Firms To Watch: Energy and natural resources

Băncilă, Diaconu și Asociații SPRL regularly handles major energy projects and transactions. Andrei Ștefanovici is the key contact.
Noerr has significantly boosted its energy credentials through the recent recruitment of highly experienced energy specialist Anca Mihailescu, formerly a name partner at boutique firm Ijdelea & Associates.

Firms in the Spotlight Energy and natural resources

Nestor Nestor Diculescu Kingston Petersen

Nestor Nestor Diculescu Kingston Petersen logo

For over 30 years, Nestor Nestor Diculescu Kingston Petersen (NNDKP) has guided both domestic and international companies through the intricacies of the Romanian legal landscape, being recognized as a promoter of business law on the local market. NNDKP offers integrated legal and tax services at international standards across all legal areas relevant for businesses and …

View Profile...

Popovici Nitu Stoica & Asociatii

Popovici Nitu Stoica & Asociatii logo

Popovici Nitu Stoica & Asociatii is a leading Romanian independent law firm. Established in 1995, as one of the first incorporated partnerships, the firm brings together strong local resources, with exceptional credentials, outstanding records and distinguished careers in law, business and academia.

View Profile...

Energy and natural resources in Romania

Nestor Nestor Diculescu Kingston Petersen

Nestor Nestor Diculescu Kingston Petersen covers all bases in the energy and natural resources spaces. Clients note the firm’s ‘strong reputation for its exceptional regulatory practice‘, and ‘diversified knowledge with specialists in all the fields‘. The firm's practitioners are singled out as ‘true experts in energy law‘. The firm’s compliance and litigation expertise is complemented by an equally strong track record in transactional matters, including M&A, public procurement and project finance. The team is jointly led by Ruxandra Bologa, who covers the oil and gas and mining spaces, and is noted for ‘ability to properly convey complex issues‘, and Gabriela Cacerea, who is ‘incredibly knowledgeable in the energy and natural resources field, with great tactical sense and leadership skills‘. Counsel Mirela Preda is also highly active in the field.

Practice head(s):

Gabriela Cacerea; Ruxandra Bologa


Other key lawyers:

Mirela Preda


Testimonials

‘The team has a strong reputation for its exceptional regulatory practice. Broad capabilities with expertise in the natural resources sector. Extensive experience advising on permitting, compliance and litigation matters.’

‘Ruxandra Bologa is very pleasant to work with. She has great knowledge of the natural resources sector and has the ability to properly convey complex issues.’

‘The team has a diversified knowledge with specialists in all the fields we have requested services in. They are very responsive and attempt to point out issues but at the same time providing estimates of the potential impact. We have in particular worked a lot with land issues and it has been done very well.’

‘We found the team very well oriented towards client satisfaction, customised approach, acting with professionalism and aligned to the budget offered by the client. It is the most desirable thing a client expects. They are adjustable and adaptable to client needs.’

‘Ruxandra Bologa is an excellent lawyer. She has extensive knowledge in many areas of law, expertise built over the years working in a challenging regulatory environment. When we encounter a difficult matter, she is one of the first lawyers I think of to seek external legal advice.’

‘Extensive knowledge of the mining laws and in-depth analysis’

‘We found the team to be incredibly knowledgeable, diligent and effective. The work they have carried out for us in the energy field is of the highest calibre. We were offered incisive and clear advice and excellent client service. We highly recommend them as they are true experts in energy law.’

‘Gabriela Cacerea is one of the most exceptional lawyers I have worked with. She is incredibly knowledgeable in the energy and natural resources field, with great tactical sense and leadership skills, and a good instinct on how to approach challenging situations. Her work and advice have been gold standard.’

Key clients

Lerta Energy


ExxonMobil Development Company


Enel


Omya Calcita


Deva Gold


Weatherford


Holcim


Nordex


NBT AS/ Emergy Group


Work highlights


  • Assisted ExxonMobil Development Company with all matters concerning the first development of a deep offshore petroleum project in the Black Sea.
  • Assisted Alternus Energy with the acquisition of two solar photovoltaic parks in Romania from ReneSola, a leading international manufacturer and supplier of green energy products.
  • Assisted Emergy (formerly NBT AS) with the acquisition of Siemens Gamesa’s wind energy portfolio in Romania, including wind farm projects with an estimated aggregate capacity of over 350MW.

Tuca Zbârcea & Asociatii

Tuca Zbârcea & Asociatii has a versatile practice which ‘successfully marries in-depth understanding of the energy sector with knowledge of the applicable laws and regulations‘. The firm’s workload covers the full range of issues, from greenfield renewable energy projects through to high-value M&A deals and day-to-day operational and regulatory matters. The client base is equally diverse, with major domestic and regional giants sitting alongside international investors and renewables companies. Sorin Vladescu is ‘highly visible in the market‘. Cornel Popa is the key contact for oil and gas matters, while Irina Moinescu is well regarded for her power-related expertise. Ciprian Dragomir is singled out as a ‘go-to name in connection with mining projects‘.

Practice head(s):

Sorin Vladescu; Cornel Popa; Irina Moinescu


Other key lawyers:

Ciprian Dragomir; Nisa Jecu


Testimonials

‘The team successfully marries in-depth understanding of the energy sector with knowledge of the applicable laws and regulations. Their expertise as regards oil and gas, mining, and nuclear issues is an added strength. The lawyers easily cover everything from contracts, licensing, asset and share deals, and joint ventures, to financing and disputes in these sectors.’

