Next Generation Partners: Mining, Oil And Gas And Natural Resources

Next Generation Partners: Public Law And Regulatory

Firms To Watch: Industry focus: Energy

Guillaume Mezache joined Allégorie Avocats from Altitude Avocats in January 2022, bringing his strong expertise in French and African oil and gas markets to the firm.
DWF (France) AARPI‘s energy practice was bolstered in April 2022 by the arrival of partner Richard Jadot and associate Valérie Claver from Ravet & Associés.
The team at Eversheds Sutherland (France) LLP grew significantly in 2021 and 2022, namely with the arrival of partner Sindhura Swaminathan and team members from White & Case LLP.

Firms in the Spotlight Industry focus: Energy

Vivien & Associés

Vivien & Associés logo

Vivien & Associés offers competitive legal services and representation across a broad range of key practice areas:

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CHASSANY WATRELOT & ASSOCIES

CHASSANY WATRELOT & ASSOCIES logo

A FULL-EXPERTISE HUMAN RESOURCES LAW FIRM   Founded in 1987, Chassany Watrelot & Associés (CWA) is one of the main French law firms whose activity is exclusively dedicated to employment law and all other legal areas related to human resources management (insurance law, tax law…).

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Industry focus: Energy in France

Ashurst LLP

The team at Ashurst LLP is co-headed by Mark Barges and Tom Langmuir, both of whom are also at the helm of the firm’s project finance and international projects groups; Yann Alix, head of the firm's Africa group and the mining practice; energy and infrastructure M&A expert Vincent Trévisani; and administrative and public law specialist Jacques Dabreteau. In addition to domestic matters, the practice is well equipped to handle deals in both Anglophone and Francophone Africa, a significant example of which was its representation of Société Générale in relation to the multi-sourced financing of the 450MW Central Termica de Temane gas-fired IPP. Its workload is often focused on renewables; the team has ample experience assisting clients at all stages of the development of onshore and offshore wind projects, as well as solar projects, which are consistently cross-border in nature. Further, the team has experience assisting clients in conventional energy matters.

Practice head(s):

Mark Barges; Tom Longmuir; Yann Alix; Vincent Trevisani; Jacques Dabreteau


Other key lawyers:

Claudia Cicone; Charles-Douglas Fuz; Cédric Dionmou


Testimonials

‘The practice at Ashurst stands out in terms of its knowledge and understanding of business stakeholders, underlying activities in the market and the geographies involved in the transactions they work on.’   

‘Ashurst LPP’s Paris team has quickly identified our needs in fast-paced and complex transactions. Their strong market knowledge and experience has helped us to find timely solutions at every step of our negotiations, and collaboration was smooth.’   

‘Yann Alix and Claudia Cicone stand out in the team.’ 

Key clients

UK Export Finance


J.P. Morgan


Natixis


Octopus Investments


Veolia Eau


Engie


Deutsche Bank


Banco Santander


African Development Bank


Banque Populaire (Morocco)


wpd Offshore


Boralex


ERG


Omnes Capital


Managem


VAALCO Energy


MUFG Bank, Ltd


Société Générale


Goldman Sachs


ARISE Integrated Industrial Platforms (ARISE IIP)


EIB


Nareva


Chariot Oil & Gas


Minerals Development Oman


Vinci


Commerzbank Aktiengesellschaft


Work highlights


  • Acting for Société Générale on dual World Bank-guaranteed facilities as part of the multi-sourced financing of the 450MW Central Termica de Temane gas-fired IPP.
  • Advised the lenders, including EIB, EKF and commercial banks, on the €400m financing of a floating offshore wind project which closed in July 2022.
  • Advised Boralex on its acquisition of Infinergy, an independent renewable energy company, developing large, medium and small-scale onshore wind and solar PV projects in the UK.

Clifford Chance

The energy practice at Clifford Chance has a strong reputation for its breadth of capabilities in the energy sector, serving clients from a range of related industries, including oil and gas, mining and metals, thermal and hydro power, as well as renewables and clean hydrogen. The team is led by a host of experts: regional managing partner for Africa Anthony Giustini; Delphine Siino Courtin; Nikolaï Eatwell; head of the power and energy networks sub-group Richard Tomlinson; Milica Zatezalo-Falatar; head of public law David Préat; M&A specialist Laurent Schoenstein; Daniel Zerbib; Gauthier Martin; Emmanuel Mimin; and Pierre-Benoit Pabot Du Châtelard. The team’s complex work involves cross-border matters, particularly in Africa and Europe, an example of which was its advisory work to HyDeal Espana in relation to the large-scale full value chain project for the production, transportation and sale of green hydrogen. In addition, the group regularly assists in related high-stakes acquisitions and project expansions, often working in collaboration with the firm’s global offices to provide a full-coverage service to its international client base.

Practice head(s):

Anthony Giustini; Delphine Siino Courtin; Nikolaï Eatwell; Richard Tomlinson; Milica Zatezalo-Falatar; David Préat; Laurent Schoenstein; Daniel Zerbib; Gauthier Martin; Emmanuel Mimin; Pierre-Benoît Pabot du Châtelard


Other key lawyers:

Benjamin de Blégiers; Sohini Kar-Purkayastha; Nadezhda Varbanova; Corinne Duvnjak; Chloé Desreumaux; Keith Hauck; Nina Wu


Testimonials

‘A very professional team, which is solutions and results-oriented, gives unbiased recommendations on risks to involved parties, and is punctual with deadlines even under tight schedules. The team is very good at adapting to handle different personality types and situations.’

‘Professionalism and integrity are things not often delivered, however I can say that Clifford Chance excels in these areas. The availability of lawyers is essential and Clifford Chance make the best use of their international teams to allow for a 24-hour cover of projects, which is without doubt invaluable to us as a client.’

‘Anthony Giustini, Richard Tomlinson and Nadezhda Varbanova are all professional, knowledgeable, available, personable, whilst Nina Wu is particularly personable, patient and has great attention-to-detail.’

‘Keith Hauck is professional, knowledgeable, available, personable, patient and able to explain complex concepts simply and succinctly.’

Key clients

Corporates


Bouygues


CDC Group Plc


Eiffage


EDF


ENGIE


ENEL


Meridiam


International Financial Institutions


Agence Française de |Développment| (AFD)


Africa| Finance Corporation


African| |Development| Bank (ADB)


Asian Development Bank


Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB)


DEG


EBRD


EIB


FMO


IDA


IFC


Inter-American Development Bank


Inter-American Investment Corporation


MIGA


OeEB


OFID


OPIC


Proparco


The Emerging Africa Infrastructure Fund (EAIF)


ECAs


Bpifrance


Euler |Hermes


K-sure


SACE


UK Export Finance


International Banks


Auxifip


Barclays


CIC


HSBC


Macquarie


MUFG


Santander


Standard |Chartered| |bank


Türkiye| |Garanti| |Bankasi| A.Ş.


UniCredit


French Banks


BNP Paribas


CACIB


Natixis


Société Générale


Government Authorities


Ethiopian Electric Power


French Ministry |in charge of Energy


Ministry of Water Irrigation and Energy, Government of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia


Work highlights


  • Advising Biovéa Energie and its shareholders EDF, Meridiam and Biokala on the structuring and financing of the Biovéa Project located in the town of Aboisso in Côte d’Ivoire.
  • Advising the lenders (three Development Finance Institutions) on the financing of phase 1 of the capital investment programme of a greenfield solar photovoltaic plant to be located in Chad.
  • Advising the project company in connection with a full value project for the production of green hydrogen from solar energy, its transport and use in steel and other applications in Spain.

De Pardieu Brocas Maffei

Thomas Bréart de Boisanger, Jean-Renaud Cazali and Christine Le Bihan-Graf, who is experienced in handling issues related to all regulated industrial sectors and is described as ‘more than a lawyer’, co-lead the team at De Pardieu Brocas Maffei, which is distinguished by its in-depth knowledge of the energy sector’. It is renowned for its ability to handle noteworthy transactions for such key clients as TotalEnergies and its subsidiaries. Such major projects form a large part of the team’s workload, and often involve the sale of solar power plants. Its cases are predominantly domestic in nature though it also has international capabilities. The practice’s workload also consistently involves high-value matters. Counsel Laure Rosenblieh is a key practitioner in the team.

Practice head(s):

Thomas Breart De Boisanger; Jean-Renaud Cazali; Christine Le Bihan-Graf


Other key lawyers:

Antoine Payen; Laure Rosenblieh


Testimonials

‘The energy team is distinguished by its in-depth knowledge of the energy sector and the links it makes with legal issues therein. It is dynamic, curious, accessible, pragmatic and provides relevant advice.’

‘Christine Le Bihan-Graff is more than a lawyer, she is a reference with humility, expertise and charisma. She quickly becomes familiar with various issues, she trains her collective well and has an extraordinary force of conviction. It is an honour to work with her! Recently, she rocked a case thanks to her charisma and expertise.’

