: Sohinaz.Sotoudeh@edf-re.com

 

With a copy to:

 

EDF Renewable Energy

15445 Innovation Drive

San Diego, CA 92128

Attention: Joshua Pearson

Telephone: (858) 521-3467

Facsimile: (858) 521-3333

Email: Joshua.Pearson@edf-re.com

 

With a copy to:

 

Stoel Rives LLP

33 South Sixth Street, Suite 4200

Minneapolis, MN 55402

Attention: David Quinby

Telephone: (612) 373-8825

Facsimile: (612) 373-8881

Email: david.quinby@stoel.com

 

(b)          Notice given by personal delivery, mail or overnight courier pursuant to this Section 10.1 will be effective upon physical receipt. Notice given by facsimile or email pursuant to this Section 10.1 will be effective as of the date of confirmed delivery if delivered before 5:00 p.m. Central Time on any Business Day or the next succeeding Business Day if confirmed delivery is after 5:00 p.m. Central Time on any Business Day or during any non-Business Day.

 

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Section 10.2          Entire Agreement . Except for the Confidentiality Agreement, this Agreement, the TEPC and the Ancillary Agreements supersede all prior discussions and agreements between the Parties with respect to the subject matter hereof, and this Agreement, the Ancillary Agreements, the Confidentiality Agreement and the other documents delivered pursuant to this Agreement contain the sole and entire agreement between the Parties hereto with respect to the subject matter hereof. The Parties hereto have voluntarily agreed to define their rights, liabilities and obligations with respect to the subject matter hereof exclusively in contract pursuant to the express terms and provisions of this Agreement, the Ancillary Agreements, the Confidentiality Agreement and the other documents delivered pursuant to this Agreement; and the Parties hereto expressly disclaim that they are owed any duties or are entitled to any remedies not expressly set forth in this Agreement. Furthermore, the Parties each hereby acknowledge that this Agreement embodies the justifiable expectations of sophisticated parties derived from arm’s-length negotiations; all Parties specifically acknowledge that no Seller has any special relationship with Buyer that would justify any expectation beyond that of an ordinary buyer and an ordinary seller in an arm’s-length transaction.

 

Section 10.3          Expenses . Except as otherwise expressly provided in this Agreement, whether or not the transactions contemplated hereby are consummated, each Party will pay its own costs and expenses incurred in anticipation of, relating to and in connection with the negotiation and execution of this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby, including all expenses and costs incurred to obtain approvals required by such Party from Governmental Authorities.

 

Section 10.4          Disclosure . Sellers may, at their option, include in the Schedules items that are not material in order to avoid any misunderstanding, and any such inclusion, or any references to dollar amounts, will not be deemed to be an acknowledgment or representation that such items are material, to establish any standard of materiality or to define further the meaning of such terms for purposes of this Agreement. Information disclosed in any Schedule will constitute a disclosure for purposes of all other Schedules notwithstanding the lack of specific cross-reference thereto, but only to the extent the applicability of such disclosure to such other Schedule is readily apparent. In no event will the inclusion of any matter in the Schedules be deemed or interpreted to broaden Sellers’ representations, warranties, covenants or agreements contained in this Agreement. The mere inclusion of an item in the Schedules will not be deemed an admission by Sellers that such item represents a material exception or fact, event, or circumstance or that such item is reasonably likely to result in a Material Adverse Effect. Each Party will promptly notify the other Party upon becoming aware of (a) the occurrence, or failure to occur, of any event, which occurrence or failure has caused any representation or warranty of such Party contained in this Agreement or in any exhibit, schedule, certificate, document or written instrument attached hereto to be untrue or inaccurate, (b) any failure of such Party to comply with, perform or satisfy, in any respect, any covenant, condition or agreement to be complied with, performed by or satisfied by it under this Agreement or any exhibit, schedule, certificate, document or written instrument attached hereto and (c) any notice or other communication from any Governmental Authority in connection with this Agreement or the transactions contemplated herein and therein; provided, that such disclosure will not be deemed to cure, or to relieve any Party of any liability or obligation with respect to, any breach of or failure to satisfy any representation, warranty, covenant or agreement or any condition hereunder, and will not affect any Party’s right with respect to indemnification hereunder, except as provided in Section 6.8.

 

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Section 10.5          Waiver . Any term or condition of this Agreement may be waived at any time by the Party that is entitled to the benefit thereof, but no such waiver will be effective unless set forth in a written instrument duly executed by or on behalf of the Party waiving such term or condition. No waiver by any Party of any term or condition of this Agreement, in any one or more instances, will be deemed to be or construed as a waiver of the same or any other term or condition of this Agreement on any future occasion. All remedies under this Agreement will be cumulative and not alternative.

 

Section 10.6          Amendment . This Agreement may be amended, supplemented or modified only by a written instrument duly executed by or on behalf of each Party.

 

Section 10.7          No Third Party Beneficiary . Except for the provisions of Sections 9.2 and 9.3 (which are intended for the benefit of the Persons identified therein), the terms and provisions of this Agreement are intended solely for the benefit of the Parties and their respective successors or permitted assigns, and it is not the intention of the Parties to confer third-party beneficiary rights upon any other Person. For the avoidance of doubt, no Person who is not a Party to this Agreement, may challenge any termination of this Agreement, for any reason, or enforce or seek to enforce any provisions of this Agreement (except as set forth in the first sentence of this Section).

 

Section 10.8          Assignment; Binding Effect . Buyer may assign its rights to indemnification under this Agreement to any Affiliate or to Buyer’s lenders for collateral security purposes, but such assignment will not release Buyer from its obligations hereunder. Except as provided in the preceding sentence, neither this Agreement nor any right, interest or obligation hereunder may be assigned by any Party without the prior written consent of each of the other Party.

 

Section 10.9          Headings . The headings used in this Agreement have been inserted for convenience of reference only and do not define or limit the provisions hereof.

 

Section 10.10          Invalid Provisions . If any provision of this Agreement is held to be illegal, invalid or unenforceable under any present or future Law, and if the rights or obligations of any Party under this Agreement will not be materially and adversely affected thereby, such provision will be fully severable, this Agreement will be construed and enforced as if such illegal, invalid or unenforceable provision had never comprised a part hereof, the remaining provisions of this Agreement will remain in full force and effect and will not be affected by the illegal, invalid or unenforceable provision or by its severance herefrom and in lieu of such illegal, invalid or unenforceable provision, there will be added automatically as a part of this Agreement a legal, valid and enforceable provision as similar in terms to such illegal, invalid or unenforceable provision as may be possible.

 

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Section 10.11          Counterparts; Facsimile . This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which will be deemed an original, but all of which together will constitute one and the same instrument. Any facsimile or portable document format (pdf) copies hereof or signature hereon will, for all purposes, be deemed originals.

 

Section 10.12          Governing Law; Venue; and Jurisdiction .

 

(a)          This Agreement, and all claims or causes of action (whether in contract or tort) that may be based upon, arise out of or relate to this Agreement, or the negotiation, execution or performance of this Agreement (including any claim or cause of action based upon, arising out of or related to any representation or warranty made in or in connection with this Agreement or as an inducement to enter into this Agreement), will be governed by the laws of the State of New York without giving effect to any conflict or choice of law provision.

 

(b)          THE PARTIES HEREBY IRREVOCABLY SUBMIT TO THE EXCLUSIVE JURISDICTION OF ANY STATE OR FEDERAL COURT IN MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA FOR PURPOSES OF ANY SUIT, ACTION OR OTHER PROCEEDING ARISING OUT OF THIS AGREEMENT OR ANY TRANSACTION CONTEMPLATED HEREBY AND EACH PARTY HEREBY CONSENTS TO THE JURISDICTION OF SUCH COURTS (AND OF THE APPROPRIATE APPELLATE COURTS THEREFROM) IN ANY SUCH SUIT, ACTION OR PROCEEDING AND IRREVOCABLY WAIVES, TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, ANY OBJECTION THAT IT MAY NOW OR HEREAFTER HAVE TO THE LAYING OF THE VENUE OF ANY SUCH SUIT, ACTION OR PROCEEDING IN ANY SUCH COURT OR THAT ANY SUCH SUIT, ACTION OR PROCEEDING THAT IS BROUGHT IN ANY SUCH COURT HAS BEEN BROUGHT IN AN INCONVENIENT FORUM. DURING THE PERIOD A LEGAL DISPUTE THAT IS FILED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THIS SECTION 10.12 IS PENDING BEFORE A COURT, ALL ACTIONS, SUITS OR PROCEEDINGS WITH RESPECT TO SUCH LEGAL DISPUTE OR ANY OTHER LEGAL DISPUTE, INCLUDING ANY COUNTERCLAIM, CROSS-CLAIM OR INTERPLEADER, WILL BE SUBJECT TO THE EXCLUSIVE JURISDICTION OF SUCH COURT. EACH PARTY HEREBY WAIVES, AND WILL NOT ASSERT AS A DEFENSE IN ANY LEGAL DISPUTE, THAT (A) SUCH PARTY IS NOT SUBJECT THERETO, (B) SUCH ACTION, SUIT OR PROCEEDING MAY NOT BE BROUGHT OR IS NOT MAINTAINABLE IN SUCH COURT, (C) SUCH PARTY’S PROPERTY IS EXEMPT OR IMMUNE FROM EXECUTION, (D) SUCH ACTION, SUIT OR PROCEEDING IS BROUGHT IN AN INCONVENIENT FORUM OR (E) THE VENUE OF SUCH ACTION, SUIT OR PROCEEDING IS IMPROPER. A FINAL JUDGMENT IN ANY ACTION, SUIT OR PROCEEDING DESCRIBED IN THIS SECTION 10.12 FOLLOWING THE EXPIRATION OF ANY PERIOD PERMITTED FOR APPEAL AND SUBJECT TO ANY STAY DURING APPEAL WILL BE CONCLUSIVE AND MAY BE ENFORCED IN OTHER JURISDICTIONS BY SUIT ON THE JUDGMENT OR IN ANY OTHER MANNER PROVIDED BY APPLICABLE LAWS.

 

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(c)          EACH PARTY HEREBY WAIVES, TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, ANY RIGHT IT MAY HAVE TO A TRIAL BY JURY.

 

Section 10.13          Specific Performance . The Parties acknowledge and agree that irreparable damage would occur in the event that any of the provisions of this Agreement were not performed in accordance with their specific terms or were otherwise breached. It is accordingly agreed that the Parties shall be entitled to an injunction or injunctions to prevent breaches or threatened breaches of this Agreement and to specifically enforce the terms and provisions of this Agreement and any other agreement or instrument executed in connection herewith or contemplated hereby, and the Parties agree that specific performance is the remedy intended by the parties for any such breaches or threatened breaches. The Parties further agree that (a) by seeking the remedies provided for in this Section 10.13, a Party shall not in any respect waive its right to seek any other form of relief that may be available to a party under this Agreement, including monetary damages and (b) the commencement of any Action pursuant to this Section 10.13 or anything contained in this Section 10.13 shall not restrict or limit any other remedies under this Agreement that may be available then or thereafter.

 

[signature pages follow]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF , this Agreement has been duly executed and delivered by the duly authorized officer of each Party as of the date first above written.

 

  SELLERS :
   
  EDF RENEWABLE DEVELOPMENT, INC.,
  a Delaware corporation
     
  By: /s/ Tristan Grimbert
    Name: Tristan Grimbert
    Title: President and Chief Executive Officer
   
  POWER PARTNERS MIDWEST, LLC,
  a Delaware limited liability company
     
  By: EDF Renewable Energy, Inc., its Manager
     
    By: /s/ Tristan Grimbert
      Name: Tristan Grimbert
      Title: President and Chief Executive Officer
   
  EDF-RE US DEVELOPMENT, LLC ,
  a Delaware limited liability company
   
  By: EDF Renewable Development, Inc., its Managing Member
     
    By: /s/ Tristan Grimbert
      Name: Tristan Grimbert
      Title: President and Chief Executive Officer

 

[ Signature pages to Asset Purchase Agreement ]

 

 

 

 

  MERRICOURT POWER PARTNERS, LLC ,
  a Delaware limited liability company
   
  By: EDF-RE US Development, LLC, its Manager
  By: EDF Renewable Development, Inc., its Managing Member
   
    By: /s/ Tristan Grimbert
      Name: Tristan Grimbert
      Title: President and Chief Executive Officer

 

[ Signature pages to Asset Purchase Agreement ]

 

 

 

 

  BUYER :
   
  OTTER TAIL POWER COMPANY ,
  a Minnesota corporation
     
  By: /s/ Timothy J. Rogelstad
    Name: Timothy J. Rogelstad
    Title: President

 

[ Signature pages to Asset Purchase Agreement ]

 

 

 

 

 

Exhibit 2-C

 

Confidential treatment has been requested for portions of this exhibit pursuant to Rule 24b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The copy filed herewith omits the information subject to the confidentiality request. Omissions are designated as [**]. A complete version of this exhibit has been filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

 

Execution Version

 

TURNKEY ENGINEERING, PROCUREMENT AND CONSTRUCTION

SERVICES AGREEMENT

(MERRICOURT WIND PROJECT)

 

Dated as of November 16, 2016

 

By and between

 

OTTER TAIL POWER COMPANY

 

as Owner

 

and

 

EDF-RE US DEVELOPMENT, LLC

as Contractor

 

 

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

  Page
   
Article 1 DEFINITIONS AND RULES OF INTERPRETATION 1
   
Section 1.1 Definitions 1
Section 1.2 Rules of Interpretation 18
     
Article 2 THE PROJECT 19
   
Section 2.1 Scope of Work 19
Section 2.2 Contractor Obligations 20
Section 2.3 Compliance 22
Section 2.4 Project Schedule; Monthly Progress Report; Recovery Plan 22
Section 2.5 Engineering and Design 24
Section 2.6 Procurement 26
Section 2.7 Labor and Personnel 27
Section 2.8 Project Quality Assurance Plan 28
Section 2.9 Permits and Other Approvals 28
Section 2.10 Real Property Rights 29
Section 2.11 Turnover Packages. 29
Section 2.12 Construction Methods and Safety Procedures 30
Section 2.13 Commissioning and Testing 33
Section 2.14 Clean-up; Non-interference 33
Section 2.15 Books and Records; Audit Rights 33
Section 2.16 Commencement of the Work 34
Section 2.17 Interconnection 34
Section 2.18 Owner’s Right to Inspect 34
Section 2.19 Notice of Claims and Liens 35
Section 2.20 Cooperation 35
Section 2.21 Security and Assignment Agreements and Consents 36
     
Article 3 SUBCONTRACTORS 36
   
Section 3.1 Subcontractors 36
Section 3.2 Major Subcontracts 37
Section 3.3 Change in Major Subcontractor due to Owner’s Objections 37
     
Article 4 Agreement PRICE AND PAYMENTS 37
   
Section 4.1 Agreement Price 37
Section 4.2 Taxes 38
Section 4.3 Payment of the Agreement Price 40
Section 4.4 Disputed Invoices 41
Section 4.5 Conditions of Payment 41
Section 4.6 Evidence of Payments to Turbine Supplier 41
Section 4.7 Guarantees; Backup Letter of Credit 41
Section 4.8 Interest 42

 

  i

 

 

Section 4.9 Effect of Payment 42
Section 4.10 Set-off 43
Section 4.11 Payment Dates 43
Section 4.12 Payment Withheld 43
Section 4.13 Release of Liens 43
Section 4.14 Final Payment 43
     
Article 5 OWNER RESPONSIBILITIES 43
   
Section 5.1 Project Site Access 43
Section 5.2 Permits 44
Section 5.3 [Reserved] 44
Section 5.4 Review of Design Documents 44
Section 5.5 Owner-Caused Delay 44
     
Article 6 COMPLETION; COMMISSIONING AND TURNOVER 44
   
Section 6.1 General 44
Section 6.2 Foundation Completion 44
Section 6.3 WTG Mechanical Completion 45
Section 6.4 Commissioning and Turnover of Electrical Works 46
Section 6.5 Project Substantial Completion 47
Section 6.6 Final Completion 48
Section 6.7 Achievement of Foundation Completion, Commissioning and Turnover of Electrical Works, Mechanical Completion, WTG Substantial Completion, Project Substantial Completion and Final Completion 49
Section 6.8 Completion Guarantees 50
Section 6.9 Delay Liquidated Damages 50
     
Article 7 WARRANTIES 51
   
Section 7.1 Infrastructure Facilities Warranty 51
Section 7.2 WTG Warranties 54
Section 7.3 Subcontractor Warranties 54
Section 7.4 General Limitations on Warranties and Remedies 54
     
Article 8 FORCE MAJEURE 54
   
Section 8.1 Performance Excused 54
Section 8.2 Disputes; Burden of Proof 56
     
Article 9 SCOPE CHANGES 56
   
Section 9.1 Scope Changes 56
Section 9.2 Scope Change by Owner 57
Section 9.3 No Unapproved Scope Changes 57
Section 9.4 Required Scope Changes 57
Section 9.5 Authorization for Scope Change 58
Section 9.6 Agreement on Firm or Unit Prices 58

 

  ii

 

 

Section 9.7 Absence of Agreement on Firm or Unit Prices 58
Section 9.8 Scope Changes Due to Concealed Subsurface Conditions 58
Section 9.9 Scope Changes Caused by a Force Majeure Event 59
Section 9.10 Owner-Caused Delays 59
Section 9.11 Weather Delay Days 59
     
Article 10 INDEMNIFICATION 60
   
Section 10.1 Indemnities 60
     
Article 11 LIMITATION OF LIABILITY 63
   
Section 11.1 Contractor Delay Liquidated Damages Cap 63
Section 11.2 Contractor’s Aggregate Liability Cap 63
Section 11.3 Contractor Buy-Back Right 63
Section 11.4 PTC Liquidated Damages 63
Section 11.5 CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES 64
Section 11.6 Liquidated Damages Not a Penalty 64
Section 11.7 Limitation of Owner Liabilities 65
Section 11.8 Releases Valid in All Events 65
     
Article 12 INSURANCE 65
   
Section 12.1 Coverage by Contractor and Owner 65
Section 12.2 No Limitation Intended 65
Section 12.3 Failure to Obtain or Maintain Coverage 65
     
Article 13 DEFAULT; TERMINATION AND SUSPENSION 66
   
Section 13.1 Contractor Defaults 66
Section 13.2 Owner Remedies 67
Section 13.3 Owner Default 68
Section 13.4 Contractor Rights to Terminate 69
Section 13.5 Termination of Asset Purchase Agreement 70
Section 13.6 Actions Required Following Termination 70
     
Article 14 TITLE AND RISK OF LOSS 71
   
Section 14.1 Title to WTGs, Infrastructure Facilities and the Work 71
Section 14.2 Ownership of Work Documents 71
Section 14.3 Risk of Loss 72
Section 14.4 Revenues 72
     
Article 15 DISPUTE RESOLUTION 72
   
Section 15.1 Choice of Law 72
Section 15.2 Attempt to Resolve Disputes 72
Section 15.3 Forum Selection 72
Section 15.4 WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL; ENFORCEMENT PROCEEDINGS 73
Section 15.5 Service of Process 73
Section 15.6 Continued Performance 73

 

  iii

 

 

Article 16 REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES 73
   
Section 16.1 Contractor Representations 73
Section 16.2 Owner Representations 74
     
Article 17 MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS 75
   
Section 17.1 Confidentiality 75
Section 17.2 Public Announcements; Press Release 76
Section 17.3 Software and Other Proprietary Material 76
Section 17.4 Notice 77
Section 17.5 No Rights in Third Parties 78
Section 17.6 Conflicting Provisions 78
Section 17.7 Entire Agreement 78
Section 17.8 Amendments 78
Section 17.9 [Reserved] 79
Section 17.10 Right of Waiver 79
Section 17.11 Severability 79
Section 17.12 Assignment 79
Section 17.13 Successors and Assigns 79
Section 17.14 No Partnership Created 79
Section 17.15 Survival 79
Section 17.16 Effectiveness 79
Section 17.17 Further Assurances 80
Section 17.18 Captions 80
Section 17.19 Equal Employment Opportunity 80
Section 17.20 Counterparts 80

 

EXHIBITS

 

Exhibit 1.1 Description of Project Site and Real Property Rights
Exhibit 2.2.2 Part 0 – Scope of Work
  Part 1 – WTG Technical Specifications
  Part 2a – Road Specification
  Part 2b – Hydrology Specification
  Part 3 –Transformer Specification
  Part 4 – Foundation Technical Specifications
  Part 5 – Infrastructure Layout
  Part 6 – Collection System Technical Specifications
  Part 7 –  O&M Building Technical Specifications and Floor Plan
  Part 8 – Power System Study Specification
  Part 9 - SCADA Specification
  Part 10 - General Engineering Specification
  Part 11 – Substation Specification
Exhibit 2.2.7 Training Program
Exhibit 2.4.1 Project Schedule
Exhibit 2.4.3 Form of Monthly Progress Report

 

  iv

 

 

Exhibit 2.5.2 Owner’s Safety Procedures
Exhibit 2.5.5 Project Document Submittals and As-Built Drawings Schedule
Exhibit 2.6.1   Project One-Line Diagrams, Equipment and Material List
  Part 1 Project One-Line Diagram
  Part 2 Example Equipment and Material List
Exhibit 2.8 Project Quality Assurance Plan
Exhibit 2.9 List of Permits
Exhibit 2.12.1 Contractor’s Safety Program
Exhibit 3.1.2 Form of Assignment Clause for Subcontracts
Exhibit 3.2 List of Approved Subcontractors
Exhibit 4.1 Payment Schedule
Exhibit 4.1.1 Options
Exhibit 4.1.2 Form of Owner LOC
Exhibit 4.2.4 Tax Exemption Certificate
Exhibit 4.3 Form of Milestone Payment Request
Exhibit 4.5 Form of Partial Lien Waivers
Exhibit 4.5.a Form of Final Lien Waivers
Exhibit 4.7 Form of EDF-EN Guaranty
Exhibit 4.7.a Form of Construction Period Guaranty
Exhibit 4.7.b Form of Post-Construction Guaranty
Exhibit 4.7.c Form of Backup LOC
Exhibit 6.2.7 Form of Foundation Completion Certificate
Exhibit 6.3 Form of WTG Mechanical Completion Certificate
Exhibit 6.3.1 Mechanical Completion Checklist
Exhibit 6.4 Form of Electrical Works Commissioning and Turnover Certificate
Exhibit 6.4.3 Commissioning, Test and Inspection Procedures
Exhibit 6.5 Form of WTG Commissioning and Turnover Certificate
Exhibit 6.5.10 Part 1  [Reserved]
  Part 2  WTG Substantial Completion Certificate
  Part 3  Project Substantial Completion Certificate
Exhibit 6.6.13 Form of Final Completion Certificate
Exhibit 9.11 Contractor’s Time and Materials Rates
Exhibit 12 Insurance
Exhibit 13.2.2 Turbine Supply Security and Collateral Assignment
Exhibit 13.2.2.a Turbine Supplier Consent to Assignment
Exhibit 13.2.2.b Prime Subcontract Security and Collateral Assignment

 

SCHEDULES

 

Schedule 11.4 Adjustment of PTC Liquidated Damages

  

  v

 

 

TURNKEY ENGINEERING, PROCUREMENT AND CONSTRUCTION SERVICES AGREEMENT

 

THIS TURNKEY ENGINEERING, PROCUREMENT AND CONSTRUCTION SERVICES AGREEMENT (this “ Agreement ”), is made, entered into and effective as of November 16, 2016, (“ Effective Date ”) by and between OTTER TAIL POWER COMPANY, a Minnesota corporation (“ Owner ”), and EDF-RE US DEVELOPMENT, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“ Contractor ”) (each of Owner and Contractor individually referred to as a “ Party ” and together as the “ Parties ”).

 

RECITALS

 

A.           Contractor is in the process of developing a 150 MW wind energy generation project in McIntosh and Dickey Counties, North Dakota, capable of supporting the installation and operation of seventy-five (75) Vestas 2.0 V110 wind turbines, each with a 2.0 megawatt nameplate rating, and in connection therewith has acquired certain real estate rights and other assets and commenced certain development activities (the “ Project ”).

 

B.           Owner desires to acquire the Project prior to the commencement of construction thereof.

 

C.           Pursuant to a separate Asset Purchase Agreement entered into between the Parties concurrently herewith, Owner, Contractor and certain Affiliates of Contractor have agreed upon the terms whereby Contractor will sell the Project Site, the 5% Safe Harbor Turbines and certain other assets related to the Project to the Owner.

 

D.           Owner desires to engage and hire Contractor to provide certain project management, design, engineering, procurement, construction, commissioning, start-up, turnover and related services for the Project, all on a turnkey fixed price basis, and in accordance with the terms and conditions specified herein.

 

E.           The Parties desire to enter into this Agreement in order to set forth their respective rights and obligations.

 

AGREEMENT

 

NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing premises, the mutual agreements herein contained, and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Parties agree as follows:

 

Article 1
DEFINITIONS AND RULES OF INTERPRETATION

 

Section 1.1            Definitions . As used in this Agreement, the following terms shall have the meanings indicated:

 

5% Safe Harbor Turbines ” has the meaning set forth in the Asset Purchase Agreement.

 

 

 

 

Affiliate ” means with respect to any Person, any other Person that directly or indirectly, through one or more intermediaries, controls, is controlled by or is under common control with that Person. The term “ control ” (including, with correlative meaning, the terms “ controlled by ” and “ under common control with ”), as used with respect to any Person, means the possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to direct or cause the direction of the management and policies of such Person, whether through the ownership of voting securities or partnership interests, by contract or otherwise.

 

Agreement ” means this Turnkey Engineering, Procurement and Construction Services Agreement and all Exhibits hereto, as the same may be modified, amended, or supplemented from time to time in accordance with the terms hereof.

 

Agreement Documents ” means this Agreement, Exhibits, Drawings, As-Built Drawings, Documents, Technical Specifications, Scope Change Orders and Design Documents.

 

Agreement Price ” has the meaning set forth in Section 4.1 .

 

Applicable Laws ” means all statutes, laws, treaties, ordinances, exemptions, judgments, decrees, injunctions, writs, orders, rules, regulations, any necessary permits, authorizations or licenses, and interpretations of any governmental authorities having proper jurisdiction over, or otherwise exercising authority with respect to, the Parties, the Project, the performance of the obligations to be performed hereunder, or the operation of the Project.

 

Applicable Standards ” means Prudent Industry Practices and Prudent Engineering Practices; provided , however , that if any portion of such standards or codes conflict with or is less stringent than any Applicable Laws, such conflicting or less stringent portions of such standards shall not be deemed “applicable.”

 

As-Built Drawings and Documentation ” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.5 .

 

Asset Purchase Agreement ” means that certain Asset Purchase Agreement dated as of the Effective Date by and between Owner, Contractor, Power Partners Midwest, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, EDF Renewable Development, Inc., a Delaware corporation, and Merricourt Power Partners, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company.

 

Authorized Representatives ” means Contractor’s Representative and Owner’s Representative collectively.

 

Backup LOC ” has the meaning set forth in Section 4.7 .

 

Business Day ” means any day other than Saturday, a Sunday, or a holiday, on which banks are generally open for business in both Minneapolis, Minnesota and Fargo, North Dakota.

 

“Buy-Back Amount ” has the meaning set forth in Section 11.3

 

Buy-Back Right ” has the meaning set forth in Section 11.3 .

 

  2  

 

 

Change in Law ” means the enactment, adoption, promulgation, issuance, modification, or repeal after the Effective Date of any Applicable Laws or Permit or any material change in the interpretation of any Applicable Laws or Permit by any Governmental Authority or court of law that adversely affects Contractor’s costs or schedule for performing the Work, except that (i) a change in federal, state, or local income tax law shall not be a Change in Law and (ii) an enactment, adoption, promulgation, or material change in the interpretation of an Applicable Law or Permit that is published prior to the Effective Date but that becomes effective after the Effective Date shall not be a Change in Law.

 

Closing Date ” shall mean the “Closing Date” under and as such term is defined in the Asset Purchase Agreement.

 

Code ” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended and in effect.

 

Commissioning ” means the start-up and commissioning activities to be conducted in accordance with the Commissioning Test and Inspection Procedures.

 

Commissioning and Turnover of Electrical Works ” has the meaning set forth in Section 6.4 .

 

Commissioning Test and Inspection Procedures ” means the test and inspection procedures set forth in Exhibit 6.4.3 .

 

Completion Certificate ” or “ Completion Certificates ” has the meaning set forth in Section 6.7 .

 

Concealed Subsurface Conditions ” has the meaning set forth in Section 9.8 .

 

Confidential Information ” has the meaning set forth in Section 17.1 .

 

Collection Substation ” means the substation to be constructed as part of the Project described in Exhibit 2.2.2, Part 11 .

 

Construction Period Guaranty ” means a guaranty by EDF-EN of the full and timely payment of the obligations of Contractor hereunder and of Sellers under the Asset Purchase Agreement, in the form of Exhibit 4.7.a in an amount not to exceed [**] ($[**]).

 

Construction Period Guaranty Expiration ” has the meaning set forth in Section 4.7.2 .

 

Construction Services ” means all services required to construct a fully operational Project; and further provided that any Change in Law shall not affect Contractor’s obligation to complete such actions and services, including the Permits.

