Energy and natural resources in Ireland

A&L Goodbody LLP

A&L Goodbody LLP stands out for the breadth of its energy practice, advising on wind, solar, battery storage, interconnectors, and oil and gas work. Beyond handling the development of energy projects, the team acts for energy users and is increasingly active in the growing data centre sector. Practice head Ross Moore draws on his expertise as a banking lawyer to advise on energy-related financings and also advises clients on regulatory issues. John Dallas and Kevin Feeney are also key partners in the team, with deep experience advising all parties involved in the development of energy projects. Senior associate David McElroy is praised by clients and specialises in the renewable energy sector.

Practice head(s):

Ross Moore

Other key lawyers:

John Dallas; Kevin Feeney; David McElroy; Aisling O’Donoghue

Testimonials

‘They have excellent experience in the energy sector and are able to adapt contracts to bespoke deals as the lawyers have a good commercial understanding.’

‘We really appreciate Ross Moore and David McElroy – both have done excellent work for us this year.’

‘We valued the availability, flexibility and commitment of the team members throughout the complex process of the operation.’

‘John Dallas has amazing availability and was very helpful to us in an Irish context that we did not know well. He did a lot of work with the other law firm advising us to avoid loss of time, and helped a lot through his advice, with very valuable inputs and comments. Aisling O’Donoghue was very efficient in the context of the closing. David McElroy was very precise and gave us a lot of relevant advice during the documentation process.’

Key clients

Allied Irish Bank plc, Natixis, Banco de Sabadell, S.A., Export Development Canada, and Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (as a club of lenders)

Allied Irish Banks plc

The European Investment Bank

Ulster Bank

Iberdrola S.A.

La Banque Postale

Triodos Energy Transition Europe Fund

Menora Mivtachim Energy

Energia Group

NTR plc

Greencoat Renewables

BlackRock Investment Management (UK) Limited

Irish Water / Ervia

Oriel Windfarm Limited / Parkwind N.V.

Sustainable Development Capital LLP and SDCL EE CO (Ireland) Limited

Echelon Data Centres (owned by Aldgate Developments Limited)

Nord LB

Banco Santander, S.A., Paris Branch, ING Bank N.V., Natixis London Branch, ABN AMRO Bank N.V., NIBC Bank N.V., Nomura Corporate Funding Americas, LLC, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation and Société Générale London Branch (as a club of lenders)

Asper Investment & Craydel Group

Statkraft Ireland Limited

Work highlights

  • Advised Allied Irish Band and La Banque Postale on the acquisition financing and project financing of a solar project of up to 250MW by Octopus Renewables.
  • Advised Invis Energy on the development, construction and project financing of the first unsupported (corporate PPA) onshore wind farms in Ireland, namely the 91.2MW Meenbog wind farm and the 23.2MW Esk wind farm, and currently advising on the project financing of the 115MW Ardderroo wind farm.
  • Acting for Oriel Windfarm (a joint venture between Parkwind N.V and ESB) in relation to the development of the proposed 370MW Oriel offshore wind farm, which would be one of the first commercial-scale offshore wind farms in Ireland.

Arthur Cox

Arthur Cox is noted in the Irish energy sector for the variety of matters that it is involved in, including advising on projects in the renewable and conventional energy sectors, as well as on battery storage and transmission developments. The team provides comprehensive advice to clients on the financing, procurement and construction of projects, and is also active in M&A transactions involving energy assets and companies. Practice head Alex McLean has deep experience in the energy sector across a range of jurisdictions; in addition to advising on Irish projects, he also acts for Ireland-based clients in international developments. Matt Dunn leads the team’s project finance work; the energy practice is also supported by environmental and planning specialist Danielle Conaghan and construction partner Karen Killoran. Niamh McGovern was promoted to partner in January 2021 and is noted for her work on construction and projects contracts.

Practice head(s):

Alex McLean

Other key lawyers:

Matt Dunn; Danielle Conaghan; Karen Killoran; Niamh McGovern

Testimonials

‘Arthur Cox provide a top-class service, with top-quality lawyers. AC delivered to tight deadlines and turned around documents quickly with a high degree of quality. The team demonstrated depth and a real understanding of our business, while providing top-class commercial advice in difficult negotiations.’

