Firms To Watch: Energy (transactions and regulatory)

Hamilton Locke exhibits deep bench strength across a wide variety of energy issues, including electricity and gas regulation, power purchase agreements, and land tenures for project developments. Practice head Matt Baumgurtel is known for his expertise in waste to energy projects.

Energy (transactions and regulatory) in Australia

Allens

Housing a 'highly knowledgeable' team,  Allens is known for advising on the full spectrum of issues concerning development projects, including acquisitions and divestments. In Melbourne, practice head Kate Axup handles a range of mandates relating to battery, wind and pumped hydro projects, energy asset portfolio sales, and corporate power purchase agreements, while Louis Chiam, praised for her 'excellent' technical nous, advises on renewable energy projects, energy storage mandates, and large-scale M&A and joint ventures. Sydney’s Andrew Mansour is praised for his 'in-depth knowledge’ of energy issues, while  Igor Bogdanich in Perth is a highly regarded oil and gas specialist.

Practice head(s):

Kate Axup


Other key lawyers:

Andrew Mansour; Louis Chiam; Igor Bogdanich


Testimonials

‘Highly knowledgeable on subject matter. Ability to synthesis complex information into easily understandable and digestible points is unique. Definitely innovating on renewable energy in conjunction with real estate.’

‘The team has a good sense of project development risk positions in the electricity sector and has an excellent technical understanding of gas markets.’

‘Andrew Mansour has a good understanding of electricity market rules.’

Key clients

Brookfield Asset Management Inc.


MidOcean Energy


APT Management Services Pty Ltd


Pacific Partnerships Pty Ltd


Energy Corporation of NSW


Tilt Renewables


Snowy Hydro Limited


Regional Growth Development Corporation NSW


Goldwind Capital (Australia) Pty Ltd


Offshore wind developers and investors


Warrego Energy Limited


Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (now DEECA)


Australian Energy Market Commission


Origin Energy


Alinta Energy


Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP)


Work highlights


  • Advising Brookfield Asset Management Inc. and MidOcean Energy (an LNG company established and managed by EIG) on the proposed acquisition of Origin Energy Limited, the Australia-based integrated energy company primarily engaged in electricity and gas retailing.
  • Advised the Network REZolution consortium comprising APA Group and Pacific Partnerships on its bid to be selected by EnergyCo NSW to design, construct, finance, operate and maintain new transmission network infrastructure within the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone.
  • Advised EnergyCo on the procurement of the Waratah Super Battery, the largest standby network battery in the Southern Hemisphere.

Ashurst

Ashurst, praised by clients for being 'experts' in energy transactions, continues to handle many of Australia’s largest energy mandates, including advising on the development of the Australian Renewable Energy Hub in Pilbara. In Brisbane, practice head Paul Newman advises on the development of generation solutions using a variety of conventional and green fuels, gas agreements, and transactions in the electricity sector. Active figure in the Western Australian energy and resources market Paul Lingard has deep expertise in green hydrogen projects. Dan Brown is a top PPA advisor and a specialist in renewable energy project structuring and development.

Practice head(s):

Dan Brown


Other key lawyers:

Paul Lingard; Paul Newman


Testimonials

‘Excellent market commercial driven advice’

‘Dan Brown – very responsive with actual transaction experience.’

‘Experts in the energy transaction field, and provides advice that considers a very active regulatory landscape. ’

Key clients

Akaysha Energy


Ark Energy


Gentari


Petronas


Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility


Barra


Cubico


Bp


Macquarie


Vena Energy


CleanCo


Work highlights


  • Advised Gentari (a Petronas entity) on the billion-dollar acquisition of WIRCON GmbH’s Australian renewable energy business Wirsol Energy. This transaction is Gentari’s first major renewable energy investment into Australia, which is a key market for its proposed growth in renewable energy.
  • Advised Eku Energy on its successful bid to the ACT Government to develop, own and operate the Big Canberra Battery, a 250 MW / 500 MWh battery energy storage system that will be able to supply energy to one-third of Canberra for two hours during peak demand periods.
  • Assisted AngloAmerican in sourcing 100% renewable energy to power its steelmaking coal operations from 2025 and associated firming services.

Clayton Utz

Exhibiting 'technical excellence', the 'commercially astute' team at Clayton Utz acts for a varied client base of project proponents, governments, blue-chip corporates, and regulators across the full spectrum of power, utilities, renewable energy, hydrogen, and petroleum industries. Joining the Melbourne office in early 2023,  Susan Taylor contributes her longstanding experience in working on both Australian and international government-led energy regulatory reform and privatisation projects. Stuart MacGregor, Mark Geritz and Emma Covacevich are key names of note within the Brisbane office. Counsel Katy Warner is recommended for her vast knowledge of transactional oil and gas issues, and Brett Cohen is noted for his skill in handling mining and renewable energy mandates.

Practice head(s):

Stuart MacGregor


Other key lawyers:

Emma Covacevich; Mark Geritz; Brett Cohen; Susan Taylor; Katy Warner


Testimonials

‘The Clayton team is characterized by responsiveness, good expertise in the industry and a business-oriented mind. The team always provides us with practical solutions by balancing legal risks and business realities, based on knowledge and understanding on the industry and their good stock of precedents.’

‘Technical excellence, commercially astute.’

Key clients

Tattarang Group


Macquarie


Wright Prospecting


Ecora Resources PLC


Senex Energy


Commonwealth of Australia (Australian Federal Government)


Idemitsu Australia


Itochu Corporation


Mitsui


Australia Pacific LNG


Origin Energy


Enel Green Power


Alcoa


Glencore


Transgrid


Arrow Energy


Perth Airport


Work highlights


  • Advised Squadron Energy, a member of the Tattarang group on the acquisition of CWP Renewables from private equity firm, Partners Group.
  • Advising Senex Energy on various aspects of the announced expansion of the Roma North Project, a gas processing facility and pipeline for the Roma North coal seam gas project as part of the Western Surat Gas Project development (the Roma North Project).
  • Advising Idemitsu Renewable Developments Australia (IRDA) on a energy transition project in the Hunter Valley involving the development of a pump hydro renewable project at Muswellbrook, NSW.