 

_____________________________

[**] Denotes confidential information that has been omitted from the exhibit and filed separately, accompanied by a confidential treatment request, with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Rule 24b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

  3  

 

 

Consumable Parts ” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.6.2 .

 

Contractor ” has the meaning set forth in the Preamble.

 

Contractor Event of Default ” has the meaning set forth in Section 13.1 .

 

Contractor Indemnified Party ” has the meaning set forth in Section 10.1.4 .

 

Contractor’s Representative ” means Benjamin Pillod, as such person may be changed from time to time by Contractor in writing to Owner.

 

Contractor’s Safety Program ” means the safety plan and program prepared by Contractor in accordance with Section 2.12.1 .

 

Coordinator of Local Hiring Services ” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.7.3.

 

Counties ” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.7.3.

 

Credit Trigger Event ” means (a) with respect to EDF-EN, the failure of (i) Électricité de France S.A.to own, directly or indirectly, at least fifty percent (50%) of the issued and outstanding equity of EDF-EN; or (ii) EDF-EN to have a Tangible Net Worth of at least €1,750,000,000.00, (b) with respect to EDF-RE, the failure of EDF-RE to have a Tangible Net Worth of at least $50,000,000.00 and (c) with respect to Owner, the downgrading of Owner’s senior unsecured credit rating by any two Rating Agencies to below BBB- (or Baa3 in the case of Moody’s).

 

Critical Path ” means the sequence of activities and milestones required to complete the Project within the time period set forth in the Project Schedule.

 

Day ” or “ Days ” means one or more calendar days.

 

Defect ” or “ Defective ” means (a) a failure to perform engineering or design services that are a part of the Work in accordance with the Requirements of the Agreement or (b) any construction of the Work, or a part or a component thereof, that (i) breaks, (ii) ceases to perform the function for which it was designed or installed, (iii) fails to conform to the Requirements of this Agreement, or (iv) is not free of defects or deficiencies in material or workmanship. The term “ Defects ” shall neither be construed to include damage caused by Owner’s or any third parties’ acts or omissions (other than the acts and omissions of Contractor, its Subcontractors or any Person directly or indirectly employed by any of them or for whom any of them are responsible) to the extent arising out of abuse, misuse, negligence in operation, maintenance and repair (unless such act or omission was taken or made at the written direction of Contractor) or failure to follow Contractor’s or manufacturers’ written recommendations and directions set forth in Documents required to be delivered hereunder and Prudent Industry Practices, nor shall the term “ Defects ” be construed to include ordinary wear and tear (unless as a result of a defect or deficiency).

 

Delay Liquidated Damages ” has the meaning set forth in Section 6.9 .

 

  4  

 

 

Design Development ” means the process in which the Contractor prepares and revises Design Documents.

 

Design Documents ” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.5.2 .

 

Documents ” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 14.2 of this Agreement.

 

Dollars ” or “ $ ” means the lawful currency of the United States of America.

 

Drawings ” means all (i) drawings or supplementary drawings furnished by Contractor as a basis for soliciting proposals, (ii) drawings, if any, submitted by Contractor with its proposal which are included in this Agreement, and (iii) engineering data and drawings submitted by Contractor, if any, during the progress of the Work, provided such drawings are prepared in collaboration with Owner in accordance with the Requirements and the terms of this Agreement.

 

EDF-EN ” means EDF Energies Nouvelles, S.A., a French société anonyme.

 

EDF-EN Guaranty ” means a guaranty by EDF-EN of the full and timely payment of the obligations of Contractor hereunder and of Sellers under the Asset Purchase Agreement, in the form of Exhibit 4.7.1 in an amount not to exceed [**] ($[**]).

 

EDF-EN Guaranty Expiration ” has the meaning set forth in Section 4.7.1 .

 

EDF-RE ” means EDF Renewable Energy, Inc., a Delaware corporation.

 

Effective Date ” has the meaning set forth in the Preamble.

 

Electrical Works Commissioning and Turnover Certificate ” means a certificate in the form of Exhibit 6.4 .

 

Electrical Works ” means the facilities, equipment and work described in Exhibit 2.2.2 - Part 3 , Exhibit 2.2.2 - Part 6 and Exhibit 2.2.2 - Part 11 .

 

Environmental Laws ” means all Laws that regulate or relate to (a) the protection or clean-up of the environment; (b) the Handling of Hazardous Materials; (c) the preservation or protection of waterways, groundwater, drinking water, air, wildlife, plants or other natural resources; and (d) the health and safety of persons or property, including, without limitation, protection of the health and safety of employees, including the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act, 42 U.S.C. § 9601 et seq.; the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, 42 U.S.C. § 6901 et seq.; the Clean Water Act; the Clean Air Act, 42 U.S.C. § 7401 et seq.; the Toxic Substances Control Act, 15 U.S.C. §§ 2601 through 2629; the Oil Pollution Act, 33 U.S.C. § 2701 et seq.; the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act, 42 U.S.C. § 11001 et seq.; the Safe Drinking Water Act, 42 U.S.C. §§ 300f through 300j; the Occupational Safety and Health Act, 29 U.S.C. § 651 et seq.; the Hazardous Materials Transportation Act, 49 U.S.C. § 5101 et seq.; the Endangered Species Act, 16 U.S.C. § 1531 et seq.; the Migratory Bird Treaty Act 16 U.S.C. § 703 et seq.; the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act 16 U.S.C. § 668 et seq.; Centers for Disease Control guidelines, policies and procedures; and all other analogous or related Laws currently in effect (including implementing regulations promulgated pursuant thereto) of any Governmental Authority having jurisdiction over the assets in question addressing pollution control or protection of Protected Species, the environment, wildlife, plants, natural resources, or human health.

 

_____________________________

[**] Denotes confidential information that has been omitted from the exhibit and filed separately, accompanied by a confidential treatment request, with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Rule 24b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

 

  5  

 

 

Exhibits ” means each Exhibit attached hereto and incorporated in its entirety by this reference.

 

Extended Force Majeure Event ” has the meaning set forth in Section 8.1.8 .

 

Final Completion ” has the meaning set forth in Section 6.6 .

 

Final Completion Certificate ” means the certificate in the form of Exhibit 6.6.13 .

 

Final Lien Waiver ” means a sworn statement and waiver of liens prepared by Contractor and each Major Subcontractor, as applicable, which provides that such Person unconditionally waives and releases all mechanic’s liens with respect to all Work for which Contractor requested final payment in the form set forth in Exhibit 4.5.a , Final Lien Waivers .

 

Final IRS Determination ” means (a) a decision, judgment, decree or other order by any court of competent jurisdiction, which decision, judgment, decree or other order has become final after all allowable appeals (other than appeals to the United States Supreme Court) by the parties to the action have been exhausted or the time for filing such appeals has expired, (b) a closing agreement entered into under Section 7121 of the Code or any other settlement agreement entered into in connection with an administrative or judicial proceeding entered into in accordance with this Agreement, (c) the expiration of the time for instituting suit with respect to a claimed deficiency or (d) the expiration of the time for instituting a claim for refund, or if such a claim was filed, the expiration of the time for instituting suit with respect thereto.

 

Force Majeure Event ” means any event that wholly or partly prevents or delays the performance by the Party affected of any obligation arising under the Agreement Documents, but only if and to the extent (i) such event is beyond the reasonable control of, and (ii) without fault or negligence of the Party claiming the Force Majeure Event. Subject to the foregoing, Force Majeure Event may include, without limitation: condemnation; expropriation; invasion; plague; drought; landslide; tornado; hurricane; tsunami; flood; a lightning strike that causes damage to equipment or materials on the Project Site; earthquake; fire; blizzards; ice storms; precipitation in excess of the 25-year, 24-hour precipitation event threshold as determined by the National Climatic Data Center, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, for the area in which the Jamestown Regional Airport is located; explosion; epidemic; quarantine; war (declared or undeclared), terrorism or other armed conflict; material physical damage to the Project caused by third parties (which shall not include any of Contractor’s Subcontractors or their employees); strikes and other labor disputes of a regional nature not occurring on the Project Site; riot or similar civil disturbance or commotion; other acts of God; acts of the public enemy; blockade; insurrection, riot or revolution; sabotage or vandalism; embargoes; and, actions of a Governmental Authority including any Change in Law.

 

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Force Majeure Event shall also include the following: (a)  failure of Subcontractors of Contractor to deliver goods or Work in a timely manner due to a Force Majeure Event affecting such suppliers; (b) the unavailability of interconnection to the Transmission Provider’s transmission system or receipt of back feed power to the Project, which results from any cause or event (unless caused by the acts or omissions of Contractor or any of its Subcontractors) but only to the extent that such transmission or backfeed power unavailability prevents Contractor from commissioning the infrastructure facilities in order to achieve Substantial Completion by the Guaranteed Project Substantial Completion Date; (c) delays in transportation resulting from accidents or closure of roads or other transportation routes by governmental authorities which are caused by a Force Majeure Event, and (d) with respect to completion of any Punch List Items required to achieve Final Completion (if Substantial Completion has occurred) that require the movement or penetration of soil, including, without limitation, re-grading or re-seeding, seasonal frozen ground conditions at the Project Site.

 

In no instance shall the following be considered events beyond Contractor’s reasonable control or constitute a Force Majeure Event: (i) labor disturbances related only to the Project Site (except that such exclusion of labor disturbances from a Force Majeure Event shall not include national or regional labor disturbances that affect the Project Site), (ii) availability of, or price levels or fluctuations with respect to labor, goods, materials, services, supplies or components of equipment related to the Work to be supplied by Contractor under this Agreement, (iii) economic hardship (including lack of money), (iv) any failure by the Contractor to obtain or maintain any applicable permit it is required to obtain and maintain hereunder caused by Contractor’s own act or omission, (v) any other act, omission, delay, default or failure (financial or otherwise) of a Subcontractor, other than those caused by a Force Majeure Event, (vi) Weather Delay Days, or (vii) any delay or failure of Contractor to obtain equipment due to the delay or failure of any Subcontractor to perform any obligation to Contractor unless such delay or failure is caused by a Force Majeure Event.

 

Foundation Completion ” means the satisfaction of all of the requirements set forth in Section 6.2 .

 

Foundation Completion Certificate ” means a certificate in the form set forth in Exhibit 6.2.7 hereto.

 

Foundation Load Specifications ” shall mean the design loads for the Foundations set forth in Exhibit 2.2.2 - Part 4 , Foundation Technical Specifications .

 

Foundations ” mean WTG foundations constructed pursuant to the Foundation Load Specifications.

 

Governmental Authority ” means any federal, state, local or other governmental, judicial, public or statutory instrumentality, tribunal, agency, authority, body or entity, or any political subdivision thereof having legal jurisdiction over the Agreement, the performance of the Work, or the Parties.

 

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Guaranteed Completion Dates ” has the meaning set forth in Section 6.8 .

 

Guaranteed Final Completion Date ” has the meaning set forth in Section 6.8 .

 

Guaranteed Project Substantial Completion Date ” means October 31, 2019, as modified in accordance with Section 5.5 and Article 9 ; provided, that (a) if the Closing Date occurs after November 1, 2018 and on or prior to March 1, 2019, the Guaranteed Project Substantial Completion Date shall be extended on a day for day basis for each day between November 2, 2018 and the Closing Date, (b) if the Closing Date occurs on or after March 2, 2019 and on or before June 30, 2019, the Guaranteed Project Substantial Completion Date shall mean August 31, 2020, and (c) if, following issuance by Owner of a Limited Notice to Proceed on or before July 1, 2019, the Closing Date occurs on or before September 1, 2019, the Guaranteed Project Substantial Completion Date shall mean October 31, 2020, in each case as modified in accordance with Section 5.5 and Article 9 .

 

Guaranteed Mechanical Completion Date ” means September 30, 2019 as modified in accordance with Section 5.5 and Article 9 ; provided, that (a) if the Closing Date occurs after November 1, 2018 and on or prior to March 1, 2019, the Guaranteed Mechanical Completion Date shall be extended on a day for day basis for each day between November 2, 2018 and the Closing Date, (b) if the Closing Date occurs on or after March 2, 2019 and on or before June 30, 2019, the Guaranteed Mechanical Completion Date shall mean July 31, 2020, and (c) if, following issuance by Owner of a Limited Notice to Proceed on or before July 1, 2019, the Closing Date occurs on or before September 1, 2019, the Guaranteed Mechanical Completion Date shall mean September 30, 2020, in each case as modified in accordance with Section 5.5 and Article 9 .

 

Guarantor ” means (i) EDF-EN with respect to the EDF-EN Guaranty and the Construction Period Guaranty and (ii) EDF-RE with respect to the Post-Construction Guaranty.

 

Guaranty ” means each of the EDF-EN Guaranty, the Construction Period Guaranty and the Post-Construction Guaranty.

 

Hazardous Materials ” means any substance pollutant, contaminant, chemical, material or waste that is regulated, listed or identified under any Environmental Law, or which is deemed or may be deemed hazardous, dangerous, damaging or toxic to living things or the environment, and shall include, without limitation, any flammable, explosive, or radioactive materials; hazardous materials; radioactive wastes; hazardous wastes; hazardous or toxic substances or related materials; polychlorinated biphenyls; petroleum products, fractions and by-products thereof; asbestos and asbestos-containing materials; medical waste, solid waste, and any excavated soil, debris, or groundwater that is contaminated with such materials; any hazardous substance under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act, as amended (42 U.S.C.A. § 9601 et seq.), any solid waste under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976, as amended (42 U.S.C.A. § 6901 et seq.), or any contaminant, pollutant, waste or toxic substance under the Clean Air Act, as amended (42 U.S.C.A. § 7401 et seq.), the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, as amended (33 U.S.C.A. § 1251 et seq.), the Safe Drinking Water Act, as amended (42 U.S.C.A. § 300f et seq.), the Emergency Planning and Community Right-To-Know Act, as amended (42 U.S.C.A. sec. 110001 et seq.), the Occupational Safety and Health Act, as amended (29 U.S.C.A. sec. 651 et seq.), the Hazardous Materials Transportation Act, as amended, (49 U.S.C.A. sec. 5101 et seq.) or the Toxic Substances Control Act, as amended (15 U.S.CA. § 2601 et seq.).

 

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Infrastructure Facilities ” means all of the balance of the plant work, including but not limited to, buildings, roads, Foundations, laydown areas, Electrical Works and other permanent fixtures as more fully described in Exhibit 2.2.2-Part 5 .

 

Infrastructure Facilities Warranty ” has the meaning set forth in Section 7.1.1 .

 

Infrastructure Facilities Warranty Period ” has the meaning set forth in Section 7.1.2 .

 

Infrastructure Facilities Warranty Service ” has the meaning set forth in Section 7.1.3 .

 

Intellectual Property Rights ” has the meaning set forth in Section 17.3 .

 

Interconnection Agreement ” means either (i) the Generator Interconnection Agreement made and entered into as of October 10, 2011 by and between EDF Renewable Development, Inc. (formerly known as enXco Development Corporation), Montana-Dakota Utilities, a Division of MDU Resources Group Inc. and MISO and associated with MISO Interconnection Queue Request G359, together with all other rights in MISO Interconnection Queue Request G359 and all associated studies, reports and communications with MISO related thereto or (ii) the Generator Interconnection Agreement to be entered into for MISO Interconnection Queue Request J457, together with all other rights in MISO Interconnection Queue Request J457 and all associated studies, reports and communications with MISO related thereto, as applicable.

 

Interconnection Substation ” means the Transmission Owner’s Wishek substation, located in McIntosh County, North Dakota, at which the Point of Interconnection is made.

 

Kick-Off Meeting ” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.5.4 .

 

LIBOR ” means, for any day, a rate per annum equal to the “London Interbank Offered Rate (Libor)” for a three (3) month period as set forth in the Money Rates Section of The Wall Street Journal, Western Regional Edition (“ The Wall Street Journal ”), on such day (or, if The Wall Street Journal is not published on such day, the next preceding Business Day on which The Wall Street Journal is so published); provided that, if The Wall Street Journal is no longer published or the applicable LIBOR rate is no longer quoted therein, then “LIBOR” shall be a reasonably comparable rate as shall be mutually agreed upon by Owner and Contractor.

 

Limited Notice to Proceed ” means the limited notice issued by Owner and reasonably agreed to by Contractor prior to the issuance of the full Notice to Proceed, directing Contractor to commence certain engineering work and to carry out the purchase of long lead-time materials related to the Project, the aggregate value of which shall be equal to Three Million Five Hundred Thousand and 00/100 Dollars ($3,500,000) (or such other amount as the Parties may agree) and will be non-refundable subject to Contractor’s compliance with the last sentence of Section 2.16 .

 

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Major Subcontract ” means any agreement(s) between Contractor and a first-tier Subcontractor having an aggregate value in excess of Five Hundred Thousand and 00/100 Dollars ($500,000.00) for performance of any part of the Work at the Project Site. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the Turbine Supply Agreement shall not be considered to be a Major Subcontract.

 

Major Subcontractor ” means any Subcontractor with whom Contractor will enter (or has entered) into a Major Subcontract to perform work on the Project. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the Turbine Supplier shall not be considered to be a Major Subcontractor.

 

Mandatory Comments ” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.5.6.2 .

 

Mechanical Completion ” has the meaning set forth in Section 6.3 .

 

Mechanical Completion Certificate ” means a certificate in the form set forth in Exhibit 6.3 , Form of WTG Mechanical Completion Certificate .

 

Milestone ” means Critical Path ‘milestone’ designated as such in Exhibit 2.4.1.

 

Milestone Payments ” has the meaning set forth in Section 4.3 and as further described in Exhibit 4.1 Payment Schedule.

 

Milestone Payment Request ” means the written request for a Milestone Payment in substantially the form of Exhibit 4.3 , Form of Milestone Payment Request.

 

Monthly Progress Report ” means a monthly written report prepared by Contractor in the form of Exhibit 2.4.3 , Form of Monthly Report describing the actual progress of the Work showing in detail the progress to date and the then-current scheduling of all major elements of design, procurement, construction, testing and other aspects of the Work, including the incorporation of delay and acceleration analyses where appropriate, as specified in the Project Schedule.

 

MPT ” means the main power transformer for the Project.

 

MPT Supply Agreement ” means that certain MPT supply agreement entered into between Contractor and any MPT supplier.

 

MW ” means megawatt.

 

Notice to Proceed ” means the notice deemed issued by Owner and received by Contractor directing Contractor to commence the Work in accordance with the terms of this Agreement which shall be deemed issued by Owner and received by Contractor as of the Closing Date under the Asset Purchase Agreement.

 

Notice to Proceed Date ” means the date of issuance of the Notice to Proceed which shall be the same as the Closing Date.

 

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Owner ” has the meaning set forth in the Preamble.

 

Owner-Caused Delay ” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.5 .

 

Owner Event of Default ” has the meaning set forth in Section 13.3 .

 

Owner Indemnified Party ” has the meaning set forth in Section 10.1.1 .

 

Owner LOC ” has the meaning set forth in Section 4.1.2.

 

Owner’s Representative ” means Harvey McMahon, as such person may be changed from time to time by Owner in writing to Contractor.

 

O&M Manual ” means the complete system instructions and procedures for the operation and maintenance of the WTG and the Infrastructure Facilities, including Contractor’s manufacturers’, vendors’, suppliers’ and Subcontractors’ recommended list of Spare Parts, all safety information and any precautionary measures therefore.

 

Partial Lien Waiver ” means a sworn statement prepared by the Contractor and each Subcontractor performing work at the Project Site in the form set forth in Exhibit 4.5 , Form of Partial Lien Waivers .

 

Party ” or “ Parties ” have the meaning set forth in the Preamble.

 

Payment Schedule ” means the schedule of payments to be made by Owner to Contractor set forth in Exhibit 4.1 , Payment Schedule .

 

Permissible Materials ” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.12.5.1 .

 

Permit ” means any valid waiver, exemption, variance, certificate, franchise, permit, authorization, license or similar order, of or from, or registration or filing with, or notice to, any Governmental Authority that is required by Applicable Laws to be obtained or maintained in connection with design, engineering, procurement, construction, testing, operation or maintenance of the Project, the Project Site, performance of the Work, testing, Commissioning, health and safety, or the environmental condition of the Project or the Project Site.

 

Person ” means any individual, corporation, partnership, limited liability company, association, joint stock company, trust, unincorporated organization, joint venture, government or political subdivision or agency thereof, Governmental Authority, or any other entity or organization.

 

Point of Interconnection ” means the Wishek-to-Ellendale 230kV transmission line owned by Transmission Owner where the Merricourt Project substation will connect into the Transmission Provider’s system.

 

Post-Construction Guaranty ” means a guaranty by EDF-RE of the full and timely payment of the obligations of Contractor hereunder and of Sellers under the Asset Purchase Agreement, in the form of Exhibit 4.7.b in an amount not to exceed [**] ($[**]).

 

____________________________  

[**] Denotes confidential information that has been omitted from the exhibit and filed separately, accompanied by a confidential treatment request, with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Rule 24b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

 

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Post-Construction Guaranty Expiration ” has the meaning set forth in Section 4.7.3.

 

Pre-Existing Hazardous Material ” means (i) any Hazardous Material that existed on or in the Project Site prior to the date when Contractor or any Subcontractor or other representative of Contractor is present on the Project Site on or following the Notice to Proceed Date and (ii) any Hazardous Material brought to the Project Site by Owner or any third party (other than any Subcontractor) after the Notice to Proceed Date.

 

Prime Subcontract ” means the Engineering, Procurement and Construction Services Agreement, dated as of the Closing Date, by and between Contractor and Prime Subcontractor.

 

Prime Subcontract Security and Collateral Assignment Agreement ” means the agreement under which Contractor has created a security interest in the Prime Subcontract in favor of Owner, substantially in the form set forth in Exhibit 13.2.2.b .

 

Prime Subcontractor ” means the Contractor approved prime subcontractor selected from the list set forth in Exhibit 3.2 prior to the Notice to Proceed Date.

 

Prime Subcontractor Consent to Assignment ” means a consent to assignment by Prime Contractor and acknowledged by Contractor, in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to Owner.

 

Project ” means the complete integrated wind-powered electricity generating plant, consisting of the Infrastructure Facilities and the WTGs, with a nominal nameplate capacity of 150 MW to be located on the Project Site to be developed, designed, procured, constructed, interconnected, tested and commissioned under this Agreement, including all structures, facilities, appliances, lines, conductors, instruments, equipment, apparatus, components, roads and other real and personal property and/or Real Property Rights comprising and integrating the entire facility described generally in the Technical Specifications.

 

Project Closing ” shall mean the “Closing” with respect to the “Project” under and as such terms are defined in the Asset Purchase Agreement.

 

Project Quality Assurance Plan ” shall mean the quality assurance plan described in Section 2.8 and as attached hereto as Exhibit 2.8 , Project Quality Assurance Plan.

 

Project Schedule ” means the schedule in Primavera, Microsoft Project or other mutually agreeable electronic format as set forth in Exhibit 2.4.1 that describes certain dates and the time of completion of key milestones for timely completion of the Work as provided pursuant to Section 2.4.1.

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Project Site ” means all those parcels of land that are subject to the Real Property Rights on which the Project will be located, as more particularly described in Exhibit 1.1 , Description of Project Site and Real Property Rights .

 

Project Substantial Completion ” has the meaning set forth in Section 6.5 .

 

Project Substantial Completion Certificate ” means a certificate in the form of Exhibit 6.5.10-Part 3 .

 

Project Substantial Completion Date ” means the date on which Project Substantial Completion has been achieved under Section 6.5 .

 

Project Surety Bond ” has the meaning set forth in Section 4.7.2 .

 

Prudent Engineering Practices ” means those practices, methods, equipment, specifications and standards of safety and performance, as the same may change from time to time, that prevail among national professional construction and engineering firms performing engineering, procurement and construction services on wind energy facilities in the U.S. of a type and size and having geographical and climatic attributes similar to the Project which, in the exercise of reasonable judgment and in the light of the facts known at the time the decision was made, are considered good, safe and prudent practice in connection with the design, construction and use of wind energy generating and operating, electrical and other equipment, facilities and improvements, with commensurate standards of safety, performance, dependability, efficiency and economy, and as are in accordance with Applicable Laws and generally accepted national standards of professional care, skill, diligence and competence applicable to design, engineering, construction and project management practices. Prudent Engineering Practices are not intended to be limited to the optimum practices, methods or acts to the exclusion of all others, but rather to be a spectrum of good and proper practices, methods and acts.

 

Prudent Industry Practices ” means for wind electric generation facilities of a type and size and having geographical and climatic attributes similar to the Project, those practices, methods, specifications and standards of safety, performance, dependability, efficiency and economy recognized by a significant portion of the industry members in the U.S. as good and proper, and such other practices, methods or acts which, in the exercise of reasonable judgment by those reasonably experienced in the industry in light of the facts known at the time a decision is made, would be expected to accomplish the result intended at a reasonable cost and consistent with Applicable Laws, reliability, safety, and expedition. Prudent Industry Practices are not intended to be limited to the optimum practices, methods or acts to the exclusion of all others, but rather to be a spectrum of good and proper practices, methods and acts.

 

PTC ” means production tax credits under Section 45 of the Code.

 

PTC Liquidated Damages ” has the meaning set forth in Section 11.4 .

 

Punch List Items ” means a monetized list which includes each item of Work that:

 

(a)          Owner and Contractor agree remains to be performed by Contractor following Project Substantial Completion;

 

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(b)          does not, in Contractor’s and Owner’s reasonable judgment, affect the ability of Owner to safely operate the Project in accordance with Applicable Standards and in compliance with all Applicable Laws;

 

(c)          does not, in Contractor’s and Owner’s reasonable judgment, affect the operability (including capacity, efficiency, reliability, or cost effectiveness), safety or mechanical or electrical integrity of the Project; and

 

(d)          does not, in Contractor’s and Owner’s reasonable judgment, affect the ability to Commission and test the WTGs, Infrastructure Facilities and the other components of the Project.

 

Purchase Order ” means the Owner issued purchase order that is issued, among other things, for the administrative purpose of facilitating the invoice and payment process.

 

Qualified Institution ” means the United States office of a commercial bank or trust company (which is not an Affiliate of any Party), having assets of at least $10 billion, and having Credit Ratings from two Ratings Agencies of at least A3 (in the case of Moody’s) or A- (in the case of S&P or Fitch).

 

Real Property Rights ” means all rights in or to real property (such as easement rights or other rights to use or access the Project Site), leases, agreements, Permits, easements, licenses, private rights-of-way, crossing and other rights required to be obtained or maintained in connection with construction of the Project on the Project Site, transmission of electricity to Transmission Provider, performance of the Work, or operation of the Project, a description of which is set forth in Exhibit 1.1 .

 

Recovery Plan ” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.4.4 .

 

Release ” means any spilling, leaking, pumping, pouring, emitting, emptying, discharging, injecting, escaping, leaching, dumping, migrating or disposing into the environment or the workplace of any Hazardous Material, and otherwise as defined in any Environmental Law.

 

Requirements of this Agreement ” means in accordance with the terms and conditions of this Agreement, and with Prudent Industry Practices, Prudent Engineering Practices, Applicable Standards and Applicable Laws.

 

Retainage ” has the meaning set forth in Section 4.3 .

 

Retainage Cap ” has the meaning set forth in Section 4.3 .

 

SCADA System ” means the automated remote monitoring system (Wind SCADA 1) including central computer, to be supplied by Contractor as part of the Work, as more fully described in the Technical Specifications, that collects (i) availability and power generation data from each WTG, (ii) wind direction and speed data, and (iii) other operational parameters describing the status of the Project and the Interconnection facilities.

 

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Scope Change ” has the meaning set forth in Section 9.1 .

 

Scope Change Order ” means a written order to Contractor pursuant to Article 9 , signed by Owner and countersigned by Contractor, authorizing a Scope Change.

 

Scope of Work ” means specific requirements regarding the Work, including the Technical Specifications for the Project, specifically as set forth in Exhibit 2.2.2 .

 

Sellers ” means Contractor and each Affiliate of Contractor that is a party to the Asset Purchase Agreement.

 

Settlement Agreement ” has the meaning given to such term in Section 15.2 .

 

Site Safety Manual ” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.12.2 .

 

Spare Parts ” means the spare parts necessary to operate and maintain the WTGs and the Infrastructure Facilities.

 

SMA ” means that certain Service and Maintenance Agreement dated November 16, 2016 by and between Turbine Supplier and Contractor.

 

SPCC ” has the meaning given to such term in Section 2.12.5.7 .

 

State ” shall mean the State of North Dakota for the purpose of Section 4.2.4 .

 

Step-In Notice ” has the meaning set forth in Section 13.2.2 .

 

Step-In Rights ” has the meaning set forth in Section 13.2.2 .

 

Subcontract ” means an agreement between Contractor and any Subcontractor.

 

Subcontractor ” means any subcontractor, of any tier, or supplier of materials, equipment or services to Contractor or any subcontractor, of any tier, of any Person engaged or employed by Contractor in connection with the performance of the Work, including the Turbine Supplier.

 

Submittals ” is defined in Exhibit 2.5.5 .

 

Tangible Net Worth ” means, with respect to Guarantor, the aggregate of its tangible assets (total assets less intangibles) less the aggregate of its liabilities as documented in its annual audited financial statement.

 

Taxes ” has the meaning set forth in Section 4.2.2 .