‘Alex McLean stands out as one of the most astute and knowledgeable lawyers I have ever worked with. He knows the energy and infrastructure sectors better than anyone else, has real depth of sector knowledge (particularly in energy), and provides top-class commercial advice, while also having a balanced understanding of all sides of the debate.’

‘I believe Alex McLean is the leading energy lawyer in Ireland: he is both pragmatic and highly effective as a lawyer, but also highly commercial and knowledgeable on energy-specific issues.’

‘The Arthur Cox team have a depth of knowledge and experience, and crucially the ability to communicate that, which has proven to be hugely valuable in the ever-changing planning and environmental landscape.’

‘Danielle Conaghan in particular understands what we as a client need when we seek her advice. She understands all perspectives and her communication style allows her to seamlessly integrate with the broader project team when the need arises.’

‘We have continued to do substantial work with Arthur Cox over the year and have found they have maintained their exceptionally high standards in the quality of the work that they produce, the insight they provide to us on legal matters reflecting on our industry and the quality of their engagement. Despite the complexity and seriousness of some of the issues on which they have worked with us, it is a genuinely enjoyable, and always educational, experience to work with them.’

‘I would particularly identify their ability to explain and communicate complex legal matters to individuals with no or limited legal experience and the clarity – in language and thought – of the written advice they provided as worthy of recognition. They are very available and often proactive, taking the initiative to bring things to our attention which would be of interest. We have a genuine sense that they’re a part of our team and vice versa.’

‘Arthur Cox are leading lawyers in this field in Ireland.’

Key clients

Energia

Ørsted

Highfield Solar (JV between Highfield Energy Services and Aura Power)

Export Import Bank of Korea and Kookmin Bank

Oweninny Power 2 DAC (JV between ESB/Bord na Móna)

Coillte (Irish Forestry Board)

Department of Housing, Planning & Local Government

Greenlink Interconnector Limited

Corre Energy

Facebook Inc

EirGrid

Arjun Infrastructure Partners

Neoen Renewables Ireland Ltd

Allied Irish Banks Plc

Lightsource bp

NTR plc

AMP Capital Investors Ltd

EPH

Bord na Móna

Ervia

Electroroute

Work highlights

  • Advised Export Import Bank of Korea and Kookmin Bank on the funding of two 100MW Lumcloon battery energy storage projects in Co Offaly, the largest battery energy storage project in Europe.
  • Advised Ørsted on all aspects of the acquisition of Brookfield’s European Renewables platform in Ireland, Northern Ireland and Scotland.
  • Advised Highfield Solar on the development and project financing of a 282MWp portfolio of large-scale solar projects in Co Wexford, including two of the largest projects to receive support under the first round of the new Renewable Energy Support Scheme.

Mason Hayes & Curran LLP

Mason Hayes & Curran LLP has a proven track record in advising on major energy projects and transactions in the Irish market, acting across onshore and offshore wind, solar and grid infrastructure. The practice provides a full service to clients, advising on financing, planning applications, construction and the ongoing operation of projects. The team also leverages its broad expertise to handle complex transactions such as forward sales of energy assets, advising on the transaction itself as well as the construction of the asset. Practice heads William Carmody and Rory Kirrane SC specialise in project financing and development respectively, while Deirdre Nagle handles environmental and planning work. Eoin Cassidy, David Gunn and Peter McLay are also names to note, with experience in developing energy projects.

Practice head(s):

Rory Kirrane SC; William Carmody

Other key lawyers:

Deirdre Nagle; Eoin Cassidy; David Gunn; Peter McLay; Keith Newman

Testimonials

‘The MHC team are very approachable and it is apparent the team enjoy what they do. They are thoughtful in their responses and support. They bring excellent experience but also are keen to learn of practices and norms outside their market. Eoin Cassidy and David Gunn are always quick to respond to unscheduled calls, regardless of the time of day. They are excellent at brainstorming for the most practical solutions and considering the commercial implications of scenarios – something which is often not given due consideration.’

‘MHC understand the Irish energy market very well and are up to date on market and regulatory developments. Their broad range of capabilities and ability to call on other practices within the firm mean they are able to provide a one-stop shop to renewable energy asset owners on matters ranging through planning, power markets, grid agreements, M&A and land leases.’

‘Eoin Cassidy is a highly experienced and capable partner who is very client focused, easy to work with and good at pulling in the relevant expertise to address thorny issues. Eoin is able to look at a question from multiple angles and identify key issues, focusing resources in the areas that will solve clients’ challenges.’