Herbert Smith Freehills

Herbert Smith Freehills' has broad expertise which spans the full gamut of issues relating to energy, renewables, utilities and resources. Robert Merrick has longstanding experience in M&A in the oil and gas industry, project development and finance, and commodity trading. In the past year, Stuart Barrymore advised BHP Petroleum on the processing of its Scarborough gas into LNG through the third party Pluto facilities and sanction of the Upstream project. Nick Baker and Jay Leary co-head the energy and mining sub-departments respectively, and Robert Nicholson is a key senior member of the team who is known for his longstanding corporate expertise.

Practice head(s):

Nick Baker; Jay Leary


Other key lawyers:

Stuart Barrymore; Robert Merrick


Key clients

AGL Energy Limited


Alinta


Ampol


bp


CS Energy


Engie


First Gen


Iberdrola


Work highlights


  • Acted for IGO Limited on its acquisition of 100% of the shares in Western Areas Limited by way of scheme of arrangement. The scheme involved cash consideration of A$3.87 cash per share (increased from an initial A$3.36 cash per share), which valued Western Areas at approximately A$1.26bn.
  • Advised BP on its investment in the proposed Asian Renewable Energy Hub. Acquisition of 40.5 percent share, bp will also operate the project based in Western Australia’s Pilbara region.
  • Advising the NSW Government on a number of ground-breaking initiatives to support the development of renewable energy projects, such as advising on the design and implementation of Renewable Energy Zones, and establishing the NSW Electricity Infrastructure Investment Act.

King & Wood Mallesons

King & Wood Mallesons' team exhibits deep bench strength across many of Australia’s fastest developing energy sectors, such as climate change and decarbonisation, and carbon capture and storage projects, in addition to traditional oil and gas mandates. Practice co-head Vishal Ahuja remains at forefront of the latest energy and electricity reforms. Co-head Craig Rogers and the 'highly skilled' Peter Vaughan both have vast expertise in oil and gas, utilities and infrastructure projects, and are often supported by 'standout' senior associate Tara Graneri. Mining instructions are the primary focus of Tim Edwards .

Practice head(s):

Craig Rogers; Vishal Ahuja


Other key lawyers:

Tim Edwards; Peter Vaughan; Tara Graneri


Testimonials

‘King & Wood Mallesons Energy team are a very highly regarded oil & gas (including LNG) practice in the APAC region. The team has significant depth, knowledge, experience and resources, and covers the full spectrum of oil and gas transactions.’

‘This team provides quality advice and are well versed in current market practice and offer input and advice that is best in class. I have worked with many legal firms in this region and KWM is the standout for quality and insightful advice.’

‘Peter Vaughan supports his clients to achieve optimal outcomes and create material value. He is a highly skilled and pragmatic practitioner and provides outstanding advice across the legal, commercial and regulatory spectrum. Peter is highly respected in the industry, I would consider Peter the best legal practitioner in Asia Pacific for oil and gas.’

Key clients

AGL


Australian Energy Market Commission (AEMC)


Alinta Energy


APA Group


Ausgrid


Chevron


ENGIE


Horizon Oil


Lightsource bp


Macquarie Infrastructure and Real Asset Holdings


Mitsui Group


Origin Energy


Palisade Investment Partners


Beach Energy


Work highlights


  • Advising on a range of major projects relating to the Energy Security Board and Australian Energy Market Commission’s 2025 market redesign program.
  • Advised Palisade and Aware Super on their acquisition of a 49% stake of the 528MW Stockyard Hill Wind Farm from Goldwind.
  • Advised on the LTESA – a key platform of the NSW Government’s Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap. This is a government energy policy initiative, designed to encourage the development of generation, storage and firming projects in NSW by offering project developers an option to access revenue certainty for their projects.

Allen & Overy

Allen & Overy houses a broad practice which frequently assists with mandates relating to the emerging hydrogen market. Perth based practice head Meredith Campion is well-regarded for considerable experience in advising on offshore transactions in the oil and gas, and mining sectors, while Goran Galic continues to be involved in large mining and LNG projects. Jackson Allen is particularly adept at advising on the negotiation and drafting of oil, gas, condensate and LNG marketing and sales arrangements. Geoff Simpson retired in April 2023.

 

Practice head(s):

Meredith Campion


Other key lawyers:

Goran Galic; Jackson Allen


Testimonials

‘A very strong team, particularly on cross-border matters.’

‘Jackson Allen is a rising star. An excellent communicator with complete command of the details. He has unmatched international experience in energy matters out of Perth.’

 

Key clients

Eni Australia


Mubadala Energy


Fortescue Future Industries Pty Limited


Work highlights


  • Advised Mubadala Energy on the sale of a subsidiary, Busrakham Oil and Gas (including operated interests in three offshore oil and gas licences in the Gulf of Thailand that include Nong Yao, Jasmine/Ban Yen and Manora oil fields), to Valeura Energy for a total consideration of approximately US$60m.
  • Advised the vendor on the sale of 100% of the Elliott Green Power Australian renewable energy business to Igneo Infrastructure Partners (Igneo) via Atmos Renewables, which included both brownfield and greenfield assets. The vendor undertook a dual track IPO/trade sale process.
  • Advised Ankura (Rodds Bay Solar Farm). Acting for the administrators, the team successfully saw the company and solar project recapitalised and sold through a deed of company arrangement. Ultimately, the project is expected to supply enough clean energy to power 88,000 households.

Baker McKenzie

Baker McKenzie combines a ‘pragmatic, no-nonsense’ approach with deep expertise in conventional and renewable energy M&A, energy contracting, and  regulatory work. The group continues to assist its lucrative client base with a myriad of issues, including advising Maoneng Australia on the majority investment by Hong Kong PE fund, Gaw Capital Partners, in connection with Maoneng’s battery energy storage systems portfolio. Brisbane’s Tanya Denning and Sydney's Sean Duffy co-head the practice, handling the full spectrum of project development and utilities related matters. In the Melbourne office, Aylin Cunsolo is known for her vast knowledge of clean energy project development, and joint ventures.

 

Practice head(s):

Tanya Denning; Sean Duffy


Other key lawyers:

Aylin Cunsolo


Testimonials

‘Very strong regulatory focus combined with a pragmatic, no-nonsense approach makes for a great team.’

‘Strong team and partnership, highly collaborative approach, very responsive and reliable, good expert network.’

‘Very strong regulatory focus combined with a pragmatic, no-nonsense approach makes for a great team.’