 

Tax Exemption Certificate ” has the meaning set forth in Section 4.2.4 .

 

Technical Specifications ” means the description of the Work, Infrastructure Facilities and WTGs, including the technical specifications referenced or described therein for the Project, set forth as Exhibit 2.2.2 .

 

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Termination for Cause ” has the meaning set forth in Section 13.2 .

 

Termination Due to Force Majeure ” has the meaning set forth in Section 13.4.1.2 .

 

Termination Notice ” has the meaning set forth in Section 13.2 .

 

Tower ” means each steel tubular tower component of a Wind Turbine Generator each of which shall have a hub height of approximately eighty (80) meters in each case, measured from the base of such tower to the center of the WTG hub upon which a Turbine Nacelle shall be mounted, including all ladders, platforms, internal lighting, safety equipment and all parts and assemblies necessary for a complete turbine tower, all as further described in the WTG Technical Specifications set forth in Exhibit 2.2.2-Part 1 , WTG Technical Specifications .

 

Tower Foundation Specifications ” means the specifications (including bolt configurations, conduit placement grounding requirements and Tower load specifications) for the Foundations upon which the Towers shall be mounted, all as set forth in the Technical Specifications.

 

Transformer Guarantees ” has the meaning set forth in Section 6.8.1 .

 

Transmission Line ” means the Wishek-to-Ellendale 230 kV transmission line owned by Transmission Owner.

 

Transmission Owner ” means Montana–Dakota Utilities or its successor in interest in its capacity as the owner and/or operator of the electrical transmission and distribution system to which the Project will be interconnected.

 

Transmission Provider ” means Midcontinent Independent Transmission System Operator (“ MISO ”) or its successors.

 

Transmission Provider Safety and Interconnection Requirements ” means any of Transmission Provider’s safety requirements and other regulations and requirements applicable to Work relating to the Point of Interconnection at the Interconnection Substation.

 

Turbine Assembly Drawings ” means the master set of Drawings, (including electrical Drawings) that sets forth the information required to perform assembly, installation, and erection of the WTGs and Towers, as set forth in the WTG Technical Specifications set forth in Exhibit 2.2.2 - Part 1 , WTG Technical Specifications .

 

Turbine Blade ” means a turbine blade (approximately fifty-five (55) meters in length) component of a Wind Turbine Generator, the specifications for which are set forth in the WTG Technical Specifications set forth in Exhibit 2.2.2 - Part 1, WTG Technical Specifications .

 

Turbine Nacelle ” means the turbine nacelle component of a WTG, including hubs, main shafts, main bearings, gearboxes, generators, lightning protection system, gear reducers, nacelle yaw systems (including yaw motors and yaw gears), nacelle frames, brake systems, associated control equipment and ancillary equipment, as more particularly described in the WTG Technical Specifications set forth in Exhibit 2.2.2 - Part 1, WTG Technical Specifications .

 

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Turbine Supplier ” means Vestas-American Wind Technology, Inc., a California corporation.

 

Turbine Supplier Consent to Assignment ” means the consent to assignment by Turbine Supplier and acknowledged by Contractor substantially in the form set forth in Exhibit 13.2.2.a .

 

Turbine Supply Agreement ” means that certain turbine supply agreement dated November 16, 2016 between Contractor and Turbine Supplier.

 

Turbine Supply Security and Collateral Assignment Agreement ” means the agreement under which Contractor has created a security interest in the Turbine Supply Agreement in favor of Owner substantially in the form set forth in Exhibit 13.2.2 .

 

Turnover Package ” means the following:

 

(a)          the WTG Turnover Package; and

 

(b)          all engineering, design, purchasing and other information relating to the Infrastructure Facilities, including, but not limited to: (a)  a Drawing index; (b)  a reference index; (c)  copies of Contractor’s and Subcontractors’ Permits; (d)  copies of all purchase orders on Major Subcontractor’s equipment (non-priced) with addenda; (e)  Subcontractor information for equipment purchased (as received from vendors) including instruction and maintenance manuals from Subcontractors; (f)  one copy of the As-Built Drawings and Documentation; (g)  training manuals; (h)   electrical 1-line diagrams for the Infrastructure Facilities; (i)  a cable and raceway schedule for the Infrastructure Facilities; (j)  connection report/loop diagrams for the Infrastructure Facilities; (k)  a final list and summary of the work performed by all Subcontractors and verification of the payment of all amounts due to each Subcontractor; (l) the final Project Quality Assurance Plan documents, and (m) tests results.

 

Warranty Parts ” has the meaning set forth in the Turbine Supply Agreement.

 

Weather Delay Day ” means a Day during which: (i) wind speeds above the limits the lift plan for that specific crane interfere with and prevent the safe movement (including the lifting) of WTG components; (ii) wind speeds above the limits set forth in the Turbine Supply Agreement that interfere with and prevent the performance of work necessary to achieve WTG Mechanical Completion; or (iii) other unusually severe or not reasonably anticipated inclement weather or cumulative weather events that prevents or interferes with the performance of Contractor or any of its Subcontractors if such effect can be demonstrated by Contractor as having a material adverse effect on the Project Schedule’s Critical Path. The existence of a Weather Delay Day shall be determined in increments of half of the work day otherwise scheduled. For the purpose of clarity, such half-day increment shall be defined by Contractor or any of its Subcontractors as the number of half work day increment hours on a Day in which Work was originally scheduled. In the event the weather event continues for more than the defined number of half work day increment hours in a Day, such period will be deemed to be a full Day.

 

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Wind Conversion System Equipment ” has the meaning set forth in Section 4.2.4.1 .

 

Wind Study ” has the meaning set forth in the Asset Purchase Agreement.

 

Wind Turbine Generator ” or “ WTG ” means all or any portion of seventy-five (75) 2.0 MW wind turbine generators manufactured by Turbine Supplier with a fifty-five (55) meter blade supplied, delivered, assembled, erected and installed by Contractor, each including equipment, machinery, materials and Consumable Parts related thereto and the following components: a Tower, a Turbine Nacelle, Turbine Blades, controller (including interconnecting cabling from the Turbine Nacelle to the ground controller), control panels, converters, WindVar (or other Var control technology supplied by the Turbine Supplier), wind vanes, FAA lighting (if and as required), grounding, and anemometers, all as more particularly described in the Technical Specifications. WTGs shall not include special tools required for operation of the Project or Spare Parts. For the avoidance of doubt, the WTGs include the 5% Safe Harbor Turbines.

 

Work ” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.1.1 .

 

WTG Commissioning and Turnover Certificate ” means a certificate in the form of Exhibit 6.5 .

 

WTG Cure Period ” has the meaning set forth in Section 11.3 .

 

WTG Substantial Completion ” means, with respect to a WTG, (i) the achievement of Mechanical Completion, (ii) the completion of the Electrical Works and (iii) the completion of Commissioning.

 

WTG Substantial Completion Certificate ” means a certificate in the form of Exhibit 6.5.10, Part 2 .

 

WTG Turnover Package ” means the following: (a)  O&M Manuals; (b)  the erection and start-up manual including Turbine Assembly Drawings, erection diagrams, connection diagrams for the WTGs and the SCADA System, details of all interface points and connections and a cable schedule; and (c)  the SCADA System logic diagram.

 

Section 1.2            Rules of Interpretation . Unless otherwise required by the context in which any term appears:

 

1.2.1      capitalized terms used in this Agreement have the meanings specified in this Article 1 ;

 

1.2.2      the singular shall include the plural;

 

1.2.3      references to “ Articles ,” “ Sections ,” “ Schedules ,” “ Annexes ,” “ Appendices ” or “ Exhibits ” (if any) shall be to articles, sections, schedules, annexes, appendices or Exhibits (if any) of this Agreement, as the same may be amended, modified, supplemented or replaced pursuant to the terms hereof from time to time hereunder;

 

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1.2.4           all references to a particular entity shall include a reference to such entity’s successors and permitted assigns;

 

1.2.5           the words “ herein ,” “ hereof ” and “ hereunder ” shall refer to this Agreement as a whole and not to any particular Section or subsection of this Agreement;

 

1.2.6           all accounting terms not specifically defined herein shall be construed in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles as established by the Financial Accounting Standards Board in the United States of America, consistently applied;

 

1.2.7           references to this Agreement shall include a reference to all appendices, annexes, schedules and Exhibits hereto, as the same may be amended, modified, supplemented or replaced pursuant to the terms hereof from time to time;

 

1.2.8           references to any agreement, document or instrument shall mean a reference to such agreement, document or instrument as the same may be amended, modified, supplemented or replaced from time to time;

 

1.2.9           the use of the word “ including ” in this Agreement to refer to specific examples shall be construed to mean “ including, without limitation ” or “ including but not limited to ” and shall not be construed to mean that the examples given are an exclusive list of the topics covered; and

 

1.2.10         references to an Applicable Law shall mean a reference to such Applicable Law as the same may be amended, modified, supplemented or restated and be in effect from time to time.

 

1.2.11         The Parties collectively have prepared this Agreement, and none of the provisions hereof shall be construed against one Party on the ground that such Party is the author of this Agreement or any part hereof.

 

Article 2
THE PROJECT

 

Section 2.1                 Scope of Work .

 

2.1.1            Appointment . Owner hereby retains Contractor to perform or cause to be performed all work for the design and engineering, procurement, construction, Commissioning and start-up of the Infrastructure Facilities and the procurement, delivery, assembly, erection, installation, Commissioning and start-up of the WTGs, which work and services shall include the Construction Services and the provision of all materials, equipment, machinery, tools, labor, transportation, administration and other services and items required to complete and deliver to Owner the fully integrated and operational Infrastructure Facilities and the fully assembled, installed, tested and operational WTGs, all on a fixed price, turnkey basis, and otherwise in accordance with this Agreement (collectively, the “ Work ”).

 

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2.1.2         Fixed Price; Turnkey . Contractor acknowledges that this Agreement constitutes a fixed price obligation to design and engineer, procure, construct, test, start-up and Commission the Project.

 

Section 2.2            Contractor Obligations . Without limiting the foregoing, Contractor shall perform the following as part of the Work:

 

2.2.1         Independent Contractor .

 

2.2.1.1           The Parties expressly agree that Contractor is an independent contractor and is not an employee, partner or joint venturer of Owner. Contractor shall (i) exercise its independent professional judgment in the performance of this Agreement, and (ii) supply the manner and means of performance of the Work hereunder. Contractor, its Subcontractors and their respective employees, agents and other representatives shall not have the right to represent or bind Owner in any manner. Owner, its employees, agents and other representatives shall not have the right to represent or bind Contractor or its Subcontractors in any manner.

 

2.2.1.2            Contractor and its Subcontractors are directly and solely responsible for the safety of their respective agents, employees and other representatives. Owner in no way assumes any of the duties, obligations or liabilities attributed to Contractor under this Agreement. Contractor shall promptly report via telephone and in writing to an Owner representative all material accidents in connection with the Work that result in death, personal injury, or property damage.

 

2.2.1.3            Any and all agents, employees and Subcontractors of Contractor provided to perform the Work shall be the agent, employee or Subcontractor of Contractor. Contractor shall be solely responsible for the wages, salary, overtime, taxes, benefits (if any) and any and all other payments or benefits owed to an agent, employee or Subcontractor of Contractor for Work provided under or pursuant to this Agreement. No Contractor’s employee shall be entitled to any retirement, welfare, fringe or other benefit provided by Owner to its employees.

 

2.2.1.4            If for any reason an investigation is conducted or a proceeding commenced by any Governmental Authority, the purpose of which is to determine whether for any reason a Contractor’s employee is an employee of Owner, Contractor shall assist and cooperate with Owner in preparing a response to or defending against, as the case may be, any such investigation or proceeding or the appeal of any such investigation or proceeding.

 

2.2.1.5           The Parties further agree that if a Governmental Authority determines that a Contractor’s employee is an employee of Owner, such Contractor’s employee shall be considered to be an employee of Owner only and solely to the extent set forth in the determination of the Governmental Authority and for no other purpose.

 

2.2.2            Project Management . Contractor shall be responsible for all Project management, all civil and electrical Infrastructure design, and the coordination and general management of the Work in accordance with the Scope of Work set forth in Exhibit 2.2.2 . Contractor shall procure, deliver, handle and store and have risk of loss for all materials and equipment used in the Work, subject to the provisions of Article 14 below.

 

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2.2.3            Infrastructure Facilities . Contractor shall perform all services related to the Infrastructure Facilities in accordance with the Scope of Work set forth in Exhibit 2.2.2 .

 

2.2.4            WTGs . Contractor shall procure and deliver, or cause to be procured and delivered the WTGs to the Project Site and provide or cause to be provided, all services, labor, equipment and materials necessary to assemble, erect and install the WTGs, all in accordance with the Scope of Work attached as set forth in Exhibit 2.2.2 .

 

2.2.5            Storage; Security; Equipment . Following delivery of the WTGs to the Project Site and prior to the date of Commissioning and Turnover of the WTGs, Contractor shall provide appropriate storage and security for all WTGs, Consumable Parts, materials, supplies and other equipment required to assemble, erect and install the WTGs and other property owned or leased by Contractor or any Subcontractor located at the Project Site pursuant to the Real Property Rights or as otherwise provided by Contractor, incorporated in the WTGs, or stored or warehoused off the Project Site. All WTGs stored at a location other than the Project Site shall be segregated from the property of Contractor and third parties. Contractor shall use the same care to protect any of Owner’s property at any time in its possession or under its control while performing the Work as it does with its own property. Notwithstanding properly meeting the standard of care prescribed in the foregoing sentence, Contractor shall be responsible for any damage to such property while such property is in Contractor’s care, custody and control.

 

2.2.6            Nature of the Work . Contractor shall be responsible for having taken and shall take all steps necessary to fully understand the nature of the Work, the general local conditions which can affect the Work and the cost thereof. Except to the extent of a Force Majeure Event determined in accordance with Article 8 or as contemplated in Section 9.4 and Section 9.5 , Contractor agrees that any schedule delays or cost increases related to or resulting from any failure by Contractor to fully acquaint itself with general local conditions which may affect the Work, including conditions relating to transportation, handling, storage of materials, import/export issues, Taxes, insurance, availability of labor, water, electricity, roads, or other public goods or services, normal climatic conditions (but specifically excluding conditions existing on during any Weather Delay Day), Applicable Law and the character and availability of equipment and facilities needed preliminary to and during the prosecution of the Work (collectively, “ Conditions of the Nature of the Work ”) shall not give rise to Contractor’s claim for additional time to perform the Work or an increase in the Agreement Price. Subject to Article 8 and Section 9.4 and Section 9.5 , in no event shall the Conditions of the Nature of the Work relieve Contractor of its responsibilities under this Agreement, nor shall any Conditions of the Nature of the Work constitute a basis for a Scope Change Order under any circumstances.

 

2.2.7            Training . In accordance with the Project Schedule, Contractor shall provide the facilities, material, supplies, Personnel and other items required to train the operations and maintenance Personnel provided by Owner in the proper and safe operation and maintenance of the Facility and all Equipment incorporated therein and shall administer all training at the Facility Site in accordance with the Training Program set forth in Exhibit 2.2.7

 

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2.2.8            Geotechnical Survey . Contractor shall perform geotechnical surveys at each WTG pad site, O&M building sites, and Collection Substation sites to fully understand the nature of the soils and allow for proper design of foundations and other Work. Final engineered design of all access roads and foundations are the responsibility of the Contractor.

 

2.2.9            Environmental/Construction Stormwater Permit . The Construction Stormwater Permit shall remain in the name of Contractor and the Contractor shall retain ownership of the Construction Stormwater Permit until the Notice of Termination (NOT) has been submitted and the Construction Stormwater Permit has been closed (which is expected to extend beyond Final Completion).

 

Section 2.3              Compliance . Contractor shall cause the Work to be performed in compliance with the Requirements of this Agreement. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, after the Guaranteed Project Substantial Completion Date, the sole remedy for any claim by Owner of a breach of this Section 2.3 shall be a warranty claim pursuant to Article 7 .

 

Section 2.4                Project Schedule; Monthly Progress Report; Recovery Plan .

 

2.4.1            Project Schedule . Contractor shall administer the Work and perform the Work or cause the Work to be performed in accordance with the dates set forth in Exhibit 2.4.1 . Contractor shall submit to Owner a Project Schedule no later than one (1) Month before the Notice to Proceed Date. The Project Schedule shall be reviewed and approved by Owner and shall be incorporated into this Agreement. Owner shall have the opportunity to review the Project Schedule and deliver comments to Contractor no later than the end of the fifth (5 th ) calendar day after Contractor delivers the Project Schedule to Owner. In the event Owner fails to timely provide comments to Contractor as provided by this Section 2.4.1 , the Project Schedule shall be deemed approved by Owner as of the date of delivery thereof by Contractor. In the event Owner provided reasonable comments to Contractor as provided by the Section 2.4.1 , Contractor shall include such Owner comments in the Project Schedule, provided that such Owner comments do not violate Applicable Standards.

 

2.4.2           The Project Schedule shall clearly depict the Critical Path of the work, and be in sufficient detail to portray the work of each phase, discipline, work type, system and area of the Project. Specific activity codes may be requested by Owner to facilitate grouping and sorting of the schedule. Contractor shall coordinate and incorporate the schedules of all Subcontractors into all applicable schedules, work plans and progress reports. Contractor shall provide Owner a weekly update to the Project Schedule, including the incorporation of delay and acceleration analyses where appropriate. Contractor shall provide Owner with the construction activities plan of the day for each particular construction day. The Contractor shall not be relieved from the obligation to meet any date set forth in Section 6.8 unless such date is extended pursuant to a Scope Change Order or in accordance with Article 8 as a result of a Force Majeure Event or Owner-Caused Delay. Contractor shall furnish to Owner updated schedules of the Work supplementing the Project Schedule, weekly work plans of activities being performed at the Project Site and Monthly Progress Reports. If Owner so directs, Contractor shall conduct monthly project meetings at mutually agreeable locations between representatives of Owner and Contractor to review the status of the Work. Contractor shall promptly notify Owner in writing at any time that Contractor has reason to believe that there shall be a material deviation in the Project Schedule that may result in Contractor not achieving the dates set forth in Exhibit 2.4.1 and shall set forth in such notice the corrective action planned by Contractor. Delivery of such notice shall not relieve Contractor of its obligations to meet the dates specified in Section 6.8 hereunder. In the event of a conflict between the dates set forth in the Project Schedule and the dates set forth in Section 6.8 , the provisions of Section 6.8 shall prevail.

 

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2.4.3            Monthly Progress Report . Within ten (10) Business Days after the end of each calendar month, Contractor shall prepare and submit a Monthly Progress Report for the prior calendar month utilizing the form of Exhibit 2.4.3 ; except that in the event of any serious accidents at the Project Site, Contractor shall provide Owner with expedited notice and copies of all written communications with Governmental Authorities and insurance companies with respect to such accident.

 

2.4.4            Failure to Maintain Progress; Recovery Plan . If at any time during the performance of the Work Contractor has failed to achieve one or more Milestones by the date(s) set forth in Exhibit 2.4.1 for such Milestone(s), Owner may, at its sole discretion, unless Contractor demonstrates to Owner that it is still able to achieve the Guaranteed Project Completion Dates due to float included in Exhibit 2.4.1 , order the Contractor to develop a Recovery Plan (the “ Recovery Plan ”) in order to meet the Project Schedule. Neither such notice by Owner, nor Owner’s failure to issue such notice, shall relieve the Contractor of its obligation to perform the Work in accordance with the Scope of Work, the Guaranteed Project Completion Dates, or any other requirement of this Agreement.

 

    2.4.4.1            Review; Approval; Implementation . Contractor shall submit such proposed Recovery Plan to Owner within seven (7) Days of receiving notice from Owner. Upon receipt of such proposed Recovery Plan, Owner shall, in good faith, promptly review and comment upon the proposed Recovery Plan within five (5) Days. Contractor shall accept Owner’s reasonable comments unless such comments are inconsistent with Applicable Standards and incorporate all reasonable Owner comments and resubmit, within seven (7) Days of receiving such Owner comments, the proposed Recovery Plan to Owner for approval. Contractor shall diligently pursue the implementation and completion of the Recovery Plan in order to cause the completion of the Work to meet the Guaranteed Completion Dates, including the utilization of additional shifts, additional manpower, overtime, additional construction equipment and re-sequencing of activities. Owner’s request for or approval of a Recovery Plan shall not constitute a Change Order or give rise to a claim by Contractor hereunder except to the extent such delay is an Owner-Caused Delay, Force Majeure Event, or is otherwise excused under this Agreement or Applicable Law, in which case Contractor may submit a Scope Change Order request under Article 9 .

 

   2.4.4.2            Content of Recovery Plan . The Recovery Plan must improve progress through actions taken on the Project Site rather than through schedule manipulations. The Contractor shall not artificially improve its progress by revising schedule logic restraints or shortening planned activity durations that do not reflect actual achievable progress. The Recovery Plan shall include resources and commodity quantities in the schedule. A comparison of baseline and actual productivity versus proposed recovery productivity shall be included along with the specific actions proposed to increase productivity. Failure of Contractor to comply with such notice of Owner or failure of Contractor to adhere to the Recovery Plan in accordance with Section 2.4.4 shall constitute a material breach by Contractor.

 

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Section 2.5                Engineering and Design .

 

2.5.1            Engineering . Contractor shall perform or cause to be performed all engineering and design services for completion of the Work in conformity with the Requirements of this Agreement. All engineering work requiring certification shall be certified, if required, and all Design Documents requiring sealing shall be sealed, in each case by professional engineers licensed and properly qualified to perform such engineering and design services in all appropriate jurisdictions.

 

2.5.2            Design . Contractor shall design (or cause to be designed) the Project, including the Infrastructure Facilities, such that they are in compliance with the conditions and Requirements of this Agreement. Contractor shall use its commercially reasonable efforts to design the electrical collection and transmission systems to minimize interference with telephone and global positioning systems service in the vicinity of the Project. Owner shall participate in Design development by reviewing preliminary Design Documents and providing timely feedback to Contractor (and in any event, within ten (10) Business Days after receipt of such preliminary Design Drawings). On or before the Notice to Proceed Date, Contractor shall finalize and submit to Owner all preliminary Drawings and specifications for the Work (“ Design Documents ”); provided , however , that Contractor and Owner shall cooperate during such period in the preparation and design review of such Design Documents. The Design Documents shall comply with OSHA O&M lockout requirements and Owner safety policies and procedures as set forth in Exhibit 2.5.2 . All final Design Documents shall be determined by Contractor in its sole discretion in accordance with the terms and conditions of this Agreement. Based on the Technical Specifications, Contractor shall prepare comprehensive Drawings and specifications setting forth in detail the requirements for the procurement and construction of the Work. As the Drawings and specifications for the Work are issued, they shall be clearly identified as Design Documents.

 

2.5.3            Final Wind Study . Contractor shall design the Project such that the final micro-siting of the WTGs shall be at the location assumed in the Wind Study, with only such WTG relocations (i) that do not require the movement of the WTG location more than two hundred (200) feet from the location assumed in the Site Plan, as such term is defined in the Asset Purchase Agreement or (ii) as are otherwise approved by Owner (with Owner’s approval not being unreasonably withheld). Contractor shall submit a properly addressed written request to Owner seeking approval of any proposed relocations where Owner’s prior approval is required pursuant to this Section 2.5.3 . Owner shall have the right to reasonably object to any proposed relocations where Owner’s prior approval is required pursuant to this Section 2.5.3 within ten (10) Business Days after receipt of such request. If Owner has not provided notice to Contractor within ten (10) Business Days of receipt of such request that Owner does not approve of such relocations, including the Owner’s reasons for not approving such relocation(s), Owner shall be deemed to have approved such relocations. Contractor shall be responsible under this Agreement for obtaining any new or amended Permits in connection with any such relocation. All cost resulting from any such relocations will be borne by Contractor. Each Contractor request to Owner seeking approval of proposed relocations shall include a report identifying the net annual energy production impact of such moves as well as the cumulative net annual energy production impact of all moves from the locations assumed in the Wind Study.

 

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2.5.4            Construction Plan . No later than forty-five (45) Days after the date of Project Closing, Contractor shall develop and provide to Owner a written construction plan. Contractor’s construction plan shall be reasonably satisfactory to Owner and shall include a description of Contractor’s plans and programs outlining the systematic construction, installation, fabrication and assembly of the Infrastructure Facilities and the WTGs in accordance with the Requirements of this Agreement. Owner shall review Contractor’s written construction plan and, within ten (10) Days after Owner’s receipt of such plan, shall provide Contractor with Owner’s comments. If any comments are received from Owner during such ten (10) Day period, Contractor shall incorporate into such plan those comments as it deems appropriate in its reasonable discretion. Contractor’s construction plan will comply with the Requirements and this Agreement in all material respects. Contractor shall provide Owner an update of Contractor’s construction plan on a weekly basis (as a part of Contractor’s weekly report) until Project Substantial Completion is achieved. Contractor shall meet with Owner prior to beginning major phases of the Work (each a “ Kick-Off Meeting ”), including but not limited to, Access Road, Foundation, Collection System, and Collection Substation construction, and WTG erection, to review the detailed plan for those phases of work. Contractor shall provide Owner an update of Contractor’s construction plan on at least a weekly basis until Project Substantial Completion is achieved.

 

2.5.5            Document Submittals and As-Built Drawings . Contractor shall prepare and submit to Owner all Submittals specified in Exhibit 2.5.5 , on or before the dates specified therein including a complete set of as-built Drawings prepared by Contractor in accordance with the requirements set forth in Exhibit 2.5.5 , which accurately and completely represent the physical placement, of all WTGs and Infrastructure Facilities as assembled, erected and installed (“ As-Built Drawings and Documentation ”) and an as-built Survey (as such term is defined in the Asset Purchase Agreement) no later than the date of Final Completion.

 

2.5.6            Review of Drawings .

 

2.5.6.1            Plan for Review Schedule . Contractor shall provide to Owner a copy of each Document or Drawing that Owner is required to review pursuant to Exhibit 2.5.5 , Section 2.5.2 and Section 2.5.6.2 . Contractor shall transmit to Owner one (1) set of reproducible Drawings and other Design Documents as prepared by Contractor or a Subcontractor in conjunction with the performance of the Work (in addition to the As-Built Drawings and Documentation to be included in the Turnover Package) for each Turnover Package deliverable under Section 2.11 .

 

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2.5.6.2            Owner Comment . Owner shall have the right, but not the obligation, to comment on any Document or Drawing delivered to Owner by Contractor pursuant to Exhibit 2.5.5 , Section 2.5.2 and Section 2.5.6.2 . Within ten (10) Business Days of receipt of any Drawing or Document required to be submitted to Owner for review under this Agreement, Owner shall provide Contractor any resulting comments or queries. If Owner fails to respond within such period, then such Drawing or Document shall be deemed to have been reviewed by Owner. In the event Owner’s comments identify errors in designs, specifications or any other inconformity with the Requirements of this Agreement (“ Mandatory Comments ”), Contractor shall within ten (10) Business Days implement changes to such Drawing or Document that are responsive to such comments; provided, however, that Contractor shall have an additional ten (10) Business Day period if consultation with any Subcontractor is required to respond to Owner’s comments. Any comments or suggested changes requested by Owner that are not Mandatory Comments (i) shall be implemented by Contractor if such comments are processed as a Scope Change Order or (ii) may be implemented at Contractor’s discretion. Owner’s comments shall not relieve Contractor from any of Contractor’s obligations hereunder, including responsibility for:

 

2.5.6.1            complying with this Agreement;

 

2.5.6.2            any errors or omissions in any Submittals;

 

2.5.6.3            confirming and correlating all quantities, details and dimensions;

 

2.5.6.4            selecting fabrication processes and construction techniques; and

 

2.5.6.5            performing the Work in a safe and workmanlike manner.

 

2.5.7            Preparatory Work and Survey . Contractor shall undertake all geotechnical work at the Project Site. Contractor shall undertake all necessary Project Site preparation. All such preparatory work contained in this Section 2.5.7 shall be performed in accordance with the Requirements of this Agreement.

 

Section 2.6                Procurement .

 

2.6.1            Materials and Equipment . Contractor shall procure and supply, at its own expense, whether by producing itself or by procuring from others, all materials and equipment set forth in Exhibit 2.6.1 and services required for performance of its obligations under this Agreement (whether on or off the Project Site), including the furnishing of labor, equipment, materials and tools for performance of the Work. Contractor shall be responsible, at its sole expense, for furnishing and installing all temporary construction materials, equipment, supplies, construction utilities and facilities, special tools (except for the special tools supplied by the Turbine Supplier), telephone, data lines, cabling and wiring necessary for all activities associated with the completion of the Work. All equipment and materials purchased by Contractor for the performance of Contractor’s obligations under this Agreement, other than Contractor Equipment, shall be new and all such equipment and materials, including Contractor Equipment, shall be of suitable grade for their respective purpose pursuant to Prudent Industry Practices. Contractor shall provide appropriate storage, in accordance with the manufacturers’ requirements, for materials, supplies and equipment for use in performance of the Work. All materials, supplies and equipment which may be used in performance of the Work and which are stored at a location other than on the Project Site shall be segregated from other goods or identified as belonging to Owner.