‘Rory Kirrane is responsive, pragmatic and always up to date on the latest developments.’

‘Peter McLay is an outstanding partner on project documents, who does not mind getting his hands dirty and can drive a deal where some knots needs untying. Keith Newman is a senior association who has proven himself in legal knowledge, anticipates needs of the client and proactive in getting the deal done.’

‘Eoin Cassidy is a super partner and knows when to step in and lead and when to delegate. Great breadth of understanding of renewables legally and commercially. Super guy to work with. Keith Newman is incredibly bright and hardworking and charming too. He is a pleasure to work with and we are in safe hands when Keith is across the file.’

‘MHC has strong experience in the renewable sector and can deal with the full range of legal inputs required to manage a project through the development, construction and operational phases.’

‘Eoin Cassidy has extensive knowledge of the sector and has a very commercial approach which is a huge help in the negotiating of often complicated transactions. He is well supported by the wider MHC team, with David Gunn and Keith Newman deserving special mention.’

Key clients

SSE plc

Irish Water

Norddeutsche Landesbank Girozentrale

Neoen / BNRG

Bank of Ireland

EirGrid plc

NTR plc

Ulster Bank

Coillte

Allied Irish Banks, p.l.c.

ESB

Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland

Santander

Statkraft Ireland

Statkraft Markets GmbH

BayWa

RWE

Bord na Mona

Centrica Business Solutions

Metka

Work highlights

  • Advised Statkraft on the forward sale of two solar parks with a combined installed capacity of up to 250MWp to Octopus Renewables for €140m.
  • Advised Cubico Sustainable Investments, a global renewable energy investor and operator, on its sale of Cordal wind farm in Co Kerry, with a total capacity of 89.6MW.
  • Advising SSE on all aspects of the offshore lease, consenting, development and procurement of Phase II of the Arklow Bank Wind Farm, which has a projected capacity of between 500 and 800MW and is the largest renewable energy project currently in development in Ireland.

Matheson LLP

Matheson LLP is deeply involved in the energy sector, providing comprehensive advice to clients on corporate, commercial and projects matters in this field. In addition to advising clients on the development of energy projects, practice head Garret Farrelly is active in the energy regulatory space, advising the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications on its renewable energy support schemes, including a scheme to support offshore energy development. Power purchase agreements are another area of focus for the team, which advises suppliers and prominent customers, including multinationals, on these matters. Seán Scally, who was promoted to the partnership in 2022, and senior associate Owen Collins are also names to note in the team.

Practice head(s):

Garret Farrelly

Other key lawyers:

Seán Scally; Owen Collins

Testimonials

‘Capable of providing robust legal advisory services on energy policy development, including state aid considerations, and informed by a broad understanding of the Irish energy market and regulatory framework.

‘The team have strong industry knowledge and a detailed understanding of the business rules and regulations which govern its operations.’

‘The team offers strong subject matter expertise (both legal and business) coupled with flexibility and commitment to delivery.’

‘A large team is available with specialists for every single aspect of a renewable energy project financing. This guarantees continuous support and a very high degree of know-how. All team members are very committed to providing the necessary explanations and solutions for any matters that may arise. They contribute greatly to the successful completion of a project.’

‘Garret Farrelly, Owen Collins and Sean Scally are all very competent, pragmatic and responsive.’

‘This team has a wonderful depth of knowledge on all aspects of energy law in Ireland, including the renewable energy scheme, corporate renewable energy power purchase agreements, and data centre agreements and policy.’

‘Garret Farrelly and Owen Collins are both great to work with. They are knowledgeable, great communicators and very responsive. They share responsibility on the team to help manage work to a budget and ensure continuity of service.’

‘Strong technical knowledge. Flexible and responsive.’