Key clients

1KOMMA5° GmbH


CS Energy Limited


Maoneng Australia Pty Ltd


Metis Energy Limited


Sev.en Global Investments A.S.; Sev.en Global Investments Pty Ltd


Shell Energy and Foresight Group


Weston Energy


WIRSOL Energy Pty Ltd (WIRCON GmbH)


Work highlights


  • Assisted Weston Energy with its gas auction following designation as a failed retailer under retail energy laws.
  • Advised Advised Shell Energy and Foresight Group (formerly Infrastructure Capital Group) on their acquisition of the Kondinin Energy Development Project (Kondinin) from Goldwind and Lacour Energy.
  • Advised Metis Energy Limited on their first M&A transaction in Australia being the acquisition of a 111-megawatt utility-scale solar farm development project in Queensland.

Clifford Chance

Jointly led by Nadia Kalic in Sydney, and Philip Sealey and Sam Luttrell in Perth, Clifford Chance's team has experienced growth in its renewable energy capabilities, and an increase clean hydrogen and energy storage mandates. Luttrell is known for his specialism in contentious matters, and Sealy is noted for his deep knowledge of banking and finance related issues. Kalic maintains a M&A focused practice, with her primary area of focus being infrastructure projects.

Practice head(s):

Nadia Kalic; Philip Sealey; Sam Luttrell


Other key lawyers:

Cameron Hassall; Reuben van Werkum


Testimonials

‘Quality and timeliness of work product. Personable responsive staff. Quality of strategic thinking. Manner of interaction with clients and access to wide range of legal expertise. Ability to manage relationships with other counsel and to deal accross jurisdictions.’

Work highlights


  • Advised the Viva Energy Australia group on its proposed acquisition from Coles of the Coles Express retail convenience business which operates at Shell branded service stations throughout Australia.  At completion of the transaction, Viva Energy will terminate its existing alliance arrangements with Coles and will enter into a number of commercial agreements to support the ongoing retailing operations at the sites and to maintain the existing customer fuel discount loyalty arrangements.
  • Advised Partners Group on its sale of CWP Renewables, a vertically integrated renewable energy platform in Australia, to Squadron Wind Energy Assets.
  • Acting for Gelion Technologies Pty Ltd, a subsidiary of the LSE-listed company Gelion plc, in relation to the proposed development and scaling up of a technology business related to silicon-based nanoparticles/materials for application in batteries.

Corrs Chambers Westgarth

Praised by clients for their 'superior industry knowledge and experience', Corrs Chambers Westgarth maintains a strong reputation for advising on major LNG projects, in addition to contractual and transportation related matters. Practice head Tracey Greenaway has vast expertise in advising on unincorporated joint ventures, divestments and commodity sale and purchase agreements. Utilities specialist Anthony Arrow advises on numerous renewable energy transactions and projects. Michael MacGinley is known for his regulatory expertise in electricity, while Peter Jarosek exhibits deep knowledge of oil and gas mandates.

 

Practice head(s):

Tracey Greenaway


Other key lawyers:

Anthony Arrow; Michael MacGinley; Peter Jarosek


Testimonials

‘Corrs has reinvigorated their energy team, with the timely hire of Tracey Greenaway. They now have a well-balanced energy and resources team that is capable of competing with more established firms in this space.’

‘Superior industry knowledge and experience.’

‘Highly pragmatic and focused on finding simple solutions to complex issues.’

‘Peter Jarosek consistently provides commercially sensible advice and great outcomes.’

‘Tracey Greenaway is a strong performer with deep knowledge of the oil gas sector in particular’

‘Tracey Greenaway is a very safe pair of hands. Peter Jarosek also has a lot of experience in this area.’

‘Excellent understanding of our business with excellent response times. All round top quality service.’

Key clients

Woodside Energy


ACE Energy


Powin


Santos


CuString


Delorean


Bristol Springs Power


Ratch


BP


Transgrid


Opal


Vena Energy


Akaysha Energy


Itochu


Norwest Energy


Work highlights


  • Advising the ACE Energy consortium on its bid to finance, design, construct, operate and maintain the transmission network infrastructure for the Central West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (CWO REZ).
  • Advising CuString as the developer of the CopperString development. The project involves the proposed development of a privately owned, project-financed 1,100-kilometre electricity transmission network from Townsville to Mt Isa (in Queensland), with a project value of A$2.4 bn.
  • Advised Powin, an American company that provides large-scale energy storage systems, on its entry into the Australian market, and in relation to its arrangements with Akaysha Energy for the supply and long-term maintenance of a large committed battery energy storage system.

Gilbert + Tobin

Gilbert + Tobin maintains a stellar reputation for advising on a significant number of major solar and wind transactions, in addition to numerous hydrogen and carbon capture and storage projects. Practice co-head Alexander Danne has a great deal of expertise in advising on energy and infrastructure projects, and project financings. Claire Boyd is a project development expert, and Geoff Petersen maintains a broad regulatory practice. Michael Blakiston is known for advising clients engaging in projects in Africa.

Practice head(s):

Alexander Danne; Michael Blakiston


Other key lawyers:

Claire Boyd; Geoff Petersen


Testimonials

‘I regard Gilbert + Tobin’s greatest strength as its ability to bring together a broad set of skills, doing so in a seamless, client-facing manner. jects. On the technology front.’

‘In this team we have worked with Alex Danne and his team. All have the necessary expertise in energy, understand our business intimately and the have the dedication and enthusiasm to get the job done. The team is also well-respected by other law firms making most projects or transactions amiable. Alex Danne is well-regarded across the industry.’

Key clients

APA Group


POSCO


Euroz Hartleys Limited


Canaccord Genuity (Australia) Limited


RBC Capital Markets


Mineral Resources


Syrah Resources


Vast Solar


Ausgrid


HRL Morrison and Co (Morrison & Co)


Work highlights


  • Advised leading Australian energy infrastructure business, ASX-listed APA Group, on all aspects of its $773m acquisition of the Basslink transmission interconnector between Tasmania and Victoria, specifically the renegotiation of network services agreements and operational agreements for APA with HydroTas and the State of Tasmania, together with related regulatory matters.
  • Advised Ausgrid in relation to preparation of its Regulatory Proposal for the 2024-29 regulatory control period, including in relation to its compliance with the National Electricity Law, National Electricity Rules and statutory notices issued by the AER.
  • Advising POSCO in relation to the green steel project in Port Hedland.