 

2.6.2            Consumable Parts . Contractor shall provide all assembly parts required for assembling WTGs (e.g., touchup paint, bolts and nuts normally required to assemble WTGs (“ Consumable Parts ”). Consumable Parts shall not include any Spare Parts or any consumable parts used or necessary for use in connection with the regularly scheduled service and maintenance of the WTGs.

 

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2.6.3            Spare Parts . Contractor and Owner acknowledge and agree that (i) the Agreement Price does not include Spare Parts and (ii) Contractor will be unable to provide a Spare Parts list with pricing prior to the Notice to Proceed Date. In the event Owner desires to purchase Spare Parts, it must purchase such Spare Parts as an “Option” as described in Section 4.1.1 . On the Notice to Proceed Date, Contractor shall deliver to Owner a preliminary draft of Exhibit 4.1.1 with a preliminary Spare Parts list with pricing. The final and effective Exhibit 4.1.1 shall be delivered to Owner by Contractor no later than the date of WTG Mechanical Completion for the first WTG.

 

Section 2.7                Labor and Personnel .

 

2.7.1            Contractor Personnel . As part of the Work, Contractor shall provide competent and suitable qualified personnel to survey and layout the Work and perform construction in accordance with the Agreement Documents as applicable, and Contractor shall be solely responsible for all labor and personnel required in connection with the Work, including: (a) professional engineers licensed to perform engineering services in accordance with Applicable Legal Requirements and qualified to perform the type of engineering services required by Contractor hereunder; and (b) the Contractor’s Prime Subcontractor who has the experience to otherwise ensure the completion of the Work. Contractor’s staff shall include the following key personnel, who shall be solely dedicated to the performance of the Work once they are approved or deemed approved by Owner (the “ Contractor’s Key Personnel ”): Project Manager, Construction Manager, and Engineering Manager (if Contractor employs such position for the Work). The Prime Subcontractor shall be identified by the Contractor and Contractor shall notify Owner of such company at least ninety (90) days prior to the commencement of physical construction work at the Project Site. The remaining list of Contractor’s Key Personnel shall be identified by Contractor and provided to Owner no later than sixty (60) days prior to the commencement of physical construction work at the Project Site.

 

2.7.2            Owner’s Approval of Contractor Personnel . Once the identity of a Contractor’s Key Personnel is submitted to Owner pursuant to Section 2.7.1 , Owner shall have ten (10) Business Days to review and approve such person or demonstrate that Contractor’s Key Personnel is not suitably qualified. If Owner disapproves any person as one of Contractor’s Key Personnel, Owner shall set forth the reasons for its disapproval in writing. If Owner fails to disapprove a proposed Contractor’s Key Personnel in writing within such ten (10) Business Day period, then Owner shall be deemed to have approved such proposed Contractor’s Key Personnel. Following any removal of any of Contractor’s Key Personnel, Contractor shall not replace such Contractor’s Key Personnel without three (3) Business Days prior Notice to Owner setting forth the reasons therefore. Owner shall have the right to review such replacement’s qualifications and to approve such replacement or demonstrate that Contractor’s Key Personnel is not suitably qualified. Contractor shall be responsible for abiding by the terms of the collective bargaining agreements applicable to each relevant craft union that is involved in the performance of any portion of the Work.

 

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2.7.3            Local Requirements . Owner expects Contractor to undertake, and Contractor accepts the obligation to undertake substantial good faith efforts to recruit and retain qualified local Subcontractors ,vendors, supplies and materials located in McIntosh County and Dickey County, North Dakota (collectively, the “ Counties ”) in connection with the performance of the Work. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Contractor will not be required to use goods and services provided by local contractors or vendors where such local goods or services are not of similar quality or are not qualitatively and or quantitatively comparable to those provided by nonresidents or where such goods and services are not available on terms and conditions (including price and bonding capacity) comparable to those offered by nonresidents. Contractor shall act as coordinator of local services to be a liaison between any individuals (“ Coordinator of Local Hiring Services ”), businesses or contractors residing or doing business in the county who are interested in obtaining information about providing goods or services related to the construction of the improvements. Contractor shall hold a Job Fair in either of the Counties no later than thirty (30) days prior to the anticipated date of Project Site mobilization where information will be provided regarding the construction and hiring needs of the Project. Contractor shall document to Owner that Contractor is in compliance with said plan, and provide to Owner documentation as is reasonably requested from time to time to confirm such compliance. Contractor shall provide Owner with access to all records of Contractor necessary to demonstrate compliance with this Section 2.7.3 .

 

Section 2.8            Project Quality Assurance Plan . Contractor shall submit a project quality assurance plan (the “ Project Quality Assurance Plan ”) to Owner. The Project Quality Assurance Plan shall require compliance with Applicable Laws and meet the requirements specified in Exhibit 2.8 . Upon acceptance by Owner, the Project Quality Assurance Plan shall be incorporated into this Agreement as Exhibit 2.8 . Contractor shall perform the Work in accordance with Exhibit 2.8 .

 

Section 2.9            Permits and Other Approvals . Contractor shall be responsible for obtaining and maintaining the Permits listed in Exhibit 2.9 , including assisting Owner in obtaining any such Permits listed in Exhibit 2.9 required to be obtained in Owner’s name as specified in Exhibit 2.9 . Contractor shall obtain and maintain in full force and effect all of the Permits required under Applicable Laws or otherwise necessary or desirable for Contractor to perform the Work in accordance with the Requirements of this Agreement. Upon request by Contractor, Owner shall provide Contractor with reasonable assistance in obtaining such Permits so long as such assistance does not require Owner to incur any out-of-pocket-cost. If any Permit is required for the Work or to perform the Work that is not identified in Exhibit 2.9 , Contractor or Owner, as applicable, shall promptly after it becomes aware of the need for such Permit, notify the other Party that such Permit is required. If such Permit is required to be obtained by contractors performing work in the state of North Dakota, Contractor shall, at its sole cost and expense (unless such permitting requirement is the result of a Change of Law entitling Contractor to seek reimbursement from Owner under Section 9.4 ), be obligated to obtain and maintain such Permit; otherwise Owner shall obtain and maintain such Permit. If any Permit required to be obtained by contractors performing work in the state of North Dakota has been omitted inadvertently by Contractor from Exhibit 2.9 , such omission shall not constitute a breach of this Agreement if (i) Contractor timely obtains such Permit and (ii) Owner is not otherwise damaged by such inadvertent omission or Contractor compensates Owner for any direct costs Owner incurs as a result of such inadvertent omission. Owner shall be named as the holder of those Permits that are required to be in the Owner’s name. Contractor represents it shall remain in compliance with the terms and conditions of the Permits, as applicable.

 

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Section 2.10               Real Property Rights .

 

2.10.1          Relocation of Facilities . If relocation of any utilities, transmission lines or other facilities from their existing or currently planned location is necessary for the Project, the Contractor shall bear the sole cost associated with relocating any such utilities, transmission lines or other facilities.

 

2.10.2          Crop Damages and Other Damages from Construction. Contractor shall perform the Work in a commercially reasonable manner that is intended to cause the minimum of inconvenience, injury or damage to the property of the landowners and tenants affected by the Work. Contractor shall familiarize itself with all agreements setting forth the Real Property Rights and comply with all requirements thereof with respect to the performance of the Work. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, Contractor shall pay all payments required to be made to landowners under the Real Property Rights prior to Project Substantial Completion; provided, that if as of the Closing Date the Guaranteed Project Substantial Completion Date is after December 31, 2019, then Owner shall pay those payments required to be made to landowners under the Real Property Rights which come due in 2020 up to an aggregate amount of $151,000. Contractor shall restore all property damaged in connection with the Work as nearly as practicable to as good condition as before the damage occurred. Contractor shall be required to reimburse Owner for any payment Owner is required to make to any other party to the agreements setting forth the Real Property Rights for damages arising out of or in connection with Contractor’s performance of the Work, provided that Contractor shall only be required to reimburse Owner for crop damage payments relating to the growing season in which the Work was performed. Prior to Final Completion, Contractor shall provide Owner such information as Owner shall reasonably request in support of Owner’s obligations related to the Real Property Rights and as is in Contractor’s possession or as is reasonably available to Contractor.

 

Section 2.11               Turnover Packages .

 

2.11.1         Not later than five (5) Days prior to the date the first Foundation achieves Foundation Completion, Contractor shall deliver to Owner two (2) paper copies of the draft of the Foundation Turnover Package, for review by Owner in accordance with Section 2.5 , either in Turnover Package format or in a form and format available as a result of the design and construction process, as appropriate.

 

2.11.2         With respect to each WTG, Contractor shall provide to Owner three (3) paper copies of the draft of the WTG Turnover Package and three (3) paper copies and one (1) electronic copy of the final and complete version of the WTG Turnover Package within ten (10) days of Contractor’s receipt of such material from Prime Subcontractor.

 

2.11.3         Within thirty (30) Days after the Project Substantial Completion Date, Contractor shall deliver to Owner two (2) paper copies and one (1) electronic copy of the final and complete Turnover Package, reviewed and approved by Owner in accordance with Section 2.5 .

 

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2.11.4         Where any of the information in the Turnover Package was produced by computer-aided design and is available to Contractor or any Subcontractor, Contractor shall provide or cause to be provided to Owner a disk copy of such information in an Intergraph- or AutoCAD-compatible format. Owner shall have a limited license to use such information solely for the purposes of construction, operation, repair and maintenance of the Project.

 

Section 2.12             Construction Methods and Safety Procedures . Contractor shall have exclusive responsibility for construction methods, means, techniques and procedures required to complete the Work and for the establishment of and compliance with safety procedures at the Project Site.

 

2.12.1          Safety . During performance of the Work, Contractor shall initiate and maintain safety precautions and programs in accordance with Exhibit 2.12.1 , the “ Contractor’s Safety Program ,” and to conform with Applicable Laws, including Environmental Laws, or other requirements designed to prevent injury to persons or damage to property on the Project Site including the Transmission Provider Safety and Interconnection Requirements. Contractor shall be solely responsible for initiating, maintaining and supervising all safety measures and programs in connection with the performance of Work, which shall include precautions and programs for the prevention of injury to local wildlife, flora and fauna. Contractor shall erect and maintain reasonable safeguards for the protection of workers and the public. Contractor shall exercise reasonable efforts to eliminate or abate all reasonably foreseeable safety hazards created by or otherwise resulting from performance of the Work. Contractor shall, and shall cause all of its employees, agents and Subcontractors to, follow the Contractor’s Safety Program and to follow at a minimum the Transmission Provider Safety and Interconnection Requirements during the performance of the Work, including any Work relating to the Point of Interconnection, or when performing work at the Interconnection Substation.

 

2.12.2          Site Safety Manual . No later than thirty (30) days after the Notice to Proceed Date, Contractor shall provide Owner with the final version of a safety manual for the Project Site (the “ Site Safety Manual ”) for review by Owner in accordance with Exhibit 2.12.1 and Exhibit 2.5.2 . Such final version of the Site Safety Manual shall:

 

   2.12.2.1            include proper training and workplace examinations;

 

   2.12.2.2            take into account the interaction of Contractor and its Subcontractor’s or third party contractors on the Site;

 

   2.12.2.3            require compliance with Applicable Laws; and

 

   2.12.2.4            meet the requirements specified in Exhibit 2.12.1 and Exhibit 2.5.2 .

 

2.12.3       Safety Reporting . During the performance of the Work at the Project Site, Contractor shall furnish to Owner on a weekly basis a safety report summarizing weekly hours worked at the Project Site by, and head counts of, labor and personnel of Contractor and its Subcontractors performing Work at the Project Site and all accidents, near misses or injuries at the Project Site required by Applicable Laws to be recorded or reported to any Governmental Authority.

 

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2.12.4          Emergencies . In the event of any emergency endangering persons or property, Contractor shall promptly take all reasonable and prudent actions to prevent, avoid or mitigate injury, damage or loss, regardless of the source of fault, and shall as soon as possible, report any such incidents, including Contractor’s response thereto, to Owner. If Contractor does not take such actions promptly, then Owner may take such actions as are necessary to prevent, avoid or mitigate injury, damage or loss and Contractor shall reimburse Owner for any actual costs incurred by Owner in taking such actions in the event of an emergency (not otherwise caused by Owner). Contractor shall assist Owner in any safety or accident investigation and promptly provide information as requested by Owner related thereto.

 

2.12.5          Hazardous Materials and Regulated Materials .

 

    2.12.5.1           In the performance of any Work, Contractor shall, and shall cause its Subcontractors to, comply with all Applicable Laws, including Environmental Laws, relating to Hazardous Materials, Regulated Materials, and the terms and conditions of all Permits. Contractor shall not, nor shall it permit any Subcontractor to, bring any Hazardous Materials on the Project Site (other than materials to be used by Contractor, in a manner that both (a) does not violate, or require reporting or disclosure under, any Environmental Law, and (b) is consistent with customary business practice for manufacturing, delivering, installing, assembling, erecting, Commissioning, start-up testing, operating and maintaining wind energy projects, such as lubricants (“ Permissible Materials ”)).

 

    2.12.5.2           Contractor shall bear all responsibility and liability for Hazardous Materials and Regulated Materials brought on the Project Site by Contractor or its Subcontractors, whether such materials are permitted to be brought on the Project Site pursuant to this Section 2.12.5 or are brought on the Project Site in violation of this Section 2.12.5 . Contractor shall be solely responsible for performing and paying the costs of any remediation required by Applicable Laws as a result of any Releases by Contractor or its Subcontractors of any such Hazardous Materials.

 

    2.12.5.3           Notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein, Contractor shall not be responsible for any Pre-Existing Hazardous Materials encountered at the Project Site. If such Pre-Existing Hazardous Materials are encountered at the Project Site by Contractor, Contractor shall immediately, upon recognizing such condition (a) stop the Work in the affected area of the Project Site, and (b) report such condition to Owner in writing. In addition to Contractor’s obligations as set forth above, if Owner desires Contractor to perform all or part of any excavation or removal that may become necessary as a result of the discovery of any such Pre-Existing Hazardous Material, it shall request a Scope Change pursuant to Article 9 . If so requested by Owner, Contractor shall cooperate with and assist Owner in making the Project Site available for taking necessary remedial steps to clean-up any such contamination at Owner’s expense as determined in accordance with Article 9 . Contractor shall not be required to perform clean-up of Pre-Existing Hazardous Materials to the extent Contractor is not responsible therefor, unless the Parties mutually agree that Contractor will perform such clean-up.

 

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    2.12.5.4           Title to all materials incorporated into the Work or other Permissible Materials stored at the Project Site shall transfer to Owner upon transfer of title of such Work in accordance with Article 14 .

 

    2.12.5.5           Contractor shall minimize the use of Hazardous Materials in performance of the Work and shall not utilize, or permit or cause any Subcontractor, to utilize, such Hazardous Materials as are prohibited under Applicable Law from being imported into or used in the United States. Contractor shall maintain an updated file of all safety data sheets for all materials used in connection with performance of the Work at the Project Site or at any construction area related to the Project and shall deliver an update of such file to Owner no later than ten (10) Business Days after the end of each month. In accordance with Applicable Laws, Contractor shall maintain an accurate record and current inventory of all Hazardous Materials used in performance of the Work at the Project Site or at any construction area related to the Project, which record shall identify quantities, location of storage, use and final disposition of such materials.

 

    2.12.5.6           Contractor shall be solely responsible for collecting, handling, storing and removing from the Project Site and areas adjacent thereto, and for properly disposing of, in compliance with this Agreement, all Applicable Laws and all Permits, materials that were brought onto the Project Site by Contractor, its Personnel, vendors, or Subcontractors. If a Release of Hazardous Materials brought onto the Project Site by Contractor or its employees, or Subcontractors, occurs on the Project Site that triggers a requirement under Applicable Laws to remediate such Release, and Contractor fails or refuses to remediate such Release or prepare a reasonable plan of remediation for such Release, then Owner may, at its discretion and after three (3) Business Days prior notice to Contractor, perform such remediation as it deems necessary or adequate. All reasonable costs and expenses of such remediation shall be for the account of Contractor, and Contractor shall promptly reimburse such amounts to Owner, except that all costs associated with any Release not from Hazardous Materials brought onto the Project Site by Contractor or any Subcontractor shall be borne by Owner. The Parties agree that Contractor simply discovering Pre-Existing Hazardous Materials is not a Release.

 

    2.12.5.7           Contractor shall implement and administer a Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasure (“ SPCC ”) program for all of its employees and all Subcontractors, which shall include development of guidelines and training with respect to the proper handling use and disposal of Permissible Materials and Hazardous Materials and the development, implementation and enforcement of procedures for notification of Owner and appropriate Governmental Authorities about, and clean-up of, spills and other emissions of Permissible Materials and Hazardous Materials, which such SPCC program shall be provided to Owner for review within sixty (60) days prior to any Work at the Project Site.

 

    2.12.5.8           Contractor shall promptly report any Contractor or Subcontractor Release or possible Release of known Hazardous Materials and potentially Hazardous Materials. Contractor shall act to contain any such Release in accordance with Applicable Law, including Environmental Law, and the provisions of this Agreement. Contractor’s obligations under this Section 2.12.5.8 shall be limited to Releases that occur prior to Final Completion.

 

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Section 2.13             Commissioning and Testing . Contractor shall submit commissioning procedures for Owner review per Exhibit 2.5.5 . Owner shall provide comments on these procedures within ten (10) days after receipt of such procedures. In the event Owner fails to timely provide comments to Contractor as provided by this Section 2.13 , the commissioning procedures shall be deemed approved by Owner as of the date of delivery thereof by Contractor. Contractor shall, in good faith, include Owner’s timely reasonable comments into the final commissioning procedures. Contractor shall perform the commissioning and testing of the Infrastructure Facilities in accordance with the Commissioning, Test and Inspection Procedures.

 

Section 2.14           Clean-up; Non-interference . Contractor shall at all times keep the Project Site free from non-hazardous waste materials or rubbish caused by its activities. During the period from Project Substantial Completion to completion of the Punch List Items, Contractor’s performance of the Work shall not interfere with the operation of the WTGs. As soon as practicable after the completion of all Punch List Items, Contractor shall (i) remove from and around the Project Site all of its equipment and materials not constituting part of the Project, (ii) tear down and remove all temporary structures on the Project Site built by it or its Subcontractors and restore such per requirements in the Real Property Rights agreements, Permits, and this Agreement, and (iii) remove from and around the Project Site all Permissible Materials not incorporated into the Work and all non-hazardous waste and rubbish resulting from the Work. All Permissible Materials and non-hazardous waste material and rubbish resulting from the Work shall be handled and disposed of by Contractor at its own expense in accordance with all Applicable Laws. Contractor shall provide to Owner copies of all waste disposal manifests, if any, upon request. Contractor’s obligations with respect to the handling and disposal of Hazardous Materials Released at the Project Site are set forth exclusively in Section 2.12.5 above.

 

Section 2.15              Books and Records; Audit Rights .

 

2.15.1          Books and Records of Contractor . Contractor shall maintain during the course of the Work, and retain not less than six (6) years after Final Completion, complete and accurate records of all Contractor’s records arising from, in connection with or incident to the Work or the Project, including without limitation, all Documents, granted authority, Permits and other evidentiary data that evidences compliance with the Requirements of this Agreement. Owner shall have the right for one year from Final Completion, during normal working hours, to inspect, reproduce, and audit such records of Contractor by Authorized Representatives of its own or any third party contract compliance-auditing firm selected by Owner for work performed pursuant to any Scope Change Orders on a time and material basis, except that such parties shall not have the right to audit or have audited Contractor’s books and records in connection with the internal composition of any markups, fixed rates or percentages or multipliers. The Scope Change Order records to be thus maintained and retained by Contractor for such work performed on a time and materials basis must provide sufficient detail to evidence the propriety of all such chargeable costs and compliance with the Requirements of this Agreement, and shall include (without limitation):

 

2.15.1.1           payroll records (hours, employee name, employee classification, multiplier breakdown etc.) that account for total time worked under such contract;

 

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2.15.1.2           invoices (including all back-up details) for purchases, receiving and issuing documents, and all inventory records for Contractor’s stock or capital items;

 

2.15.1.3           paid invoices and canceled checks for purchased materials, Subcontractor and third party charges;

 

2.15.1.4           records relating to airfreight and ground transportation, including but not limited to handling, hauling, and disposing of materials/equipment; and

 

2.15.1.5           accurate, auditable records of gifts, entertainment, and gratuities to individual Owner personnel.

 

2.15.2      Books and Records of Subcontractor . Contractor shall cause all of its Subcontractors to adhere to and comply with the requirements set forth in Section 2.15.1 for such work performed on a time and materials basis.

 

2.15.3      Audit Rights . Owner acknowledges that, except for any Scope Change Orders that are performed on a time and materials basis, all of the Work to be performed by Contractor hereunder shall be performed for a fixed price, and Owner shall have no right to review, audit or copy any detailed invoices, payroll records or any similar books or records maintained by Contractor with respect to the Work; provided that Contractor shall provide copies of all such books and records required by Owner to respond to any request of a Governmental Authority related to the Project. Contractor shall maintain detailed invoices, payroll records and similar books or records with respect to the Work to support any such requirement.

 

Section 2.16          Commencement of the Work . Except for that portion of the Work set forth in the Limited Notice to Proceed, Contractor shall not perform any Work before Owner issues the Notice to Proceed or otherwise authorizes, in writing, the Contractor to commence the Work. The Parties hereby acknowledge and agree that the Notice to Proceed will be deemed issued by Owner and received by Contractor on the Closing Date under the Asset Purchase Agreement. In the event the Agreement is terminated pursuant to Section 13.5 and no Notice to Proceed is issued, in such case title to any materials, engineering specifications and other work product (including foundation specifications, substation design, and road specifications), a main power transformer queue position, and any other preliminary work done by BOP contractor purchased by Contractor pursuant to the Limited Notice to Proceed shall immediately pass to Owner.

 

Section 2.17          Interconnection . Contractor shall be responsible for complying with all provisions of the final Interconnection Agreement to be executed between Owner and the Transmission Provider and Transmission Owner that are applicable to Contractor’s Work.

 

Section 2.18            Owner’s Right to Inspect . Subject to providing five (5) Business Days’ notice to Contractor, Owner and Owner’s Authorized Representatives shall have the right to inspect the Work and to maintain personnel at the Project Site for such purpose, subject in all cases to Contractor’s reasonable safety precautions. Such inspection of any part of the Work shall be conducted during normal operating hours at the Project Site and shall in no way relieve Contractor of its obligation to perform the Work in accordance with this Agreement. Neither Owner nor Owner’s Authorized Representative shall interfere with the execution of the Work in any material way during any inspection of the Project Site.

 

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Section 2.19          Notice of Claims and Liens . Provided that Owner makes all Milestone Payments due to Contractor in the amounts and at the time required by this Agreement, neither Contractor nor Prime Subcontractor shall assert or file a mechanics’ or materialman’s lien against Owner or the Project or the Project Site; provided , however , that this sentence shall not preclude the filing of a mechanics’ or materialman’s lien by the Prime Subcontractor against the Project or Project Site prior to the Notice to Proceed Date so long as Contractor removes such lien prior to the Notice to Proceed Date. Contractor agrees that neither Contractor nor Prime Subcontractor shall file a lien against Owner or the Project or the Project Site unless written notice thereof shall have been given to Owner at least ten (10) days prior to the date Contractor or Prime Subcontractor files a lien against Owner, the Project or the Project Site. Other than as provided for above in this Section 2.19 and for Permitted Liens (as defined in the Asset Purchase Agreement), Contractor shall not allow third party lien claims or any encumbrances to be (i) filed against Owner, or (ii) placed upon the Work and/or Owner property with respect to any of the Work performed hereunder. Contractor further agrees to defend, indemnify, save and hold harmless Owner from and against all such third party claims, damages and expenses, including liens of Subcontractors, laborers, equipment suppliers, service providers and other persons or entities arising out of, resulting from or in any way connected with the Work performed (or omitted to be performed) under or pursuant to this Agreement, including any Purchase Order(s). If a lien or encumbrance has been filed or noticed by a third party, Contractor shall bond-over the lien or encumbrances not later than the earlier of ten (10) Business Days after the lien or encumbrance has been filed or notice has been received. If Contractor chooses to bond-over the lien or encumbrance, the amount of the bond shall not be less than one hundred twenty-five percent (125%) of the claim. Any such bond shall survive the termination or expiration of this Agreement until such time as the applicable lien is released. Contractor will furnish, when requested by Owner, written evidence that any third party lien claims or encumbrance filed against Owner or the Project or the Project Site in connection with the Work, have either been paid in full or bonded-over, including, without limitation, releases or waivers of all liens and claims of Major Subcontractors and laborers. Except for liens properly filed by Contractor pursuant to this Section 2.19 , if any liens, claims or other encumbrances are outstanding against Contractor or Owner as a consequence of the Work, if the claim or encumbrance is not bonded-over, Owner may retain from money due Contractor sufficient amounts to indemnify and hold Owner harmless. In the event Owner is notified in writing of a third party claim or claims arising from the Work performed by Contractor, Owner shall notify Contractor of such claim or claims and Contractor shall appoint a representative who will have the authority to settle any claims, provided, that any proposed settlement that would involve Owner, and not Contractor, bearing the financial responsibility of such settlement shall require the prior approval by Owner. If Contractor fails to appoint a representative to settle such claims, Owner shall have the right to make settlement thereof and charge the same to Contractor.

 

Section 2.20          Cooperation . Owner shall cooperate with Contractor in connection with Contractor’s efforts to obtain the approvals, certificates and Permits that Contractor is required to obtain to perform the Work.

 

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Section 2.21          Security and Assignment Agreements and Consents . As security for the performance of Contractor’s obligations under this Agreement and in order to preserve Owner’s Step-In Rights under Article 13 , Contractor shall deliver to Owner (a) the Turbine Supply Security and Collateral Assignment Agreement, duly executed by Contractor, (b) the Turbine Supplier Consent to Assignment, duly executed by Contractor and Turbine Supplier, (c) the Prime Subcontract Security and Assignment Agreement, duly executed by Contractor, (d) the Prime Subcontractor Consent to Assignment, duly executed by Contractor and Prime Subcontractor, and (e) such other security and assignment agreements of Subcontracts as may be required by Owner to secure Owner’s rights under Article 13 , duly executed by Contractor, together with consents to such assignments duly executed by Contractor and the relevant Subcontractor.

 

Article 3
SUBCONTRACTORS

 

Section 3.1              Subcontractors .

 

3.1.1         Subcontracts . Owner acknowledges that Contractor intends that portions of the Work shall be accomplished by Subcontractors pursuant to certain written Subcontracts between Contractor and such Subcontractors. Owner hereby approves Contractor’s engagement of the Turbine Supplier. Contractor agrees to provide Owner with the list of potential Subcontractors it is considering for performing aspects of the Work upon the reasonable request by Owner. Owner agrees to the use and engagement of Subcontractors by Contractor, provided, that Contractor may not enter in to any contract with a Major Subcontractor unless the Major Subcontractor has been approved by Owner in accordance with Section 3.2 . Contractor shall require and shall cause all Work performed by Subcontractors to be in accordance with the Requirements of this Agreement. No Subcontractor is intended to be nor shall be deemed a third party beneficiary of this Agreement. Contractor agrees that it shall be fully responsible to Owner for the acts and omissions of Subcontractors and of Persons directly or indirectly employed by them, as it is for the acts or omissions of Persons directly employed by Contractor. Nothing contained herein shall obligate Owner to pay any Subcontractor and Contractor shall be solely responsible for paying each Subcontractor and any other Person to whom any amount is due from Contractor in connection with the Project.

 

3.1.2         Assignment . No Subcontract shall bind or purport to bind Owner. When entering into a Subcontract with a Major Subcontractor for work to be performed at the Project Site, Contractor shall cause Owner to be named as an intended third-party beneficiary and contain a provision substantially in the form of Exhibit 3.1.2 permitting its assignment to Owner upon Owner’s written request following default by Contractor, the exercise by Owner of Step-in-Rights, termination due to a Contractor Default, or expiration of this Agreement. With respect to any Subcontract assigned to Owner, as a condition to such Subcontractor accepting such an assignment, Owner shall provide reasonable assurances of performance.

 

3.1.3         Subcontractor and Vendor Warranties . To the extent assignable, Contractor shall assign all representations, warranties, guarantees and obligations of all Major Subcontractors upon Final Completion.

 

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Section 3.2    Major Subcontracts . Appended to this Agreement as Exhibit 3.2 is a list of approved Subcontractors. In the event that Contractor is considering the selection of a Subcontractor not listed in Exhibit 3.2 for a Major Subcontract, Contractor shall (i) notify Owner of the proposed Major Subcontractor(s) at the earliest practical point in its selection process and furnish to Owner all information reasonably requested by Owner with respect to Contractor’s selection criteria (including copies of bid packages furnished to prospective Major Subcontractors and the qualifications of proposed Major Subcontractors) and (ii) notify Owner no less than ten (10) Business Days prior to the proposed date of execution of a Major Subcontract. Owner shall have the right to reject for good cause any proposed Major Subcontractor; provided, that such good caused is based on and limited to the technical capacity, performance history or financial condition of such prospective Major Subcontractor. Contractor shall not enter into any Major Subcontract with a proposed Major Subcontractor rejected by Owner. Owner shall undertake in good faith to review the information provided by Contractor expeditiously and shall notify Contractor of any such rejection as soon as practicable after such decision is made. If at the end of the ten (10) Business Days after receipt of such information by Owner, Contractor has not received notice of Owner’s rejection of the proposed Major Subcontractor, Contractor shall have the right to execute such agreement with the proposed Major Subcontractor and such Major Subcontractor shall be deemed added to the list of approved Subcontractors in Exhibit 3.2 . Owner’s approval not to be unreasonably withheld.