Key clients

Air Liquide, SA

AMP Capital

Aviva Investors

Axpo UK Ltd

Berkshire Hathaway

Bord na Mona

Brookfield Multiplex Construction Europe Limited

Brookfield Renewable Ireland Limited

Burmeister & Wain Scandinavian Contractor A / S

Capital Dynamics

Cenergise

CLH Aviación, SA (part of the Compañía Logística de Hidrocarburos group)

Close Brothers

CNOOC Petroleum

Commission for Regulation of Utilities

Coillte

Credit Agricole

Crowley Carbon

Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications

DNB Bank ASA

Dragados / ACS

DZ Bank

Ecopower

EDF Energy Renewables Ltd

EirGrid plc

EirGrid Interconnector DAC

ElectroRoute

Element Energy Limited

Energia Renewables Development Ltd

EnerNOC

Equinix

Erova Energy

Export Development Canada

ExxonMobil

First Reserve (part of BlackRock)

First Quantum Minerals Limited

Fred Olsen Renewables

Galetech Energy Limited

General Electric Company

Hess LNG

Hamburg Commercial Bank (previously HSH Nordbank AG)

Hanwha Corporation

Iberdrola, S.A.

Indaver Ireland Limited

ING Bank DiBa

Irving Oil

John Laing

John Sisk & Son Limited / Sisk Group

KFW IPEX-Bank

Liffey Meats

Macquarie Capital (Europe) Limited

Naturgy Limited

NGET/SPT Upgrades Limited (part of National Grid)

Octopus Renewables

Partners Group (UK) Ltd

Platina Energy Partners

Rabobank

Ratio Petroleum Ltd

Saorgus Energy Limited

Smart Wires, Inc

SmartestEnergy Ltd

Sodra Wood

SSE Renewables

Statkraft Ireland Ltd

STEAG SENS GmbH

Storm Management NV

Temporis Aurora LP

TerraForm Power Inc

Tetra Communications Ireland

The Carbon and Energy Fund

The Ireland Strategic Investment Fund (a division of the Irish National Treasury Management Agency)

Tynagh Energy Limited

Ulster Bank

Vermilion Energy, Inc

Warburg Pincus

Woodside Energy

Zenith Energy

Work highlights

  • Advising the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications on the terms and conditions for the second competition of the renewable electricity support scheme and the design and implementation of the state’s first offshore renewable energy support scheme.
  • Advised Bord na Móna plc on the development and financing of a 75MW wind farm near Cloncreen, Co Offaly.
  • Advised Octopus Renewables on the sale by Statkraft of a solar farm which, when built, will be the largest solar farm in Ireland, with a capacity of up to 250 MW.

McCann FitzGerald LLP

McCann FitzGerald LLP acts for major players in the energy sector, advising project sponsors, lenders and state bodies on a variety of complex matters. The sizeable team is able to offer clients support across the full process of project development, including financing transactions, planning and environmental issues, and the drafting of construction contracts. The practice also stands out for the breadth of its energy expertise, spanning onshore and offshore wind, solar, natural gas and grid infrastructure matters, including advising on the proposed electricity interconnector between Ireland and Wales. Practice head Valerie Lawlor focuses on M&A transactions in the oil, gas and renewables sectors, while Brendan Slattery leads on environmental and planning matters. Colm Fanning is the key contact in the project finance space, and is supported by Éamon Ó Cuív in the firm’s London office.

Practice head(s):

Valerie Lawlor

Other key lawyers:

Brendan Slattery; Colm Fanning; Éamon Ó Cuív

Testimonials

‘They offer legal expertise married with market insight and commerciality.’

‘Valerie Lawlor leads an impressive energy team that can handle complex multi-jurisdictional energy transactions.’

‘The team have great knowledge of the industry and provide a high-legal quality service with detailed, apt advice. They are a pleasure to deal with, explaining technical issues clearly, and provide very quick responses to queries.’

‘Valerie Lawlor provided us with excellent advice on a number of very challenging matters. She was always available, had quick turnaround times, was very engaged and provided us with very detailed and high-quality advice. She exceeded expectations and delved deeper into many matters than expected, while clearly explaining technical European legislation and other complex legal matters. Valerie’s legal drafting and attention to detail are very impressive.’

‘The lawyers are very approachable and offer practical solutions. They listen prior to proposing solutions rather than dictating a solution. Their people and their collaboration skills are their greatest strengths.’

‘McCann FitzGerald’s energy team has industry knowledge and experience that is unrivalled anywhere in the Irish market.’

‘Valerie Lawlor is the top energy practitioner in the Irish market; she combines expertise in the sector with real corporate acumen.’

‘Valerie Lawlor’s knowledge of the integrated single electricity market and its rules is outstanding.’