Johnson Winter Slattery

The practice at Johnson Winter Slattery is praised by clients for being 'very hands on', and for their 'intimate' industry knowledge. The group demonstrates expertise in the complete range of commercial and operational issues, and industry-specific contracts within the renewable energy, oil and gas and electricity sectors. Acting as the national practice head, Bruce Adkins is known for providing 'clear and decisive' advice on M&A and project development work. Peter Rose regularly handles commodity processing mandates, sales and transportation agreements, and private share and asset acquisitions and divestments. Counsel Tom Barrett stands out for his deep oil and gas, LNG, mining and electricity project experience.

.

Practice head(s):

Bruce Adkins


Other key lawyers:

Peter Rose; Tom Barrett


Testimonials

‘The firm offers deep energy industry experience and considerable amount of local market knowledge. Their legal advice is provided with the benefit of commercial experience and an understanding of the client’s needs.’

‘The team at JWS are very hands on with intimate knowledge of the industry, their clients needs and the transactional issues which require attention. JWS has an excellent industry network.’

‘Bruce Atkins, is extremely responsive to all clients and is always prompt in investigating and resolving issues. He provides timely and concise feedback and is available to provide clear and decisive pathways through any complex issues.’

Key clients

Base Resources Ltd


Greenspot


GB Energy Holdings Limited


3D Oil Limited


Bowen Coking Coal Limited


M Infrastructure and Asian Bulk Logistics


Coeclerici Far East Pte Ltd


New Hope Corporation Limited


CleanSight


Flotation Energy plc


Cooper Energy Limited


Work highlights


  • Advised CleanSight on the acquisition, and subsequent on-sale, of an additional 50% interest in the project vehicle developing the huge 1.2GW Forest Wind project located in Queensland, one of the largest land-based wind projects in Australia’s main grid.
  • Advised on Australian law aspects of sale of Flotation Energy to TEPCO including interests in the Seadragon offshore wind project in Victoria.
  • Continuing to assist GB Energy to progress the development of its landmark underground gas storage project in Gippsland, Victoria.

MinterEllison

Minter Ellison is well known for its strength in renewable energy, having advised the State of Victoria on the Victorian Renewable Energy Target (VRET) 2 program to facilitate the development of 623MW of solar projects. Practice head Simon Scott advises on a broad range of M&A, joint ventures and commercial mining mandates. Brendan Clark and Clay Wohling display vast expertise in project development and issues affecting projects within the electricity market. 'Technically savvy' Fiona Lewis is regularly instructed by governments on major energy policy implementation. Counsel Simon Batten advises on general electricity regulatory and compliance matters.

Practice head(s):

Simon Scott


Other key lawyers:

Brendan Clark; Fiona Lewis; Clay Wohling; Simon Batten


Testimonials

‘The team offers expertise in the regulatory framework in addition to the usual commercial considerations which is invaluable.’

‘Fiona Lewis is an exceptional lawyer. Her knowledge of the regulatory framework and practice advice on how to navigate it makes her a stand out. She is also very technically savvy – able to speak confidently about various energy technologies and infrastructure.’

‘Brendan Clark is exceptional. His knowledge across the energy sector and solid commercial approach make him a key part of our business. Simply put, we could not execute key business objectives without Brendan and the broader team.’

‘Simon Batten has outstanding knowledge of the energy sector and is always an absolute pleasure to deal with.’

‘Minters has a diverse set of expertise with excellent depth which makes it a legal one-stop-shop.’

‘The depth of expertise on specific matters and being able to apply that in a commercial setting is super useful.’

Key clients

AGL Energy


Anglo American


Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO)


Australian Government


ConocoPhillips


Energy Queensland


EnergyAustralia


Inpex Corporation


Jemena


Neoen


Power and Water Corporation


Powerlink


Rio Tinto (including Oyu Tolgoi LLC)


SA Power Networks


South32


Stanwell Corporation


Vintage Energy


Zen Energy


Work highlights


  • Advising the State of Queensland on its acquisition of a 1,100km private transmission project in North Queensland.
  • Advising Neoen on the Kentbruck Green Power Hub, a proposed AUD1.2bn 600 megawatt wind farm in western Victoria.
  • Acting for Stanwell Corporation in the acquisition of 50% of Stage 1 of the $770m Wambo Wind Farm and entry into a long term power purchase agreement for the remaining 50%.

Norton Rose Fulbright

At Norton Rose Fulbright, practice co-head Claire Forster is a regulatory specialist with a strong focus on the energy industry. Forster also routinely advises network companies and retailers on supply legislation, including compliance and associated commercial, contractual and operational matters. Kate Muller is particularly skilled in advising on renewable energy generation, energy storage and network services related mandates. Concentrating on Western Australia-based transactions and project development, Ben Bradstreet (who moved from King & Wood Mallesons in early 2023) and Troy McKelvie are the key names in the Perth office. Dylan McKimmie co-heads the practice from Brisbane.

Practice head(s):

Claire Forster; Dylan McKimmie


Other key lawyers:

Kate Muller; Ben Bradstreet; Troy McKelvie


Testimonials

‘Practical and strategic advice on approaching legal problems that takes into account desired outcomes.’

‘The individuals are highly regarded by our business and seen as extremely valuable contributors.’

‘Troy McKelvie – very practical and accessible partner with a good understanding of east coast gas markets and access matters.’

Key clients

Chevron


CWP Global


TotalEnergies SE


ENEOS Corporation


NW Interconnected Power


Woodside Energy Limited


Vestas


Arrow Energy


Shell


TransAlta Corporation


Essential Energy


Vena Energy


ARENA


JERA


Work highlights


  • Acted in an  electricity transmission PPP in Australia for NSW’s first Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) in the Central-West Orana region. The CWO REZ is approximately 20k square kilometres and will unlock 3 gigawatts of new network capacity by the mid-2020s, enough to power 1.4m homes.
  • Advised Vestas – Australian Wind Technology Pty Ltd as contractor on the development of the Golden Plains Wind Farm in Victoria. The AU$3bn project will be the largest wind project in the southern Hemisphere. It is a clean energy project for Victoria and Australia and will comprise up to 215 wind turbines generating at total of 1,300MW.
  • Advising a consortium led by Australia’s CWP Global and Hong Kong-based Intercontinental Energy on an AU$100bn project to build the world’s biggest renewable energy hub – comprising 50 GW of wind and solar capacity – on the southern coast of Western Australia. The so-called Western Green Energy Hub will create up to 3.5m tons of green hydrogen annually, which makes it one of the world’s biggest projects of its kind.