 

Section 3.3            Change in Major Subcontractor due to Owner’s Objections . In the event Owner’s rejection of such proposed Major Subcontractor results in Contractor entering into a Major Subcontract at a higher price than the proposed Major Subcontract, Owner shall issue a Scope Change Order for such increase.

 

Article 4
Agreement PRICE AND PAYMENTS

 

Section 4.1            Agreement Price . As consideration to Contractor for completing and furnishing the Work, Owner agrees to pay Contractor, and Contractor agrees to accept as full and complete payment for all of the Work, including construction aids, start-up and testing, supervision, travel and per diem costs, other Contractor expenses related to the Work and the performance of any warranty obligations hereunder, the fixed lump sum agreement price of TWO HUNDRED MILLION FIVE HUNDRED FORTY-EIGHT THOUSAND EIGHT HUNDRED SIXTY-FOUR AND 00/100 DOLLARS (US $200,548,864.00) (“ Agreement Price ”), and described on the Payment Schedule (as set forth at Exhibit 4.1 to this Agreement and in accordance with Section 4.3 below) and hereby purchased by Owner from Contractor at the prices set forth on the Payment Schedule but excludes sales and use Taxes associated therewith; provided , that if the Closing Date occurs after December 31, 2018, the Agreement Price shall be increased by an amount equal to Thirty One Thousand One Hundred Twenty and 00/100 Dollars ($31,120.00) multiplied by the number of months the Closing Date occurs after December 31, 2018. Other than as provided for in this Section 4.1 or Section 4.1.1 , except with respect to (i) certain Taxes as set forth in Section 4.2.3 , and (ii) Scope Changes as provided in Article 9 , the Agreement Price shall not be increased for any reason under this Agreement. The Agreement Price is stated in United States Dollars and is not subject to adjustment for exchange rate fluctuations.

 

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4.1.1         Agreement Price Adjustments for Certain Options with respect to the Work . Set forth on the Exhibit 4.1.1 are (a) the prices for each item of Spare Parts, and any other materials or services designated in the Payment Schedule as “Options” (such other Spare Parts, materials and services being referred to as “ Options ” as identified in Exhibit 4.1.1 ). At any time and from time to time after the Effective Date of this Agreement, Owner may elect to purchase any one or more of the Options by giving notice of such election to Contractor. Each time Owner makes such an election, a Change Order shall adjust the Agreement Price to include the cost of any and all Options that Owner so elects to purchase at the prices set forth for such Option or Options on the Payment Schedule.

 

4.1.2        Owner Credit Support . No later than ten (10) Business Days after the occurrence of a Credit Trigger Event with respect to Owner, Owner shall provide Contractor with an irrevocable standby letter of credit in the form of Exhibit 4.1.2 , issued by an Qualified Institution, with a drawable amount equal to [**] ($[**]) (the “ Owner LOC ”). The Owner LOC, if issued, shall secure Owner’s payment obligations, including Owner’s indemnity obligations, hereunder. Contractor shall be entitled to draw on the Owner LOC for any uncured breach by Owner of this Agreement. Owner shall maintain the Owner LOC in place until Contractor has been paid all amounts due to Contractor under this Agreement. For the avoidance of doubt, the Owner LOC referenced in this Section 4.1.2 is the same agreement as that referenced in the Asset Purchase Agreement and not in addition to such agreement.

 

Section 4.2             Taxes .

 

4.2.1          Import Taxes . The Agreement Price shall include payment for all duties, levies, imposts, fees, royalties or charges of any kind, whether in the United States or elsewhere, arising from the importation of any items into the United States.

 

______________________________

[**] Denotes confidential information that has been omitted from the exhibit and filed separately, accompanied by a confidential treatment request, with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Rule 24b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

 

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4.2.2        Tax Responsibility . Except as provided in Section 4.2.3 , the Agreement Price includes payment for: (i) all costs of equipment, temporary equipment, materials, labor, transportation, engineering, design and other services relating to Contractor’s performance of its obligations under this Agreement and the Work (including any intellectual property rights licensed under this Agreement, expressly or by implication) provided by Contractor or such Subcontractors; (ii) except as set forth in Section 4.2.3 , all taxes of any nature whatsoever including all United States federal, state, regional, and local taxes, national and foreign taxes, goods and services taxes, sales and use taxes and occupational, excise, unemployment, ownership, value-added, gross receipts, and income taxes and any and all other taxes effective or enacted as of the Effective Date or thereafter (collectively referred to as “ Taxes ”), and (iii) all duties, customs, levies, imposts, fees, royalties or charges of any kind (whether in the United States or elsewhere and including any of the foregoing related to the importation of any items into the United States) arising out of the exportation and importation of any component or part of the WTG, Infrastructure Facilities, Drawings, designs or other Work or out of Contractor’s or any such Subcontractor’s performance of the Work, or with respect to any equipment, materials, labor, or services provided under this Agreement, including any increases thereof that may occur after the Effective Date. The Agreement Price shall not be increased with respect to any of the foregoing items in (ii) or (iii) above or with respect to any withholdings in respect of any of the foregoing items that Owner may be required to make. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Contractor shall not be liable for, and the Agreement Price shall not include any taxes for which Owner is responsible pursuant to Section 4.2.3 . Contractor shall provide to Owner all information reasonably requested by Owner to confirm that the correct amount of sale and use tax or other like taxes will be paid on the Work and the Project, but only to the extent that the failure to provide such information is reasonably likely to create a liability for Owner.

 

4.2.3        Payment of Sales Tax . Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, the Agreement Price shall not include, but Owner shall pay or reimburse Contractor for, any sales, use, or transfer tax levied by any state, county or local government with respect to the purchase, sale, lease or use of any personal property or services that are part of the Work or the Project (“ Sales Tax ”), without regard to whether the person required by law to report, collect or pay such sales Tax was Contractor, any Subcontractor, a person selling to either of them, or any other person.

 

4.2.4        Tax Administration and Payment . Contractor shall timely administer and pay all Taxes for which Contractor is responsible, and timely furnish to the appropriate taxing authorities all required information and reports in connection with such Taxes and furnish copies of such information and reports (other than information specifically pertaining to Contractor’s income and profit) to Owner. Upon receipt of an invoice submitted by Contractor, Owner shall promptly pay to Contractor (or, at the request of Contractor, directly to the applicable Governmental Authority) any Sales Tax pursuant to Section 4.2.3 . Owner, or transactions involving Owner, may be exempt from some Taxes or Sales Taxes under State of North Dakota or other Applicable Law. To the extent necessary, Owner will provide to Contractor valid information and forms, including the State of North Dakota tax exemption certificate (“ Tax Exemption Certificate ”) set forth in Exhibit 4.2.4 , to allow Contractor to secure such exemptions for the benefit of Owner. All Contractor’s invoices shall be consistent with the provisions of this Section 4.2.4 . All invoices must be accompanied by completed Tax Exemption Certificates. For a period of six (6) years after the Project Substantial Completion Date, and within thirty (30) Days of a request therefore, Contractor shall provide Owner with any information regarding quantities and descriptions of property installed at the Site that Owner shall reasonably request in connection with the preparation of its Tax returns.

 

4.2.4.1             Sales Tax Exemption for Renewable Energy Production Components . Contractor and Owner shall work together to develop and execute a tax strategy to minimize Sales Tax payable in connection with the Project. In the event that the North Dakota sales and use tax exemption (the “ Renewable Energy Production Components Exemption ”) applicable to the tangible personal property used in the construction of the Project (the “ Wind Conversion System Equipment ”) is extended beyond January 1, 2017, Contractor and each of its Subcontractors shall purchase all Wind Conversion System Equipment as a sale for resale or pursuant to the Renewable Energy Production Components Exemption and without collecting, paying or remitting any Sales Tax, other than to applicable local jurisdictions and Contractor shall not charge Sales Tax on billings to Owner for Owner’s purchases of Wind Conversion System Equipment, provided Owner provides Contractor with a valid Certificate of Exemption.

 

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4.2.4.2            Non-Wind Conversion System Equipment Taxes . Contractor and Owner agree that to the extent materials used or consumed in the production of the Project are not exempt from sales and use tax that Owner shall pay Contractor pursuant to Section 4.2.3 and Contractor shall remit the tax to the applicable jurisdiction pursuant to Section 4.2.4 .  Each invoice submitted by Contractor with respect to any such materials shall show as separate line items the sales price, the sales and use tax and any associated labor.

 

4.2.4.3            Labor . Contractor and Owner assume that installation labor for Non-Wind Conversion System Equipment is non-taxable and Contractor and each of its Subcontractors shall not collect nor pay any State sales and use tax on any such Project labor. Notwithstanding then foregoing, Owner is not relieved of any liability for sales tax on labor.

 

4.2.4.4            Additional Information Requested by Owner . Contractor shall provide assistance as reasonably requested by Owner or Owner’s Tax consultant, in determining eligibility and qualifying for exemptions or exclusions from sales and use taxes (and any other Sales Tax exemptions or exclusions) for the relevant Governmental Authority and Owner agrees to take reasonable measures to protect Contractor’s proprietary business and pricing information.  To the extent that Owner requires additional documents or information from Contractor to complete or comply with Owner’s applications for a sales tax refund pursuant to Section 4.2.4.2 above, or in connection with a tax jurisdiction audit matter, Contractor shall only be required to provide such additional documents or information reasonably requested by Owner if (a) Owner confirms to Contractor in writing that such additional documents or information are necessary to complete or comply with applicable laws respecting such sales tax refunds or audit matter; and (b) Owner may disseminate such information to state taxing authorities and other third parties only as necessary to comply with applicable laws respecting such tax refund or audit matter.

 

Section 4.3            Payment of the Agreement Price . Owner shall pay the Agreement Price to Contractor in installments (each, a “ Milestone Payments ”) in accordance with the Payment Schedule set forth in Exhibit 4.1 . Owner shall pay Contractor within twenty (20) Days from the date of Owner’s receipt of a Milestone Payment Request in substantially the form of Exhibit 4.3 . An amount equal to ten percent (10%) of each Milestone Payment will be withheld by Owner as additional security (the “ Retainage ”) up to a maximum retainage of [**] ($[**]) (the “ Retainage Cap ”); provided , however , that the Retainage Cap will be increased by the amount of any retainage Contractor is entitled to hold back from payments made by it under the Turbine Supply Agreement. Upon the achievement of Project Substantial Completion, the Retainage will be reduced to an amount equal to 200% of the value of the Punch List Items and the balance thereof shall be paid to Contractor. THE PARTIES EXPRESSLY ACKNOWLEDGE THAT OWNER SHALL HAVE NO OBLIGATION TO PAY ANY AMOUNTS TO CONTRACTOR HEREUNDER, INCLUDING ANY MILESTONE PAYMENT, UNTIL AFTER (I) NOTICE TO PROCEED HAS BEEN DEEMED ISSUED; AND (II) THE SECURITY AND ASSIGNMENT AGREEMENTS AND CONSENTS REQUIRED PURSUANT TO Section 2.21 HAVE BEEN SIGNED AND DELIVERED TO OWNER.

 

_____________________________

[**] Denotes confidential information that has been omitted from the exhibit and filed separately, accompanied by a confidential treatment request, with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Rule 24b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

 

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Section 4.4            Disputed Invoices . If there is any dispute about any amount invoiced by Contractor, the amount not in dispute shall be promptly paid and any disputed amount that is ultimately determined to have been payable shall be paid, with interest calculated, as provided in Section 4.8 .

 

Section 4.5            Conditions of Payment . Contractor’s right to receive any payment to be paid to it hereunder is conditioned upon its submitting to Owner, a Milestone Payment Request that shall include: (i) the amount of the Milestone Payment due; (ii) the Monthly Progress Report, and (iii) Partial Lien Waivers duly executed by Contractor and each Major Subcontractor (except that with respect to the final payment hereunder, a Final Lien Waiver is required from Contractor and each Major Subcontractor).

 

Section 4.6             Evidence of Payments to Turbine Supplier . Within five (5) Business Days after making any payment to Turbine Supplier with respect to this Agreement, and as a condition to Owner’s obligation to make any subsequent payment to Contractor hereunder, Contractor shall provide Owner with evidence that payment has been made to Turbine Supplier in the form of either (i) a wire transfer confirmation (redacted to delete precise payment amounts) indicating such payment to Turbine Supplier and a written confirmation from Turbine Supplier that Contractor is current in its payment obligations to Turbine Supplier, including confirmation of the percentage of the “Contract Price” (as defined in the Turbine Supply Agreement) paid to Turbine Supplier through the date of such payment or (ii) a Turbine Supplier lien waiver to Owner with respect to such payment, including confirmation of the percentage of the “Contract Price” (as defined in the Turbine Supply Agreement) paid to Turbine Supplier through the date of such payment.

 

Section 4.7            Guarantees; Backup Letter of Credit . To secure the performance of its obligations under this Agreement, Contractor shall provide, or cause to be provided to Owner with the following:

 

4.7.1          EDF-EN Guaranty . On the Effective Date, Contractor shall cause Guarantor to execute and deliver to Owner, and maintain in full force and effect, the EDF-EN Guaranty. The EDF-EN Guaranty shall remain in effect until the earlier to occur of (i) payment in full, or termination, of all of the payment obligations (including contingent obligations) guaranteed thereby and (ii) the sixth (6th) anniversary of the Project Substantial Completion Date (“ EDF-EN Guaranty Expiration ”).

 

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4.7.2            Construction Period Guaranty . On or prior to January 1, 2018, Contractor will to deliver to Owner and maintain in full force and effect either (i) the Construction Period Guaranty executed by Guarantor for the benefit of Owner or (ii) a payment bond in an amount equal to [**] ($[**]) in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to Owner and issued by a surety reasonably acceptable to Owner assuring the payments otherwise guaranteed by the Construction Period Guaranty (the “ Project Surety Bond ”). The Construction Period Guaranty or the Project Surety Bond, as the case may be, shall remain in effect until the earlier to occur of (x) payment in full, or termination, of all of the payment obligations (including contingent obligations) guaranteed thereby and (z) the delivery to Owner of the Post-Construction Guaranty (“ Construction Period Guaranty Expiration ”).

 

4.7.3            Post-Construction Guaranty . On or prior to the Project Substantial Completion Date, Contractor shall cause the Guarantor to execute and deliver to Owner, and maintain in full force and effect, the Post-Construction Guaranty. The Post-Construction Guaranty shall remain in effect until the earlier to occur of (i) payment in full, or termination, of all of the obligations guaranteed thereby and (ii) the sixth (6th) anniversary of the Project Substantial Completion Date (“ Post-Construction Guaranty Expiration ”).

 

4.7.4            Backup Letter of Credit . No later than ten (10) Business Days after the occurrence of a Credit Trigger Event with respect to a Guarantor, Contractor shall provide Owner with an irrevocable standby letter of credit in the form of Exhibit 4.7.c , issued by a Qualified Institution, with a drawable amount equal to [**] Dollars ($[**]) (the “ Backup LOC ”) with respect to each Guaranty issued by such Guarantor and outstanding at the time of such Credit Trigger Event. Each Backup LOC, if issued, shall secure (x) such Guarantor’s obligations under the applicable Guaranty, (y) Contractor’s performance and payment obligations under this Agreement, including performance through the end of applicable Infrastructure Facilities Warranty Periods and (z) Sellers’ payment obligations under the Asset Purchase Agreement, including all indemnity and liquidated damages obligations thereunder. The Backup LOC shall terminate on the sixth (6th) anniversary of the Project Substantial Completion Date. Owner shall be entitled to draw on the Backup LOC for any uncured breach by Contractor of this Agreement, by Sellers of the Asset Purchase Agreement or by the Guarantor of the applicable Guaranty.

 

4.7.5            No Duplication . For the avoidance of doubt, the EDF-EN Guaranty, the Construction Period Guaranty, the Post-Construction Guaranty, and the Backup LOC(s), each referenced in this Section 4.7 , are the same agreements as those referenced in the Asset Purchase Agreement and not in addition to such agreements.

 

Section 4.8              Interest . Any amount owed to either Party beyond the date that such amount first becomes due and payable under this Agreement shall accrue interest from the date that it first became due and payable until the date that it is paid at the lesser of (a) the LIBOR plus three percent (3%) and (b) the maximum rate permitted by Applicable Laws.

 

Section 4.9             Effect of Payment . Payment of the Agreement Price shall not constitute Owner’s approval of any portion of the Project or the Work which has been determined not to be, or subsequently is determined not to have been, performed in accordance with the Requirements of this Agreement.

 

_______________________

[**] Denotes confidential information that has been omitted from the exhibit and filed separately, accompanied by a confidential treatment request, with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Rule 24b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

 

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Section 4.10          Set-off . Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, either Party may at any time deduct and set-off (including a draw on any security held by either Party) against any part of the balance due or to become due to the other Party under this Agreement, including any Delay Liquidated Damages due or accrued but not paid by Contractor to Owner hereunder and any other amounts payable by Contractor to Owner hereunder that are not subject to an unresolved dispute.

 

Section 4.11          Payment Dates . Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Article 4 , in the event that any payment to be made under this Agreement falls due on any Day that is not a Business Day, the payment shall be deemed due on the first Business Day thereafter.

 

Section 4.12          Payment Withheld . Owner may withhold payment on any Milestone Payment or portion thereof in an amount reasonably necessary to protect Owner to cover the actual costs (calculated in a manner consistent with the terms of this Agreement, but subject to the limitations set forth in Section 11.2 ) of (i) Defects not remedied or (ii) Liens filed against the Project or the Project Site by Subcontractors that Contractor has not caused to be released or bonded over within fifteen (15) Days after the date of filing or, regardless of when filed, prior to the date that the final Milestone Payment will be due. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Owner must first apply any amounts held as Retainage to cover actual costs incurred prior to withholding any payment otherwise due to Contractor under this Agreement. No payment made by Owner to Contractor or withholding of any payment by Owner shall relieve Contractor of any liability under this Agreement or shall be deemed a waiver by Owner of any warranty of Contractor.

 

Section 4.13          Release of Liens . If any Lien or claim of Lien is filed or notification of withholding money for labor or material furnished under this Agreement is served on Owner and Owner has made all Milestone Payments properly due to Contractor in the amounts and at the time required by this Agreement, and Contractor fails to provide a lien bond or other security or otherwise cause the Lien or claim to be discharged or withdrawn within sixty (60) Days from the time such Lien or claim is made, Owner may discharge such Lien or claim with the monies withheld pursuant to Section 4.12 , whereupon for purposes of this Agreement such monies shall be deemed to have been paid to Contractor.

 

Section 4.14          Final Payment . Upon the occurrence of Final Completion as evidenced by the Final Completion Certificate, Owner shall make the final Milestone Payment to Contractor. pursuant to Exhibit 4.1 .

 

Article 5
OWNER RESPONSIBILITIES

 

Section 5.1            Project Site Access . Owner shall provide Contractor with access to the Project Site at all times Contractor determines necessary for performance of the Work. Except as otherwise provided in this Agreement, Owner shall not unreasonably prevent, obstruct or otherwise interfere with Contractor’s or Subcontractor’s reasonable rights of ingress or egress to and from the Project Site.

 

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Section 5.2            Permits . Owner shall cooperate with Contractor in connection with Contractor’s efforts to obtain the Permits required pursuant to Section 2.9 . Owner shall be responsible for obtaining and maintaining those Permits listed in Exhibit 2.9 as Owner’s responsibility.

 

Section 5.3           [Reserved]  

 

Section 5.4            Review of Design Documents . Owner shall provide timely review of the Design Documents during Design Development, as provided in Section 2.5.2 .

 

Section 5.5            Owner-Caused Delay . In the event of (i) any interruption or delay in the Project Schedule directly caused by Owner’s failure to perform any of its other obligations under this Agreement or (ii) Contractor’s receipt of an order or instruction from Owner to suspend the Work (each, an “ Owner-Caused Delay ”), Contractor shall provide prompt written notice to Owner describing the particulars of such delay or failure including an estimation of the expected duration and the probable impact on the performance of Contractor’s obligations hereunder. An Owner-Caused Delay shall entitle Contractor to a Scope Change in accordance with Article 9 , but only to the extent that such Owner-Caused Delay causes or contributes to a delay in Contractor’s performance of the Work.

 

Article 6
COMPLETION; COMMISSIONING AND TURNOVER

 

Section 6.1            General .

 

6.1.1      Contractor shall perform the Work to mechanically complete the WTGs, the Infrastructure Facilities and the Project, in each case in accordance with the Requirements of this Agreement, applicable manufacturers’ (including the Turbine Supplier’s) instructions and warranty requirements and any and all applicable rules as agreed to by Owner, the Contractor, and the Turbine Supplier. Owner and its Authorized Representatives shall have the right to inspect the Work and to be present during the start-up, synchronization, operation and testing of the Project pursuant to this Article 6 .

 

6.1.2      Contractor shall provide Owner with ten (10) days written notice of the date on which it intends to carry out tests. The Parties shall use commercially reasonable efforts to coordinate with the scheduling of any or all such tests to reasonably accommodate the schedules of Persons whom the Owner deems necessary to attend the tests. Contractor shall notify Owner of any proposed change in the schedule of tests. Under no circumstances will the unavailability of the Owner or Owner’s representatives delay the performance of the scheduled tests for which the required notice has been provided to Owner.

 

Section 6.2           Foundation Completion . Contractor shall achieve Foundation Completion with respect to each individual Foundation and associated Infrastructure Facilities in accordance with the Requirements of this Agreement. “ Foundation Completion ,” with respect to an individual Foundation, means the achievement of the following milestones:

 

6.2.1      such Foundation is mechanically completed and installed in accordance with the Agreement Documents;

 

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6.2.2      such Foundation is structurally complete and contains all necessary embedded inserts;

 

6.2.3      the concrete portion of such Foundation has cured so as to have achieved the minimum strength necessary to allow assembly, erection and installation of the WTG thereon in accordance with the Agreement Documents;

 

6.2.4      backfilling of the area surrounding such Foundation has been completed per contract and lease requirements;

 

6.2.5      hard copies of red-lined drawings have been submitted to Owner;

 

6.2.6      all quality assurance documentation has been provided to, received, reviewed, and approved by Owner in accordance with the Project Quality Assurance Plan and all non-conforming quality assurance issues have been resolved in accordance with the Project Quality Assurance Plan; and

 

6.2.7      Contractor has delivered a Foundation Completion Certificate in substantially the form of Exhibit 6.2.7 with respect to such Work, subject to Owner’s verification rights as set forth in Section 6.7 .

 

Section 6.3           WTG Mechanical Completion . Contractor shall achieve Mechanical Completion with respect to each WTG in accordance with the Requirements of this Agreement. “ Mechanical Completion ” with respect to an individual WTG means achievement of the following:

 

6.3.1      Foundation Completion with respect to the Foundation for such WTG has occurred and such WTG is designed, fabricated, assembled, erected and installed so as to be completed in accordance with the Technical Specifications, the Mechanical Completion Checklist set forth in Exhibit 6.3.1 (the “ Mechanical Completion Checklist ”), and the other Requirements of this Agreement, and checked for adjustment;

 

6.3.2      all materials and equipment associated with such WTG have been installed in accordance with the Technical Specifications, the Mechanical Completion Checklist, the WTG Supplier Requirements, the applicable Project Quality Assurance Plan set forth in Exhibit 2.8 , and the other Requirements of this Agreement, and checked for adjustment, rotation and lubrication;

 

6.3.3      all quality assurance documentation has been provided, received, and reviewed, and approved by Owner in accordance with the Project Quality Assurance Plan and all non-conforming quality assurance issues have been resolved in accordance with the Project Quality Assurance Plan;

 

6.3.4      the WTG is ready to commence Commissioning and testing; and

 

6.3.5      Owner has accepted a Mechanical Completion Certificate with respect to such WTG.

 

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Section 6.4            Commissioning and Turnover of Electrical Works . In connection with the Pre-Commissioning or Commissioning of each WTG, Contractor shall complete such additional Work as is necessary to energize such WTG and to achieve interconnection and shall Commission the Electrical Works related thereto. Upon completion of such Electrical Works related to each WTG, Contractor shall submit a Commissioning and Turnover Certificate to Owner on a per-circuit basis with respect thereto. Contractor shall cause Commissioning and turnover to occur with respect to the Electrical Works no later than the Guaranteed Project Substantial Completion Date. “ Commissioning and Turnover of Electrical Works ” with respect to an individual circuit of Electrical Works and equipment associated therewith means the achievement of the following milestones:

 

6.4.1      Foundation Completion with respect to the Foundation for such WTG and all other Electrical Works foundations has occurred;

 

6.4.2      all of the Electrical Works, including the installation of all grounding, necessary to energize the WTG, are completed in accordance with the Requirements of this Agreement;

 

6.4.3      all materials and equipment associated with such Electrical Works have been installed in accordance with the Technical Specifications, the Commissioning Test and Inspection Procedures and the other Requirements of this Agreement, and checked for adjustment;

 

6.4.4      such Electrical Works and all other Infrastructure Facilities necessary to achieve Interconnection, including connection of such WTG to Transmission Provider’s electricity transmission system, are either (i) energized or (ii) immediately capable of being energized upon provision of the necessary facilities required to be furnished by Owner hereunder, if any;

 

6.4.5      all of the Electrical Works necessary to achieve connection of such WTG to the Collection Substation in accordance with this Agreement have been installed, insulated, protected and tested, including synchronization with such system;

 

6.4.6      all of such Electrical Works have been properly constructed, installed, insulated and protected where required for such operation, have been correctly adjusted, tested and Commissioned, are mechanically, electrically and structurally constructed as set forth in the Technical Specifications, and can be used safely in accordance with the Agreement Documents, Applicable Laws and Applicable Standards;

 

6.4.7      all quality assurance documentation has been provided, received, and reviewed, and approved by Owner in accordance with the Project Quality Assurance Plan and all non-conforming quality assurance issues have been resolved in accordance with the Project Quality Assurance Plan; and

 

6.4.8      Owner has accepted an Electrical Works Commissioning and Turnover Certificate with respect to such Electrical Works.

 

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Section 6.5          Project Substantial Completion . Subject to Section 11.3 , Contractor shall achieve substantial completion of the Project (“ Project Substantial Completion ”), which shall include achievement of Commissioning and Turnover of Electrical Works and WTG Mechanical Completion with respect to all WTGs and all WTGs have been commissioned in accordance with the Commissioning Test and Inspection Procedures and all requirements set forth therein have been met or exceeded and a corresponding WTG Commissioning and Turnover Certificate has been delivered (subject to adjustment in the event Contractor exercises its Buy-Back Right pursuant to Section 11.3 ), and the following other items:

 

6.5.1      Contractor has delivered to Owner, and Owner has accepted, a WTG Substantial Completion Certificate for each WTG;

 

6.5.2      the requirements set forth in the Commissioning Test and Inspection Procedures have been met or exceeded;

 

6.5.3      the requirements necessary to achieve Project Substantial Completion that are set forth in all Permits have been met;

 

6.5.4      Contractor has completed all of the Work for all of the Infrastructure Facilities and has delivered to Owner copies of the test reports and electrical schematics related to Infrastructure Facilities;

 

6.5.5      Contractor has delivered to Owner the draft O&M Manuals for equipment provided by Contractor or Subcontractors located within, and not limited to, the Collection Substation, O&M Building, Collection System and Federal Aviation Administration lighting, as applicable;

 

6.5.6      Contractor has prepared and submitted to Owner the final and complete list of Punch List Items;

 

6.5.7      Contractor has delivered copies of the draft Turnover Packages and O&M Manuals that are required by Section 2.11 ;

 

6.5.8      drafts or red-lines of As-Built Drawings and Documentation shall have been delivered to and accepted by Owner in accordance with Section 2.5.5 ;

 

6.5.9      Contractor has delivered to Owner all interim or progress payment Partial Lien Waivers or final payment Final Lien Waivers, as the case may be, from all Major Subcontractors for Work completed through such date;

 

6.5.10    all quality assurance documentation has been provided, received, and reviewed, and approved by Owner in accordance with the Project Quality Assurance Plan and all non-conforming quality assurance issues have been resolved in accordance with the Project Quality Assurance Plan;

 

6.5.11    Owner has accepted a Project Substantial Completion Certificate;

 

6.5.12    All Warranty Parts Inventory and any other All Spare Parts that Owner has elected to purchase in accordance with Section 4.1.1 have been delivered by Contractor to the Project Site; and

 

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6.5.13     Contractor has assigned to Owner (a) all remaining rights under the Turbine Supply Agreement, (b) the SMA, and (c) the MPT Supply Agreement in substantially the form of Exhibit 3.1.2 hereto.