Key clients

Brookfield Renewable Ireland Limited

Coillte

Greencoat Renewables

Energia

Shareholders of Cnoc Wind Farm

Bord Na Móna

Bank of Ireland/European Investment Bank

Gore Street Energy Storage Fund Plc

Apollo

Greenlink

PSE Kinsale

Statkraft

Work highlights

  • Advised Brookfield Renewable Ireland on the recent acquisition of its renewable energy portfolio of 538MW in operation, under construction and advanced development assets and 1GW of pipeline assets by Ørsted.
  • Advising Greenlink on its proposed 500MW electricity interconnector between Ireland and Wales, assisting with securing regulatory approvals in Ireland, including the strategic infrastructure development consent and the foreshore approval.
  • Advising Coillte on all aspects of its proposed 50:50 joint venture with ESB to develop renewable energy generation facilities in Ireland (Project Pearl), covering the regulatory aspects, legal structure, and all corporate and commercial transaction documentation.

William Fry

William Fry acts for banks, project sponsors and public bodies in the energy sector, advising on the full range of issues involved in the development and construction of energy projects. Beyond project-related work, the practice is engaged in corporate transactions in this area, including M&A transactions involving energy assets, as well as power purchase agreements, with an increasing focus on advising data centres on these deals. The team is also active in the natural resources space through its links to Aughinish Alumina, advising the company on commercial and regulatory issues related to its production of alumina. Fergus Devine serves as practice head and is supported by the firm’s corporate, finance and projects teams.

Practice head(s):

Fergus Devine

Testimonials

‘Fergus Devine provides a very solutions-based approach.’

‘Fergus Devine has many years of experience in all aspects of the energy industry and regulatory affairs in Ireland. Fergus not only focuses on the law but also advises on the commercial areas of the matter due to his vast experience. Fergus becomes fully immersed in the matter at hand and I can confidently say he leaves no stone unturned in dealing with complex matters. Available to client almost anytime.’

‘Fergus Devine is excellent in terms of his strong technical knowledge, commercial focus and responsiveness.’

‘William Fry’s energy team have always been innovative and creative whenever we have dealt with them. They fully understand the complexities of the electricity and gas markets and always work as part of the team whilst providing excellent legal and commercial leadership. I would recommend them to anyone.’

‘Fergus Devine is professional, efficient and very knowledgeable in the energy sector. The complexities and significant constant changes in regulation and legislation do not seem to be an issue and Fergus and his team always provide an excellent service.’

‘Fergus Devine is an outstanding energy lawyer. Not many other law firms have a dedicated energy team with the years of experience of Fergus Devine.’

‘Fergus Devine’s application of both his legal and technical knowledge stands alone in the industry. He has unrivalled experience in the energy sector and has been dedicated to this area for over two decades. Fergus guides clients seamlessly through the heavily regulated energy market and offers both insight and guidance.’

‘Fergus Devine is a great lawyer – very commercial, clued in and pragmatic.’

Key clients

EirGrid plc

Aughinish Alumina (part of Rusal Group)

Amarenco Group

Digital Realty Trust

EngineNode

Brookfield Renewable Energy Partners

European Investment Bank

Department for the Economy (Northern Ireland)

AIB plc

Work highlights

  • Advising EirGrid on the 700MW Celtic Interconnector project, a complex cross-border joint venture with RTE (the French system operator), including advising on complex EU energy and granting legislation, international agreements and cross-border contracts.
  • Advised Digital Realty Trust on its $8.4bn acquisition of Interxion, a major European data centre company, which resulted in the acquisition of a number of strategic data centre assets in London, Paris, Frankfurt, Amsterdam and Dublin.
  • Advising Enginenode in connection with all aspects of its proposed data storage campus in Clonee, Co Meath, including advising on obtaining power supply and backup generation for the data storage campus.

Beauchamps LLP

The energy practice at Beauchamps LLP focuses on the renewable energy sector, advising on onshore and offshore wind as well as solar projects. The team provides comprehensive advice on these projects, covering financing, planning, regulatory issues, construction and finally transactions involving project assets. The practice’s expertise in this area has been bolstered by the addition of senior associate Stuart Conaty, who joined the team in August 2020 from an in-house role at Bord na Móna. Conaty has varied experience across the energy sector and since joining the firm has advised on the financial, regulatory and planning elements of energy developments. Ainsley Heffernan leads the team and has specialised in the renewable energy sector for almost 20 years.