Key clients

BORALEX


CVE


IDEX


HAFFNER


FEDENE


GEOSEL


DALKIA


GRTgaz


QUAERO CAPITAL


HYNAMICS


INNOVENT


NEOEN


MC PHY


ALBIOMA


DIF Infrastructures


ARDIAN


ENEDIS


EDF RENOUVELABLES


GREEN YELLOW


VEOLIA


LA BANQUE POSTALE


AUXIFIP


CACIB


BPCE


ORANO (ex AREVA)


SUEZ


TOTALENERGIES


IPM / SAMSUNG ASSET MANAGEMENT


SAUR


PERIFEM


COMMISSION DE REGULATION DE L’ENERGIE


Work highlights


  • Advising sponsors Solvay, Veolia and DIF in connection with the construction, operation and financing of a refuse-derived fuel (RDF) co-generation unit located in Dombasle-sur-Meurthe.
  • Advising Compagnie Electrique de Bretagne, a subsidiary of TotalEnergies, on the sale to Asterion Industrial Partners of a 50% stake in Compagnie Electrique de Bretagne.
  • Advising EDF TRADING on the first decision of sanction regarding the implementation of REMIT regulation before the French energy regulator (CORDIS).

Gide Loyrette Nouel A.A.R.P.I.

The energy department at Gide Loyrette Nouel A.A.R.P.I. is led by practitioners with an array of expertise, including project finance specialists Marie Bouvet-Guiramand, John D Crothers, Victor Grandguillaume, Nicolas Jean and Stéphane Vernay, alongside public law and energy specialist Bénédicte Mazel and experienced M&A lawyers Alexis Pailleret and Anne Tolila. The firm has a strong reputation for its ability to advise on large-scale and complex matters for major clients, including EDF, which it is currently advising on the design, supply and construction of the largest nuclear power plant in the world, in India. Its workload regularly involves advising on energy optimisation and handling renewable and solar energy matters, which are often international and high value in nature. The team's client list also includes government bodies; it is currently advising the governments of the Ivory Coast and Niger on photovoltaic projects in Africa. In addition to its experienced partners, the team is also noted as being ‘supported by strong associates’. Specialist partner Michel Guénaire departed the firm in June 2022.

Practice head(s):

Marie Bouvet-Guiramand; John D. Crothers; Victor Grandguillaume; Nicolas Jean; Bénédicte Mazel; Alexis Pailleret; Anne Tolila; Stéphane Vernay


Other key lawyers:

Chloé Bouhours; Edouard Bourguet


Testimonials

‘The team has extensive experience in renewables and, more particularly, in solar in France. This makes it possible to have up-to-date knowledge in terms of market practices, which greatly facilitates negotiations.’

‘Alexis Pailleret has seen it all in the industry and is experienced and friendly; Chloé Bouhours is very meticulous and always available.’

‘Marie Bouvet-Guiramand is always looking for a good compromise for clients and is very strong in conducting negotiations. Edouard Bourguet is a hard-worker and always very clear in his recommendations.’

‘The team is skilled in negotiating PPP contracts whose counterparty is a state or a state entity, which remains a unique and specialist exercise because it requires an extremely thorough understanding of the industrial issues in order to adapt a precise legal framework.’

‘Stéphane Vernay is, for me, the master of PPPs and I have never found a lawyer comparable. He has a unique ability to understand industrial and strategic issues in order to propose a legal framework that allows the successful completion of projects. His team is in his image in that members are all quick thinkers too.’

‘Excellent understanding of the wider experience of developing projects in Africa. The team understands the market well and has deep domain expertise and commercial knowledge on the continent.’

‘Victor Grandguillaume is supported by strong associates.’

‘Alexis Pailleret and Chloé Bouhours work rigorously and offer clients flawless support throughout processes. I can fully trust them to detect the slightest errors, check and control everything down to the smallest detail.’

Key clients

AktivCo (Camusat Group)


IMMO Mousquetaires


Tenergie


Eurazeo Infrastructure Partners


Marguerite


TEREOS


Legrand


International Finance Corporation (IFC)


Government of Malawi


TotalEnergies SA


TotalEnergies Renewables


EDF SA


EDF International


ENEDIS


ENGIE


EGL


Petroci Holdings


Brahms Group


Caisse Des dépôts et Consignations


MERIDIAM and FGIS


Crédit Agricole


ARIANE GROUP


VICAT


Eiffage


VEOLIA FRANCE


Hammerson


Work highlights


  • Advising EDF on the design, supply and construction of its six EPR nuclear energy reactors of 1650MWe in Jaitapur, in the state of Maharashtra, India.
  • Advising ArianeGroup on the structuring and negotiation with Urbasolar of solar energy purchase schemes on five sites in France, in self-consumption and onsite and offsite PPA.
  • Advising the IFC and the governments of Ivory Coast and Niger on the development of photovoltaic projects under the Scaling Solar initiative, which aims to create a viable market for solar power in Africa and expand access to electricity.

Herbert Smith Freehills LLP

The well-established team at Herbert Smith Freehills LLP has strong experience advising its notable clients, including Engie and BP, on matters spanning a broad array of areas, covering power and energy, oil and gas, infrastructure and mining. It assists in key matters involving the often cross-border development, structuring, financing, acquisition and disposal of projects in these sectors. Its work, both domestically and internationally, regularly involves energy transition, decarbonisation and renewable energies, in such innovative areas as offshore power platforms. Rebecca Major is at the helm, supported by specialist partners, including standout practitioner Bertrand Montembault, who has impressive experience working on energy transition matters, predominantly in France and Africa; co-chair of the Africa practice group Nina Bowyer; projects, construction and infrastructure specialist Christophe Lefort; and the ‘dedicated and proactive’ Mathias Dantin.

Practice head(s):

Rebecca Major


Other key lawyers:

Bertrand Montembault; Nina Bowyer; Christophe Lefort; Mathias Dantin; Thomas Herman; Paul Morton


Testimonials

‘A dedicated, pragmatic and proactive practice.’

‘Mathias Dantin is very dedicated, proactive and involved in clients’ business.’

‘The team has real experience working on joint files collaboratively between offices, making them able to make commercially competitive offers with a great level of competence.’

Key clients

EDF


ENGIE


Réseau Transport d’Electricité (RTE)


AQUIND


Perenco


Air Liquide


Chevron


West African Power Pool


International Finance Corporation


Total Eren and Visolar


Nachtigal Hydro Power Company (NHPC)


BP


Acciona


ACT Commodities


Africa50


Akuo Energy


Alliance Mining Commodities


Amarenco


BNP Paribas Corporate & Institutional Banking (BNP CIB)


Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations (CDC)


CGN Energy Europe (CGN EE)


Diamond Generating Europe (DGE)


DWS Investments


EDPR


Eni SpA


Genmin


Glencore


Green Investment Group / Macquarie


Hydromine


Inpex


Kinross


Kore Potash


Les Eoliennes en Mer


Maurel & Prom


Mitsui & Co. Ltd.


MMG


Neoen


NGE


Noble Energy


OMV


Petrolin


Proparco


SAPETRO


Sinopec


Société Générale Corporate & Investment Banking (SG CIB)


Statkraft France


Veolia, Pearl Infrastructure and Norske Skog Golbey consortium


Woodside


Work highlights


  • Advised ENGIE on the proposed sale of 100% of Equans (which provides energy and facilities management services) to French conglomerate Bouygues for €7.1bn.
  • Advised Glencore on the divestment of its operating upstream oil assets in Chad to Perenco.
  • Advised Nala Renewables (a joint venture between the Trafigura Group and IFM Investors) on the project development and financing of an on-grid large battery energy storage system (BESS) in Belgium.

Linklaters

Bertrand Andriani leads the practice at Linklaters, supported by experts in the area, namely leading renewables and project finance practitioner François April; Stephen Le Vesconte, who has particular experience handling matters involving natural resources and infrastructure; and Pierre Guillot. It is well regarded for its impressive abilities in advising its renowned clients, including Engie and the EIB, on a broad range of matters resulting from both domestic and international projects, with a particular focus on African and European work. Such matters include providing advice on high-value and complex constructions, sponsorships, acquisitions and takeovers, and financings on projects involving such elements as solar energy, offshore windfarms, green hydrogen, and oil and gas. A recent standout case was its high-profile work for ADRIAN and Global Infrastructure Partners on the €16bn hostile takeover of waste and water management company Suez, involving twelve jurisdictions. Justin Faye was promoted to partner in May 2022. Darko Adamovic left for Gibson Dunn in July 2023.

Practice head(s):

Bertrand Andriani


Other key lawyers:

François April; Pierre Guillot; Stephen Le Vesconte; Pierre Zelenko; Bruno Derieux; Arnaud de La Cotardière; Florent Mazeron; Jean-Charles Jaïs; Justin Faye


Key clients

Hydrogen de France (HDF)


Ardian


Global Infrastructure Partners


Meridiam


Engie


Lhyfe


Société Anonyme de la Raffinerie des Antilles (SARA)


Kalyon Enerji Yatirimlari AS


Marguerite


Macquarie (Green Investment Group Limited)


NW Storm


The French Ministry for the Environment


H1 Energy Pte Ltd


Butec SAL


Rubis


Voltalia SA


Neoen SAS


Storengy SAS


Oscaro Power


Vauban Infrastructure Partners


European Investment Bank (EIB)


NHOA S.A.