‘Sorin Vladescu is the key contact partner as regards energy: a very active lawyer and highly visible in the market. He is commercial and a safe pair of hands. Cornel Popa is dealing with oil and gas matters, giving well-structured advice. Cornel is an excellent practitioner who knows the law and has a great ability to properly apply it to the client’s business. Irina Moinescu is covering nuclear, among others, as well as electricity and renewables. She has an excellent understanding of the regulatory regime and the practical application. Lastly, Ciprian Dragomir is the go-to name in connection with mining projects.’

‘The team: qualified, experienced, commercially and technically proficient which comes as a significant competitive advantage, especially considering that the Romanian energy and natural resources market has its own particularities.’

‘Sorin Vladescu has devoted his entire legal career to advising clients from the energy sector, being among the most experienced and most active figures in this area. Cornel Popa is well known for his oil and gas expertise. Irina Moinescu has significant relevant expertise as regards various types of projects developed in the energy and natural resources market.’

‘In my view, Tuca Zbarcea & Asociatii has one of the best energy teams in the market. Their offering is interdisciplinary, providing strategic advice on virtually all sorts of projects in the energy sector, as well as oil and gas. The lawyers in the team have a true understanding of the regulatory side and the technical side of project development and implementation. They communicate in a very clear and useful way and the advice is both legally sound and commercially practical.’

‘I work with Sorin Vladescu, a guru on power in Romania. He is pragmatic and knows how to get things done. His analysis of contractual positions and legal problems in very incisive. In addition, he is a very good negotiator.’

‘Tuca Zbarcea & Asociatii is a highly experienced law firm advising on a range of transactional and regulatory matters in the energy sector. Their advice is to the point and well informed. They understand the risks and the commercial part and propose solutions to solve these issues. The firm provides excellent client service overall.’

‘Sorin Vladescu – huge business acumen, strategic thinking, he has an eye for all the details, has a wealth of experience and huge knowledge of the power sector, renewables, nuclear, oil and gas sectors. Also hands-on, practical and technically very strong.’

Key clients

CEZ


MOL Romania Petroleum Products


AIK Energy


Bepco


E-Infra / Electrogrup


Electrica


Marubeni Corporation


WTE Wassertechnik


Work highlights


  • Advising Electrica on a wide range of matters relating to the company’s operations on the local energy market, including €18m worth of investment projects.
  • Advising CEZ on its Romanian energy operations.
  • Advising a Spanish group on the development of a renewable energy production facility.

Bondoc si Asociatii SCA

Bondoc si Asociatii SCA haș a versatile energy offering with a strong cross-practice group which handles the full range of transactional, regulatory, litigation and operational issues. The firm has acted on a broad range of renewables transactions, including greenfield developments, acquisitions and restructurings, as well as providing advice on digitisation and state aid. Managing partner Lucian Bondoc is very active in the corporate and competition space, as well as assisting with concessions. Monica Iancu has extensive experience on issues across the energy chain, from generation to supply, transmission and distribution. Bogdan Bunrău is especially strong on mining-related matters. Cosmin Stavaru completes the roster of key senior contacts.

Practice head(s):

Lucian Bondoc; Monica Iancu; Cosmin Stavaru; Bogdan Bunrau


Testimonials

 

 

Key clients

Astropoint


Clariant Produkte


Claritas Investments


Delphi Corporation


Distrigaz Sud Retele


Engie Romania


Eviva Energy (Martifer Renewables)


Imwind Elements


Leading Edge Materials


Restart Energy


Société Générale


Solarealize


Steag


Tapbury Management


Valorem


Verbund Romania


Wind Power


Windkraft Simonsfeld


 


Work highlights


  • Advised STEAG on its sale of a renewable energy company with a 108MW renewable production capacity to Hidroelectrica.
  • Advising Clariant on the development and operation of a biomass-fired combined heat and power plant aimed at delivering electricity and steam to a full-scale commercial cellulosic ethanol plant.
  • Advising Restart Energy on several commercial and transactional matters, including acquisitions towards its target of building a 500MW renewable portfolio by 2025.

CMS

For the energy team at CMS, its breadth and experience provides ‘a competitive advantage', as does its strong regional network when it comes to cross-border deals and projects. The comprehensive practice covers all corners of the energy and natural resources markets, with clients operating in the power, oil and gas, and mining industries. The offering spans advice on infrastructure projects, real estate, procurement, regulation, M&A and financings, as well as day-to-day operational concerns. The practice is commended for its ‘excellent knowledge of the renewable energy sector‘ where it has been particularly busy recently. Practice head Varinia Radu is ‘particularly distinguished for her regulatory expertise‘, and receives strong support from recently promoted counsel Ramona Dulamea.

Practice head(s):

Varinia Radu


Other key lawyers:

Ramona Dulamea


Testimonials

‘A combination of knowledge, experience and professional skills make this practice unique and give a competitive advantage compared to other firms.’

‘Those individuals we know and work together with are all very friendly, very polite, they allocate time to listen for understanding better and thus focus on the real issues, they always expect the feedback from us, the client, to allow for fine tuning the opinions and improving their services and have a satisfied and returning client.’

‘Very well connected in the market. Excellent knowledge of the renewable energy sector. The solution-oriented advisory approach with simultaneous clear addressing of the legal risks is particularly appreciated.’

