Understanding Life-of-The-Unit, Firm Power Contractual Arrangement

Definition & Meaning

The term "life-of-the-unit, firm power contractual arrangement" refers to an agreement between a utility provider and a customer, such as an industrial company, where the customer secures a specified amount of electricity generated by a particular power unit. This arrangement ensures that the customer pays their share of the unit's overall costs. The contract can be structured in several ways:

  • For the entire operational life of the power unit.
  • For a minimum duration of 30 years, which may include options for early termination.
  • For a period of at least 25 years or 70 percent of the unit's expected useful life, with rights to purchase or re-lease some capacity at the end of the term.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A manufacturing company enters into a life-of-the-unit contract with a local power plant, ensuring a steady supply of electricity for its operations. The contract is set for 30 years, allowing the company to plan its energy costs effectively.

Example 2: A city utility department signs a firm power contract for a new generating unit, committing to purchase 70 percent of the unit's output for 25 years, with an option to buy additional capacity after the term ends. (hypothetical example)

State-by-state differences

State Contract Duration Requirements
California Minimum 25 years or 70% of economic life.
Texas 30-year minimum with early termination options.
New York Life-of-the-unit agreements preferred.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Description Difference
Power Purchase Agreement A contract for the sale of electricity between a power producer and a buyer. Focuses on price and delivery rather than capacity reservation.
Capacity Agreement An arrangement to reserve a certain amount of power capacity. May not include energy delivery or cost-sharing provisions.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are considering entering into a life-of-the-unit, firm power contractual arrangement, it is advisable to:

  • Review your energy needs and capacity requirements.
  • Consult with legal professionals to understand the implications of the contract.
  • Explore US Legal Forms for templates that may assist in drafting or negotiating your agreement.
  • Consider the long-term costs and benefits of the arrangement.

Quick facts

  • Typical contract duration: 25 to 30 years
  • Common users: Utilities, industrial customers
  • Key consideration: Proportional cost-sharing

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

It is an agreement that allows a customer to reserve a specific amount of power from a generating unit for a long-term period.