Renewable Energy Systems Limited (RES)


Dunkerque LNG SAS


BNP Paribas


Crédit Agricole


Natixis


Société Générale


Caisse d’Epargne


MUFG


Rabobank


Santander


Legrand


Kouros Investment


Natixis (DIFC Branch)


The Saudi British Bank


HSCB Saudi Arabia


Work highlights


  • Acted for Kalyon Enerji Yatirimlari as project sponsor and borrower in respect of an ECA-backed project financing of a 1,000MW solar plant in Turkey.
  • Advised ARDIAN and Global Infrastructure Partners on their contemplated takeover offer for Suez in the context of the hostile takeover battle between Suez and Veolia.
  • Advised eight commercial banks and the European Investment Bank (EIB) on all aspects of the c.€300m financing of the construction of the Provence Grand Large floating offshore wind farm.

Norton Rose Fulbright

Global head of the energy practice Anne Lapierre, project development, construction, acquisition and financing expert Arnaud Bélisaire and Simon Cudennec, who is well versed in Francophone African work, are at the helm of Norton Rose Fulbright‘s ‘professional and specialist’ practice. The team is experienced in acting for such noteworthy clients as the African Development Bank and TotalEnergies in complex and high-value matters, involving the provision of advice on areas from development and financing to production-sharing contracts and interconnection projects between countries. The lattermost is an area in which the team particularly excels; an illustration of its work in this field was its advice on a €2bn project to connect electricity transmission cables between Gatica in Spain and Cubnezais in France to improve electricity supply.

Practice head(s):

Anne Lapierre; Arnaud Bélisaire; Simon Cudennec


Other key lawyers:

Véronique Bruel; Ismael Sinaceur; Pierrick Ferrero; Mehdi Ait-Said


Testimonials

‘The NRF Paris team are extremely well placed to leverage quality legal work with local knowledge in Francophone jurisdictions in Africa. They are knowledgeable of the particular nuances of the specific jurisdictions and pragmatic in their application of those rules to commercial scenarios.’

‘Simon Cudennec is a safe and trusted pair of hands.’

‘Great responsiveness and expertise in the energy sector in France and Europe. The firm is structured as a sector team, which is a real asset.’

‘Arnaud Bélisaire has great adaptability and responsiveness, whilst Véronique Bruel has strong financing expertise.’

‘Professional, specialist and flexible as a team.’

‘Simon Cudennec is someone who always tries to find the best solutions in the interests of the project.’

Key clients

Akuo Energy


African Development Bank


RTE (Réseau de Transport d’Electricité)


REE (Red Electrica de Espana)


RATP


Total Energies


Tullow Oil


Djermaya CDEN energy S.A.S


OVHCloud


Afriquia Gaz


Metro


Energy Infrastructure Partners


TDF


Razel-Bec (Groupe Fayat)


Treïs Partners


Allianz Capital Partners


CGNEE


Virunga Power


Crédit Agricole


Proparco, Stoa and Swedfund


Sinopec


Lekela Power


Work highlights


  • Advising Electricity Interconnection France-Spain (INELFE) on a more than €2bn project to connect electricity transmission cables between Gatica in Spain and Cubnezais in France.
  • Advising the consortium made up of Proparco and STOA in relation to a contemplated investment in responsAbility Renewable Energy Holding (rAREH).
  • Advising EIP Race Renewables 2 Holdings in relation to the acquisition of a stake in the Boralex portfolio of renewable projects in France for a total size of 1,055MW.

Adaltys Avocats

Dedicated energy specialist Jérôme Lépée, noted for his ‘great knowledge and technical understanding of the sector’, leads the practice at Adaltys Avocats, which is well known for its expertise in advising and assisting energy operators at all stages of projects. This extends to the complex regulatory aspects, including contractual negotiation, drafting and compliance, as well as on matters of due diligence. Its matters have significant breadth and range in focus, including gas and electricity distribution, energy production, trading and supplying, and the realisation of significant projects, covering photovoltaic power plants, solar and wind power projects, and hydrogen plants. The firm works with notable clients, with Gilles Le Chatelier providing advice to EDF and Enedis, among others. Cyril Delcombel is another noteworthy member of the department.

Practice head(s):

Jérôme Lépée


Testimonials

‘The team is always very easy to access and very involved in cases; its expertise is accessible to the uninformed. They have great flexibility in their way of working and also in invoicing. To us, they feel like internal collaborators.’

‘Jérôme Lépée has great knowledge and technical understanding of the sector and the subjects, whilst Marie-Christine Combes has great corporate understanding with personal and patrimonial situations.’

‘Innovative, competitive, attentive and client-focused.’

‘Julie Gomez-Balat is a very good listener, who has mastery of her subjects. She gives real advice and always tries to find deal-maker solutions. Lucie Paitier is always available, has very good interpersonal skills, and knows how to adapt her analysis to operational issues.’

‘Jérome Lépée’s really listens to clients to find suitable solutions for them. Maxime Castiglione is rigorous.’

Key clients

CNR (Engie Group)


GRDF (Engie Group)


TEKSIAL (Engie Group)


AXIMA (Engie Group)


MCI (Engie Group)


ENGIE GREEN (Engie Group)


ENEDIS


EDF


AXPO


DALKIA (EDF group)


BCM Energy


STEF group


SERFIM group


TENERGIE


IRISOLARIS


ENERGY POOL


IB Vogt


TERRE ET LAC


SMA Group


RES Group


E.ON Business solutions


STATKRAFT


Region OCCITANIE


AVIA


Region AuRA


PROVIRIDIS


SUN’R


Aix-Marseille Metropolis


Lyon Metropolis


Jersey Guernsey electricity


Lyon airports


Marseille airport


ZE ENERGY


OHM Energy


E-PANGO


Work highlights


  • Assisting CNR on its main renewable energy projects, in particular the grand linéaire project and the hydrogen electrolyser project in Pierre-Benite, in partnership with Engie.
  • Assisting ENEDIS, in terms of strategic advice and litigation, on all the issues it faces.
  • Assisting various electricity and gas suppliers on supply aspects, contractual arrangements and the legal issues surrounding renewables.

Asafo & Co.

Asafo & Co.‘s energy practice is ably led by the firm’s co-founders Pascal Agboyibor, who is highly experienced in handling African projects and financings relating to energy, infrastructure, mining and agriculture, and natural resources and infrastructure specialist Simon Ratledge. The team is renowned for its expertise in complex Africa-based mandates in the sector; it is noted that ‘its African network is what really sets it apart’. Cendrine Delivré is particularly active in public aspects of Francophone energy projects on the continent. A standout example of its high-profile work in this regard was its advice to the Democratic Republic of Congo regarding the development of various significant green energy and infrastructure projects. Alongside its energy work, the team is also well equipped to advise on often cross-border mining projects.

Practice head(s):

Pascal Agboyibor; Simon Ratledge


Other key lawyers:

Cendrine Delivré; Bob Bastos; Sébastien Gaudu; Guillaume Escop; Gabin Gabas


Testimonials

‘The team understands our concerns and expectations, but also the complexity of our own environment. The resolutely African positioning of Asafo obviously contributes a great deal to this because it allows them to understand the problems of the continent.’

‘The team stands out for its conviction and they feel like a part of our company. Plus, technically speaking, they are excellent – but their African network is what really sets them apart from the competition. They are French-African and English-speaking – their organization is pyramidal and transverse, and the specialist teams collaborate effectively.’

‘Thanks to them we have become a respected and feared partner, which translates into substantial financial benefits or much better positions than in the past.’

Key clients

Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo


African Development Bank (AFDB)


Opec Fund for International Development (OFID)


Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA)


Entreprise Générale du Cobalt (“EGC”)


West Africa LNG Inc.


Lion’s Head Global Partners (LHGP)


The Facility for Energy Inclusion’s Off-Grid Energy Access Fund (OGEF)


Société nationale d’électricité du Sénégal (SENELEC)


MGI Energy


Société des Mines de Fer du Sénégal Oriental (MIFERSO)


Centrale Electrique du Congo (CEC)


Work highlights


  • Advising the Democratic Republic of Congo on its discussions with international investors in regards to the development in the DRC of energy projects (mainly hydroelectric) and green industrial projects.
  • Advising AfDB, OFID and BADEA on the financing of the 120MW heavy fuel oil (HFO) power plant developed in Malicounda (Senegal) by Melec Power Gen, Africa 50 and Senelec.
  • Advising EGC on a landmark transaction aiming to transform the artisanal cobalt mining sector in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

BCTG Avocats

The practice at BCTG Avocats ably advises its notable clients on matters in the energy sector, with a particular focus on renewable energy and environmental law. A key example is its work defending renewable energy clients on the construction of solar and wind energy projects in relation to the protected species derogation regime, and the team is described as having a ‘perfect knowledge of the renewable energy sector’. Its focus is largely on the handling of high-value litigious matters, such as its representation of EDF Renouvelables on the biggest offshore windfarm project in France. Diane Mouratoglou, Catherine Dupuy-Barin Des Roziers and Paul Elfassi are at the helm of the team; Elfassi and counsel Nelsie Bergès are on the board of directors of the Syndicat des Energies Renouvelables.