‘Varinia Radu is particularly distinguished for her regulatory expertise.’

‘CMS Romania’s team is successfully enclosing all its members’ knowledge and personalities, working very efficiently like a “Swiss clock” on their mission to help the client assess the problem and find answers and solutions. The way CMS Romania team is working leaves no part of the client’s problems and questions outside of the assessment process. The answers and solutions CMS Romania is offering are always responding 100% to the questions that a client is having.’

Key clients

EBRD


Enel Green Power Romania


European Energy Romania Development


LSG Group


Voltalia


WPD Offshore Solutions


ENERY Development


AXPO Switzerland


Volkswind Gmbh


BP Lightsource


ECONERGY – Portland Trust Renewables 1


Low Carbon Investment Management Limited/ LC Danube


Helexia


Aquila Capital Real Assets Investment Verwaltungsgesellschaft


Entek Elektrik


Masterchem Oil Ltd (Malta)


Fora Oil and Gas


ADX Energy


Candu Energy Inc


Vestas Northern Europe


Installation Solaire SAS


Trafigura Nat Gas Limited


Shell Energy Europe Limited


Work highlights


  • Assisted EBRD with the development and implementation of Contracts for Difference, designed to encourage priority investments in low-carbon generation technologies which are needed in the Romanian energy sector to hit the 2030 EU targets.
  • Advising Candu Energy on its appointment by SNN Nuclearelectrica to work on the refurbishment of Reactor Unit 1, including construction, project development, public procurement, and labour matters.
  • Advised Low Carbon Investment Management on its agreement to acquire three development stage onshore windfarms in Romania, with a total installed capacity of 1GW, from Nero Renewables.

Dentons

Dentons' client base is testament to its burgeoning status in the market, with several leading industry names and organisations including Romgaz, ENEL and the Romanian Wind Energy Association regularly instructing the firm. The cross-practice team has recently been involved in several milestone deals, and its advice to Hidroelectrica on its planned 144A IPO demonstrates the firm’s impressive capabilities on cross-border mandates. 'Outstanding' practice head Claudiu Munteanu-Jipescu takes the lead with ‘excellent technical skills'.

Practice head(s):

Claudiu Munteanu-Jipescu


Testimonials

‘Dentons’ practitioners are highly experienced and very knowledgeable about the market trends and any change of legislation. Providing high quality services has allowed us to avoid delays and additional costs in the later stage of our projects as well as having strong support in negotiations. The response time is very reasonable and the quality of feedback has been much appreciated. Was very helpful as well to have quick reactions via calls. Needless to say that we are very happy with our collaboration.’

‘Working with Claudiu Munteanu-Jipescu was a pleasant experience as we have always found a friendly approach in a very professional environment with quality output.’

‘Team is great, we experienced very good communication, quick answers on all legal issues and we appreciate the availability in providing good quality legal advice.’

‘Very highly qualified people and customer-oriented attitude.’

‘The team is very experienced and thorough in their knowledge of regulatory and transactional projects. I value their ability to advise us efficiently and accurately on the most complex issues. Especially when the Romanian legal regulatory landscape has recently experienced significant and constant changes, it is important to have by your side such trusted advisors as Dentons.’

‘Claudiu Munteanu-Jipescu is an outstanding lawyer and it’s a pleasure to work with him. He has strength-in-depth and is very commercial with excellent technical skills and product knowledge. He always seeks to build a relationship and understands our business objectives, hence his strategic legal advice. He pays attention to details, and is a very good negotiator with superb communication skills.’

Key clients

Romgaz


Hidroelectrica


Qair


Monsson Group


Tractebel Engineering


ENEL Energie Muntenia


Romanian Wind Energy Association (RWEA)


Engie


TotalEnergies


EnergoNuclear


Work highlights


  • Advised Romgaz on its $1bn acquisition of shares in ExxonMobil Exploration and Production Romania, which holds 50% of the rights in the Black Sea XIX Neptune offshore block.
  • Advising EnergoNuclear on the service contract for Units 3 and 4 at the Cernavoda Nuclear Power Plant.
  • Advising Hidroelectrica on its planned 144A IPO.

Filip & Company

Filip & Company has an ‘excellent team with extensive experience in the energy field‘. Key to the firm’s ability to deliver ‘beyond expectations‘ is its ‘in-depth knowledge of the Romanian legislation and the practical application of the law‘. Clients benefit from the firm’s market-leading transactional practice, where it has particularly strong experience in M&A, public procurement and financings. The team is also active in regulatory and day-to-day issues. Major utility companies and suppliers, project developers, investment funds, and prominent end-users all regularly instruct the practice. Managing partner Cristina Filip oversees the work alongside practice head Alina Stancu Birsan. Recently promoted partner Georgeta Gavriloiu is active on the competition and public procurement side.

Practice head(s):

Alina Stancu Birsan; Cristina Filip


Other key lawyers:

Georgeta Gavriloiu


Testimonials

‘Alina Stancu Birsan – excellent experience and knowledge of the field.’

‘Excellent team with extensive experience in the energy field. The competitive advantage of the team is their in-depth knowledge of the Romanian legislation and the practical application of the law. Throughout our multi-year collaboration their approach towards each project and each deal has always been highly efficient, constructive and result-oriented.’

‘The team delivers beyond expectations.’