White & Case

Consistently advising on significant energy projects, White & Case's sizeable energy team have advised on novel domestic wind farm projects. Leading the project finance team, Brendan Quinn works alongside his Melbourne colleagues Andrew Clark, global head of energy and infrastructure, and head of mining, John Tivey, on an array of high-value transactions. Sydney’s Chris Flynn acts for numerous global blue-chip clients and governments on energy, resources and infrastructure transactions and projects, particularly in the upstream, LNG, renewable and non-renewable power sectors.

 

 

Practice head(s):

Brendan Quinn; Andrew Clark; John Tivey; Chris Flynn


Testimonials

‘Amazing dedication and professionalism ’

‘Superior understanding of our business, dedication, availability, efficiency’

 

Key clients

EIG/MidOcean


Neoen Australia Pty Ltd


Golden Plains


AusNet


Star of the South


Perdaman Urea Plant


Genesis FRV


Southern Green Hydrogen Project


Nexif Energy


Petroliam


Vast Solar


Igneo


Canadian Solar


Tenaga


Epic Energy


Sun Cable


Work highlights


  • Advised EIG/MidOcean Energy Holdings Pty Ltd in relation to its proposed acquisition of Origin Energy Limited as part of a consortium with Brookfield.
  • Advised Neoen on the development and project financing of the Capital Battery, a 100 MW / 200 MWh lithium-ion battery storage facility near Canberra in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). Construction by Doosan, the project’s Engineering, Procurement & Construction contractor, commenced in December 2021 and the asset is expected to be operational in the first half of 2023.
  • Advising AusNet on its bid to the Australian Energy Market Operator to build, own and operate the contestable assets for the Western Victoria Transmission Network Project.

DLA Piper

Regarded for its 'technical excellence', global capabilities and 'broad' industry knowledge, DLA Piper is well-placed to advise on cross-border mandates, and is particularly active on inbound investments into domestic projects. Co-head of energy Stephen Webb has advised overseas clients as well as the Australian government on the building and financing of large-scale energy and infrastructure projects in Timor,  Saudi Arabia, the Philippines and Vietnam. Co-head Alex Jones' maintains a commercial transactions focused practice, regularly assisting clients with operational and regulatory matters.

 

 

Practice head(s):

Stephen Webb; Alex Jones


Testimonials

‘Technical excellence, broad industry knowledge’

Key clients

BlackRock Real Assets


BlackRock Financial Management Inc


BE Power Solutions Pty Ltd


Downer Utilities Australia Pty Limited


Solar United Network


Engie Energie Services / Mitsui & Co, Ltd


Asian Development Bank


Hydrostor Australia Pty Ltd


Strike Energy


Enel Green Power


Senex Energy Limited


CEP Energy


Merricks Capital


PATRIZIA MBK Fund Management Pty Ltd


Strike Energy


Work highlights


  • Advised BlackRock Real Assets on its commitment to invest more than AU$1bn in Australia and New Zealand’s climate infrastructure market through the acquisition of Australian battery and renewable energy developer Akaysha Energy, and on the acquisition of the issued share capital of solarZero limited, New Zealand’s leading solar energy services company.
  • Advising BE Power in relation to its development of a pumped hydro storage project at Lake Cressbrook (near Toowoomba, Queensland) which is anticipated to deliver significant social and economic benefits to the region.
  • Advised Downer as the D&C Contractor in relation to its tender for the delivery of energy infrastructure in consortium with Plenary and Essential Energy on the Central West Orana Renewable Energy Zone PPP. The CWO REZ aims to unlock up to 3,000MW of new renewable energy generation.

Jones Day

Hailed by clients as ‘knowledgeable, approachable and responsive’, the team at Jones Day displays deep bench strength across a broad range of matters, including M&A, financing transactions and mining and pipelines. Specialising in energy, gas, electricity and utilities, practice head Dan Howard continues to advise Coronado Curragh on its waste coal methane extraction. Transactional specialists Tony Wassaf and Darren Murphy concentrate on legislative and policy related issues, and are particularly adept at drafting and negotiating commercial agreements and joint ventures.

Practice head(s):

Dan Howard


Other key lawyers:

Tony Wassaf; Darren Murphy


Testimonials

‘Small teams with specialised knowledge of their areas of expertise.’

‘Knowledgeable, approachable, responsive.’

‘Jones Day has provided excellent support in respect of our company’s new energy project. The team has provided clear and commercial advice and drafting on project agreements, which reflects both their technically competence and in-depth understanding of our company’s commercial drivers.’

 

Key clients

CleanCo Queensland Limited


Esprey Limited


Yara Pilbara Fertilisers Pty Ltd (Yara)


Mirae Asset Global Investments Holdings Ltd and Global X Management Company Inc


Slipstream Resources Pty Ltd


Thunderbird Operations Pty Ltd


Mineral Deposits (Operations) Pty Ltd


Coronado Curragh


Idemitsu Australia Pty Ltd


Scramble Resources Corp


Work highlights


  • Advising Yara Pilbara Fertilisers Pty Ltd on a proposed hydrogen and ammonia production facility in respect of its ammonia plant in the Pilbara region of Western Australia.
  • Advised Scentre Group on its major long-term renewable electricity procurement project.
  • Advising CleanCo Queensland on the implications for its gas trading business as a result of the introduction of the Federal government’s emergency gas price cap and reasonable pricing provisions.

Piper Alderman

The 'robust and well-rounded' team at Piper Alderman demonstrates deep expertise in electricity and gas transmission and distribution infrastructure, connections, and generation project related matters. The practice is increasingly active on financing and development mandates concerning wind and solar farms, and hydrogen projects. Martin Lovell is a well known for his transactional and regulatory expertise, and his specialism in grid scale generation, battery projects, wind and solar farms and district energy schemes. Kathryn Walker and head of resources, Josh Steele are the key names to note within the team.