Practice head(s):

Diane Mouratoglou; Catherine Dupuy-Burin Des Roziers; Paul Elfassi


Other key lawyers:

Nelsie Bergès; Antoine Le Dylio


Testimonials

‘BCTG Avocats stands out for its expertise and perfect knowledge of the renewable energy sector.’

‘Paul Elfassi stands out for his way of identifying the client’s needs and for his legal technicality in renewable energy law. He and Nelsie Bergès are on the board of directors of the Syndicat des Energies Renouvelables, which makes them essential on current issues.’

‘BCTG Avocats benefits from exceptional knowledge and expertise in the field of renewable energies, both in terms of advice and litigation.’

Key clients

EDF RENOUVELABLES


VALOREM


TOTAL EREN


VOLTALIA


JPEE


VSB ENERGIES NOUVELLES


WPD ONSHORE FRANCE


TOTAL ENERGIES


ANDERA PARTNERS


GREEN LIGHT HOUSE


Work highlights


  • Handling the litigation regarding a project in Champagne-Ardennes since 2017; the project involves 64 wind turbines at an investment of €530m.
  • Handling litigation against the environmental authorisation before the Administrative Courts and advising the project company Parc Eolien Offshore de Provence Grand Large (PGL) on the financing of a floating offshore wind farm project.
  • Assisting a large number of clients in relation to the implementation of agrivoltaïsm schemes, which raise new legal questions about the complementarity of uses on the same land in the context of the fight against soil artificialisation.

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton‘s team, noted for its ‘exceptional work and advice’, is co-headed by Barthélemy Faye and Andrew Bernstein. The team has impressive experience handling both domestic and international matters, with a noteworthy presence in the African market, in particular. It has strong abilities in high-value work involving mining and metals; oil, gas and petrochemicals; power; and renewable energy. Standout recent examples of such high-stakes cases include its work advising Veolia Environnement on its successful €12.9bn acquisition of Suez, as well as its representation of the Ministry of Oil of the Republic of Iraq and two Iraqi state-owned companies in the Gas Growth Integrated (GGI) Project, which is expected to include total investments estimated at $27bn. Anton Nothias is developing his practice in overseas M&A energy-related work.

Practice head(s):

Barthélemy Faye; Andrew Bernstein


Other key lawyers:

Anton Nothias; Blanche d’Aramon


Testimonials

‘The team delivers exceptional work and advice time and time again. They remain available to assist us with what is likely their most demanding and dynamic matter and guide us through the many trials and tribulations that it entails. Always willing to jump on a group call. They are now indispensable to the matter through their knowledge, hard work, commitment and dedication.’

‘Barthélemy Faye must spend a tremendous amount of his capacity on our matter and despite this he is always willing to assist at short notice when urgency requires. Blanche d’Aramon is another extremely professional and devoted member of the team. She has been an integral part of our matter and we appreciate all the time and advice this team has given.’

Key clients

Petrosen


Veolia Environnement


Ministry of Oil of the Republic of Iraq


Sendou Nordic Power Limited


Republic of Senegal


Société Africaine de Raffinage (SAR)


Société des Hydrocarbures du Tchad


Republic of Chad


Republic of Congo and Société Nationale des Pétroles du Congo


Work highlights


  • Advised the Ministry of Oil of the Republic of Iraq and two Iraqi state-owned companies on the Gas Growth Integrated Project, a major investment project with TotalEnergies that is expected to include total investments estimated at $27bn.
  • Advised Veolia Environnement in its successful €12.9bn acquisition of Suez, in the related divestments of remedy assets approved by the European Commission.
  • Assisting the Republic of Senegal and PETROSEN, the Senegalese national oil company, on the financing of the portion of development costs to be borne by PETROSEN in connection with the Grand Tortue Ahmeyim.

CMS Francis Lefebvre

Christophe Barthélemy is at the helm of CMS Francis Lefebvre‘s ‘competent and multidisciplinary’ team, alongside head of the firm’s environmental practice Céline Cloché-Dubois and head of the European law and state aid practice Claire Vannini. The practice has a well-established ability to advise its clients on high-value transactional matters, in particular. A standout focus of its workload has been advising major players in the renewables field, such as Océole, on the development, construction and operation of significant offshore wind projects in France. Additionally, it assists on the sale of such projects, an example being Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy’s sale of a 3.9GW portfolio of onshore wind projects worth €580m to SSE Renewables. Specialist counsel Thierry Postif joined the department in January 2022 from GRDF.

Practice head(s):

Christophe Barthélemy; Céline Cloché-Dubois; Claire Vannini


Other key lawyers:

Thierry Postif


Testimonials

‘A competent and multidisciplinary team’

‘Céline Cloche-Dubois is very competent in her analyses and expertise.’

Key clients

Ailes Marines


Sorégies


GRTgaz


Océole


Ionity


Voltalis


Veolia


Siemens Gamesa


Waga Energy


Photosol


Work highlights


  • Advising Photosol on a transaction worth €385m wherein French independent energy operator Rubis has acquired 80% of photovoltaic power producer Photosol France.
  • Advising Océole on various offshore wind farm projects based in South Brittany and the Mediterranean.
  • Advising Ailes Marines on the Saint-Brieuc offshore project since the beginning of the project in 2011.

Jones Day

Jones Day‘s team has a multitude of experts at its helm, including project finance specialists Sophie Chevallier, Qian Hu and Nicolas Brice; alongside M&A experts Rémy Fekete, Audrey Bontemps, Alexandre de Verdun, Françoise Labrousse and Florent Bouyer; and energy, government and regulation specialist Philippe Delelis. Notably, the practice advised Tikehau Investment Management in connection with the fundraising of the T2 Energy Transition Fund and its co-investment vehicles, raising over €1bn. Such high-value work is not uncommon for the team, which frequently handles acquisitions, financings, and the delivery of high-profile projects, particularly in the renewable energy sector, including wind, solar, hydrogen and nuclear elements. It is also well equipped to handle matters involving oil and gas.

Practice head(s):

Sophie Chevallier; Nicolas J. Brice; Rémy Fekete; Philippe Delelis; Audrey A. Bontemps; Alexandre F. de Verdun; Francoise S. Labrousse; Florent Bouyer; Qian Hu


Key clients

TotalEnergies


Agence Togolaise d’Electrification Rurale et des Energies Renouvelables


Framatome


Cap Vert Energie (CVE)


Voltalia


Waga Energy


Engie


Mayer Brown

The team at Mayer Brown has a strong reputation for its handling of matters across the energy sector, involving such elements as renewables, oil and gas, and mining. It also has a notable focus on thermal energy. It ably assists its clients on the financing, construction, operation and maintenance of high-value projects, particularly in Africa. Illustrating the team’s cross-border work was its advice to the government of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania on a $40bn contractual agreement for the AMAN project, an integrated green hydrogen and ammonia production project based on advanced renewable production, the world’s largest renewable energy project to date. Olivier Mélédo led on this matter, and co-heads the team alongside Alban Dorin.

Practice head(s):

Olivier Mélédo; Alban Dorin


Testimonials

‘Good collaboration based on the participative management of client missions. An action-training approach that allows the client to properly follow the matter and understand interventions. Good quality results on time.’

‘Good mastery of the sector of activity and a strong ability to adapt to changes in the context of the missions of its clients.’

‘A global vision among the best in energy and infrastructure projects. The team knows how to deliver solutions in all countries, under all kinds of constraints.’

‘Olivier Méledo is an excellent lawyer, with extensive project experience in Africa and a rare market knowledge of the entire energy sector. We can entrust him with any type of project and be sure that he will deliver solutions for the client.’

Key clients

Africa Finance Corporation


Africa Legal Support Facility


Caterpillar Financial Services


Coris Bank


En/Power


Générale du Solaire


IB Vogt GmbH


Karadeniz Holding


Kouros France


Millennium Challenge Corporation


Presidency of the Republic of Benin / The Government of Benin


QatarEnergy


Storengy / ENGIE


The Government of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania


The Republic of The Gambia


The West African Power Pool (WAPP)


Total EREN


Work highlights


  • Advised the government of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania on the signing of the framework agreement for the AMAN project which is a prospective 30GW integrated green hydrogen and ammonia production project.
  • Advising Coris Bank in connection with the financing of the Bomboré gold mining project in Burkina Faso.
  • Advising Karadeniz on the negotiation, development and financing of floating liquefied natural gas facilities in Africa, including floating storage and regasification projects in Mozambique, Senegal, South Africa and Côte d’Ivoire.