Practice head(s):

Ainsley Heffernan

Other key lawyers:

Stuart Conaty; John Sweeney

Testimonials

‘Beauchamps is a very customer-focused practice. We feel we are a gold-standard client to them and this shows in the level of service we receive. We have been with other firms where we felt we were just another client, prioritised on the basis of the value of current work only. While other practices we have worked with circulate ezines, Beauchamps partners give us a call and discuss changes in the law and how they might apply to ongoing projects we are developing.’

‘Ainsley Heffernan is really the best energy lawyer we have worked with to date. He is customer focused but also has a flare for commercial problem solving. It’s in this area in particular that he differentiates himself from others. John Sweeney’s attention to detail at the early stages of option development saved us time and stress when projects were later going through the banking due diligence process.’

‘The unique aspect of the practice is their insight into the renewable energy business, both in terms of protocol and the commercial activity taking place within.’

‘Their dedication to covering all aspects of the transaction, and determination, ability and enthusiasm to reach a successful conclusion is notable.’

‘The Beauchamps team are unique in their deep sector expertise in renewables coupled with broad and complementary corporate expertise. Equally, they are extremely responsive to and supportive of constructive feedback.’

‘Ainsley Heffernan is the standout partner, coupled with Stuart Conaty and John Sweeney. The level of personal client attention and focus is second to none. The team are pragmatic and hands on in getting transactions completed.’

Key clients

Simply Blue Energy

Equinor

Western Power

Lumcloon Energy

FST

ABO Wind

Terra Solar

EDF Renewables

Codling Offshore Wind Park

Harmony Solar

RWE Renewables

BNRG

ART Generation

Bord na Mona

AIB

Triodos

Work highlights

  • Advising Codling Wind Park (a joint venture between EDF Renewables and the Fred Olsen Group) on its development of a proposed €2bn offshore wind farm off the east coast of Ireland.
  • Advised Terra Solar on its sale of a 407MWp solar farm portfolio (Project Titan) to Irish solar photovoltaic developer Power Capital Renewable Energy.
  • Advising RWE Renewables on the development of an innovative airborne wind energy test site in Co Mayo, which is the first of its kind in Ireland.

Eversheds Sutherland

Eversheds Sutherland leverages its international connections to advise on complex energy projects in the Irish market. The Dublin office is able to draw on the wider firm’s experience in areas such as offshore wind, and also acts alongside teams in the UK and Europe to advise on cross-border projects, including the proposed electricity interconnector between Ireland and France. In addition to handling the development of projects, the practice advises on their financing and the acquisition of project assets. Practice head Mark Varian has over 20 years’ experience in the renewable energy sector. Peter O’Neill is another name to note, with expertise across both corporate and commercial matters in this space.

Practice head(s):

Mark Varian

Other key lawyers:

Peter O’Neill

Testimonials

‘The team is knowledgable and has good experience.’

‘Peter O’Neill has been very responsive and has done a five-star job on a challenging project. The level of detail, approach and attitude is impressive.’

‘Eversheds Sutherland provided sound legal and commercial advice, which helped with meeting the necessary deadlines. This was conducted in a highly political context requiring tact in managing both parties’ expectations.’

‘I found the team to be very trustworthy, competent, collaborative, diplomatic and always prepared to go the extra mile. One thing I also found excellent was the fact that they acted as part of the team and not as a simple contractor, which helped tremendously with bringing the project teams together. I will without a doubt recommend them to any company looking for a professional and competent legal firm.’

Key clients

China General Nuclear

AIB Bank

EirGrid

Innogy (now RWE)

Sojitz Corporation

Macquarie Bank

First Trust Bank

Craydel Group

Barclays Bank

Glennmont Partners

Coillte

SMR International Wind Parks (the Michael Rouse Group)

Prime Capital

BlackRock

Pension Infrastructure Platform (PiP)

Shell

Berenberg Bank

Work highlights

  • Serving as lead legal advisers on the joint procurement by EirGrid and its French counterpart, Réseau de Transport d’Électricité, of a 600km electricity interconnector between Ireland and France.
  • Advising AIB Bank on a range of financings, including the financing of renewable and conventional energy projects.