 

Section 6.6            Final Completion . Contractor shall cause Final Completion to occur. “ Final Completion ” means the achievement of the following:

 

6.6.1      Project Substantial Completion has occurred;

 

6.6.2      Contractor has performed all of the Work (including the clean-up and restoration of that portion of the Project Site where Contractor conducted the Work, the removal from the Project Site of all waste materials introduced or created by Contractor in the performance of the Work, the recycling or disposal of such waste material and the re-grading or re-seeding of disturbed areas where appropriate) and any Defects found have been corrected;

 

6.6.3      Owner has received a final list and summary of the work performed by all Major Subcontractors;

 

6.6.4      Owner has received a Final Lien Waiver from Contractor;

 

6.6.5      Owner has received from Contractor Final Lien Waivers from all Major Subcontractors; or, if Contractor is unable to obtain all such waivers, a bond (approved by Owner) to protect Owner, the Project and the Project Site from any and all claims made on account of such Liens;

 

6.6.6      Contractor has delivered the Turnover Packages in accordance with Section 2.11.2 ;

 

6.6.7      all As-Built Drawings and Documentation associated with the Work as described in this Agreement and Exhibit 2.2.2 have been delivered to and accepted by Owner in accordance with Section 2.5.5 ;

 

6.6.8      all quality assurance documentation has been provided to, received, and reviewed, and approved by Owner in accordance with the Project Quality Assurance Plan and all non-conforming quality assurance issues have been resolved in accordance with the Project Quality Assurance Plan;

 

6.6.9      all of Contractor’s supplies, personnel and waste have been removed from the Project Site;

 

6.6.10    Contractor has provided copies of all environmental compliance documentation including, but not limited to:

 

6.6.10.1         Construction stormwater permits, inspections reports, stabilization information, and construction stormwater permit inactivation;

 

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6.6.10.2         construction dewatering compliance documentation including discharge monitoring reports;

 

6.6.10.3         directional bore incidental fluid release reports;

 

6.6.10.4         SPCC program compliance documentation;

 

6.6.10.5         waste identification numbers/permits; spill description, cleanup, reporting and disposal documentation;

 

6.6.10.6         concrete batch plant air permits and compliance information;

 

6.6.10.7         noxious weed control compliance information; and

 

6.6.10.8         compliance documentation required for threatened, endangered, and protected species, historic and cultural compliance.

 

6.6.11    final grading of the area surrounding each Foundation is complete;

 

6.6.12    All items on the Punch List are completed; and

 

6.6.13    Owner has accepted a Final Completion Certificate.

 

Section 6.7          Achievement of Foundation Completion, Commissioning and Turnover of Electrical Works, Mechanical Completion, WTG Substantial Completion, Project Substantial Completion and Final Completion . When Contractor believes that it has achieved any of Foundation Completion, Commissioning and Turnover of Electrical Works, Mechanical Completion, WTG Substantial Completion, Project Substantial Completion or Final Completion, it shall deliver to Owner a completed Foundation Completion Certificate, Commissioning and Turnover of Electrical Works Completion Certificate, Mechanical Completion Certificate, a WTG Substantial Completion Certificate for each WTG, Project Substantial Completion Certificate or Final Completion Certificate (each a “ Completion Certificate ” and, collectively, the “ Completion Certificates ”). Such Completion Certificate shall include the results of all testing relevant to achievement of such milestone and otherwise contain a report in a form reasonably acceptable to Owner and with sufficient detail to enable Owner to determine that Contractor has achieved Foundation Completion, Commissioning and Turnover of Electrical Works, Mechanical Completion, Project Substantial Completion or Final Completion, as the case may be. Owner shall, within two (2) Business Days, in the case of a Foundation Completion Certificate or a Commissioning and Turnover of Electrical Works Completion Certificate, three (3) Business Days, in the case of a Mechanical Completion Certificate, a WTG Substantial Completion Certificate and a Project Substantial Completion Certificate and five (5) Business Days, in the case of a Final Completion Certificate, following receipt of such Completion Certificate, either (a) deliver to Contractor a countersigned Completion Certificate, indicating its acceptance of the achievement of such milestone, or (b) if cause exists for doing so, notify Contractor in writing that such milestone has not been achieved, stating in detail the reasons therefore. If Owner fails to respond to Contractor within the relevant time periods set forth in the preceding sentence, in such case Owner shall be deemed to have accepted such Completion Certificate as of the date set forth in the Completion Certificate by Contractor as to when such completion occurred. If Owner delivers the notice under the preceding clause (b), Contractor shall promptly take such action, including the performance of additional Work to achieve such milestone, and upon completion of such actions shall issue to Owner another notice with respect to such milestone pursuant to this Section 6.7 . Such procedure shall be repeated as necessary until such milestone has been achieved. For the purposes of this Agreement, the date of achievement of Foundation Completion, Commissioning and Turnover of Electrical Works, Mechanical Completion, WTG Substantial Completion, Project Substantial Completion or Final Completion, as the case may be, shall the date set forth in the applicable Completion Certificate by Contractor as to when such completion occurred that Owner ultimately accepts.

 

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Section 6.8          Completion Guarantees . Contractor acknowledges and agrees that it is responsible for the achievement of Mechanical Completion and Project Substantial Completion not later than the Guaranteed Mechanical Completion Date and the Guaranteed Project Substantial Completion Date, respectively (the “ Guaranteed Completion Dates” ). Subject to Section 11.1 , Contractor warrants that Final Completion shall be achieved not later than two (2) months after the date of Project Substantial Completion (“ Guaranteed Final Completion Date ”), except for Punch List Items that, by their nature, cannot be completed because of seasonal weather conditions.

 

6.8.1       Transformer Guarantees . Contractor shall use reasonable commercial efforts to include in the MPT Supply Agreement an output guarantee with respect to the MPT transformer requiring the MPT supplier to pay liquidated damages to Owner for No-Load losses at [**] (the “ Transformer Guarantees ”) in the event that the actual losses of the MPT are below the guaranteed levels set forth in Exhibit 2.2.2- Part 3 . In the event the MPT Supply Agreement does not contain an output guarantee equal to or better than the Transformer Guarantees, Contractor shall pay to Owner, as liquidated damages and as Owner’s sole, exclusive and final remedy for such failure, the difference, on a $/kW basis, between the output guarantees included in the MPT Supply Agreement and the Transformer Guarantees. Upon Project Substantial Completion, Contractor shall assign the MPT Supply Agreement to Owner. Upon the effective date of the assignment of the MPT Supply Agreement, if the MPT Supply Agreement contains the Transformer Guarantees, Owner shall look solely to its remedies under the MPT Supply Agreement for enforcement of the Transformer Guarantees. If the MPT Supply Agreement does not contain the Transformer Guarantees, Contractor shall continue to be liable for any liquidated damages payable to Owner as a result of any breach of the Transformer Guarantees.

 

Section 6.9           Delay Liquidated Damages . If Contractor has not achieved Project Substantial Completion by the Guaranteed Project Substantial Completion Date (as such date may be extended pursuant to Article 8 as a result of the occurrence of a Force Majeure Event or the occurrence of a Scope Change pursuant to Article 9 ), Contractor shall pay to Owner, as liquidated damages and as Owner’s sole and exclusive remedy for such late completion, One Thousand Eight Hundred and 00/100 Dollars ($1,800.00) per incomplete WTG per Day following the Guaranteed Project Substantial Completion Date until the date that Contractor delivers to Owner a WTG Substantial Completion Certificate that is accepted by Owner (“ Delay Liquidated Damages ”); provided , however , in the event that Contractor achieves Project Substantial Completion within a period of sixty (60) Days after the Guaranteed Project Substantial Completion Date, then Owner will refund to Contractor all Delay Liquidated Damages that have been paid by Contractor. Delay Liquidated Damages shall be due and payable in weekly installments beginning with the seventh (7th) Day following the first (1st) Day after the Guaranteed Project Substantial Completion Date. Subject to the provisions set forth in Section 11.1 , Contractor shall continue to make such payments of Delay Liquidated Damages for each incomplete WTG until achievement of Project Substantial Completion, at which time Contractor shall pay all previously accrued and unpaid Delay Liquidated Damages amounts. Any Delay Liquidated Damages not paid when due shall bear interest at a rate calculated in accordance with Section 4.8 . In no event shall the payment of Delay Liquidated Damages excuse Contractor from performance of any of its other obligations hereunder, including the obligation to cause Project Substantial Completion to occur.

 

______________________

[**] Denotes confidential information that has been omitted from the exhibit and filed separately, accompanied by a confidential treatment request, with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Rule 24b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

 

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Article 7
WARRANTIES

 

Section 7.1            Infrastructure Facilities Warranty .

 

7.1.1       Infrastructure Facilities Warranty . Contractor warrants during the Infrastructure Facilities Warranty Period (with the exception of any Work for which the warranty provisions of Section 7.2 shall apply) that:

 

7.1.1.1           all parts, materials, equipment and the like incorporated into the Infrastructure Facilities to be delivered hereunder shall be free of Defects in material, workmanship and title, and shall be new, unused and undamaged and of suitable grade that is consistent with Prudent Industry Practices when installed (except as otherwise agreed to in advance in writing by Owner); and

 

7.1.1.2           the Construction Services shall be performed with due care, skill and in a competent, diligent manner in accordance with Applicable Law and Applicable Standards.

 

Sections 7.1.1.1 , and 7.1.1.2 , are collectively, “ Infrastructure Facilities Warranty .”

 

7.1.2       Infrastructure Facilities Warranty Period .

 

7.1.2.1           The Infrastructure Facilities Warranty shall commence on the Project Substantial Completion Date.

 

7.1.2.2            All such Infrastructure Facilities Warranties shall continue until and expire upon the second (2 nd ) anniversary of the Project Substantial Completion Date (the “ Infrastructure Facilities Warranty Period ”). In addition, if any component is repaired pursuant to the Infrastructure Facilities Warranty, then the Infrastructure Facilities Warranty Period with respect to such component shall continue until the later of: (a) the expiration of the Infrastructure Facilities Warranty Period; or (b) two (2) years from the date of completion of such repair; but in no event shall such additional warranty extend for more than three (3) years from the Project Substantial Completion Date.

 

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7.1.3       Corrections of Deficiencies . If a Defect occurs during the Infrastructure Facilities Warranty Period, Owner shall notify Contractor in writing of such Defect within fifteen (15) Business Days after discovery of such Defect. Upon such notice, the Contractor, at its sole cost and expense, shall repair or, at its option, replace, or take other appropriate corrective action so as to cause the Defective Work to conform to the Requirements of this Agreement (“ Infrastructure Facilities Warranty Service ”). Owner shall have the right to operate and otherwise use the Work until such time that Owner, in consultation with Contractor, reasonably establishes it is prudent to suspend such operation or use for repair by Contractor, provided that Owner shall be responsible for the cost of any additional repairs resulting from any delay it seeks and provided further that in no event may Owner delay Contractor from repairing any such Work for more than ninety (90) Days from Owner’s notice to Contractor of such Defect. If the Defective Work has been placed in service, subject to the foregoing limitations, Owner shall, in consultation with Contractor, reasonably establish an appropriate time for Owner to remove the Defective Work from service for any Infrastructure Facilities Warranty Service by Contractor, even if the Infrastructure Facilities Warranty Period expires prior to the removal of such Defective Work from service. If Owner becomes aware during the Infrastructure Facilities Warranty Period of any operational abnormality that reasonably could indicate that Defective Work exists, Owner shall notify Contractor, and Contractor will have five (5) Days to recommend whether such Defective Work should be removed from service. If Contractor reasonably recommends in a notice to Owner that Owner remove the Defective Work from service and Owner continues to operate the Defective Work against the reasonable recommendation of Contractor after Contractor so notifies Owner, Owner shall assume the risk of any further damage or Defects that result from such continued operation. Neither payment by Owner nor partial or entire use or possession of the Work by Owner shall relieve Contractor of liability with respect to the Infrastructure Facilities Warranty contained in this Article 7 . An analysis of the cause of a Defect shall be performed by Contractor in accordance with the Requirements of this Agreement, if a Defect occurs that could (1) impact safety of a worker or a member of the public, (2) result in an insurance claim or (3) have a cost impact of greater than [**] ($[**]). Contractor shall make the report of such analysis available to Owner reasonably promptly after its completion. Contractor shall not be excused from performing such Infrastructure Facilities Warranty Service after the end of the Infrastructure Facilities Warranty Period, if it receives notice of the Defect or breach of Infrastructure Facilities Warranty before or during the Infrastructure Facilities Warranty Period.

 

7.1.4       Risk of Loss or Damage . Whenever Infrastructure Facilities Warranty Service is required pursuant to this Article 7 , Contractor shall bear the risk of loss or damage to the Work requiring repair during the period of such repair. If and to the extent any of the Work must be removed from the Project Site for purposes of any such repair, the transportation charges associated with any such repair shall be borne by Contractor.

 

________________________________

[**] Denotes confidential information that has been omitted from the exhibit and filed separately, accompanied by a confidential treatment request, with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Rule 24b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

 

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7.1.5         Exclusions from Infrastructure Facilities Warranty . The Infrastructure Facilities Warranty set forth in this Section 7.1 shall not apply to:

 

7.1.5.1           normal wear and tear, including that due to environment or operation;

 

7.1.5.2           damage to any equipment to the extent such damage is caused by (a) Owner’s or its agent’s or operator’s (not including any Affiliate of Contractor) improper storage, operation or maintenance of the Infrastructure Facilities, or (b) Owner’s or its agent’s or operator’s (not including any Affiliate of Contractor) failure to conform to the operating instruction manuals (including revisions thereto) provided by the Contractor and/or its Subcontractors, as applicable;

 

7.1.5.3           the use of parts or consumables in the repair or maintenance of such equipment that are not in accordance with reasonable and practical specifications and recommendations set forth in the O&M Manuals;

 

7.1.5.4           any Force Majeure Event;

 

7.1.5.5           normal operating consumables or items that require replacement due to normal wear and tear or casualty loss (other than as a result of a failure under the Infrastructure Facilities Warranty); and

 

7.1.5.6           the WTGs, except to the extent related to a Defect in the performance of Construction Services.

 

7.1.6          Exclusive Remedy . This Section 7.1 sets forth Owner’s exclusive remedies with respect to the Infrastructure Facilities Warranty.

 

7.1.7          Delay . Contractor shall submit to Owner an action plan after being notified by Owner of a claim under the Infrastructure Facilities Warranty no later than twenty-one (21) days after such notice. If, after notification of a claim under the Infrastructure Facilities Warranty, Contractor shall delay past such date for submission of an action plan to address such claim with respect to such Defect or breach of Infrastructure Facilities Warranty, then Owner may correct or have others correct such Defect or breach of Infrastructure Facilities Warranty so that the Work complies with the Requirements of this Agreement, and Contractor shall be liable for all costs, charges and expenses incurred by Owner in connection with such correction and shall forthwith pay to Owner an amount equal to such costs, charges and expenses within thirty (30) Days after Contractor’s receipt of an invoice from Owner therefore (including reasonable supporting documentation). Contractor reserves its right to investigate and determine the eligibility of such warranty claims. If Owner has independently undertaken a warranty repair pursuant to this section, then within a reasonable period of time after the occurrence of such warranty repair, Owner shall issue to Contractor:

 

7.1.7.1           a failure report, which shall contain technical and logistical information in sufficient detail to enable Contractor to evaluate (1) Owner’s representation that repair of a defect is a warranty repair and not a standard maintenance activity or Defect caused by lack of regular maintenance consistent with Prudent Industry Practices, and (2) the appropriateness of the Owner’s corrective action; and

 

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7.1.7.2           copies of invoices received or prepared for costs and expenses claimed by Owner for reimbursement by Contractor (but only if such Owner work is due to a Defect in the Work). Work performed by Owner in relation to a warranty repair under this Section shall be billed on a “Time and Materials” basis.

 

Section 7.2             WTG Warranties . The warranty for the WTGs (the “ WTG Warranty ”) is set forth exclusively in the Turbine Supply Agreement. In the event Contractor does not enforce or pursue a justifiable (as reasonably determined by Owner) WTG Warranty claim against Turbine Supplier in accordance with the Turbine Supply Agreement prior to Project Substantial Completion, Owner shall have the right to require Contractor to pursue such claim; and in the event Contractor does not promptly do so, then Owner shall be entitled to pursue such claim on Contractor’s behalf and Contractor shall reimburse Owner for all reasonable costs and expenses incurred in such enforcement. Upon the effective date of an assignment of the Turbine Supply Agreement, Contractor shall be released from all of its WTG Warranty obligations hereunder, and Owner shall look solely to its remedies under the Turbine Supply Agreement for enforcement of WTG Warranty rights.

 

Section 7.3             Subcontractor Warranties . Contractor shall have the right and agrees to enforce the warranties of all Subcontractors during the Infrastructure Facilities Warranty Period. Any Subcontractor warranties, but not including the warranties of the Turbine Supplier, that are still in existence at the end of such Infrastructure Facilities Warranty Period shall be assigned on such date to Owner and Contractor shall ensure that the terms and conditions of such Subcontract allow for such assignment. Contractor shall use its good faith efforts to cause its Subcontractors to acquire assignable warranties from their vendors and to assign such warranties to Owner.

 

Section 7.4             General Limitations on Warranties and Remedies . The rights and remedies set forth in this Article 7 are Owner’s exclusive remedies for all claims based on breach of the warranties provided in this Article 7 . No failure on the part of Owner in exercising any right shall operate as a waiver thereof. THE GUARANTEES AND WARRANTIES SET FORTH IN THIS ARTICLE 7 ARE EXCLUSIVE AND IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED. NO IMPLIED STATUTORY WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY, OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE SHALL APPLY. THERE ARE NO OTHER WARRANTIES, AGREEMENTS, OR UNDERSTANDINGS, WRITTEN OR ORAL, MADE BY OR BINDING UPON CONTRACTOR WITH RESPECT TO THE PROJECT THAT EXTEND BEYOND THOSE SET FORTH IN THIS ARTICLE 7 OR AS PROVIDED IN THE ASSET PURCHASE AGREEMENT. FOR THE AVOIDANCE OF DOUBT, CONTRACTOR MAKES NO WARRANTY IN RELATION TO THE OUTPUT OF THE PROJECT.

 

Article 8
FORCE MAJEURE

 

Section 8.1             Performance Excused . If either Party is rendered wholly or partially unable to perform its obligations under the Agreement Documents due to a Force Majeure Event, that Party shall be excused from whatever performance is affected by the Force Majeure Event to the extent so affected, and the Guaranteed Completion Dates and Milestones set forth in the Project Schedule so affected shall be extended and such Project Schedule shall be updated; provided, that:

 

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8.1.1           the Party claiming a Force Majeure Event shall give the other Party prompt notice describing the particulars of the cause and nature of the occurrence. The Party claiming a Force Majeure Event shall give the other Party sufficient proof of the occurrence of such Force Majeure Event and notice estimating the Force Majeure Event’s expected duration and probable impact on the performance of such Party’s obligations hereunder, and such affected Party shall continue to furnish timely regular reports with respect thereto during the continuation of the Force Majeure Event or its impact on the affected Party’s performance;

 

8.1.2           no breach or default of either Party which arose before the occurrence of the Force Majeure Event causing the suspension of performance shall be excused as a result of the occurrence, but so long as the affected Party shall have commenced and is diligently continuing to attempt to cure such default prior to the occurrence of the Force Majeure Event, the cure period (if any) provided in this Agreement with respect to such default shall be extended on a Day-for-Day basis to the extent a cure actually is prevented as a result of the Force Majeure Event;

 

8.1.3           the suspension of performance shall be of no greater scope and of no longer duration than is reasonably required by the Force Majeure Event;

 

8.1.4           the affected Party shall exercise all reasonable efforts to mitigate or limit damages to the other Party;

 

8.1.5           the affected Party shall exercise commercially reasonable efforts to alleviate and mitigate the cause and effect of such Force Majeure Event, remedy its inability to perform, and limit damages to the other Party;

 

8.1.6           the affected Party shall use all reasonable efforts to continue to perform its obligations hereunder and to limit, correct or cure the event or condition excusing performance; and

 

8.1.7           when the affected Party is able to resume performance of the affected obligations under the Agreement Documents, that Party shall give the other Party written notice to that effect, a Scope Change Order shall be executed pursuant to Section 9.9 to account for the actual effect, if any, on the affected Party’s performance of its obligations by the Force Majeure Event, and the affected Party promptly shall resume performance under the Agreement Documents; and

 

8.1.8           Unless Owner elects in writing, in the form of a Scope Change Order, to require Contractor to accelerate its schedule, Contractor shall not be entitled to an adjustment of the Agreement Price based on any Force Majeure Event; except that if one or more Force Majeure Events render Contractor unable to perform (and Contractor is excused, in accordance with the foregoing provisions of this Section 8.1 , from its non-performance of) any material Work at the Project Site for an aggregate amount of time that exceeds three (3) Days (“ Extended Force Majeure Event ”), Contractor shall be entitled to an adjustment to the Agreement Price to reflect additional costs and expenses incurred or to be incurred by Contractor as a result of such Extended Force Majeure Event. The adjustment to the Agreement Price caused by an Extended Force Majeure Event shall be offset by any insurance proceeds available (to Contractor or Owner) as a result of the Extended Force Majeure Event.

 

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8.1.9        Owner-Caused Delay . In the event Contractor claims an Owner-Caused Delay, Contractor shall give Owner written notice describing the details of the Owner-Caused Delay, the anticipated length of such delay and any other effect on Contractor’s performance of its obligations hereunder. Contractor shall provide to Owner reasonable evidence of the occurrence and duration of such Owner-Caused Delay. So long as the conditions set forth in this Section 8.1.9 are satisfied, Contractor shall not be responsible or liable for or deemed in breach of this Agreement because of any failure or delay in completing the Work in accordance with the Project Schedule or achieving any Guaranteed Completion Date if and to the extent that such failure has been caused by one or more Owner-Caused Delays, provided that (i) such suspension of performance and extension of time shall be of no greater scope and of no longer duration than is required by the effects of the Owner-Caused Delay, and (ii) Contractor provides all assistance reasonably requested by Owner for the elimination or mitigation of the Owner-Caused Delay. In the event Contractor claims an Owner-Caused Delay, it shall be entitled to a Scope Change pursuant to Section 9.10 and Contractor shall be entitled to suspension of performance or extension of time (including an extension of the Guaranteed Completion Dates), together with an increase in the Agreement Price equal to its demonstrated, justified and reasonable additional costs incurred by reason of such delay plus an aggregate amount of ten percent (10%) for overhead and profit, to the extent agreed upon by both Parties pursuant to a Scope Change Order in accordance with Article 9 .

 

Section 8.2            Disputes; Burden of Proof . If Owner and Contractor are unable in good faith to agree that a Force Majeure Event or an Owner-Caused Delay has occurred, either Party may submit the dispute to the applicable dispute resolution process provided for under Article 15 .

 

Article 9
SCOPE CHANGES

 

Section 9.1            Scope Changes . A “ Scope Change ” means any addition to, deletion from, suspension of or other modification to the quality, function or intent of the Project as delineated in the Scope of Work, or a change to the Requirements of this Agreement. It is the intent of Owner and Contractor that the Scope of Work specified in Exhibit 2.2.2 includes all items necessary for the proper execution and completion of the Work. A Scope Change shall not effect a change to the essential nature of the Project. If either Owner or Contractor believes a Scope Change is necessary, it shall proceed as set forth in this Article 9 ; except that, notwithstanding anything in this Article 9 to the contrary, no Scope Change, or any adjustment of the Agreement Price or the Project Schedule, shall be made as a result of any errors, negligence, willful and wanton misconduct, intentional misconduct, deficiencies, or improper or defective work on the part of Contractor or any Subcontractor or as a result of any failure of Contractor to perform its obligations under this Agreement.

 

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Section 9.2            Scope Change by Owner . Owner may, from time to time, without invalidating this Agreement, order or approve a Scope Change (a) in the construction or features of the Infrastructure Facilities, (b) in all or a portion of any other components or aspects of the Work, or (c) in the Project Schedule in which event the Agreement Price or the Project Schedule shall be adjusted accordingly, if necessary, as agreed by Owner and Contractor. Contractor shall reasonably review and consider such requested Scope Change and shall make a written response thereto within seven (7) Days after receiving such request. If Contractor believes that giving effect to any Scope Change requested by Owner will increase or decrease its cost of performing the Work, shorten or lengthen the time needed for completion of the Work, require modification of its warranties in Article 7 or require a modification of any other provisions of this Agreement, its response to the Scope Change request shall set forth such changes (including any amendments to this Agreement) that Contractor deems necessary as a result of the requested Scope Change and its justification therefor. If Contractor accepts the Scope Changes requested by Owner (together with any amendments to this Agreement specified therein) or if the Parties agree upon a modification of such requested Scope Changes, the Parties shall set forth the agreed upon Scope Change in the Work and agreed upon amendments to this Agreement, if any, in a Scope Change Order.

 

Section 9.3            No Unapproved Scope Changes . Contractor shall not perform any Scope Changes nor shall Contractor be entitled to undertake any change to the Work until Owner has approved in writing the proposed adjustments. Upon receiving from Owner such written approval or such written authorization to perform, Contractor shall diligently perform the Scope Change in accordance with and subject to all of the terms of this Agreement. Any technical or engineering dispute between Owner and Contractor with respect to any Scope Change Order shall be resolved in accordance with Article 15 .

 

Section 9.4            Required Scope Changes . If any of the following events occurs, Owner shall issue a Scope Change Order to Contractor, in each case to the extent the event results in increased costs or delays to Contractor in achieving the Milestones by the dates identified in Exhibit 2.4.1 :

 

9.4.1       a Scope Change ordered by Owner as described in Section 9.2 ;

 

9.4.2       an Owner-Caused Delay (as described under Section 5.5 ) occurs;

 

9.4.3       a Concealed Subsurface Condition arises pursuant to Section 9.8 ;

 

9.4.4       a Scope Change Order is allowed in accordance with Section 3.3 ;

 

9.4.5       a Change in Law occurs;

 

9.4.6       a relocation of underground utilities as set forth in Section 2.10.1 ;

 

9.4.7       a Force Majeure Event occurs, as more particularly set forth in Section 9.9 (provided that Contractor shall only be entitled to a Scope Change Order for both schedule delays and increased costs associated with an Extended Force Majeure Event pursuant to Section 8.1.8 , or if

 

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9.4.8      Turbine Supplier incurs a “Force Majeure Event” as defined in the Turbine Supply Agreement that affects Turbine Supplier’s performance of its obligations under the Turbine Supply Agreement, but otherwise shall be entitled to a Scope Change Order. The relief granted by Owner in the Scope Change Order shall be the same relief granted to Turbine Supplier under the Turbine Supply Agreement.

 

Section 9.5            Authorization for Scope Change . Contractor agrees that any extra work shall be performed only if Contractor has been so instructed in writing by Owner’s Authorized Representative via a Scope Change Order. Contractor shall not bill and Owner shall not pay claims for extra work unless the work is covered by a Scope Change Order. Contractor shall not have the right or the power to prosecute or maintain action in court to recover for extra work unless the claim is based upon a written Scope Change Order from Owner.

 

Section 9.6            Agreement on Firm or Unit Prices . When a modification increases the amount of the Work, the payment for the extra work may be based on an agreed to firm or unit price. Contractor shall submit a proposal to Owner on which it seeks agreement before the extra work is started. The proposal shall include a breakdown of costs including labor, materials, equipment, overhead and margin. The proposal shall indicate itemized quantities and charges for all elements of cost. This itemization shall include a listing by craft of the direct labor charges excluding percentage markups for overhead and margin.

 

Section 9.7            Absence of Agreement on Firm or Unit Prices . If no price is agreed to, but the Parties otherwise agree to the type and character of the work in a Scope Change Order, then except for any change in the Work to be supplied or performed by Turbine Supplier under the Turbine Supply Agreement (which change order shall only be made in accordance with the provisions of the Turbine Supply Agreement), payments for extra work will be based on the following :

 

9.7.1       Total direct labor costs including straight time labor, payroll taxes and insurance and fringe benefits incurred by Contractor plus 10% for overhead, plus 10% for margin.

 

9.7.2       Material or subcontracted work shall be invoiced at Contractor’s direct cost with a 10% markup overhead and a 10% markup for profit.

 

9.7.3       Markup percentages stated in this Section are inclusive of, but not limited to, all field and home office overhead expenses, salaried supervision, support facilities, small tools, etc.

 

Section 9.8            Scope Changes Due to Concealed Subsurface Conditions . Immediately upon discovery, Contractor shall notify Owner in writing of (i) subsurface or latent physical conditions at the Project Site differing materially from those indicated in this Agreement, (ii) the discovery of fossils, archeological remains or any other object of cultural significance, or (iii) previously unknown physical conditions at the Project Site of an unusual nature or differing materially from those ordinarily encountered and generally recognized as inherent in work of the character provided for in this Agreement (collectively, “ Concealed Subsurface Conditions ”). Concealed Subsurface Conditions shall not include conditions handled or mitigated by Contractor utilizing equipment planned to perform that component of the Work within a reasonable period of time. Contractor will take all reasonable steps to mitigate the impacts of Concealed Subsurface Conditions. Contractor shall take all reasonable steps to secure Concealed Subsurface Conditions, including fencing and avoiding further disturbance and shall at all-time comply with Applicable Laws. Upon notification, Owner shall promptly investigate the conditions, and Contractor shall be entitled to a Scope Change Order.