Orrick

Yves Lepage heads Orrick‘s ‘competent and professional’ energy practice, which has strong capabilities handling matters in the sector, a predominant focus being on renewables. Notably, the team is advising the French government on the framework for proposed offshore wind farm projects, which is led by the ‘excellent’ Geoffroy Berthon. The team has a prominent specialism for regulatory work in the area, as well as on M&A matters, and regularly handles contracts, construction, development and financing mandates. Alongside its domestic cases, the practice also has significant involvement in African work. Senior associate Constance Boillot is another key team member.

Practice head(s):

Yves Lepage


Other key lawyers:

Geoffroy Berthon; Constance Boillot; Janina Dahmouh; Foucaud Jaulin


Testimonials

‘A very competent and professional team with sharp expertise and a strong ability to work on innovative legal issues.’

‘Geoffroy Berthon is both excellent on the content and able to increase his client’s skills on the subjects. The rest of the team, namely Constance Boillot and Janina Dahmouh, is also of an excellent level.’

‘Great ability to adapt and react, and a good level of analysis.’

‘Geoffroy Berthon is a great teacher with great availability, and he provides analyses of high quality, which is essential.’

‘The team has good knowledge and significant experience of the industry sector, including Francophone African electricity infrastructure development and project financing. Plus, an ability to be pragmatic with counterparts to assist in resolving difficult points. There is good team availability and good, clear document drafting.’

‘A team capable of advising its clients on all aspects of transactions in the energy sector. The corporate aspects including competition law and taxation are perfectly mastered, as are the regulatory and public law aspects.’

‘Geoffroy Berthon, Janina Dahmouh and Constance Boillot are all rigorous lawyers, extremely aware of the evolutions of the legislation, who also master the more operational and technical questions, which are sometimes intimately linked to legal subjects in the energy sector. This team has been working together for several years and the result for clients is an ability to respond as well as possible and quickly to various requests.’

‘Foucaud Jaulin, on the contractual aspects of major international projects, knows how to perfectly manage the negotiations and the issues and tensions that may arise during this type of transaction. He puts his experience in Central Asia, Eastern Europe and Africa at the service of the progress of projects and offers pragmatic, tailor-made and effective solutions to advanced negotiations.’

Key clients

Africa50


Ardian


Colas


Crédit Agricole


DIF Capital Partners


Egis


ENEO


Engie


EOS Holding


Eranove Group


Fayat


Geogas LNG


Gridworks (British International Investment)


GuarantCo


La Banque des Territoires (Caisse des Dépôts Group)


Neoen


Republic of Mali


Romande Energie


Société Générale


The French Government


Voigt & Collegen/SolEs Badajoz


Voltalia


Work highlights


  • Advising the French government on four offshore wind farms to develop 6GW capacity in the next few years.
  • Assisting Gridworks, Eranove and AEE Power in the conclusion of concession agreements for the development and financing of mini-grids and power generation plants and now on all financing, EPC and O&M legal aspects.
  • Advising Ardian Infrastructure in connection with the signature with Groupe Casino, Tikehau Capital and Bpifrance of a unilateral commitment to acquire a majority stake in the capital of GreenYellow, worth €1.4bn.

Ravetto Associés

The team at Ravetto Associés has strong competencies in energy, namely in advising its key clients on sales and acquisitions of significant value, as well as on contracts, negotiations and financings. Its matters are frequently cross-border in nature and involve assisting on renewable energies in large part, covering wind, solar and hydropower generation. A standout example of the team’s work was its provision of advice to Norske Skog Golbey regarding the development of a biomass co-generation unit using recycled wood in France, a project worth €200m. Firm founder Paul Ravetto, Patrick Labayle-Pabet, Anne-Laure Proisy, Claire Bretheau and Lucie Balmette, who was promoted to counsel in September of 2021, are the specialists leading the department.

Practice head(s):

Paul Ravetto; Patrick Labayle-Pabet; Anne-Laure Proisy; Claire Bretheau; Lucie Balmette


Other key lawyers:

Antoine Guyomard


Testimonials

‘Paul Ravetto has extensive legal knowledge in the sector and great responsiveness. He assists us well in technical and sometimes thorny issues.’

‘A team of experts in the energy market in France, with expertise covering the entire value chain.’

‘The partners of Ravetto are extremely responsive, and work across the entire energy sector, without generating any conflicts of interest. Each partner also offers specific expertise, depending on technologies and market segments, and is close to the institutions that govern the French electricity market.’

‘Claire Bretheau is the most reliable, experienced, foresighted, reactive and cooperative partner. We can only recommend to work with her, especially when it comes to the cross-border financing of energy projects.’

‘Anne-Laure Proisy, Lucie Balmette and Antoine Guyomard share strengths in the analysis and drafting of conditions agreed between the parties, as well as in listening and adapting to customer needs and expectations. They also have outstanding expertise in investing in power generation projects.’

‘The combination of expertise in energy law and public procurement law constitutes a rare alloy, particularly valuable for public energy buyers.’

‘Expert, dynamic and attentive teams. The firm specialises in the energy sector but has cross-functional skills. There is great responsiveness and availability for us. The teams also treat topics and issues with the utmost professionalism and complex terms are vulgarized in order to make them accessible. A real business partner.’

‘Valuable expertise in the team.’

Key clients

Landesbank Saar (SaarLB)


Demeter Partners


Bpifrance


CIC


BKW


Enercon Independent Power Producer GmbH (EIPP)


Alterric (merger EIPP and EWE)


Industrie Werke Basel (IWB)


ABO Wind


VSB Energies Nouvelles


Volkswind


Voltalia


H2Air


Eolec (EcoJoule construct GmbH)


Auxifip


TotalEnergies Renouvelables (ex. Total Quadran)


Impax


Deutsche Kreditbank AG


Saint-Gobain


RATP


COPACEL


Fnac Darty


Norske Skog Golbey


Swiss Krono


Alpiq


Etat (French State)


Commission de régulation de l’énergie (French energy regulatory authority)


Aptar


CDC (Caisse des dépôts et consignations)


ArcelorMittal


Eiffel Investment Group


Weinberg Capital Partners


GNVert


Work highlights


  • Advised BKW Energy on an acquisition from Mirova and RIVE Private Investment of six wind farms in Northern France, for a total installed capacity of 105.7MW.
  • Advised Norske Skog Golbey on the financing of an industrial ecology project for the paper mill of Golbey, alongside Veolia and Pearl Infrastructure Capital.
  • Advising the French Ministry of Economy and Finance with respect to the bankruptcy of the electric supplier of the French State (HYDROPTION).

Watson Farley & Williams LLP

The practice at Watson Farley & Williams LLP is comprised of an array of experts across the sector, including head of regulatory and energy projects Laurent Battoue, specialist in financing and bankability aspects Laurence Martinez Bellet, expert in joint ventures Arnaud Félix, M&A specialist Thomas Rabain, and lead on tax aspects of energy projects Romain Girtanner. The team has strong capabilities in handling high-value and complex matters across the sector. Its workload is focused on projects in both France and Francophone Africa, advising on structuring matters, negotiations, restructurings, due diligence, acquisitions and sales. The team has particular expertise in renewable energy, having advised on the financing of notable offshore wind farms as well as having assisted Advising Crédit Agricole Group, Bpifrance and Caisse d’Epargne with the refinancing of three renewables portfolios, worth €300m.

Practice head(s):

Laurent Battoue; Laurence Martinez-Bellet; Arnaud Félix; Thomas Rabain; Romain Girtanner


Other key lawyers:

Arnaud Troizier; Léna Le Falher; Julie Michelangeli; Antoine Bois-Minot


Testimonials

‘The team is very available and deal-oriented, with a constant desire to facilitate commercial negotiations and relevant advice to estimate the risks and opportunities at each stage.’

‘Laurence Martinez Bellet is fantastically personable and knows how to prioritize subjects appropriately. Léna Le Falher and Julie Michelangeli are very good technicians; efficient and available. The team allows its clients to focus on commercial matters whilst being in complete control on the legal side.’

‘The team is very well-organized to respond to all the problems of our sector of activity and any related themes. There is real traceability and overall control of the file. They stand out to us on the basis of expertise and experience in the fields of energy, M&A and project financing.’

‘Laurent Battoue coordinates and manages almost all of the files we entrust to the team – he excels not only in energy issues but also in project financing. He is a considerable asset in the success of our operations and a trustworthy lawyer.’

Key clients

ADEME Investissement


Apex Energies


Auxifip


Bpifrance


BayWa r.e.


Caisse d’Epargne Provence, Alpes, Corse (CEPAC)


Eolmed


Glennmont Partners


Les Eoliennes Flottantes du Golfe du Lion


Omnes Capital


Predica


Tikehau Investment Management


Total Eren


ZE Energy


Work highlights


  • Advising project company Les Eoliennes Flottantes du Golfe du Lion on the legal due diligence and structuring and negotiation of the non-recourse financing of three floating offshore wind turbines.
  • Advising project company Eolmed, whose main shareholders are Qair Marine, TotalEnergies Renewables and BW Ideol, on the structuring and negotiation of the non-recourse financing of the 30MW Eolmed floating offshore wind farm.
  • Advising Bpifrance, IDIA Capital Investissement and the founders of leading French solar energy platform Apex Energies Group on its acquisition by Macquarie Asset Management.