Fieldfisher

Fieldfisher‘s energy practice focuses on the renewable energy sector, particularly onshore and offshore wind projects, advising on the formation of joint ventures, land acquisitions, regulatory matters and commercial agreements such as power purchase agreements. The practice is also highly active in corporate transactions in this sector, including the acquisition and disposal of wind power assets as well as investments in projects. Practice head Feilim O’Caoimh has experience in the development of projects in addition to handling transactions. Elaine Traynor is another name to note for corporate matters and project due diligence.

Practice head(s):

Feilim O’Caoimh

Other key lawyers:

Elaine Traynor

Testimonials

‘They offer depth of knowledge and familarity with renewable energy projects.’

‘We recommend Feilim O’Caoimh and his team.’

‘Led by an expert in the area who has in-house experience and a wide knowledge base from various projects. Very practical approach to issues. Quotes are very reasonable and rarely go over, which assists with budgeting for a project. There is the option to liaise with other teams within the firm if necessary.’

‘Elaine Traynor has unique in-house and private practice experience. She gives clear, practical advice and makes herself available to clients at short notice. The level of work is high quality and regular updates are received.’

Key clients

Galetech Energy Developments Limited

Tullynamoyle Wind Farm II Limited

Gweedore Wind Farm Limited

Allied Irish Bank Plc

WED Castle Limited

Hamburg Commercial Bank AG

Close Leasing Limited

North West Wind Limited

Simply Blue Energy Wind Limited

BayWa

SSE

DP Energy

RWE

Work highlights

  • Advised Simply Blue Energy on a €15m investment by Octopus Investments in return for a 24% stake in the group’s holding company, which will be used to fund the expansion of the client’s global floating offshore wind development activities.
  • Advised Coillte Teoranta on over 70 option and grid wayleave agreements for the development of wind energy projects.
  • Advising SSE Plc on an ongoing basis in relation to its portfolio of renewable energy projects in Ireland, in particular in relation to its onshore wind farm projects.

Philip Lee LLP

Philip Lee counts project developers, utilities and public bodies among its clients, advising on a range of matters in the energy space. The team is engaged to advise on the full lifecycle of energy projects, from financing, planning and construction through to power purchase agreements and M&A transactions involving project assets. The practice is adept at handling matters relating to the offshore and onshore wind, solar and battery storage sectors, as well as conventional energy projects such as waste-to-energy and district heating. Siobhan McCabe leads the team and works closely with planning specialist Alice Whittaker. Eoghan Doyle is frequently instructed on corporate transactions in this area, and Hugh Cummins advises on contractual matters related to construction and energy supply.

Practice head(s):

Siobhan McCabe

Other key lawyers:

Alice Whittaker; Eoghan Doyle; Hugh Cummins

Testimonials

‘Siobhan McCabe presents extensive knowledge of the energy market, provides great guidance and service, and is very responsive and accessible. Very good communication skills combined with great legal skills.’

‘The team is dynamic in that it quickly understands the client’s issues in a legal and commercial context. It tailors its advice accordingly and ensures a consistent approach is taken from the outset. The team is nimble and always able to call in specialist advisers when needed in complex matters. The diversity and collaboration evident in the team sets the bar for others to follow.’

‘Siobhan McCabe has grown this team year on year. A well-known name in the market, she attracts talent and blue-chip clients. Leading from the top, she affords all her clients her attention throughout a transaction. The entire team are standout.’

‘I always use Siobhan McCabe as my legal adviser for all renewable work. Siobhan is the best I’ve come across in 30 years of renewable energy work. Siobhan also has the most in-depth knowledge of the new community renewable model.’

‘They have a deep history in the renewables sector. Their work with community-scale projects really distinguishes them in the market.’

‘Siobhan McCabe in particular manifests applied expertise and a client-centric approach. Siobhan is solution oriented and I trust that she has our interests at heart in representing us. She is also a skilled communicator, adept at engaging wider variety of stakeholders.’

‘Phillip Lee have built a strong energy team. Their planning and environmental expertise supports and supplements their energy team, which is invaluable to clients as they seek to deliver new renewable projects.’

‘Siobhan McCabe has expertise and experience across both thermal and renewable projects, and therefore brings greater insights and solutions to dealing with issues across the table. She has a great reputation in the solar and battery storage sector. She has great sectoral knowledge and a sophisticated pragmatism that helps get the deal done.’