Key clients

RCS & RDS


Electrica


RWE Supply & Trading


Tiriac Group


Hidroelectrica


Next Energy Partners


Energy Gas Provider


E-Power Holding


Lafarge Holcim (Romania)


Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners


Continental Wind Partners


Eximprod Group


BayWa r.e. Solar Projects


Econergy Renewable Energy


Work highlights


  • Representing Next Energy Partners in several disputes against several entities in the energy market in relation to power sale and purchase agreements.
  • Representing Holcim in proceedings against the National Energy Regulatory Authority concerning the obligation to acquire green certificates for electricity generated by a waste heat recovery installation.
  • Successfully represented Energy Gas Provider, a local natural gas supplier, in proceedings against the National Energy Regulatory Authority in connection to the client’s alleged failure to store minimum quantities of natural gas in underground facilities.

Popovici Nitu Stoica & Asociatii

The energy sector is a core area of focus for Popovici Nitu Stoica & Asociatii, which handles a broad spectrum of regulatory, transactional, project development and litigation issues. The firm has a notable track record for nuclear energy projects and has recently advised a large number of major European developers and investors into the Romanian renewables market, assisting with over 65 wind farm projects in recent years. On the regulatory and litigation front, highlights include representation of the Enel Group, among others, in energy tariff-related disputes with the National Energy Regulatory Authority. The team is jointly led by Florian Niţu and Vlad Neacșu. Ciprian Dontu is also active on the contentious front.

Practice head(s):

Florian Nitu; Vlad Neacşu


Other key lawyers:

Ciprian Donau


Key clients

Enel Group


Hyundai Engineering & Construction


Hidroconstructia & Hidroelectrica


Electricite de France (EDF)


Schlumberger Logelco


Property Fund


Franklin Templeton Investment Management


BAUMIT


Ansaldo Nucleare


Kalpataru Power Transmission Limited


VGP


Electrica


Axpo Group


Azomures


Work highlights


  • Representing Fondul Proprietatea in all litigation initiated against the Romanian State’s and ANRE’s decisions to re-establish the regulated market for energy supplied to household consumers.
  • Assisting Axpo Solutions, part of the Swiss-based energy player Axpo Group, on the conclusion of a long-term financial power purchase agreement for an onshore wind farm with Macquarie.
  • Representing Enel Romania, the owner of a major Romanian electricity supplier, in several disputes against the National Energy Regulatory Authority aiming at cancelling the legal tariffs set by the authority.

RTPR | Radu Taracila Padurari Retevoescu SCA

RTPR | Radu Taracila Padurari Retevoescu SCA has a ‘very responsive team with deep energy markets experience’ and ‘a lot of cross-domain, in-depth, know-how‘. The firm has a strong transactional practice and in recent years has been involved in several milestone domestic and cross-border acquisitions and financings in the renewables and supply sectors. The practitioners also have a good track record in regulatory matters, often advising on energy trading and licensing requirements for greenfield projects. Victor Pădurari is the main contact for major project financings, while Mihai Ristici is a top choice for M&A and capital markets matters. Bogdan Cordos is an energy law expert whose ‘understanding of the energy field is absolutely outstanding’.

Practice head(s):

Victor Pădurari; Mihai Ristici


Other key lawyers:

Bogdan Cordos


Testimonials

‘Very responsive team with deep energy markets experience and clear and accurate legal analysis provided.’

‘Partners are very responsive and willing to jump on calls at short notice. Ability to get partners to focus on the subject matter at hand and not outsource to junior resources.’

‘One of the most important qualities we have discovered is the deep understanding of the energy field, placing our collaboration at the highest levels of efficiency and efficacy. In energy it’s not enough to be only an excellent lawyer, one needs to have a lot of cross-domain, in-depth, know-how. Being very client focused and showing excellent business capabilities completes, of course, the picture.’

‘We worked very closely with Bogdan Cordos and his understanding of the energy field is absolutely outstanding. He is putting his clients at the core of everything he does, he is always switched-on, very sharp and up-to date with the latest regulation changes. We’ve navigated together the last year or so, time in which we have seen the most extraordinary changes in the energy domain. I think his deep understanding of the area, his ability to explain complex terms in easy-to-follow ways, his logical approach and his solution-oriented nature make him an asset for every energy company working with him.’

‘Highly knowledgeable team with very high standards for their deliverables. We find in RTPR a team available for our needs and very thorough when it comes to difficult challenges. Their support was fundamental in this complex period in which energy legislation is transitioning.’

‘My greatest interactions were with Bogdan Cordos, who besides being an excellent professional who demonstrated deep understanding of the legal, technical and market aspects related to energy and real estate, also demonstrated himself to be an excellent human being. Working with him is always a pleasure due to his calmness, clarity of thinking and understanding. His contributions were always of very high value.’

‘The RTPR energy team knows the industry to a level that in my experience is not matched in the market by any other law firm. From regulatory, to business and even certain technical matters, this team knows all aspects. I have been working with RTPR on several energy projects. We do not have experience in this industry and RTPR’s assistance has been and continues to be absolutely essential for us. In particular, I would like to mention Bogdan Cordos from the RTPR team as one of the best specialists in this sector.’

‘The experience and wealth of knowledge of the RTPR team is very impressive. You can count on RTPR to provide clear, concise and objective legal advice, helping you to make informed decisions. Mihai Ristici is one of the most experienced lawyers in Romania – he is also very cable and knowledgeable in respect of energy regulations, projects and industry. Mihai has a clear sense for the commercial points of each deal and considers the specifics of each industry.’