 

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Section 9.9            Scope Changes Caused by a Force Majeure Event . If Contractor’s performance hereunder is wholly or partially prevented due to the occurrence of a Force Majeure Event affecting Contractor and such Force Majeure Event has caused an extension of any guaranteed date under this Agreement or any other date under the Project Schedule as provided in Section 8.1 , Contractor shall provide to Owner a written description of Contractor’s plan to make up Days lost under the Project Schedule due to the occurrence of such Force Majeure Event, including an estimate of the costs for such plan. To the extent that Owner desires to pay for the costs of acceleration of the Work or change to the Project Schedule set forth in Contractor’s proposal in order to compensate for delays in the Work caused by such Force Majeure Event, Owner may authorize a Scope Change Order increasing the Agreement Price and adjusting the Project Schedule (in addition to any automatic adjustments of Guaranteed Completion Dates hereunder). In addition, to the extent Contractor incurs or will incur additional out-of-pocket costs and expenses as a result of an Extended Force Majeure Event, Owner shall issue a Scope Change Order increasing the Agreement Price to include such increased out-of-pocket costs and expenses (without any mark-up by Contractor). Notwithstanding anything to the contrary, (a) to the extent Contractor is compensated for the effect of a Force Majeure Event by insurance maintained pursuant to Article 12 , or (b) to the extent Owner would have been so compensated but for Contractor’s failure to provide such insurance as required under Article 12 , Contractor shall not be entitled to a Scope Change Order in the Agreement Price in connection with such Scope Change Order issued for such Extended Force Majeure Event. Nothing contained in this Section 9.9 shall affect Contractor’s obligations under Article 8 in respect of the occurrence of any Force Majeure Event.

 

Section 9.10          Owner-Caused Delays . Owner-Caused Delays shall entitle Contractor to a change to the Agreement Price, in accordance with Section 8.1.9 , and if applicable, an extension of time hereunder. Any extension permitted under this Section shall be of an equitable duration designed to reflect the delay actually caused by the relevant Owner-Caused Delay.

 

Section 9.11          Weather Delay Days . Contractor’s relief for any Weather Delay Day shall be limited to a one-day extension for each Full Weather Delay Day (or accumulation of Half Weather Delay Days that equate to a full Weather Delay Day) that actually delays the Guaranteed Project Substantial Completion Date and an adjustment in the Agreement Price through a Scope Change Order in an amount equal to the actual out-of-pocket expenses (calculated on a time and materials basis pursuant to the Contractor’s Time and Materials Rates set forth in Exhibit 9.11 ) incurred by Contractor from a Weather Delay Day; provided , that in no case shall Contractor be entitled to reimbursement of costs in excess of Twenty-Seven Thousand and 00/100 Dollars ($27,000) per Day for a Weather Delay Day (unless more than two (2) main erection cranes and crews are located at the Site and idled during topping operations on such Weather Delay Day, in which case Contractor shall be entitled to reimbursement of such costs of up to Thirty-Seven Thousand and 00/100 Dollars ($37,000) per Day); provided further , that Contractor shall not be entitled to any relief for a Weather Delay Day unless the wind speeds and other unusually severe weather conditions required for qualification of a Weather Delay Day are substantiated by Contractor on the scheduled work day next following the claimed Weather Delay Day. Except as provided in the preceding sentence, Contractor’s relief shall not include any increase in the Agreement Price or other additional compensation; and Contractor acknowledges that it has assumed the economic risk for delays caused by twenty (20) Weather Delay Days and has included an amount in the Agreement Price to cover for this risk. As noted above, Contractor has also incorporated into the Project Schedule the time necessary to experience of up twenty (20) Weather Delay Days for the various phases of the WTG installation, in aggregate, before the Project Schedule would be adversely impacted.

 

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Article 10
INDEMNIFICATION

 

Section 10.1          Indemnities .

 

10.1.1     Contractor’s General Indemnity . Contractor shall defend, indemnify and hold harmless Owner, Owner’s Representative and Owner’s subsidiaries and Affiliates, and the directors, officers, agents, employees, successors and assigns of each of them (each, an “ Owner Indemnified Party ”) from and against any and all third party losses of any character, type or description, including, but not limited to, all expenses of litigation, court costs and reasonable attorney’s fees, for injury or death to any person or damage to any property, to the extent caused by Contractor’s breach or default under this Agreement and any negligent act or omission (including strict liability), gross negligence or willful misconduct of Contractor, its Subcontractors, agents or employees, including but not limited to (a) relating to injury to or death of any Person, including employees of Contractor; or (b) resulting from loss or damage to property. Owner shall have no liability for, and Contractor agrees to indemnify, defend and hold Owner harmless against and from, any and all damages, losses, liabilities, claims, litigation, demands, proceedings, judgments, or suits of any kind or of any nature whatsoever (including, without limitation, reasonable attorney’s, consultants’ and experts’ fees and disbursements incurred in investigating, defending against, settling or prosecuting any claim, litigation or proceeding) which may at any time be imposed upon, incurred by or asserted or awarded against Owner arising out of or relating to the presence of any Hazardous Materials (other than Pre-Existing Hazardous Materials) which are released, generated, or discharged by Contractor or any of its subcontractors, agents, or employees in connection with the Project. Contractor’s indemnification obligations hereunder are not limited by insurance coverage.

 

 

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10.1.2        Contractor’s Infringement Indemnity .

 

10.1.2.1           Prior to Project Substantial Completion, Contractor shall enforce for the benefit of Owner (at Contractor’s cost) the patent and intellectual property indemnity of the Turbine Supplier included in the Turbine Supply Agreement. Effective upon Project Substantial Completion, or any earlier termination of this Agreement, Contractor shall assign to Owner all rights with respect to such patent indemnity, and thereafter Owner shall be responsible for the enforcement thereof, provided that Contractor shall provide reasonable assistance to Owner as requested by and at the expense of Owner. Contractor’s indemnification obligations hereunder are not limited by insurance coverage

 

10.1.2.2           With respect to all Work (other than the WTGs), Contractor shall indemnify, defend, and hold each Owner Indemnified Party free and harmless from all losses, claims, liens, demands and causes of action of any kind and costs thereof, including judgments, penalties, interest, court costs and reasonable attorney’s fees incurred by or assessed against any Owner Indemnified Party on account of any claim of infringement of any United States or European Union patent, copyrighted or uncopyrighted work, secret process, trade secret, unpatented invention, or other intellectual property right related to or arising from Contractor’s performance under this Agreement. In addition, and in all such cases where the continued use of any item for the purpose intended is forbidden by any court of competent jurisdiction, Contractor shall at its option either (i) procure for Owner, or reimburse Owner for procuring, the right to continue using the infringing item, (ii) modify the infringing item so that it becomes non-infringing, or (iii) replace the infringing item with a non-infringing item; provided that in no such case shall Contractor take any action which demonstrably adversely affects Owner’s continued use and enjoyment of the Project without the prior written consent of Owner. This paragraph shall not apply to claims of infringement to the extent that the specific selection of the infringing process, material or equipment was made by Owner. Contractor’s indemnification obligations hereunder are not limited by insurance coverage.

 

10.1.3        Specific Indemnity . Contractor agrees to indemnify, defend and hold any Owner Indemnified Party harmless from and against all fines, penalties, related costs and expenses of any character, type or description, including, but not limited to, all expenses of litigation, court costs and attorney’s fees attributable to any failure of Contractor or Subcontractors to comply with all Applicable Laws and Permits in connection with the performance of the Work. Contractor’s indemnification obligations hereunder are not limited by insurance coverage.

 

10.1.4        Owner Indemnity . Owner shall protect, defend, indemnify and hold harmless Contractor, Contractor’s engineers and Subcontractors, and their respective partners and their parent corporations, subsidiaries and Affiliates, agents, officers, directors and employees (each, a “ Contractor Indemnified Party ”) from and against any and all third party Losses of any character, type or description, including, but not limited to, all expenses of litigation, court costs and reasonable attorney’s fees, for injury or death to any person or damage to any property, to the extent caused by the Owner’s breach or default under this Agreement and any negligent acts or omissions (including strict liability), gross negligence or willful misconduct of Owner, its subcontractors, agents or employees, arising out of this Agreement, including but not limited to (a) relating to injury to or death of any Person, including employees of Owner; or (b) resulting from loss or damage to property. Contractor shall have no liability for, and Owner agrees to indemnify, defend and hold Contractor harmless against and from, any and all damages, losses, liabilities, claims, litigation, demands, proceedings, judgments, or suits of any kind or of any nature whatsoever (including, without limitation, reasonable attorney’s, consultants’ and experts’ fees and disbursements incurred in investigating, defending against, settling or prosecuting any claim, litigation or proceeding) which may at any time be imposed upon, incurred by or asserted or awarded against Contractor arising out of or relating to the presence of any Hazardous Materials which are released, generated, or discharged by Owner or any of its subcontractors, agents, or employees in connection with the Project.

 

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10.1.5            Indemnification Procedure . When required to indemnify any Contractor Indemnified Party or Owner Indemnified Party or any other Person entitled to indemnification under Section 10.1 (“ Indemnified Party ”), the Party providing the indemnity (the “Indemnifying Party”) shall assume on behalf of such Indemnified Party and conduct with due diligence and in good faith the defense of any claim against such party, whether or not the Indemnifying Party shall be joined therein, and the Indemnified Party shall cooperate with the Indemnifying Party in such defense. The Indemnifying Party shall have charge and direction of the defense and settlement of such claim; provided, however, that without relieving the Indemnifying Party of its obligations hereunder or impairing the Indemnifying Party’s right to control the defense or settlement thereof, the Indemnified Party may elect to participate through separate counsel in the defense of any such claim, but the fees and expenses of such counsel shall be at the expense of such Indemnified Party unless (a) the employment of counsel by such Indemnified Party shall have reasonably concluded that there exists a material conflict of interest between the Indemnifying Party and such Indemnified Party in the conduct of the defense of such claim (in which case the Indemnifying Party shall not have the right to control the defense or settlement of such claim, on behalf of such Indemnified Party) or (b) the Indemnifying Party shall not have employed counsel to assume the defense of such claim within a reasonable time after notice of the commencement thereof. In each of such cases the fees and expenses of counsel shall be at the expense of the Indemnifying Party. The amount of any indemnity payment made under Section 10.1 shall be reduced by the amount of all insurance proceeds received by the Indemnified Party in respect of the event giving rise to the right of indemnity under Section 10.1 . All payments made in respect of indemnities provided under this Article 10 shall be made on an After-Tax Basis.

 

10.1.6            Minimum Indemnity Claims . Notwithstanding anything to the contrary, no claim for indemnity shall be brought pursuant to this Article 10 until the total loss, damages or expenses incurred or suffered by the Indemnified Party hereunder exceeds $[**] in the aggregate, and then only to the extent such claim exceeds such $[**] threshold.

 

10.1.7            Survival of Indemnities . The indemnities set forth in this Article 10 shall expire and the Parties shall have no further liability under this Article 10 four (4) years after the date of Project Substantial Completion.

 

_____________________________

[**] Denotes confidential information that has been omitted from the exhibit and filed separately, accompanied by a confidential treatment request, with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Rule 24b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

 

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Article 11
LIMITATION OF LIABILITY

 

Section 11.1           Contractor Delay Liquidated Damages Cap . Contractor’s liability under this Agreement for Delay Liquidated Damages will be limited to Twenty Million and 00/100 Dollars ($20,000,000.00).

 

Section 11.2           Contractor’s Aggregate Liability Cap . Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, the aggregate amount of damages Owner shall be entitled to receive from Contractor (including, but not limited to, any damages to which Owner may be entitled as Delay Liquidated Damages as set forth in Section 6.9 or as otherwise set forth herein, and/or as a result of Contractor Defaults as set forth in Section 13.1 , and/or for warranty obligations as set forth in Article 7 , and/or under breach of contract, breach of warranty, and/or any other theory at law or in equity), shall be limited to twenty five percent (25%) of the Agreement Price; provided, however, that Contractor’s liability for fraud, intentional misconduct, or diversion of one or more WTGs (by Contractor) covered under the Turbine Supply Agreement from the Project, or indemnity liability pursuant to Section 10.1 for third party Losses, shall be limited to the Agreement Price.

 

Section 11.3          Contractor Buy-Back Right . With respect to any WTG that has not achieved Mechanical Completion and Commissioning and Turnover of Electrical Works before January 1, 2020, Contractor shall have One Hundred and Eighty (180) Days from the Guaranteed WTG Mechanical Completion Date to cause any such WTG to achieve Mechanical Completion and Commissioning and Turnover of Electrical Works (the “ WTG Cure Period ”). Following the expiration of such WTG Cure Period, the Parties shall work together and negotiate to arrive at a mutually agreeable resolution of Contractor’s failure to achieve Mechanical Completion. If the Parties fail to agree on a mutually agreeable resolution, Contractor shall have the right, but not the obligation, to buy back (the “ Buy-Back Right ”) up to seven (7) WTGs, at a price equal to (i) [**] ($[**]) per WTG for the first three (3) WTGs repurchased by Contractor or (ii) [**] ($[**]) per WTG for each WTG repurchased by Contractor thereafter up to the seven (7) WTG limit (the “ Buy-Back Amount ”), as applicable. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event Owner has not paid Contractor any amount related to a WTG with respect to which Contractor exercises its Buy-Back Right, the Buy-Back Amount shall be reduced by such unpaid amount. The payment of the Buy-Back Amount shall be made by Contractor to Owner on or before July 30, 2020. If Contractor exercises its Buy-Back Right with respect to any WTG, Contractor shall, at Contractor’s cost, remove any such WTG from the Project Site (if applicable) and restore any impacted property to its pre-construction condition within ninety (90) days of exercising such Buy-Back Right.

 

Section 11.4           PTC Liquidated Damages . In addition to Delay Liquidated Damages payable pursuant to Section 6.9 , with respect to any WTG that does not achieve WTG Substantial Completion prior to the later of (i) January 1, 2021 and (ii) the Guaranteed Project Substantial Completion Date (as may be modified in accordance with Section 5.5 and Article 9 of this Agreement) and that Contractor does not buy back pursuant to Section 11.3 , Contractor shall pay Owner liquidated damages in an amount equal to Two Million Five Hundred Thousand and 00/100 Dollars ($2,500,000) per each such WTG (“ PTC Liquidated Damages ”) unless, prior to January 1, 2024, there is a Final IRS Determination that 100% PTCs are allowable with respect to each such WTG, and subject to adjustment in accordance with Schedule 11.4 . Such PTC Liquidated Damages shall be due and payable on January 2, 2024. As provided in Schedule 11.4 , in no event will PTC Liquidated Damages be payable with respect to lost PTCs to the extent Sellers have indemnified Owner pursuant to Section 9.2(c) of the Asset Purchase Agreement for the same lost PTCs. The Owner shall keep Contractor fully and timely informed by written notice of any audit, administrative or judicial proceedings, meetings or conferences with the IRS with respect to whether 100% PTCs are allowable with respect to each such WTG. Furthermore, Contractor shall have the right to review and comment on any submissions to the IRS, and attend and jointly participate in any such meetings or conferences with the IRS at its own expense. In any such proceedings, the Owner shall take or not take any action reasonably requested by Contractor that would materially affect whether 100% PTCs are allowable with respect to each such WTG. The PTC Liquidated Damages payable pursuant to this Section 11.4 shall not be subject to the cap on liability for Delay Liquidated Damages provided in Section 11.1 or the cap on aggregate maximum liability provided in Section 11.2 .

 

____________________________________

[**] Denotes confidential information that has been omitted from the exhibit and filed separately, accompanied by a confidential treatment request, with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Rule 24b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

 

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Section 11.5          CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES . SUBJECT TO THE NEXT SENTENCE, NEITHER OWNER NOR CONTRACTOR NOR ANY OF EITHER OF THEIR SUCCESSORS OR ASSIGNS, OR THE RESPECTIVE SHAREHOLDERS, PARTNERS, ASSIGNS, DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, AGENTS OR EMPLOYEES OR REPRESENTATIVES OF EITHER OF THEM, SHALL BE LIABLE TO THE OTHER FOR CONSEQUENTIAL, SPECIAL, EXEMPLARY, INDIRECT OR INCIDENTAL LOSSES OR DAMAGES, INCLUDING REVENUES FROM LOST POWER, LOSS OF USE, COST OF CAPITAL, LOSS OF GOODWILL, LOSS OF REVENUES OR PROFIT, AND OWNER AND CONTRACTOR EACH HEREBY RELEASES THE OTHER AND EACH OF SUCH PERSONS FROM ANY SUCH LIABILITY. THE FOREGOING EXCLUSION SHALL NOT (A) PRECLUDE RECOVERY, WHERE APPLICABLE, OF LIQUIDATED AMOUNTS HEREUNDER (EXCEPT AS PROVIDED IN Section 11.1 ), (B) BE CONSTRUED TO LIMIT RECOVERY UNDER ANY INDEMNITY IN Article 10 , (C) LIMIT ANY LIABILITY OF A PARTY UNDER THE ASSET PURCHASE AGREEMENT OR LIABILITY OF OWNER UNDER THIS AGREEMENT TO THE EXTENT RESULTING FROM OWNER’S BREACH OF THE ASSET PURCHASE AGREEMENT, OR (D) PRECLUDE ANY RECOVERY BY OWNER AGAINST CONTRACTOR FOR ANY LIABILITY OF CONTRACTOR UNDER Section 11.2 .

 

Section 11.6          Liquidated Damages Not a Penalty . The Parties acknowledge and agree that because of the unique nature of the WTGs, the Infrastructure Facilities and the Project and the unavailability of substitute equipment, it is difficult or impossible to determine with precision the amount of damages that would or might be incurred by Owner as a result of Contractor’s failure to achieve Project Substantial Completion by the Guaranteed Project Substantial Completion Date. It is understood and agreed by the Parties that (a) Owner shall be disadvantaged by failure of Contractor to meet such obligations, (b) it would be impracticable or extremely difficult to quantify the amount of time Owner’s disadvantage resulting therefrom, (c) any sums which would be payable under Section 6.9 and/or Section 11.4 are in the nature of liquidated damages are fair and reasonable, and (d) such payments represent a reasonable estimate of damages, and shall, without duplication, be the sole and exclusive remedy of Owner with respect to any such failure by Contractor (but without limiting Contractor’s obligation to achieve Project Substantial Completion).

 

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Section 11.7          Limitation of Owner Liabilities . Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, the aggregate amount of damages Contractor shall be entitled to receive from Owner, regardless of the theory of liability, shall be the Agreement Price.

 

Section 11.8          Releases Valid in All Events . The waivers, limitations and disclaimers of liability indemnities, releases from liability and limitations on liability or damages expressed in this Agreement shall survive cancellation or expiration of this Agreement, and shall apply (unless otherwise expressly indicated under this Agreement) irrespective of whether a Party or any Affiliate thereof or any partner, shareholder, officer, director or employee of a Party or an Affiliate thereof asserts a theory of liability in contract, equity or tort, even in the event of fault, misrepresentation (including negligent misrepresentation), negligence (including sole negligence), foreseeable damages, strict liability, breach of warranty or any other theory of liability, of the party indemnified, released or whose liabilities are limited, and, to the extent permitted by Applicable Law, shall extend to the partners, principals, directors, officers and employees, agents and Affiliates of such party, and their partners, principals, directors, officers and employees.

 

Article 12
INSURANCE

 

Section 12.1          Coverage by Contractor and Owner . Unless as otherwise set forth in Exhibit 12.0 , Contractor and Owner shall maintain or cause to be maintained the insurance as specified in Exhibit 12.0 , from the Notice to Proceed Date until the earlier to occur of (a) Final Completion and (b) the earlier termination of this Agreement.

 

Section 12.2          No Limitation Intended . The insurance coverage to be provided by Contractor or Owner as set forth in Exhibit 12.0 , is not intended to and shall not in any manner limit or qualify the obligations of Contractor under this Agreement except to the extent that any proceeds of such insurance are received by Owner and are applied to the satisfaction of Contractor’s obligations hereunder.

 

Section 12.3          Failure to Obtain or Maintain Coverage . The failure by either Contractor or Owner to obtain or maintain the insurance required hereunder shall entitle the other Party, in addition to any other remedies available under this Agreement, at law or in equity, to obtain such coverage at the expense of the Party failing to obtain or maintain such insurance; provided, however, that such Party shall reimburse the other Party for the cost of obtaining or maintaining such insurance.

 

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Article 13
DEFAULT; TERMINATION AND SUSPENSION

 

Section 13.1            Contractor Defaults . The occurrence of any one or more of the following events shall constitute an event of default by Contractor hereunder (each a “ Contractor Event of Default ”):

 

13.1.1       Contractor, the surety (if any), or any Guarantor makes a general assignment for the benefit of its creditors, is unable to pay its debts as they become due, or becomes the subject of any voluntary or involuntary bankruptcy, insolvency, arrangement, reorganization or other debtor relief proceeding under any Applicable Laws, now in existence or hereafter becoming effective, and, in the case of any such involuntary proceeding, that is not dismissed or stayed within forty-five (45) Days after it is commenced;

 

13.1.2       Contractor fails, for any reason, to make prompt payments required to be made by Contractor to Owner that is not otherwise in dispute or, other than due to a failure of Owner to make payments to Contractor when obligated and in accordance with this Agreement, any Subcontractor, which failure continues for thirty (30) Days after notice of such non-payment;

 

13.1.3       there is a default under the Guaranty;

 

13.1.4       Contractor (or any other Seller) is in material default of the Asset Purchase Agreement and such default continues beyond the applicable cure period provided by the Asset Purchase Agreement;

 

13.1.5       Contractor is in material default of the Turbine Supply Agreement or the Prime Subcontract and such default continues beyond the applicable cure period provided by the Turbine Supply Agreement or the Prime Subcontract, as applicable;

 

13.1.6       Contractor intentionally disregards Applicable Laws, Applicable Standards, or the Contract Documents and does not commence to cure its noncompliance therewith within thirty (30) days after notice from Owner;

 

13.1.7       Contractor disregards any material instruction of Owner delivered in accordance with this Agreement (other than instructions that materially increase Contractor’s costs or the scope of the Work without an accompanying Scope Change Order) and does not commence to cure its noncompliance therewith within thirty (30) days after notice from Owner;

 

13.1.8       [Reserved]  

 

13.1.9       Delay Liquidated Damages accrued exceed the cap for Delay Liquidated Damages set forth in Section 11.1 ;

 

13.1.10     Contractor fails to deliver a Recovery Plan requested pursuant to Section 2.4.4 within fourteen (14) days after notice of delinquency and does not commence to cure such delinquency within ten (10) days after notice from Owner; provided that (i) if Contractor is engaged in good faith efforts to prepare and deliver the Recovery Plan to Owner, and (ii) it is not possible to prepare and deliver the Recovery Plan to Owner within the ten (10) Day cure period, the cure period shall be extended for an additional ten (10) Day period;

 

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13.1.11     [Reserved]

 

13.1.12     Contractor has made a material misrepresentation in this Agreement and fails to cure same within thirty (30) Days after receiving a notice from Owner that specifies the damages to Owner that have or will result from such misrepresentation;

 

13.1.13     Contractor diverts one or more WTGs from the Project (or a WTG is otherwise not available);

 

13.1.14     [Reserved]

 

13.1.15     Contractor fails to maintain the insurance required by Article 12 ;

 

13.1.16     Any Guarantor repudiates or otherwise challenges the validity or enforceability of any Guaranty, or Contractor fails to deliver a letter of credit to Owner as required pursuant to Section 4.7.4 following the occurrence of a Credit Trigger Event with respect to Guarantor; or

 

13.1.17     Contractor is otherwise in material breach of any provision of, or has failed to perform its material obligations under, this Agreement or the Agreement Documents, and such failure continues for thirty (30) Days after written notice from Owner that specifies the damages to Owner that have or will result from such breach (or provide a plan that is acceptable to Owner, in the sole discretion of Owner, to commence a cure within thirty (30) Days after receipt of notice and diligently and continuously pursue a cure, and if such default is capable of cure within ninety (90) Days, then such default shall not be a Contractor Event of Default unless it remains uncured ninety (90) Days from the date of the original written notice from Owner).

 

Section 13.2            Owner Remedies   . Upon the occurrence and during the continuation of any Contractor Event of Default hereunder, Owner, in addition to its right to pursue any other remedy given under this Agreement or now or hereafter existing at law or in equity or otherwise and after giving effect to any applicable cure periods, shall have the right to terminate this Agreement by written notice to Contractor and the Guarantors (“ Termination for Cause ”); provided , however , that Owner shall have no right to terminate this Agreement for any breach or default under this Agreement or the Guaranty that is not a material breach or default. A Termination for Cause shall be effective upon delivery of Owner’s written notice (the “ Termination Notice ”) with respect thereto. Owner shall, within a reasonable period of time after the Work is finally completed by one or more replacement contractors, determine the total cost to Owner for completing the Work in accordance with the Technical Specifications and the other Requirements of this Agreement, including all sums previously paid or then owed to Contractor pursuant to this Agreement. In contracting with such replacement contractors, Owner shall, to the extent practicable, cause the Work to be completed in accordance with the Agreement Documents and shall employ reasonable efforts to mitigate the costs incurred in connection with completion of the Work. If the Agreement Price is less than the sum of (i) the cost incurred by Owner finally to complete the Work; (ii) all amounts previously paid to Contractor pursuant to this Agreement, Contractor shall pay to Owner on demand the amount of such difference. Any amount owed by Owner to Contractor for the level of completion of the Work shall be retained by Owner until after completion of the Work and applied by Owner to pay any amounts and damages owed by Contractor pursuant to this Section 13.2 . Any excess shall be remitted by Contractor within sixty (60) Business Days after the Project is finally completed.

 

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13.2.1      Unless otherwise stated in the notice, upon receipt of notice of Termination for Cause or a Step-In Notice:

 

13.2.1.1           Contractor shall immediately discontinue the Work or the relevant portion of the Work on the date and to the extent specified in the notice;

 

13.2.1.2           Contractor shall place no further orders or subcontracts as to the Work, other than as may be necessary for completion of any such portion of the Work that is not terminated;

 

13.2.1.3           If requested by Owner, Contractor shall make every reasonable effort to obtain cancellation upon terms satisfactory to Owner of all orders and subcontracts to the extent they relate to the performance of the Work terminated;

 

13.2.1.4           As directed by Owner, Contractor shall assist Owner in the maintenance, protection and disposition of materials, supplies, property or the like acquired pursuant to the Agreement; and

 

13.2.1.5           Contractor shall deliver to Owner all Documents, Drawings, plans, specifications, data, estimates, summaries or other material and information whether completed or in process related to the Work.

 

13.2.2       Step-In Rights . During the continuance of a Contractor Event of Default, with or without termination of this Agreement or the exercise of other remedies, Owner shall provide Twelve (12) Days prior written notice (the “ Step-In Notice ”) to Contractor and Guarantor of its intent to exercise the rights set forth in this Section 13.2.2 (the “ Step-In-Rights ”) and thereafter take over performance of the Work and assume all of Contractor’s rights and responsibilities under the Turbine Supply Agreement, Prime Subcontract and other specified Subcontracts pursuant to the Turbine Supply Security and Collateral Assignment Agreement, the Turbine Supplier Consent to Assignment, the Prime Subcontract Security and Assignment Agreement, the Prime Subcontractor Consent to Assignment, and any other assignments of Subcontracts and related consents thereto delivered to Owner pursuant to Section 2.21 . Owner’s Step-In Rights shall take effect Twelve (12) Days after receipt of the Step-In Notice by Contractor. All costs incurred by Owner in connection with such assumed contracts, as well as all other costs incurred by Owner in completing the Work, shall be deducted from any amounts owed by Owner to Contractor or added to the amount of any claim by Owner against Contractor hereunder, as the case may be.

 

Section 13.3           Owner Default . The occurrence of any one or more of the following events shall constitute an event of default by Owner hereunder (“ Owner Event of Default ”):

 

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13.3.1      Owner makes a general assignment for the benefit of its creditors, is unable to pay its debts as they become due, or becomes the subject of any voluntary or involuntary bankruptcy, insolvency, arrangement, reorganization or other debtor relief proceeding under any Applicable Laws, now in existence or hereafter becoming effective, and, in the case of any such involuntary proceeding, that is not dismissed or stayed within forty-five (45) Days after it is commenced;

 

13.3.2      Owner fails, for any reason, to make prompt payments required to be made by Owner to Contractor that is not otherwise in dispute;

 

13.3.3      Owner has made a material misrepresentation in this Agreement and fails to cure same within thirty (30) Days after notice from Contractor that specifies the damages to Contractor that have or will result from such misrepresentation;

 

13.3.4      Owner is in material default of the Asset Purchase Agreement and such default is not cured as provided by the Asset Purchase Agreement; or

 

13.3.5      Owner is otherwise in material breach of any provision of, or has failed to perform its material obligations under, the Agreement and Agreement Documents and such failure continues for thirty (30) Days after written notice from Contractor that specifies the damages to Contractor that have or will result from such breach; or provide a plan that is acceptable to Contractor, in the sole discretion of Contractor, to commence a cure within thirty (30) Days after receipt of notice and diligently and continuously pursue a cure, and if such default is capable of cure within ninety (90) Days, then such default shall not be an Owner Event of Default unless it remains uncured ninety (90) Days from the date of the original written notice from Contractor

 

13.3.6      Owner has failed to provide or maintain the Owner LOC as required under Section 4.1.2 .

 

Section 13.4            Contractor Rights to Terminate .