White & Case LLP

The energy practice at White & Case LLP ably handles a broad array of matters for its clients. François-Guilhem Vaissier, who is experienced in dealing with major projects in France and Francophone Africa, co-heads the team, alongside Michael Polkinghorne and Marc Petitier. The team advises on significant acquisitions, contract negotiations, and in bids for major projects; its matters are often cross-border and involve high values, particularly in the renewables sector. Jean-Luc Champy has significant expertise in offshore wind projects. A standout recent case for the team was its representation of Oxy in a negotiation between major players in the market, including Occidental and TotalEnergies, relating to a key hydrocarbon asset in Algeria.

Practice head(s):

François-Guilhem Vaissier; Michael Polkinghorne; Marc Petitier


Other key lawyers:

Jean-Luc Champy; Amaury de Feydeau; Paule Biensan; Marc Petitier


Key clients

Compagnie Ivoirienne d’Electricité (CIE)


Eranove


Emerging Capital Partners (ECP)


Eiffage


Eranove


Iberdrola Renovables


Bluefloat energy


Réseau de Transport d’Electricité (RTE)


Volta Trucks


Vinci Concessions


Themis Energy


Vauban Infrastructure Partners


DIF Capital Partners


Natixis


Société Générale


Fonds Gabonais d’Investissements Stratégiques (FGIS)


Coriance


NGE


Government of Nigeria


Macquarie Asset Management


Enedis


Basalt Infrastructure Partners LP


Compagnie Ivoirienne d’Electricité (CIE)


ENGIE


Neoen


Fusion for Energy


Work highlights


  • Representing Iberdrola Renovables Energia in connection with its bid submission for the 1GW offshore wind mega-project in the Normandy region in France.
  • Representing Oxy in the negotiation of a new production sharing contract (PSC) between SONATRACH, Occidental, Eni and TotalEnergies relating to a major hydrocarbon asset in Algeria.
  • Representing Macquarie Asset Management on its €2.5bn enterprise value acquisition of Reden Solar from InfraVia Capital Partners and Eurazeo.

Aramis

Aramis

Practice head(s):

Cédric de Pouzilhac; Etienne Amblard


Testimonials

‘A perfect understanding of energy issues amongst team members who are always available or accessible, and always very educational and innovative.’

‘Cédric De Pouzilhac is friendly, accessible, available and relevant, with a legal vision and strategy. He is also distinguished by his very fine and pragmatic analyses, by his ability to embrace different issues and to work in collaborative mode both with his team and with us. He helps his clients grow through the relevance of his analyses!’

‘The Aramis lawyers with whom we have been able to work are excellent. They perfectly master their subject both on the substance and on the procedural aspects.’

‘Aramis lawyers are available and attentive. They show great serenity and inspire great confidence. Their knowledge and mastery of the sector are important and standout factors.’

‘An efficient and responsive team.’

‘Very committed and available lawyers, who adapt and increase their skills in areas that are not necessarily familiar to them at the start of matters.’

Key clients

EDF S.A.


Enedis


Izivia


Citelum


Syndicat Mixte Autolib’


Tahiti Nui Telecom


La Poste


Renault Group


Encevo


Electricité de Strasbourg


Dalkia


Tamini


Work highlights


  • Representing EDF in a multi-counterpart litigation about the performance of a force majeure clause related to the Covid-19 situation within the scope of French regulated access to nuclear energy (ARENH).
  • Representing Izivia in expert proceedings initiated against the manufacturer and the supplier of 200 electric charging stations in France, with relation to product liability.
  • Representing Enedis, in charge of the distribution of electricity within 95% of the French territory, in a class action brought by approx. 150 plaintiffs concerning the implementation of an intelligent electric metering system.

Allen & Overy LLP

Allen & Overy LLP

Practice head(s):

Alexandre Ancel; Driss Bererhi; Romaric Lazerges


Other key lawyers:

Arthur Sauzay; Amine Bourabiat; Tzvétomira Pacheva; Vianney Leroux


Testimonials

‘An available and competent team offering a high degree of technicality and precision, which is appreciated and reassuring.’

‘Arthur Sauzay and Vianney Leroux are attentive and pragmatic in their response to questions; they are also available and responsive.’

Key clients

Acciona


APMC


Caisse des dépôts et consignations


CDPQ


DEME


DIF


EDPR


Engie


Eni


Holding Gay


IFM


Infracapital


Infravia Capital Partners


Les Eoliennes en Mer


Macquarie


Ocean Winds


Omnes Capital


PGGM


Predica


Vauban Infrastructures


Work highlights


  • Advised investment company Eurazeo on its investment in Electra, a French company specialising in fast charging for electric vehicles.
  • Advised the European Investment Bank on the €170m financing of the world’s first and largest baseload renewable energy power plant using hydrogen technology in French Guiana.
  • Advised EDP Renewables on a €25m investment in the context of the IPO of Lhyfe, a pioneer in renewable green hydrogen production, on the regulated market of Euronext in Paris.

August Debouzy

August Debouzy

Practice head(s):

Leïla Hubeaut


Other key lawyers:

Valéry Denoix de Saint Marc; Laure Bonin; Julien Wagmann; Julien Aucomte; Vincent Brenot; Ergen Ege


Key clients

Envision AESC


NetZero


NEoT Capital


TotalEnergies


Qair International


Winning Simandou Consortium


EDF


Caisse des dépôts et consignations


Sabella


Meridiam


Work highlights


  • Advising Winning Consortium Simandou for the co-development of the Simandou integrated infrastructure project, which is estimated at $15bn and includes the development of 650km of railway and an industrial port.
  • Assisting Envision AESC with the implementation in France of a giga-factory project for the production of battery modules, estimated at $2bn.
  • Assisting Voltalia with a new project consisting of the design, financing, construction, operation, maintenance and transfer of two solar photovoltaic plants to be located at Farrafenni and Basse, in Gambia.

Bentam Societe D'Avocats

Bentam Societe D'Avocats

Practice head(s):

Guillaume Ansaloni


Other key lawyers:

Marie-Cécile Rieu; Alexandra Guilluy


Testimonials

‘We work very regularly with Bentam. The exchanges are very pleasant and the teams take time to think and provide us with the appropriate answers on complex subjects. The teams are available and very educational, even on the most recent subjects. We have never encountered any blocking difficulties and we will continue to work with this firm in the future.’

‘What distinguishes Mr Ansaloni from the competition is his pedagogy, his availability and his very broad knowledge of project financing. He is a recognised lawyer on the market and it is always a pleasure to be represented by him.’

‘A firm that puts the client at the centre of its concerns. Operations are set up in a secure framework, leaving plenty of room for innovation and reflection.’

‘High availability, exceptional workforce. Guillaume Ansaloni breathes positive energy into the firm.’

‘A team close to its clients and their needs. The partners are concerned to meet the expectations of their clients, both from the point of view of the outline of the missions entrusted and from a technical point of view. Constant exchanges allow for optimized interaction.’

‘The Bentam team is available and always attentive to its clients. The strength of this team lies in the involvement, the experience and the quality of the advice offered. Bentam distinguishes itself from other firms by its tailor-made approach to each transaction, which leads to very satisfactory results in terms of negotiation and documentation.’

‘Guillaume Ansaloni and the entire team of Bentam are distinguished not only by their extreme professionnalism and excellent legal skills, but also by their highest level of personal integrity and complete dedication to clients.’

Key clients

CREDIT INDUSTRIEL ET COMMERCIAL


Bpifrance


AUXIFIP


LER DEVELOPPEMENT – WATT & CO INGENIERIE


EDMOND DE ROTHSCHILD ASSET MANAGEMENT (UK) LTD


BANQUE POPULAIRE GRAND OUEST


RGREEN INVEST


CREDIT COOPERATIF


JP ENERGIE ENVIRONNEMENT


GENERALE DU SOLAIRE


RESERVOIR SUN


SEMARDEL


Work highlights


  • Advised AUXIFIP, BPIFRANCE, CREDIT AGRICOLE TOURAINE POITOU as mandated lead arrangers and original lenders for the €170m financing of 250 photovoltaic plants developed by TECHNIQUE SOLAIRE.
  • Advised EDMOND DE ROTHSCHILD ASSET MANAGEMENT and the subscribers with respect to a €25m green bond issuance by LA FRANCAISE DE L’ENERGIE for the financing of coal mine gas power plants.
  • Advised AUXIFIP as mandated lead arranger and the finance parties for the €85m financing of an 85MWp portfolio of photovoltaic plants under construction, developed by GENERALE DU SOLAIRE.