Key clients

Macquarie Infrastructure and Real Assets (MIRA)


Uniper Global Commodities


CEZ Romania


Engie Grouo


Work highlights


  • Advised Uniper Global Commodities on the regulatory requirements of trading natural gas on the Romanian market.

Schoenherr si Asociatii SCA

Schoenherr si Asociatii SCA's multifaceted practice combines transactional, regulatory and projects-related expertise to support a broad range of domestic and international clients, including renewables suppliers, oil and gas producers, and investment funds. Recently, this has included advice on major renewables asset sales and acquisitions, as well as joint venture agreements and development projects. Corporate partner Markus Piuk jointly leads the team with Monica Cojocaru, who is singled out as 'a valuable partner throughout the journey with the client'.

Practice head(s):

Markus Piuk; Monica Cojocaru


Testimonials

‘The Romanian office of Schoenherr stands out due to high quality of its legal advice.’

‘Monica Cojocaru is one of the best lawyers I have had the pleasure to work with over the past 15 years. Her strong client focus, deep industry knowledge and dedication truly make a difference.’

‘The team provides specialised expertise tailored to the client needs, as well as being business and solution-oriented.’

‘Monica Cojocaru has an excellent knowledge of the legal framework and deep understanding of the industry and its challenges, she is a valuable partner throughout the journey with the client.’

Key clients

Samsung C&T Corporation


Nofar Energy


Risen Energy


OMV Petrom


Work highlights


  • Advised Samsung C&T Corporation on the sale of its participation in LJG Green Source Energy Alpha, a solar photovoltaic project with an installed capacity of 45MW, located in Giurgiu county.

D&B David si Baias SCA

D&B David si Baias SCA is noted for its cross-departmental approach, and fields 'mixed teams of lawyers specialised in a vast area of fields‘. The firm has an excellent reputation for regulatory, antitrust and taxation-related matters, which extends to advice on significant legislative initiatives, as well as advice on corporate transactions and development projects. Key partners include the ‘very pragmaticLaurentiu Pachiu; of counsel Delia Pachiu, who has ‘expertise built over the years working in a challenging regulatory environment in the energy field‘; managing partner Sorin David, who stands out for his competition law expertise; and corporate expert Anda Rojanschi.

Practice head(s):

Laurentiu Pachiu; Delia Pachiu; Anda Rojanschi; Sorin David


Testimonials

‘D&B shows excellent professional expertise, with mixed teams of lawyers specialised in a vast area of fields that manage to cover even the most complex projects/topics. They are good with keeping deadlines and anticipating client needs.’

‘Sorin David is by far one of the brightest legal minds in Romania. It is a pleasure to work with him and continue to learn from him.’

‘Laurentiu Pachiu is a very pragmatic lawyer, offers quick solutions including when there are difficult legal issues to be tackled.’

‘Delia Pachiu is an excellent lawyer. She has extensive knowledge in many areas of law, expertise built over the years working in a challenging regulatory environment in the energy field.’

Key clients

OMV Petrom


Prowind


Westwind Energy


Hidroelectrica


KMG Rompetrol


Hyperion Renewables


WDP


EP Wind


Work highlights


DLA Piper Dinu SCA

DLA Piper Dinu SCA fields a team of 'highly skilled professionals in all relevant areas of expertise', and is particularly noted for its expertise in ‘developing projects in a multinational environment‘. Renewables and oil and gas-related work feature prominently on the agenda, with the team regularly advising on related acquisitions, disposals, development projects, power purchase agreements, and ongoing operational issues. Managing partner Marian Dinu co-heads the team and has an extensive track record assisting with transactional and regulatory matters, having previously been general counsel at OMV Petrom. Co-practice head Paula Corban-Pelin, who was recently promoted to partner, has strong experience on the projects side.

Practice head(s):

Marian Dinu; Paula Corban-Pelin


Testimonials

‘Very close, open and friendly approach and international presence, which is very important for a company like ours, developing projects in a multinational environment.’

‘Highly skilled professionals in all relevant areas of expertise, available, trustworthy.’

‘I particularly appreciate the availability of the team in general for support in various areas and quick advice when needed. The internal collaboration within the firm ensures that team members are always up to date with current topics and can provide advice even if colleagues are unavailable.’

‘Extensive knowledge of areas of expertise, pro-active attitude, diligence.’

Key clients

MET ROMANIA ENERGY S.A.


OX2 A.B.


PNE A.G. / PNE RO PV HOLDING


ENGIE ROMANIA S.A.


URLEASCA WIND FARM


EUROENERGY


COMETEX


BOAZ PELED / ENERGY ASSETS INVESTMENT


PNE WIND ENERGY HOLDING


ALERION CLEAN ENERGY


Work highlights


  • Advised PNE on the sale of a 81MW solar project and on the development of a portfolio of other photovoltaic projects.
  • Advised OX2 on the acquisition of several wind farm projects in Romania including a 400MW wind farm project in Dobrogea.
  • Advised Engie Romania on the acquisition of two operational solar projects.

Ijdelea & Associates

Ijdelea & Associates is a ‘go-to‘ energy and natural resources boutique with an excellent reputation. Client’s appreciate 'not only the depth of knowledge but uniquely the ability to actually execute on resolving issues', whether those be transactional or regulatory. The firm's track record includes advising on some of the country’s most significant projects, including the Midia Gas Development project. Managing partner Oana Ijdelea is ‘a star‘ who is 'relentless in pursuing the best outcome'. Other key individuals include recently promoted partners Ancutu Pop and Siranus Hahamian.