Practice head(s):

Martin Lovell; Josh Steele


Other key lawyers:

Kathryn Walker


Testimonials

Piper Alderman distinguishes itself from other law firms through its deep knowledge base and approachability. The team is not only well-versed in all aspects of law, but they foster a relationship of trust and open communication. The team is robust and well-rounded, capable of addressing a wide array of legal issues.’

‘This firm has expert partners for various aspects of the oil and gas upstream sector.’

‘I have dealt with Piper Alderman in relation to energy industry matters for over thirty years. Their depth of experience in these matters is exceptionally broad and deep, and evidences a clear understanding of the commercial drivers of this sector.’

‘Josh Steele takes a very personable approach to his clients and has an excellent knowledge of the energy industry.’

Key clients

Akuo Energy


Adelaide Airport Limited


Alinta Energy


Beach Energy


Bengal Energy


BOC Limited


Byron Energy Limited


Clarke Energy (Australia) Pty Ltd


Corporate Carbon Group Pty Ltd


Conexa Infrastructure Partners


Daiwa Energy & Infrastructure


Eco Energy World


ElectraNet


ENECHANGE Ltd


Epic Energy


Galilee Energy


Gas2Grid Limited


GPT Group


Iberdrola Energy


Lakes Blue Energy NL


SEA Gas


Shine Hub


Solar Edge Technologies


State Government of South Australia


Work highlights


  • Acting for the South Australian Government in relation to its planned $13bn hydrogen hub at Port Bonython.
  • Advised ElectraNet on the $2.28bn SA-NSW electricity interconnector project known as Project EnergyConnect.
  • Acting for the Office of Hydrogen Power South Australia in relation to the Hydrogen Jobs Plan (including 250 MWe of electrolysers, 200 MW of power generation, and associated hydrogen storage).

Hall & Wilcox

Hall & Wilcox have experienced growth in instructions involving pumped hydro, concentrating solar power and offshore wind. Practice head Mark Dessi is noted for his longstanding experience in the energy, construction and infrastructure sectors. Dessi frequently advises developers, project companies and contractors on a range of corporate transactions within the electricity, gas and water space.

Practice head(s):

Mark Dessi


Key clients

Goldwind Australia Pty Ltd


Stromlo Energy


Enzen Australia Pty Ltd


Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) (now DEECA)


Trafigura


Ion Energy


Glenvill


Moorabool Shire Council


Meriton Group


Australian Unity


Work highlights


  • Advising renewable energy developer Goldwind Australia on the take over the finalisation of all land tenure arrangements for the Coppabella Wind Farm following the exercise of their key option agreements. The development can now progress to the construction phase.
  • Advising Enzen Australia Pty Ltd (Enzen), in its role as EPC contractor and provider of O&M services for the Mannum Solar Project, a 30MW solar project to be located in Mannum, South Australia.
  • Advising Trafigura Pte. Ltd, on a financing transaction involving Aurelia Metals Limited, an Australian mining and exploration company listed on the Australian Securities Exchange. The transaction encompassed a comprehensive financial package, including a US$24m loan note advance facility and an AU$65m environmental bond facility, with a combined value of approximately AU$100m.

HFW

HFW is well known for handling innovative green energy matters such as carbon capture and storage, virtual power plants, and hydrogen projects. Led by Jo Garland, the group exhibits broad experience when advising on renewable power projects and hybrid renewable/fossil fuel structures, in addition to regulatory issues and energy transition focused transactions.

Practice head(s):

Jo Garland


Testimonials

‘HFW has market-leading experience in new energy, which is built on their existing expertise in the traditional energy and resources sectors. The team provides excellent support on new and challenging legal and regulatory matters, including the Safeguard Mechanism reforms. Their advice reflects their technical competence, understanding of our company’s commercial drivers, and broader in-depth knowledge of new energy developments.’

‘Jo Garland leads a small but powerful team at HFW. They consistently produce high-quality work in a timely manner on our energy matters. The team members are always friendly, professional and responsive, which makes them a pleasure to work with.’

Key clients

Synergy


Yara


Horizon Power


Trafigura


Neoen


Ultra Power


South Energy


Australian Energy Storage Solutions


Delorean Energy


Element 25 Ltd


Work highlights


  • Advising Synergy on Project Symphony, a $65m ARENA funded novel pilot to demonstrate the capability of batteries, rooftop solar panels and large appliances to be coordinated into virtual power plants.
  • Assisting Element 25 with a structured equity and offtake arrangement for the critical minerals produced. This matter involves large US car manufacturers taking an equity share in the critical minerals miner and securing offtake arrangements for US car producers.
  • Advising Synergy on the Electric Vehicle Highway Project, a $21m State Government funded project to create Australia’s longest EV charging network. The Project is a part of the State Government’s Electric Vehicle Action Plan, a set of actions designed to boost the rapid uptake of EVs in WA.

Maddocks

Leading the team at Maddocks, Peter Limbers is known for his longstanding expertise in acting for energy utilities, energy sector investors, and government on energy projects and transactions, in addition to handling an array of energy market reform and regulatory mandates.

Practice head(s):

Peter Limbers


Key clients

EnergyAustralia


Origin Energy


Alinta Energy


Endeavour Energy


Essential Energy


Ausgrid


Energy Exemplar


Kidman Resources


Infigen Energy


PYBAR Holdings


Iberdrola Australia


Department of Industry, Science and Energy


Edify Energy


Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal


NRN Holdings Pty Ltd, trading as the National Renewables Network


Work highlights


  • Acted for Endeavour Energy in their dealings with Sydney Metro and Western Sydney Airport on advice relating to the connection of extensive new high-voltage electricity infrastructure within Endeavour Energy’s electricity distribution network.
  • Advised Energy Australia on the development of an extensive suite of new carbon trading contracts for use in a range of certified carbon reduction units (CRUs) issued by accredited Australian and international carbon abatement and sequestration projects under Government approved or internationally recognised carbon reduction schemes.
  • Acted for CPE Renewable Infrastructure Unit Trust (CPERI) in its acquisition of the Barangaroo South Precinct’s Living Utilities business from Lendlease.

McCullough Robertson

McCullough Robertson's practice is primarily advises on project acquisition and development, particularly in relation to solar, hydro, wind, battery storage, and bioenergy projects in Queensland, New South Wales, South Australia and Victoria. In Brisbane, the team is jointly led by corporate expert Damien Clarke , and projects specialist Kate Swain.