Bird & Bird

Bird & Bird

Practice head(s):

Sibylle Weiler; Boris Martor


Other key lawyers:

Olivier Fazio; Stan Andreassen


Testimonials

‘Availability, accessibility and a very good knowledge of technical subjects.’

‘Olivier Fazio is always available and accessible.’

‘A multidisciplinary approach and unprecedented international experience; very operational, very concrete, with immediately usable results.’

‘The team has great availability and responsiveness; and a good standard of listening to needs, in addition to its adaptability.’

Key clients

Clean H2 Infra Fund SLP


Mirova Energy Transition 5 SLP


HY24


DS Smith


Volkswind France


Acciona Esco France


Enagas


Enertrag France


Envitec Biogas Ag


Vantage infrastructure


West African Power Pool


Integrated Power Technologies – Powertech SAL Offshore


Minister of Energy of Cameroon


Alstom


Canadian Solar


Ferme Eolienne de la Belle Etoile


Electricité du Mali


Terna


Boreas SARL


Ferme Eolienne Mortier Jumeau


BayWa r e, France SA


Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner

Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner

Practice head(s):

Jean-Pierre Delvigne; David Blondel


Other key lawyers:

Maryne Gouhier; Charles Sechao; Gwenael Fassot


Testimonials

‘The team is very available and always attentive to the various issues. Communication with clients is very satisfactory and always very pleasant and cordial. We have developed over the years a good cohesion with the team.’

‘Jean-Pierre Delvigne and his team, in-particular Maryne Gouhier, are always very understanding of the problems that our company can have in the development of projects. They accompany us and help us constantly in communication with our various interlocutors and with the banks. Charles Sechao and David Blondel are always very professional and attentive to our requests.’

‘A very professional, serious and competent team; it is very pleasant to work together.’

Key clients

Rgreen Invest


DBT


Arkolia Energies


Apex Energies


Qair International


Bpifrance


BPCE ENERGECO


Caisse d’Epargne Provence, Alpes, Corse (CEPAC)


Caisse d’Epargne Ile-de-France


Caisse d’Epargne et de Prévoyance Ile-de-France


Unifergie (Auxifip – Crédit Agricole Group)


Banque Palatine


Caisse régionale de crédit agricole mutuel du Languedoc (Crédit Agricole Group)


Reden Solar


Group Volta


Prejeance Industrial


Acofi Gestion


Eiffel Investment Group


Crédit du Nord


ARKEA


Reservoir Sun


BPCE Energeco


La Banque Postale


Enerfip


Valeco


Albioma


R3


Work highlights


  • Advised Rgreen Invest on its strategic joint venture with NW Group and NW Storm and its related €300m fundraising for the development of EV charging and energy storage solutions.
  • Advised DBT on a number of transactions including a €50m issue of convertible bonds set up by ABO, which followed a €200m fundraising through the issue of convertible bonds for the development of EV charging solutions.
  • Advised Caisse d’Epargne CEPAC and Arkolia Energies on the €69.7m three-part financing of eight companies held by Arkolia Energies developing 325-plus rooftop and ground solar farms.

De Gaulle Fleurance & Associés

De Gaulle Fleurance & Associés

Practice head(s):

Sylvie Perrin; Jonathan Souffir


Other key lawyers:

Julie Cornely; Sophie Weil; Alexandra Nowak; Frédéric Paquet


Testimonials

‘The firm boasts a very high level of professionalism and intimate knowledge of the sector alongside reactivity and availability.’

Key clients

ACOFI


ADEME


AMUNDI TRANSITION ENERGÉTIQUE


ANDERA PARTNERS


AQUA ASSET MANAGEMENT


ASPIRAVI


BANQUE PALATINE


BANQUES POPULAIRES GRAND-OUEST


BAYWA R.E. FRANCE


BNP PARIBAS


BPCE


BPCE ENERGECO


BPI


CAISSE DES DEPOTS ET CONSIGNATION


CAISSES D’EPARGNE


CAP VERT


CREDIT AGRICOLE


CRÉDIT COOPÉRATIF


CRÉDIT DU NORD


CRÉDIT MUTUEL – CIC


CRÉDIT MUTUEL CAPITAL PRIVÉ / FONDS SILOE INFRASTRUCTURES


DEMETER PARTNERS


EIFFEL INVESTISSEMENT GROUP


ENERGIE CIRCULAIRE


ENERTIME


ENGIE


ENGIE GREEN


EDF RENOUVELABLES


EODEN


EVERGAZ


FINERGREEN


GÉNÉRALE DU SOLAIRE


HELIA CONSEIL


INFRAM


INNOENERGY


JOHN LAING


LA BANQUE POSTALE


LA POSTE


LES MOUSQUETAIRES


LHYFE


MERIDIAM


NTR PLC


PEARL


PHOTOSOL


QUAERO


RGREEN


SANTANDER


SEQENS


SMEG – SOCIÉTÉ MONEGASQUE D’ÉNERGIE


SOLVEO


SUEZ


STATKRAFT


TOTAL


URBASOLAR


VALOREM


VERKOR


Work highlights


  • Advised BNP Paribas on the first global and transversal project of tokenisation and distribution of a bond intended to finance a photovoltaic project sponsored by EDF ENR.
  • Assisted on a complete audit report on behalf of the sponsors as well as the lenders, in the negotiation and drafting of the financing documentation for the Green Valley Energy project.
  • Assisted Greencoat Renewables in the acquisition of a 65MW portfolio of operating wind farms in France from Volkswind, a subsidiary of Axpo.

Dentons

Dentons

Practice head(s):

Marc Fornacciari


Other key lawyers:

Jean-Marc Allix; Dorothée Griveaux


Key clients

EOLFI


Aera Group


CVE


ENGIE


European Federation of Energy Traders (EFET)


Gran Colombia Gold


Ministry for the Ecological Transition


Misen Enterprises AB


Petroleos de Venezuela


Qair


Rio Tinto


Statkraft


STX


TotalEnergies


Veolia


Work highlights


  • Advising STX on the trade of energy saving certificates, which are one of the legal instruments France has put in place to implement the national energy efficiency strategy.
  • Advising Caisse des dépôts et des Consignations (CDC) on the financing of the conception of a photovoltaic farm located in the Département du Gard French Region which was granted to Voltalia through its project company.
  • Advised Agence Française de Développement (AFD) on the implementation of a contingent loan of €100m over 15 years to GuarantCo to fund climate change projects.

DLA Piper

DLA Piper

Practice head(s):

Ruxandra Lazar; Jérôme Pentecoste; Eric Villateau; Michael Ostrove; Alexander Brabant


Other key lawyers:

Jean-Luc Heckenroth


Testimonials

‘Strong mining code domain expertise and great availability in the team.’

‘A well-established multi-disciplinary team, which deals well with complex subjects.’

‘Great at listening to clients’ needs, with specific legal skills in niche areas such as the mining code. They have personal and human qualities and give very good advice.’

Key clients

Association française des producteurs de géothermie (AFPG)


AVZ Minerals


Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations


Glennmont Partners


LBBW


Maurel & Prom


PROPARCO


Republic of Guinea


Société Générale


Vauban Infrastructure


Vermilion REP


Work highlights


  • Obtained a significant win for the Republic of Guinea in its multibillion-euro investment arbitration against BSGR in relation to development rights over the world’s largest iron deposit in Simandou.
  • Advising a major international group in respect of the call for tenders of the French government for the development of an offshore wind farm in Normandy of approximately 1,000MW.
  • Advising the French professional association of geothermal companies in relation to the reform of the French Mining Code.

DS Avocats

DS Avocats

Practice head(s):

Véronique Fröding; Stéphane Gasne; Grégory Gutierrez


Other key lawyers:

Jean-Marc Loncle; Raphaël Romi


Key clients

Breeze Three Energy


CORSICA SOLE


CNPE


DZBank


EDF


EDPR


Energiequelle


Eqiom


Fnac Darty


GRDF


Hy2Gen


IDEC ENERGY


Menissez


Messer


OX2


Rencore Energy


RWE


Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy


STEAG New Energies


Sun’R


TEREGA


Vergnet Hydro


World Bank


Work highlights


  • Advising on the first industrial carbon capture storage in France, which would be one of the first of its kind in Europe.
  • Advised FNAC Darty on the drafting, negotiation and execution of a greenfield Corporate PPA with a renewable energies developer, relating to a 20MW PV plant.
  • Advising Vergnet Hydro in the context of the negotiation with the government of Ivory Coast for the delivery and installation of 1,000 hybrid solar water pumps.

Franklin

Franklin

Practice head(s):

Jérôme Michel; Xavier Marchand


Key clients

77320 BIOGAZ


Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations (CDC)


Enedis


Evergaz/Meridiam


Ineo Provence and Cote d’Azur


Seven


Total Petrochemicals France


Work highlights


  • Advising Enedis in litigation related to the installation of Linky smart meters before several judicial courts in France at both first and second instance levels.
  • Advised Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations in the acquisition of a stake in a company in charge of developing and operating the largest ground-based photovoltaic power plant in Europe.
  • Advising a large Benelux group on its cross-border virtual PPA for five European countries.