Practice head(s):

Oana Ijdelea


Other key lawyers:

Ancutu Pop; Siranus Hahamian


Testimonials

‘Not only the depth of knowledge but uniquely the ability to actually execute on resolving issues whether it’s getting through the regularly process, advocating for new legislation or prevailing in contractual matters. Rather than just provide lengthy, theoretical legal notes on the issues they provide practical, hands-on knowledge and execute a plan for resolving whatever issue arises.’

‘Oana Ijdelea is tireless, friendly but firm and does not quit until successful resolution is achieved. She knows the way government institutions, agencies and ministries work and is well known in the commercial sector and provides very efficient, effective, transparent and fully-compliant solutions.’

‘Good network and fast delivery of projects. Perfect understanding of the client’s needs.’

‘Oana Ijdelea has a proven track record in the oil and gas business paired with a vast network in the regulatory domain. She delivered our projects in a fast-track mode.’

‘A firm with very agile and value-seeking approach. Thanks to their proactivity from the very beginning, we were able to get an overview of important milestones. Thanks to this we have always prepared necessary documents just in time and everything ran smoothly. In case of hurdles, Oana Ijdelea and colleagues reacted swiftly, therefore we were able to start our operations in very quick time.’

‘Oana Ijdelea has one of the finest and most complex legal minds you can come across on everything related to the energy industry. Siranus Hahamian delivers excellent legal advice, is commercial savvy and particularly nice to work with.’

‘Ijdelea & Associates are a go-to law firm for energy and natural resources in Romania. They simply give every time the best and the most well-suited advice and always the legal views are extremely thought-through and are put in the broader commercial context. The team is strong and united and this makes a big difference. With the global energy crisis we struggled a lot to keep the transaction terms advantageous to us and their advice and approach on the transaction matters was instrumental in this respect.’

‘Oana Ijdelea is a star! She has an excellent eye for the weaknesses of the counterpart and exploits that incredibly to her client’s advantage. Also, she understands right away what really matters and is relentless in pursuing the best outcome.’

Key clients

Black Sea Oil & Gas


East West Petroleum


Renovatio Group


Electrocentrale Borzesti (part of Renovatio Group)


Petro Ventures


Gas Plus International and Gas Plus Dacia


Green Genius


Raffles Energy


Solveo Energies


Svea Solar


Nano Energies


Mazarine Energy


SGTech


Work highlights


  • Advised Black Sea Oil & Gas, and its venture partners, on the completion of the regulatory procedures required for the operating phase of the Midia Gas Development Project.
  • Advised Nano Energies on its entry to the Romanian market, incuding legislation and related licensing and regulatory procedures.
  • Advised Mazarine Energy on energy market obligations and legislation relating to Romanian operations.

Kinstellar

Kinstellar  has a ‘top notch‘ energy team which is ‘knowledgeable, responsive and has a commercial focus‘. The firm is regularly involved in some of Romania’s largest energy projects and transactions in the nuclear, renewables, and oil and gas sectors. This includes advice on onshore and offshore oil field assets, as well as long-running projects such as the refurbishment of Nuclearelectrica’s Reactor 1, where it is advising Ontario Power Generation. The practice also has good credentials in energy trading-related matters, including regulation and licensing. The team is led by Iustinian Captariu, who is ‘a skilled and practical lawyer with a deep knowledge of the Romanian energy market‘.

Practice head(s):

Iustinian Captariu


Testimonials

‘The energy and natural resources team is knowledgeable, responsive and has a commercial focus which allows the team to align seamlessly with in-house legal teams and business clients.’

‘Iustinian Captariu leads the energy and natural resources team and is a skilled and practical lawyer with a deep knowledge of the Romanian energy market in particular, and the energy sector in general. His advice is timely and commercially focussed.’

‘Good knowledge of the Romanian market. Responsive, practical advice.’

‘Iustinian Captariu is very knowledgeable and personable.’

‘Good team to work with, make themselves available and are pragmatic. Also very much capable of analysing and advising on complex legal issues.’

‘Top notch team.’

Key clients

Ontario Power Generation


Canadian Nuclear Partners


Dacian Petroleum


MAVIR


DXT Commodities S


Ezpada


MET Group


Work highlights


  • Advising Ontario Power Generation on the €1.5bn refurbishment of Reactor 1, operated by the state-owned nuclear energy producer, Nuclearelectrica.
  • Advised Dacian Petroleum on the upstream acquisition of 40 onshore oil fields from OMV Petrom.
  • Advising the Hungarian energy company MAVIR on the insolvency of Arelco Power and Transenergo, including several cross-border power trading issues.

Musat & Asociatii

Musat & Asociatii has a versatile practice offering a comprehensive range of services to companies operating in the energy and natural resources sectors. M&A, finance, projects, regulatory and litigation all feature prominently on the firm’s agenda. The team is regularly used by major domestic and international clients including Hidroelectrica, Engie and Kaz Munay Gas International, and it is also instructed by numerous support services companies. Renewables are an increasingly strong area of focus, with practitioners developing good credentials in issues linked to green energy certificates. Lead partners include Iulian Popescu, a projects and procurement specialist, and corporate expert Razvan Stoicescu.

