David Zoppo

Professional Memberships

Wisconsin Bar Association, Energy and Environmental Law Sections

Career

David draws on more than a decade representing major utility companies in his energy and environmental practice.

David has extensive experience representing investor-owned utilities and other clients in administrative contested case proceedings before the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin and Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, including electric and natural gas rate cases, certificate of public convenience and necessity, and other forms of administrative litigation. While he primarily handles Wisconsin matters, he has done similar work in Iowa, Illinois, and Minnesota.

In addition, David represents utilities, manufacturers, oil refineries, and other clients in environmental law and regularly advises on compliance with and permitting under both the Clean Air Act and Clean Water Act. He also handles environmental litigation and enforcement defense, working with clients to evaluate, resolve, and implement corrective actions related to allegations of noncompliance. While David often assists clients in settling these matters during the pre-litigation phase through consent decrees and consent orders, he has represented clients in enforcement proceedings in both state and federal court where settlement is not possible. David also represents a diverse array of clients in a variety of complex commercial litigation matters in state and federal court.

As a law student with an interest in energy and environmental law, David had the opportunity to co-author A Smarter, Greener Grid: Forging Environmental Progress through Smarter Energy Policies and Technologies with a professor. This project helped foster his passion and interest in energy policy and regulation as utilities, policymakers, and other stakeholders continue to navigate the significant change and transition in the energy sector. Upon graduation, David began working with major natural gas and transmission utilities at his first firm, and his practice grew rapidly from there. He is fascinated by the complexity of the energy industry and by the wide variety of disciplines, from accounting to engineering to economics to the law, that are implicated in this space.

Known for a work ethic that leaves him willing to assist clients in any way at any time, David has built a reputation for an efficiency born of his years of experience in the industry. He knows the energy world and its regulatory environment, and he knows how to navigate legal processes quickly for clients. David also has a keen ability to understand clients’ core business interests and develop legal strategies to advance those interests. His goal is always to offer legal advice that carefully considers the client’s broader strategic objectives.