Practice head(s):

Damien Clarke; Kate Swain


Testimonials

‘Many years of transaction experience in coal in Australia in both medium and large scale transactions.’

‘Dedication to personal relationships rather than transactional.’

‘The team are very accommodating. They found ways to assist us that was efficient without compromising service or attention to detail.’

Key clients

Malabar Resources Ltd


Bowdens Silver


Falcon Oil & Gas


New Hope Corporation Limited


Bowen River Utilities


Peabody Energy Australia


Vitrinite Pty Ltd


Senex Energy Limited


Diatreme Resources Limited


Tri-Star Group


Sojitz Corporation


CS Energy


Omega Oil & Gas Limited


AGL Energy Limited


Vedanta Resources Limited


Sungrow Power Australia Pty Ltd


Work highlights


  • Assisted Bowen River Utilities on the development and implementation of its whole-of-project native title and cultural heritage strategy.
  • Advising Sungrow on its investment in Australia, including the acquisition and development of over a dozen separate solar farms with a battery component throughout Australia.
  • Advised AGL Energy Limited on land access issues and regulatory requirements. Also advised AGL on its deal to acquire Energy360, in a move to diversify away from fossil fuels.

Squire Patton Boggs

Squire Patton Boggs‘ bi-coastal energy and natural resources offering utilises its broad corporate and projects expertise to advise on a vast range of mandates relating to renewables, oil and gas, LNG, transitional fuels. Simon Adams in Perth and Sydney-based Natalie Lonergan both exhibit deep experience in project structuring, acquisitions and divestments, jointly leading the team.

Practice head(s):

Simon Adams; Natalie Lonergan


Key clients

Subsea7


Synergy


TransAlta


Tamboran


Pilot Energy


PZE Limited


Denison Gas


POSCO


RATCH Australia


Work highlights


  • Advising Subsea7 on the establishment of joint ventures with Spark Infrastructure and Simply Blue Group and on the joint application for several Licences for Offshore Wind in the Offshore Hunter and Illawarra regions of New South Wales.
  • Acting for Synergy in relation to the negotiation of a long-term gas supply agreement and related electricity price reset under long term power offtake agreement, both with NewGen Kwinana.
  • Advising Denison Gas on the Australian aspects of the Prospectus, Legal Due Diligence Reports, Legal Opinions and other materials to enable the listing of Denison Gas on the Singapore Exchange.

Dentons

Drawing on her longstanding expertise in corporate matters, Kym Livesely co-heads the practice at Dentons, which routinely acts for oil and gas, and mining companies in a broad range of transactional matters, including financing. Co-head David Perks is known for providing 'quality, commercial' advice on inbound and outbound investments, and offtake arrangements, while co-head John Mollard leads the mining group at the firm.

Practice head(s):

Kym Livesley; John Mollard; David Perks


Testimonials

‘David Perks is an exceptional M&A, and energy & resources lawyer. He consistently provides quality, commercial advice and is easy to work with. Highly recommend.’

Key clients

Ganfeng Lithium Group Co., Ltd


Santos


Silex Systems


Radicle


Montem Resources Limited


Rio Tinto


Bougainville Copper Limited


Acacia Coal Ltd


Anchor Resources Limited


Bowen Energy


Buru Energy


Brookfield


World Fuel Services


Centaur Resources Limited


Work highlights


  • Advised Jiangxi Ganfeng Lithium Co., Ltd (Ganfeng), a large supplier of battery grade lithium and lithium batteries, to establish a US$170m joint venture with Leo Lithium Limited (Leo Lithium) in respect of the Goulamina Lithium Project in Mali, West Africa (Goulamina Project).
  • Advising Silex Systems who is seeking to raise up to A$100m by issuing approximately 24.7m new ordinary fully paid shares in the Company by way of an institutional placement and undertake $20 million SPP.
  • Advised Montem Resources Limited in its agreement with TransAlta TMPH LP, a wholly owned subsidiary of TransAlta Corporation to sell 50% of its Tent Mountain Renewable Energy Complex in Alberta, Canada.

Hive Legal

Hive Legal has significantly strengthened and expanded its energy offering with the recruitment of former Commissioner of the Australian Energy Market Commission, Allison Warburton along with counsel Katherine Lake, a climate change and renewable energy expert, and projects counsel Sonja Ilic in January 2023. Andrew Brookes and Mitzi Gilligan jointly head the practice, specialising in commercial transactions and regulatory matters concerning the energy industry.

Practice head(s):

Mitzi Gilligan; Andrew Brookes


Other key lawyers:

Allison Warburton; Katherine Lake; Sonja Ilic


Key clients

Victorian Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action


Origin Energy


Lochard Energy


AGL Energy


Reposit Power


Jacana Energy


Alcoa of Australia


ENGIE/Simply Energy


EnergyBuild


Vocus/M2 Energy


ActewAGL


North Harbour Clean Energy


Pacific Hydro/Tango Energy


Energy Safe Victoria


Nufarm


Diamond Energy


CEP Energy


Towong Shire Council


Work highlights


  • Advised the Victorian Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action on a wide range of clean energy and energy innovation projects, including on all legal aspects of the Victorian Government’s Energy Innovation Fund program, which provides funding for innovative renewable energy projects.
  • Provided Lochard Energy legal advice on all commercial and regulatory aspects of the Lochard business, including both business-as-usual matters and advice on specific contractual, regulatory and construction projects.
  • Assisted North Harbour Clean Energy with a broad review of the state of electricity network tariff reform for long-duration energy storage projects, among other ongoing legal and regulatory support.

Jackson McDonald

At Perth-based firm Jackson McDonald, practice head Matthew Bowen advises clients on commercial agreements, energy contracting and statutory compliance mandates. Bowen's practice is increasingly focused on a renewable hydrogen projects, and has recently advised on the Western Australia state government’s reforms within the electricity sector.