Practice head(s):

Iulian Popescu; Razvan Stoicescu


Key clients

S.P.E.E.H. Hidroelectrica


Wellbore Integrity Solutions


Engie Romania


Kaz Munay Gas International


Radet București


Transenergo Com


Work highlights


  • Assisting S.P.E.E.H. Hidroelectrica with the acquisition of UCM Reșita, one of the largest industrial manufacturers in Romania.
  • Advising Wellbore Integrity Solutions, an affiliate of private equity firm Rhône Capital, on the acquisition of the drilling businesses and associated assets of Schlumberger.
  • Advising the Engie Group and in particular, Engie Romania, on its preparation and implementation of a set of M&A best practices for Romania.

Volciuc-Ionescu

Volciuc-Ionescu is praised for its ‘exceptional knowledge of the energy industry‘; the highly specialised lawyers have expertise across many key aspects of energy and natural resources, including upstream and downstream oil and gas, conventional and renewable power, energy trading and mining. Transactional, regulatory and projects support all feature prominently in the firm’s workload. Recent highlights have included financing advice on grid infrastructure refurbishments, and the firm regularly advises lenders and borrowers on projects. The ‘simply brilliant‘ practice head Ramona Volciuc-Ionescu knows the sector inside out‘, while Sabin Volciuc-Ionescu is highly recommended for projects.

Practice head(s):

Ramona Volciuc-Ionescu


Other key lawyers:

Sabin Volciuc-Ionescu


Testimonials

‘The team is very good technically – they understand the issues and offer solutions. Their strengths lie in their keen interest of the sector, innovation and dedication.’

‘Ramona Volciuc-Ionescu is simply brilliant – she knows the sector inside out. She brings vast experience and is also very pragmatic. She will provide you with the most informed advice to achieve the best outcome.’

‘On energy project finance, Sabin Volciuc-Ionescu is an excellent lawyer.’

‘Exceptional knowledge of the energy industry and business, always up to date with the latest developments, creative and very solution driven. The whole team is very responsive, available and committed.’

‘Ramona Volciuc-Ionescu is hands-on, proactive, with an excellent business acumen and a true energy expert.’

‘Ramona Volciuc-Ionescu has a very constructive approach and comes with constructive legal solutions all the time. She knows very well the developments happening in the energy sector.’

Key clients

Societe Generale


Schmid Industrieholding


Prospex Oil & Gas plc


OMV Gas Marketing & Trading


Mercuria


Subsolar


Mytilineos


Banca Comerciala Romana S.A.


EDPR


Electrica


Work highlights


  • Advised Distributie Energie Electrica Romania, as borrower, on the €40m financing by EBRD for the refurbishment of its line, cable and substation infrastructure.
  • Advised EDPR on the acquisition of the Albina and Phoenix photovoltaic projects with a total capacity of 200MW.
  • Advising OMV Gas Marketing & Trading on its power operations in Romania, including regulatory, corporate and commercial issues, as well as the restructuring of its operations.

act | Botezatu Estrade Partners

act | Botezatu Estrade Partners fields a well regarded team with a strong specialisation in energy law. Clients, including some of the largest electricity and power distributors in the market, appreciate the firm’s ‘deep commercial and market awareness and knowledge‘. The firm is regularly instructed by E.ON Energie Romania on a range of issues, and recent highlights include representation in tariff-related disputes with the regulatory authority. Contentious and non-contentious regulatory advice is a particular sweet spot, but the firm also advises on M&A and broader competition issues. Stefan Botezatu ‘stands out for his unparalleled experience in the sector, breadth of knowledge and business sense‘. Laura Estrade is also highly recommended, particularly for corporate matters.

Practice head(s):

Stefan Botezatu


Other key lawyers:

Laura Estrade


Testimonials

‘The team is extremely proactive – their advice is not only about identifying and emphasising risks, but about finding solutions. They think beyond the actual mandate, are quick to understand the issue at hand while delivering sound and practical advice. In terms of team, they are very well organised and always reachable.’

‘Having worked in the energy space for years, highly credentialed Stefan Botezatu definitely offers top-of-the-line quality advice in energy law. His work is always on a high professional level – he is skillful, resourceful and an excellent team leader. He has in-depth knowledge and understanding of both legal and business issues, the combination of which gives an unparalleled value to his advice.’

‘The department acts as a full-service, one-stop-shop as regards the energy law practice area and the industry sector itself. They know the mechanisms inside-out and have acted in some of the most significant mandates in the market. Their solid expertise and team attitude clearly distinguishes them in the market. They offer flexibility both in the allocated resources and in terms of billing. This is our go-to firm and we have plenty of times recommended them to peers.’

‘Stefan Botezatu stands out for his unparalleled experience in the sector, breadth of knowledge and business sense. He shows excellent work capacity and availability. His deep knowledge of the regulation of the sector translates into creativity in proposing solutions, which always leads to the desired result. Laura Estrade tackles all our matters with elegance, diligence and is always prepared to react to offer viable alternatives. They both have very good ability to coordinate multidisciplinary and multijurisdictional teams.’

‘Their continuous efforts to perform as the best law firm specialised in energy law always drives the mandate to the desired outcome. From partner level to associate they are all extremely prepared to handle our most intricate mandates and to act as our colleagues rather than an external counsel. Communication and billing aspects are something we highly appreciate. Moreover, the fact that they keep us fully informed at all times is something we see as an added value to their already excellent services.’