 

13.4.1.1            Contractor’s Right to Terminate . Contractor may suspend performance of the Work until the Owner Event of Default is cured or may terminate this Agreement in respect of an Owner Event of Default, upon not less than thirty (30) Days prior written notice to Owner.

 

13.4.1.2            Termination Due to Force Majeure . If (a) Owner wholly suspends the Work on the Project for one hundred eighty (180) consecutive Days due to the occurrence of a Force Majeure Event suffered by Owner or (b) Contractor is entirely prevented from performing the Work for a period of one hundred eighty (180) consecutive Days as a result of the occurrence of a Force Majeure Event, then the affected Party may terminate this Agreement (“ Termination Due to Force Majeure ”). Upon such termination, Owner shall, except to the extent covered by insurance, pay Contractor (a) payment of all accrued payment obligations due and payable through such date, (b) all reasonable direct costs incurred by Contractor in performance of the Work for which Contractor has not yet been paid by Owner, and all reasonable direct documented costs incurred by Contractor for terminating the Work before Final Completion, including, but not limited to, removing equipment and materials from the Project Site, home office costs associated with terminating contracts and reassignment of personnel, and (c) all reasonable cancellation fees or termination payments required to terminate or cancel Subcontractor’s and Contractor’s contract personnel. The foregoing costs shall not include any costs incurred by Contractor after the date of the event giving rise to such termination that Contractor reasonably could have mitigated. Contractor shall use all reasonable diligent efforts to mitigate the costs described above in this Section 13.4.1.2 . Nothing in this Section 13.4.1.2 shall relieve or excuse either Party from its obligations under Article 8 in respect of the occurrence of a Force Majeure Event

 

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Section 13.5          Termination of Asset Purchase Agreement . In the event the Asset Purchase Agreement is terminated in accordance with the terms thereof, this Agreement shall be deemed terminated as of the date of termination of the Asset Purchase Agreement. Each Party shall be relieved of any and all liability to the other Party pursuant to this Agreement upon such termination; provided, however, that any obligation of either Party under Section 13.6.5 shall survive such termination of this Agreement.

 

Section 13.6            Actions Required Following Termination .

 

13.6.1       Discontinuation of Work . Upon termination of this Agreement, Contractor immediately shall discontinue the Work and remove its personnel and equipment from the Project Site, and Owner shall be entitled to take exclusive possession of the Work and all or any part of the Work and materials delivered or en route to the Project Site, for which payment has been made by Owner to Contractor, to the extent that Owner has paid Contractor all amounts hereunder then due and payable from Owner to Contractor, and all amounts due pursuant to Section 13.2 , Section 13.3 , and Section 13.4 . Contractor immediately shall take such steps as are reasonably necessary to preserve and protect Work completed and in progress and to protect materials, equipment and supplies at the Project Site, stored off-site, or in transit.

 

13.6.2       Cancellation and Transfer of Subcontracts and Other Rights . Upon termination of this Agreement, Contractor shall also, upon request by Owner, (a)  to the extent assignable, irrevocably assign and deliver to Owner any and all Subcontracts, purchase orders, bonds and options made by Contractor in performance of the Work and not previously assigned to Owner, pursuant to Section 2.2.1 or otherwise (but in no event shall Owner be liable for any action or default of Contractor occurring prior to such delivery and assignment except to the extent such action or default was caused by Owner, and each contract with each Subcontractor and the Turbine Supplier shall so provide); (b)  provide to Owner without charge and in accordance with this Agreement and the terms of such Subcontracts, all rights to use patented or proprietary materials of Contractor and Subcontractors in completing, operating and maintaining the Work; and (c)  deliver to Owner certified copies of all Agreement Documents and, if the termination occurs at a time when the design of the Infrastructure Facilities is incomplete, originals of all Design Documents in process (except that Contractor may keep for its records copies, and, if sufficient originals exist, an original set, of the Agreement Documents executed by Owner and Design Documents for the WTGs), all other materials relating to the Work which belong to Owner, and all papers and Documents relating to Permits, orders placed, bills and invoices, lien releases and financial management under this Agreement. All deliveries hereunder shall be made free and clear of any liens, security interests or encumbrances, except such as may be created by Owner or permitted by this Agreement. Except as provided herein, no action taken by Owner or Contractor after the termination of this Agreement shall prejudice any other rights or remedies of Owner or Contractor provided by Applicable Laws, the Agreement Documents or otherwise upon such termination. Upon termination of this Agreement solely on account of Section 13.4 , Contractor shall be entitled to terminate any Guaranty required by Section 4.7 .

 

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13.6.3       Payments to Turbine Supplier . In the event that Turbine Supplier has delivered WTGs to the Project Site and Owner has taken title to such WTGs, then prior to exercising any rights under the Turbine Supply Assignment or the Turbine Supplier Consent to Assignment, Owner shall reimburse Contractor for all previously unreimbursed sums that Contractor has paid to the Turbine Supplier for such WTGs that have been delivered to the Site, minus any amount that Owner is otherwise entitled to offset or withhold in accordance with Section 4.10 or Section 4.12 , respectively.

 

13.6.5       Surviving Obligations . Termination or expiration of this Agreement (a)  shall not relieve either Party of its obligations with respect to the confidentiality of the other Party’s information as set forth in Article 17 ; (b)  shall not relieve either Party of any obligation hereunder which expressly or by implication survives termination hereof; and (c)  except as otherwise provided in any provision of this Agreement expressly limiting the liability of either Party, shall not relieve either Owner or Contractor of any obligations or liabilities for loss or damage to the other Party arising out of or caused by acts or omissions of such Party prior to the effectiveness of such termination or arising out of such termination, and shall not relieve Contractor of its obligations as to portions of the Work or other services hereunder already performed or of obligations assumed by Contractor prior to the date of termination. This Article 13 shall survive the termination or expiration of this Agreement.

 

Article 14
TITLE AND RISK OF LOSS

 

Section 14.1           Title to WTGs, Infrastructure Facilities and the Work . Provided that Owner has made all Milestone Payments due in accordance with this Agreement, (i) Contractor warrants and guarantees that legal title to and ownership of the Work shall be free and clear of any and all liens, claims, security interests or other encumbrances when title thereto passes to Owner, (ii) title to all Infrastructure Facilities and the Work, other than the WTGs, shall pass to Owner upon Project Substantial Completion; (iii) title to the 5% Safe Harbor Turbines shall pass to Owner pursuant to the Asset Purchase Agreement upon Project Closing; and (iv) title to each other WTG shall pass to Owner upon delivery to the Project Site.

 

Section 14.2          Ownership of Work Documents . All Drawings, As-Built Drawings and Documentation, Designs Documents, estimates, data, summaries, materials, information, plans, specifications, calculations, reports and other documents (“ Documents ”) whether in hard copy or electronic media prepared pursuant to the Agreement shall become the sole and exclusive property of Owner and title thereto shall pass to the Owner upon transmittal to Owner; provided, however, that ownership and rights to use any and all Documents relating to the WTG design and specifications shall be governed exclusively by the Turbine Supply Agreement. Owner reserves the right to reproduce, modify and use in any manner, any and all Documents. Contractor shall, and shall cause its employees, representatives, agents and Subcontractors to execute and deliver any and all forms and instruments necessary or desirable to transfer the Documents such that Owner shall have of record all of its rights, interests, title and ownership in and to the Documents, free and clear of all third party encumbrances and interests.

 

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Section 14.3           Risk of Loss . Notwithstanding passage of title as provided in Section 14.1 , Contractor shall bear the risk of loss and damage with respect to the WTGs (including the 5% Safe Harbor Turbines), the related Electrical Works, and all other portions of the Work, or any portion thereof, wherever located, until Project Substantial Completion. Upon such transfer of risk of loss with respect to such item, Contractor shall relinquish and Owner shall assume full and exclusive custody of such property, including responsibility for operation, maintenance, insurance and risk of loss. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if Contractor is obligated by the terms of this Agreement to perform additional Work with respect to the WTGs or the related Electrical Works subsequent to Project Substantial Completion, Contractor shall bear the risk of loss and damage with respect to such additional Work until Contractor’s obligation to perform additional Work is satisfied.

 

Section 14.4          Revenues . Owner shall be entitled to any revenues generated by the Project whether before or after Project Substantial Completion.

 

Article 15
DISPUTE RESOLUTION

 

Section 15.1          Choice of Law . This Agreement shall be construed, interpreted and the rights of the Parties determined in accordance with the Laws of the State of New York without reference to its choice of law provisions other than Section 5-1401 of the General Obligations Law.

 

Section 15.2          Attempt to Resolve Disputes . Upon a Party’s written notification to the other Party of a dispute, which notification must include a written explanation of the dispute and the material particulars of the notifying Party’s position as to the dispute, each Party shall nominate one (1) executive representative with the authority to bind such Party. The nominated representatives shall meet not later than ten (10) Business Days thereafter to attempt in good faith to resolve the dispute and to produce written terms of settlement for the dispute (a “ Settlement Agreement ”). A Settlement Agreement executed by each executive representative shall serve as conclusive evidence of the resolution of such dispute. If the executive representatives do not produce and execute the Settlement Agreement within forty-five (45) Days after the date of the first meeting or within a longer period agreed to by each executive representative, then, either Party may upon written notice to the other Party, pursue all its rights and remedies provided at law or equity or otherwise in this Agreement.

 

Section 15.3          Forum Selection . The Parties hereto hereby irrevocably submit to the jurisdiction of the federal or state courts located in Hennepin County, Minnesota, over any dispute arising out of or relating to this Agreement or any of the transactions contemplated hereby; and each Party hereby irrevocably agrees that all claims in respect of such dispute or proceeding shall be heard and determined in such court. Each Party hereby irrevocably waives, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable Law, any objection which it may now or hereafter have to the laying of venue of any such dispute brought in such court or any defense of inconvenient forum.

 

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Section 15.4          WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL; ENFORCEMENT PROCEEDINGS . IN ANY LITIGATION ARISING FROM OR RELATED TO THIS AGREEMENT, THE PARTIES HERETO EACH HEREBY KNOWINGLY, VOLUNTARILY AND INTENTIONALLY WAIVE THE RIGHT EACH MAY HAVE TO A TRIAL BY JURY WITH RESPECT TO ANY LITIGATION BASED HEREON, OR ARISING OUT OF, UNDER OR IN CONNECTION WITH THIS AGREEMENT, OR ANY COURSE OF CONDUCT, COURSE OF DEALING, STATEMENTS (WHETHER ORAL OR WRITTEN) OR ACTIONS OF EITHER PARTY TO THIS AGREEMENT. THIS PROVISION IS A MATERIAL INDUCEMENT FOR OWNER AND CONTRACTOR TO ENTER INTO THIS AGREEMENT. EACH PARTY AGREES THAT FINAL JUDGMENT IN ANY SUCH ACTION OR PROCEEDING SHALL BE CONCLUSIVE AND MAY BE ENFORCED IN ANY OTHER JURISDICTION BY SUIT ON THE JUDGMENT OR IN ANY OTHER MANNER PROVIDED BY APPLICABLE LAW.

 

Section 15.5          Service of Process . Each of the Parties hereto hereby consents to process being served by the other Party to this Agreement in any suit, action or proceeding of the nature specified in Section 15.3 by mailing of a copy thereof in accordance with the provisions of Section 17.4 hereof.

 

Section 15.6          Continued Performance . Pending final resolution of any dispute, Owner and Contractor shall continue to fulfill their respective obligations hereunder and Owner shall continue to pay Contractor in accordance with the terms of this Agreement, except to the extent expressly provided in this Agreement.

 

Article 16
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

 

Section 16.1           Contractor Representations . Contractor represents and warrants that:

 

16.1.1      Organization . It is a corporation duly organized, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the State of Delaware and is qualified to do business in all jurisdictions in which the nature of the business conducted by it makes such qualification necessary and where failure to so qualify would have a material adverse effect on its ability to perform this Agreement.

 

16.1.2      No Violation of Law; Litigation . It is not in violation of any Applicable Laws, or judgment entered by any Governmental Authority which violations, individually or in the aggregate, would materially and adversely affect its performance of any obligations under this Agreement. Except as Contractor has disclosed in writing to Owner prior to the Effective Date, there are no legal or arbitration proceedings or any proceeding by or before any Governmental Authority, now pending or (to the best knowledge of Contractor) threatened against Contractor which, if adversely determined, could reasonably be expected to have a material adverse effect on the ability of Contractor to perform under this Agreement.

 

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16.1.3      Permits . It is (or will be prior to performing any applicable Work on the Project Site) the holder of all Permits required to permit it to operate or conduct its business now and as contemplated by this Agreement.

 

16.1.4      No Breach . None of the execution and delivery of this Agreement, the consummation of the transactions herein contemplated, or compliance with the terms and provisions hereof, conflicts with or will result in a breach of, or require any consent under, the governing Documents of Contractor, or any Applicable Laws or regulation, order, writ, injunction or decree of any court, or any agreement or instrument to which Contractor is a party or by which it is bound or to which it is subject, or constitute a default under any such agreement or instrument.

 

16.1.5      Corporate Action . It has all necessary power and authority to execute, deliver and perform its obligations under this Agreement; the execution, delivery and performance by Contractor of this Agreement have been duly authorized by all necessary action on its part; and, this Agreement has been duly and validly executed and delivered by Contractor and constitutes the legal, valid and binding obligation of Contractor enforceable in accordance with its terms, except as the enforceability thereof may be limited by bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or moratorium or other similar laws relating to the enforcement of creditors’ rights generally and by general equitable principles.

 

Section 16.2           Owner Representations . Owner represents and warrants that:

 

16.2.1      Organization . It is a corporation duly organized, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the State of Minnesota, and is qualified to do business in all jurisdictions in which the nature of the business conducted by it makes such qualification necessary and where failure to so qualify would have a material adverse effect on its ability to perform this Agreement.

 

16.2.2      No Violation of Law; Litigation . It is not in violation of any Applicable Laws or judgment entered by any Governmental Authority, which violations, individually or in the aggregate, would materially and adversely affect its performance of any obligations under this Agreement. Except as Owner has disclosed in writing to Contractor prior to the Effective Date, there are no legal or arbitration proceedings or any proceeding by or before any Governmental Authority, now pending or (to the best knowledge of Owner) threatened against Owner which, if adversely determined, could reasonably be expected to have a material adverse effect on the ability of Owner to perform under this Agreement.

 

16.2.3      No Breach . None of the execution and delivery of this Agreement, the consummation of the transactions herein contemplated, or compliance with the terms and provisions hereof and thereof, conflicts with or will result in a breach of, or require any consent under, the governing Documents of Owner, or any Applicable Laws or regulation, order, writ, injunction or decree of any court, or any agreement or instrument to which Owner is a party or by which it is bound or to which it is subject, or constitute a default under any such agreement or instrument.

 

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16.2.4      Corporate Action . It has all necessary power and authority to execute, deliver and perform its obligations under this Agreement; the execution, delivery and performance by Owner of this Agreement have been duly authorized by all necessary action on its part; and, this Agreement has been duly and validly executed and delivered by Owner and constitutes the legal, valid and binding obligation of Owner enforceable in accordance with its terms, except as the enforceability thereof may be limited by bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or moratorium or other similar laws relating to the enforcement of creditors’ rights generally and by general equitable principles.

 

16.2.5      Solvency . It is not currently a party to any voluntary or involuntary bankruptcy or reorganization proceeding under Applicable Law, and remains solvent.

 

16.2.6      Sufficient Financial Resources . It has sufficient financial resources to carry out all payment obligations established by and set forth in this Agreement.

 

16.2.7      Financial Condition . Its senior unsecured credit rating is at or above BBB- (or Baa3 in the case of Moody’s) as of the Effective Date.

 

Article 17
MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS

 

Section 17.1          Confidentiality . Except as set forth in this Section 17.1 , Owner and Contractor shall hold in confidence all information supplied by either Party to the other Party under the terms of this Agreement that is marked or otherwise indicated to be confidential (“ Confidential Information ”). Each Party shall inform its Affiliates, Subcontractors, suppliers, vendors and employees of its obligations under this Section 17.1 and require such Persons to adhere to the provisions hereof. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Owner and Contractor may disclose the following categories of information or any combination thereof:

 

17.1.1     information which was in the public domain prior to receipt thereof by such Party or which subsequently becomes part of the public domain by publication or otherwise except by a wrongful act of such Party;

 

17.1.2     information that such Party can show was lawfully in its possession prior to receipt thereof from the other Party through no breach of any confidentiality obligation;

 

17.1.3     information received by such Party from a third party having no obligation of confidentiality with respect thereto;

 

17.1.4     information at any time developed independently by such Party providing it is not developed from otherwise confidential information;

 

17.1.5     information disclosed pursuant to and in conformity with Applicable Law or a judicial order or in connection with any legal proceedings described in Article 15 ; and

 

17.1.6     information required to be disclosed under securities laws applicable to publicly traded companies and their subsidiaries.

 

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In addition, Owner may disclose Confidential Information to any financial institutions expressing interest in providing debt financing or refinancing or other credit support to Owner, and the agent or trustee of any of them; provided , however , that such disclosures shall be subject to the agreement of such Persons to keep such information confidential pursuant to the terms of this Section 17.1 . The Parties each acknowledge and agree that the terms of this Agreement shall constitute Confidential Information of the other Party. Notwithstanding the foregoing, either Party may publish Confidential Information regarding this Agreement with the express written consent of the other Party. Neither Party shall release, distribute or disseminate any Confidential Information for publication concerning this Agreement or the participation of the other Party in the transactions contemplated hereby without the prior written consent of the other Party, provided , however , that such limitation on disclosure shall not apply to disclosures or reporting required by a Governmental Authority if the Party seeking disclosure informs the other Party of the need for such disclosure and, if reasonably requested by the other Party, seeks, through a protective order or other appropriate mechanism, to maintain the confidentiality of Confidential Information.

 

Section 17.2          Public Announcements; Press Release . Neither Party shall issue any public announcement or other statement with respect to this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby, without the prior consent of the other Party, unless required by Applicable Law or order of a court of competent jurisdiction; provided , however , that a Party shall have the right without obtaining such consent to include public information concerning the Project in such Party’s marketing materials following the initial public announcement of this Agreement by the Parties. In the event of a breach of this Section 17.2 , in addition to and not in lieu of any legal or equitable remedies that may otherwise be available, the non-breaching Party may, in its sole discretion, issue public announcements that the non-breaching Party shall deem to be appropriate in its sole discretion to supplement, correct or amplify the announcement or statement made by the breaching Party. Notwithstanding anything in the foregoing provisions of this Section 17.2 , the Parties may each make an initial public announcement or statement regarding the execution of this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby, without the consent of the other Party, provided that such public announcement or statement shall be limited to statements regarding the size and location of the Project, the projected year for construction and operation of the Project and the parties hereto.

 

Section 17.3          Software and Other Proprietary Material . Owner and Contractor acknowledge and agree that, pursuant to the terms of this Agreement, Owner is being provided and shall have access to certain intellectual property rights, the right to make and use (but not distribute) derivative works (a) owned by Contractor, or (b) used or licensed by Contractor pursuant to Contractor’s agreements with its Subcontractors, including software, trade secrets, patents and other proprietary information relating to the specification, design, construction, installation, operation or maintenance and repair of the Work, as well as certain training processes and the contents of service and maintenance manuals and test and inspection procedures (“ Intellectual Property Rights ”). Owner and Contractor agree that the Agreement provides Owner and any Affiliate of Owner and their representatives with an irrevocable, permanent, transferable, nonexclusive, royalty-free license to use the Intellectual Property Rights (a) in connection with the Project and (b) solely in connection with the operation, maintenance, repair, modification or alteration of any other power generating facility to be owned, operated, constructed or developed by Owner or any Affiliate of Owner; provided that, Contractor makes no representation or warranty with respect to the Intellectual Property Rights to the extent that such Intellectual Property Rights are used in any facility other than the Project and; provided, further, that Contractor makes no representation that the Intellectual Property Rights are suitable for reuse by Owner or others on any other project and, provided, further, that any such reuse will be at Owner’s sole risk and without liability or legal exposure to Contractor.

 

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Section 17.4          Notice . All notices and other communications required or permitted by this Agreement or by Applicable Law to be served upon or given to a Party by any the other Party shall be in writing signed by the Party giving such notice and shall be deemed duly served, given and received (a)  on the date of service, if served personally or sent by facsimile or email transmission (with appropriate confirmation of receipt) to the Party to whom notice is to be given, (b) on the fourth (4 th ) Day after mailing, if mailed by first class registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, postage paid, or (c) on the next Day if sent by a nationally recognized courier for next Day service and so addressed and if there is evidence of acceptance by receipt, in each case addressed as follows:

 

 

If to Owner: Otter Tail Power Company
  215 South Cascade Street
  Fergus Falls, Minnesota
  Attention: Harvey McMahon, Manager, Renewable Energy Construction and Operations
  Telephone: (701) 253-4732
  Facsimile: (218) 739-8629
  Email: HMcMahon@otpco.com
   
With a copy to: Otter Tail Power Company
  215 South Cascade Street
  Fergus Falls, MN 56537
  Attention:  Legal Department
  Telephone: (218) 739-8922
  Facsimile: (218) 998-3165
  Email: mbring@otpco.com
   
If to Contractor: EDF-RE US DEVELOPMENT, LLC
  15445 Innovation Drive
  San Diego, California 92128
  Attention: Christina Watts
  Telephone: (858) 521-3512
  Facsimile: (858) 521-3333
  Email: Christina.Watts@edf-re.com
   
with a copy to: EDF Renewable Energy
  15445 Innovation Drive
  San Diego, CA 92128
  Attention:  Joshua Pearson
  Telephone:  (858) 521-3467
  Facsimile:  (858) 521-3333
  Email:  Joshua.Pearson@edf-re.com

 

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The Parties, by like notice in writing, may designate, from time to time, another address or office to which notices shall be delivered pursuant to this Agreement.

 

Section 17.5          No Rights in Third Parties . Except as otherwise expressly provided herein, this Agreement and all rights hereunder are intended for the sole benefit of the Parties and shall not imply or create any rights on the part of, or obligations to, any other Person.

 

Section 17.6          Conflicting Provisions . In the event of any inconsistencies between this Agreement (not including the Exhibits) and the other Agreement Documents, the following order of precedence in the interpretation hereof or resolution of such conflict hereunder shall prevail:

 

17.6.1     duly authorized and executed Scope Change Orders and written amendments to this Agreement executed by both Parties;

 

17.6.2     this Agreement;

 

17.6.3     the Exhibits hereto; and

 

Where an irreconcilable conflict exists among Applicable Laws, this Agreement, the Drawings included in the Design Documents, and the specifications in the Design Documents, the earliest item mentioned in this sentence involving a conflict shall control over any later mentioned item or items subject to such conflict. Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this Section 17.6 if a conflict exists within or between parts of the Agreement Documents, or between the Agreement Documents and Applicable Law, or among Applicable Laws themselves, the more stringent or higher quality requirements shall control. All obligations imposed on Contractor and each Subcontractor under the Agreement Documents (other than this Agreement) or under Applicable Laws or Applicable Standards and not expressly imposed or addressed in this Agreement shall be in addition to and supplement the obligations imposed on Contractor under this Agreement, and shall not be construed to create an “irreconcilable conflict”. Where a conflict exists among codes and standards applicable to the Infrastructure Facilities or Contractor’s performance of the Work, the most stringent provision of such codes and standards shall govern.

 

Section 17.7          Entire Agreement . This Agreement contains the entire understanding of the Parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersedes all prior agreements and commitments with respect thereto. There are no other oral understandings, terms or conditions and neither Party has relied upon any representation, express or implied, not contained in this Agreement.

 

Section 17.8          Amendments . No amendment or modification of this Agreement shall be valid or binding upon the Parties unless such amendment or modification shall be in writing and duly executed by authorized officers of both Parties.

 

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Section 17.9           [Reserved]

 

Section 17.10          Right of Waiver . Owner, in its sole discretion, shall have the right, but shall have no obligation, to waive, defer or reduce any of the requirements to which Contractor is subject under this Agreement at any time; provided , however , that such waiver is in writing. Any failure of any Party to enforce any of the provisions of this Agreement or to require compliance with any of its terms at any time during the pendency of this Agreement shall in no way affect the validity of this Agreement, or any part hereof, and shall not be deemed a waiver of the right of such Party thereafter to enforce any and each such provision.

 

Section 17.11         Severability . The invalidity of one or more phrases, sentences, clauses, Sections or articles contained in this Agreement shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of the Agreement so long as the material purposes of this Agreement can be determined and effectuated. In the event that any of the provisions, or portions or applications thereof, of this Agreement are held to be unenforceable or invalid by any court of competent jurisdiction, Owner and Contractor shall negotiate in good faith an equitable adjustment in the provisions of this Agreement with a view toward effecting the purpose of this Agreement.

 

Section 17.12         Assignment . This Agreement or any right or obligation contained herein may be assigned by Owner or Contractor, respectively, to wholly-owned Affiliates of Owner or Contractor; provided , however , that Owner or Contractor, as the case may be, unconditionally guarantees the performance of such Affiliate’s obligations under this Agreement to the reasonable satisfaction of the other Party. This Agreement may be otherwise assigned by the Parties only upon the prior written consent of the other Party, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld or denied. When duly assigned in accordance with the foregoing, this Agreement shall be binding upon and shall inure to the benefit of the assignee; any other assignment shall be void and without force or effect.

 

Section 17.13         Successors and Assigns . This Agreement shall be binding upon the Parties, their successors and permitted assigns.

 

Section 17.14         No Partnership Created . Nothing contained in this Agreement shall be construed as constituting a joint venture or partnership between Contractor and Owner.

 

Section 17.15        Survival . All provisions of the Agreement Documents that are expressly or by implication to come into or continue in force and effect after the expiration or termination of this Agreement, including Article 7 , Article 10 , and Article 11 shall remain in effect and be enforceable following such expiration or termination. The representations and warranties of Contractor contained herein or in any other Agreement Document shall survive the execution and delivery hereof and thereof, subject to the limitations set forth herein and therein.

 

Section 17.16         Effectiveness . This Agreement shall be effective on, and binding upon each of the Parties, on the Effective Date; provided that Contractor shall have no obligations hereunder until the Closing Date of the Asset Purchase Agreement and the deemed issuance of the Notice to Proceed simultaneously therewith.

 

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Section 17.17        Further Assurances . Contractor and Owner agree to provide such information, execute and deliver any instruments and Documents and to take such other actions as may be necessary or reasonably requested by the other Party which are not inconsistent with the provisions of this Agreement and which do not involve the assumptions of obligations other than those provided for in this Agreement, in order to give full effect to this Agreement and to carry out the intent of this Agreement.

 

Section 17.18         Captions . The captions contained in this Agreement are for convenience and reference only and in no way define, describe, extend or limit the scope of intent of this Agreement or the intent of any provision contained herein.

 

Section 17.19        Equal Employment Opportunity . The Parties agree that, as applicable, they will abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-1.4(a), 41 CFR 60-300.5(a) and 41 CFR 60-741.5(a) and that these laws are incorporated herein by reference. These regulations prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities, and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status or disability. These regulations require that Contractor and Subcontractors take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status or disability. The Parties also agree that, as applicable, they will abide by the requirements of Executive Order 13496 (29 CFR Part 471, Appendix A to Subpart A), relating to the notice of employee rights under federal labor laws.

 

Section 17.20        Counterparts . This Agreement may be signed in any number of counterparts which may be delivered electronically and each counterpart shall represent a fully executed original as if signed by both Parties, with all such counterparts together constituting but one and the same instrument.

 

[The next page is the signature page.]

 

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IN WITNESS HEREOF, the Parties have caused this Agreement to be executed by their duly Authorized Representatives as of the date and year first above written.

 

  CONTRACTOR:
   
  EDF-RE US DEVELOPMENT, LLC
     
  BY: EDF RENEWABLE DEVELOPMENT, INC., ITS MANAGING MEMBER
     
  By: /s/ Tristan Grimbert
    Name: Tristan Grimbert
    Title: President and Chief Executive Officer

 

[ Signature pages to Turnkey Engineering, Procurement and Construction Services Agreement ]

 

 

 

 

IN WITNESS HEREOF, the Parties have caused this Agreement to be executed by their duly Authorized Representatives as of the date and year first above written.

 

  OWNER:
   
  OTTER TAIL POWER COMPANY
     
  By: /s/ Timothy J. Rogelstad
  Name:Timothy J. Rogelstad
  Title: President

 

[ Signature pages to Turnkey Engineering, Procurement and Construction Services Agreement ]

 

 

 

 

 

Exhibit 31.3

 

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO

SECTION 302 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

 

I, Charles S. MacFarlane, certify that:

 

1.        I have reviewed this Amendment No. 1 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Otter Tail Corporation;

 

2.        Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report.

 

Date: May 15, 2017

 

/s/ Charles S. MacFarlane  
Charles S. MacFarlane  
President and Chief Executive Officer  

 

 

 

 

Exhibit 31.4

 

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO

SECTION 302 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

 

I, Kevin G. Moug, certify that:

 

1.        I have reviewed this Amendment No. 1 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Otter Tail Corporation;

 

2.        Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report.

 

Date: May 15, 2017

 

/s/ Kevin G. Moug  
Kevin G. Moug  
Chief Financial Officer and Senior Vice President