Practice head(s):

Matthew Bowen


Key clients

Energy Policy WA


JERA Australia Pty Ltd


Solar Suite


Sun Bred Power Pty Ltd


Work highlights


  • Assisted Energy Policy WA’s Energy Industry Development team to develop a hybrid power purchase agreement guide and template contract for the mining industry.
  • Advised JERA Australia on its acquisition of a 12.5% interest in the Barossa LNG Project in the Northern Territory from Santos.
  • Advising Solar Suite in connection with the negotiation of a contract for the design and installation of a six-site 6.22MW Solar project for ASX listed SCA Property Group.

K&L Gates

K&L Gates' practice is led by Adam Levine, a Perth-based corporate specialist who handles a broad range of M&A and corporate structuring mandates in the energy, renewables and mining sectors. Practice co-head Clive Cachia, based in Sydney, also has deep corporate expertise and ample skill in advising on energy projects, and both in-bound and out-bound investment arrangements.

 

Practice head(s):

Adam Levine; Clive Cachia


Key clients

Shell Energy Operations Pty Ltd


ExxonMobil Australia Pty Ltd


Magnis Energy Technologies Ltd


Canadian Solar


Gulf Energy Limited


Dateline Resources Limited


Squadron Energy


Energy Matrix Group


Acciona


Elecnor Australia Pty Ltd


RATCH Australia Corporation Limited


Work highlights


  • Advising CPB, UGL and Hyundai joint venture on the AU$5bn Central West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) – Network Operator Project.
  • Advised Squadron Energy on the purchase of the AU$3bn Clarke Creek renewable energy hub project.
  • Advising Wollar Solar Development Pty Ltd (a subsidiary of BJCE Australia) in relation to the development of the approx. AU$282m Wollar Solar Farm.

Pinsent Masons LLP

Pinsent Masons LLP's practice is led by environmental and planning specialist Kirstie Richards (who joined from K&L Gates in late 2022), bringing her expertise in onshore wind, solar, battery energy storage systems, and the emerging Australian hydrogen and offshore wind markets. The practice has also bolstered its corporate offering through the recruitment of Joni Henry and Andrew Fisken. Working out of the Melbourne office, James Morgan-Payler specialises in energy related infrastructure projects, while Jeremy King leads on a number of project financing mandates.

 

 

Practice head(s):

Kirstie Richards; James Morgan-Payler; Jeremy King


Other key lawyers:

Joni Henry; Andrew Fisken


Testimonials

‘To me, it is unique for a law firm to take the time to follow the commercial context, to have the depth of knowledge required to provide considered legal advice.’

‘Joni Henry is extremely competent and provides balanced and considered advice, while being down to earth and easy to work with.’

‘The team are highly capable, and all are experts in their field. There is a broad range of experience across the team, but at the same time, there is strong depth in infrastructure, energy and construction. They have provided incredibly value support in developing solutions customised to our legal needs.’

Key clients

Goldwind Australia


Korea Water Corporation (K-Water)


AGL Energy Limited


Shanghai Electric Power Design Institute


Acciona Construction Australia Pty Ltd, Kalpataru Power Transmission Limited and Genus Infrastructure (NSW) Pty Ltd


GFG Alliance Group


Liberty Primary Metals Australia


Tilt Renewables Australia Pty Ltd


Beijing Jingneng Clean Energy (Australia) Pty Ltd


Wollar Solar Development Pty Ltd


Iberdrola Australia Limited


DP Energy


Someva Renewables


Fluence Energy


Work highlights


  • Advising the Acciona Kalpataru Genus Joint Venture on their successful bid for HumeLink, one of the largest energy infrastructure projects in New South Wales.
  • Advising Sunterra Energy and Shanghai Electric Power Design Institute (SEPD) on the 290MW Wollar Solar Farm project in New South Wales, including advising on and negotiating the upstream EPC and O&M contracts for the project, and various downstream subcontracts.
  • Representing GFG’s Australian operations on all financing and other aspects of its $2bn expansion plans for the mine, port and manufacturing facility at Whyalla.

Thomson Geer

Thomson Geer  exhibits deep bench strength in a variety of areas, including M&A and capital raising, as well as the operational aspects of major energy and resources projects. Infrastructure expert Jae Lemin  joined from Eversheds Sutherland, oil and gas specialist Nicholas Antonas joined the team from Johnson Winter Slattery, and Paul Harley and Sarah O’Brien-Smith  joined from HopgoodGanim , bringing their deep knowledge of mining matters. Energy and resources project finance specialist Nicholas Creed joined from Allens. Josh Marchant is a key name within the practice.

 

Practice head(s):

Josh Marchant; Jae Lemin; Nicholas Antonas; Paul Harley; Sarah O’Brien-Smith; Nicholas Creed


Testimonials

‘A great understanding of the law and an ability to co-ordinate well with stakeholders to secure an outcome.’

‘Thomson Geer distinguishes itself through a unique blend of innovation, collaboration, and personalized service.’

‘Led by Partner Josh Marchant, the team is defined by its proficiency in addressing client needs and an unyielding commitment to delivering tailored solutions.’

‘Josh Marchant embodies the spirit of client-centric service that sets the practice apart. With an acute understanding of our clients’ goals and challenges. His approach isn’t confined to standard solutions; instead, he delves deep into each case, ensuring that every client receives the attention and customized service they deserve.’

‘Thomson Geer has a commitment to progressive values, such as diversity and environmental responsibility. These aren’t mere buzzwords for but integral to their identity as a practice that seeks to reflect and contribute positively to the community we serve.’

‘They are proficient with client-focused leadership, a collaborative approach that leverages the strengths of the entire firm, and a willingness to innovate in ways that resonate with the modern client’s expectations. Potential clients seeking a firm that not only understands their legal needs but also aligns with their values and aspirations will find a committed partner in Thomson Geer.’

Key clients

Bouygues Construction


Liebherr Australia


92 Energy Ltd


Quanta Services Australia


LMS Energy


Work highlights


  • Advised Nacap on the Engineering, Procurement & Construction (EPC) Contract for the design and construction of the Northern Goldfields Interconnect – a 580km gas pipeline connecting the existing Goldfields Gas Pipeline to Geraldton in Western Australia.
  • Acted for heavy equipment supplier Liebherr Australia in negotiating an agreement for the joint development and supply of hydrogen fuel cell and battery electric mining haul trucks to Fortescue Future Industries.
  • Advising Bouygues Construction in relation to its bid for the engineering, procurement, construction and operation and maintenance of the the largest solar project in Victoria, the Kiamal 2 Solar Project.