‘Working with Stefan Botezatu as our energy expert for more than 17 years now, we have developed not only excellent professional ties, but a very good personal relationship. Stefan is a name to note in the energy field. His deep sector knowledge combined with his witty advice is something we rely on in all matters. He is a bright energy lawyer.’

‘Definitely our preferred counsel and external partner. Extremely proactive, deep commercial and market awareness and knowledge. The lawyers are never caught off guard, even in unpredictable and sensitive circumstances. Always ready to address our issues in a professional manner, providing good value for money.’

‘Stefan Botezatu is our go-to energy lawyer and one of the most experienced in the legal arena. He knows the sector as the back of his hand and puts his knowledge at our service, with the utmost care for our business. We rely on his every action and advice and consider him an asset for our internal team.’

Key clients

Delgaz Grid


E.ON Energie Romania


E.ON SE (E.ON Germany)


E.ON Romania


Allianz Capital Partners


Work highlights


  • Representing E.ON Energie Romania in proceedings commenced against the Romanian Energy Regulatory Authority in relation to regulated tariffs.
  • Representing Delgaz Grid in a series of challenges against ANRE’s orders approving the regulated rate of return applicable to power and natural gas distribution tariffs in the period between 2019 – 2023.
  • Assisted E.ON Energie Romania with navigating extensive amendments to the energy legislation regarding support measures following the increase in international energy prices.

Bohalteanu şi Asociaţii

Bohalteanu şi Asociaţii fields a ‘very dedicated and involved team‘ which is noted for its ability to provide ‘innovative solutions‘. The firm has a broad range of expertise in the energy sector, which encompasses oil and gas, renewables, nuclear and conventional power. The typical workload includes advising clients on significant investments into renewable and cogeneration facilities, as well as related development projects. Managing partner Ionut Bohalteanu provides ‘reliable advice and input in a highly professional and dedicated manner‘. Cosmin Predoiu has a longstanding track record in energy law, both in-house and in private practice.

Practice head(s):

Ionut Bohâlțeanu; Cosmin Predoiu


Testimonials

‘Bohalteanu si Asociatii has been providing legal assistance to our company since 2020 on various energy and natural resources matters (including contracts specific to the field of activity and relevant acquisitions envisaged by our company). Client focus and innovative solutions are all key factors in their  work. A very dedicated and involved team, competitive and even surpassing other larger firms we collaborated with.’

‘Ionut Bohalteanu has assisted us regarding sensitive energy law issues and provided us with reliable advice and input in a highly professional and dedicated manner.’

Key clients

Premier Energy


Buzescu & Tomescu SPRL

Buzescu & Tomescu SPRL covers a broad spectrum of transactional, projects and regulatory matters for its domestic and international energy clients. Regulatory work remains a strong area of focus, with the firm providing regular support on energy trading, green certificates, renewables permits and licences. Coupled with this is a solid flow of projects work, including advice on exploration and production sharing agreements, and renewables projects. Managing partner Peter Buzescu has a long track record advising on oil and gas projects. Adrian Tomescu is highly experienced in energy-related tax and disputes advice. Associate Corina Papuzu is strong on the energy trading front.

Practice head(s):

Peter Buzescu


Other key lawyers:

Adrian Tomescu; Corina Papuzu


Key clients

Central European Drilling


World Fuel Services


EDF Trading


Gazprom


Production Solutions International


Viking Oilfield Services


Work highlights


  • Advised Central European Drilling on an onshore drilling contract with Hunt Oil for the drilling of a natural gas well.
  • Advised World Fuel Services on the requirements for a fuel supply license in Romania, and for the construction and operation of a retail fuel supply station.
  • Advised EDF Trading, a subsidiary of Electricite de France, on reporting requirements to the National Agency for Energy Regulation regarding its electricity trading activities in Romania.

Leroy si Asociatii

Leroy si Asociatii has a strong reputation for energy-related work, including major concessions, project finance, litigation, regulatory and corporate mandates. The firm has a strong following among leading energy companies based in France, and has recently advised on several significant investments into renewable energy plants. Other areas of work include energy trading and advice on green certificates. Bruno Leroy and Andreea Toma are the two lead partners.

Practice head(s):

Bruno Leroy


Other key lawyers:

Andreea Toma


Wolf Theiss

The energy team at Wolf Theiss is regularly instructed on domestic and cross-border investments and development projects. Clients benefit from the firm’s strong regional footprint throughout the CEE region. The firm has been especially active on the renewables side, assisting clients such as Dravus Investment with several significant acquisitions of solar projects. Bryan Jardine  and Ileana Glodeanu are the key senior contacts.

Practice head(s):

Bryan Jardine


Other key lawyers:

Ileana Glodeanu


Testimonials

‘Very experienced and knowledgeable about the industry sector in Romania.’

‘Ileana Glodeanu – she genuinely cares about our company, and helping to make it a success in Romania. She is smart, extremely hard-working and brings a real energy to our matters.’

Key clients

Dravus Investment


Enercon


Work highlights


  • Assisted Dravus Investment with multiple transactions in Romania, including its takeover of the Romanian companies Dinoram and Iono Energy, and the acquisition of a 50% stake in Logistic Support Enterprise.
  • Advised ENERCON, a German wind turbine manufacturer, on its sale of Ecoenergia, a 34.5MW wind park with 15 wind turbines.