Hogan Lovells (Paris) LLP

Hogan Lovells (Paris) LLP

Practice head(s):

Bruno Cantier; Christelle Coslin; Xavier Doumen; Olivier Fille-Lambie; Laurent Gouiffès


Other key lawyers:

Alexandre Salem


Testimonials

‘Advanced technical knowledge. Easy collaboration. Exceptional availability.’

‘Xavier Doumen and the team have been dynamic, responsive, flexible and committed. The transaction they supported is very complex but they have remained committed and focused throughout.’

‘Xaiver Doumen, Alexandre Salem and the entire team are truly phenomenal. I don’t think we could have better support.’

Key clients

Themis Energy


BPI FRANCE FINANCEMENT


Caisse d’Épargne Grand Est Europe


Engie


TSK


DIPF Djermaya Holdings


EDF


Albioma


CIP


Meridiam


Work highlights


  • Advising Denham Capital on the acquisition of the project company in charge of the 34MW Djermaya solar power plant alongside InfraCo Africa.
  • Advising Equinor on its investment in Lithium de France, marking an entry both into France and into the domain of raw material production for batteries.
  • Advised EDF on a new €1.5bn revolving credit facility providing a social sustainability-linked pricing mechanism with a particular focus on social responsibility.

Jeantet

Jeantet

Practice head(s):

Karl Hepp De Sevelinges; Thierry Lauriol; Christophe Jacomin


Other key lawyers:

Martin Tavaut; Joséphine Hage Chahin; Hélène Gelas; Alexae Fournier de Faÿ; Philippe Raybaud


Testimonials

‘A very high technicality and responsiveness to clients.’

‘Thierry Lauriol has an exceptional mastery of energy law, mining, business law and arbitration issues and a good knowledge of the legal environment in Africa – a very good practitioner with whom working is pleasant and instructive.’

‘Joséphine Hage Chahin masters arbitration procedure perfectly.’

‘Martin Tavaut is meticulous and has good mastery of legal issues, particularly related to energy. He is a very courteous and pleasant person to work with.’

‘The team has strong expertise, availability, listening skills, and a fair price to quality ratio.’

Key clients

ENBRIDGE


ISLAMIC REPUBLIQUE OF MAURITANIA – MINISTER OF PETROLEUM, MINING AND ENERGY


King & Spalding LLP

King & Spalding LLP

Practice head(s):

Mehdi Haroun


Other key lawyers:

Nora Djeraba


Key clients

Anadarko


CNPC


Renaissance Heavy Industries


McPhy Energy


Panoro Energy


Work highlights


  • Representing numerous clients in 22 investment arbitrations brought under the Energy Charter Treaty against Spain, Italy, Bulgaria and Romania.
  • Represented Spanish energy company Unión Fenosa Gas in three arbitrations against the government of Egypt and its national natural gas company, EGAS, as well as in an ICSID annulment proceeding.
  • Advised McPhy Energy on an investment and partnership protocol with Hype, a brand owned by STEP and Hydrogen Refuelling Solutions.

LPA-CGR avocats

LPA-CGR avocats

Practice head(s):

Fabrice Cassin


Testimonials

‘Excellent technical skills in the energy sector.’

‘A very professional team.’

‘A seasoned team, aware of all regulatory developments in the field of renewables.’

‘Fabrice Cassin anticipates regulatory changes and is creative with regard to appeals.’

Key clients

Iberdrola


EP Power


SNCF Energie


Corsica Sole


Orano


Calycé


BayWa r.e


Akuo


JP Energie Environnement (JPEE)


Urbasolar


Windstrom


Banque des Territoires


Amarenco


Reservoir Sun


H2Air


BPI France


Société Générale


Pinsent Masons LLP

Pinsent Masons LLP

Practice head(s):

Eran Chvika


Key clients

HSBC Bank plc


Axima Concept


InfraRed Capital Partners


NORD/LB – Norddeutsche Landesbank


Cho Tiper (Europlasma group)


Engie


Neoen


International Finance Corporation


VTB Capital plc


Société Générale


La Banque Postale


Envision


Atalante Energies


Crédit Agricole Corporate & Investment Bank


Black & Veatch Deutschland GmbH


Work highlights


  • Advising Omega Consortium in connection with the delivery of a ground-breaking €30bn experimental nuclear project, ITER, in the south of France.
  • Advising InfraRed Capital Partners in connection with the financing by La Banque Postale and BPIfrance of the acquisition from Envision of a portfolio of wind farms with a total capacity of 42MW.

Reed Smith

Reed Smith

Practice head(s):

Victoria Westcott; Peter Rosher; Clément Fouchard


Simmons & Simmons

Simmons & Simmons

Practice head(s):

Yves Baratte


Testimonials

‘Yves Baratte is really top in terms of reactivity, proactivity, and anticipation of issues.’

‘Yves Baratte is very attentive to the needs of his clients.’

Key clients

Djibouti Ports and Free Zone Authority (DPFZA)


Armada Metals Pty Limited


First Quantum Minerals Ltd


KfW


Bluegen Energy


EDF


CG International Petroleum Corp


Macquarie Bank Ltd


Vestas


Resource Capital Funds


Work highlights


  • Advising Djibouti Ports and Free Zone Authority on the negotiation of all agreements for a major joint venture with Chinese state-owned entities for the re-development of Djibouti’s historical port into a mixed-use commercial, business and residential area.
  • Advising KfW, AFD and EIB on a concessional loan to the Moroccan Agency for Solar Energy with respect to the NOOR Midelt combined CSP and PV plant in Midelt in Morocco.
  • Advising CGIP in relation to the acquisition of a hydrocarbon exploration company holding several oil exploration assets in Chad.

Trinity International LLP

Trinity International LLP

Practice head(s):

Pierre Bernheim; Marianna Sédéfian; Lucien Bou Chaaya


Other key lawyers:

Stéphane Brabant; Maxime Damphousse


Testimonials

‘We use the firm for legal issues facing West African operations that require discretion and the ability to work seamlessly with local counsel. Team members are always responsive and make me feel like their only client.’

‘Lucien Bou Chaayais is insightful, responsive, and truly embraces being part of the client team in order to direct activities; he is never overbearing and a true collaborator.’

Key clients

AFD (French Development Agency)


Africa 50


Africa Ren Invest Ltd


Africa Synergy


Africinvest


Aggreko International Projects


ALSF


AP Moller


Assala Energy


ATI (African Trade Insurance Agency)


B2Gold Corp.


CIGen CO


Coöperatief Climate Fund Managers U.A.


Cross Boundary Energy Management


EAIF (Emerging Africa Infrastructure Fund)


EUROPEN INVESTMENT BANK (EIB)


EDFI Management N.V


Endeavor Energy


Eni


ERAMET and Grande Côte Opérations


Eurasian Resources Group


FEI Ongrid LP


Evolution II ESCO Mauritius


Globeleq


Government of Ivory Coast through ALSF


Ministry of Energy and Hydrocarbons of Madagascar


JIRAMA (Madagascar’s state-owned electricity and water utility company)


Proparco


Qair International


Rawbank


Renewable Energy Performance Platform (REPP)


Scatec Solar ASA


Senergy2 SASU


STOA Infra& Energy S.A. (STOA)


Voltalia SA


Walo Storage SASU


Winning Consortium


Work highlights


  • Acting for Scatec as winner of the tender process in Tunisia for 500MW solar PV projects under the concession scheme with three solar projects.
  • Advising the Ministry of Energy and Hydrocarbons of Madagascar and JIRAMA in connection with the development and financing of various hydro IPPs in Madagascar.
  • Advising Winning Consortium in relation to all aspects of the Simandou integrated mining project (mine, rail and port) in Guinea.

Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP

Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP

Practice head(s):

Amir Jahanguiri


Other key lawyers:

Antoine Bouzanquet; Hugo Nocerino


Testimonials

‘Very good sector knowledge and availability.’

‘Amir Jahanguiri is an excellent professional, very available, particularly committed to ensuring quality client service. Hugo Nocerino is very competent, responsive and friendly.’

‘A very good team – experienced and available.’

‘Antoine Bouzanquet has a very good commercial understanding of the projects he works on. He is also very available.’

Key clients

Meridiam


Ardian


European Investment Bank


Société Générale


Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations


Hydrogène de France


Credit Agricole CIB


La Banque Postale


BBVA


Altitude


CNP Assurances


EDF Renewables


CMA CGM


Nareva


STOA Infra & Energy


Work highlights


  • Advised Bpifrance as reference shareholder in connection with the €3.5bn financial restructuring of Vallourec, a company involved in premium tubular solutions for the energy markets.
  • Advised a pool of lenders on a €55.6m senior secured loan facility and a €4m VAT bridge facility in relation to the financing of the development by Allego of over 2,000 fast and ultra-fast EV charge points.
  • Represented sponsors and the SPV in connection with the development and financing of the CEOG project, a first of its kind power plant combining a solar PV farm with a hydrogen chain.