Key clients

RWE Renewables

Amber Energy

Power Capital

Microsoft

Bank of Ireland

Davidstown Renewables

World Fuel Services

IQ Solar

Electric Skyline

Tesla

Exemplar Energy

Temporis

Sustainable Development Capital

Lidon Limited

Cantor Fitzgerald

Tullynamoyle Wind Farm 3 Limited

Work highlights

  • Advised Irish-headquartered renewable energy company Mainstream Renewable Power on the sale of a 75% equity stake in the company to Norway-based renewable energy investment company Aker Horizons.
  • Advising RWE Renewables on the proposed development of the 600MW Dublin Array offshore wind farm project.
  • Advised Irish solar photovoltaic developer Power Capital Renewable Energy on its acquisition of a majority stake in 400MW of projects under development by Irish firm Terra Solar.

ByrneWallace LLP

ByrneWallace LLP is frequently instructed on the financing of energy projects, acting for both lenders and borrowers on high-value, cross-border transactions. In addition, the team handles M&A transactions involving energy assets and companies, and advises on the development of energy projects, including helping clients access the Renewable Energy Support Scheme. Gavin Blake leads the team and is supported the firm’s corporate, banking and construction practices on matters in this area.

Practice head(s):

Gavin Blake

Other key lawyers:

Karen Outram

Testimonials

‘Byrne Wallace provide a compelling blend of energy industry experience with a commercial and cost-effective approach that sets them apart from their peers in the Irish market.’

‘Gavin Blake brings great enthusiasm and sector insight to the BW energy practice. Neil Keenan is a corporate heavyweight with an impressive track record of advising prominent clients in the sector.’

‘Gavin and his team are very pragmatic, hands-on and always available in case legal support is needed. A real pleasure to work with.’

‘The team possess the strength in depth you look for when dealing with commercial transactions whilst managing to keep the point of contact consistent. This helps keep a clear focus on the end goal when dealing with many moving parts.’

‘The key points of differentiation between ByrneWallace and other firms that I have worked with are their attention to detail, their responsiveness and general advice.’

‘Gavin Blake is a first-class lawyer with a proactive approach to problem solving and works to minimise the time to completion for complex legal negotiations and transactions.’

‘My experience of BW hinges around Gavin Blake. His timely advice and commercial acumen guided us through a drawn-out process at a very busy time for us.’

‘Gavin Blake has been consistently supportive to our ongoing requests for advice, whether it be assistance with complex legal documents or candid advice to steer us in the right direction at critical project and transaction junctures. His prompt advice has always proved to be a very useful sounding board and critical to the timely and successful progression of our work.’

Key clients

Mainstream Renewable Power

ING Bank

Bord na Mona

Grid Connect

Island Stability Services

Island Renewables

Gyrogy

Windmark Developments

Carbon Sole

GridBeyond

MPG Wind (AEM Wind Holdings)

Vento Ludens

PNG Energy

Natural Forces Renewable Energy

Close Leasing

Work highlights

  • Advised Mainstream Renewable Power on the acquisition by Aker Horizons (a wholly owned subsidiary of Aker ASA) of a 75% equity stake in the business.
  • Advised MPG Wind on the acquisition of Lurganboy Wind Farm in Co Donegal.
  • Provided Irish law advice to the Mainstream Renewable Power group on a syndicated loan of $620m to finance the construction of a 630MW wind farm project in Chile.

LK Shields Solicitors LLP

LK Shields Solicitors LLP’s work in the energy space encompasses advising on the acquisition and disposal of energy assets, investments in projects, power purchase agreement contracts and regulatory matters. The practice is led by Philip Daly and focuses on the renewable energy sector.

Practice head(s):

Philip Daly

Key clients

ESB

Seabased AB

Ameresco

Vayu Ltd

TOP Oil

Star Energy Plc

Petronas

Veolia

Coillte

Natural Forces Renewables

Ion Renewables

Work highlights

  • Advising US-based electric energy group Ameresco on its sale of a data centre site and on a number of wind farm acquisitions.
  • Advised Natural Forces Renewables Limited on Renewable Electricity Support Scheme registration issues for community wind farm schemes in Ireland.
  • Advising Coillte in relation to the procurement and contractual aspects of renewable energy projects and ongoing construction operations.

Pinsent Masons LLP

Pinsent Masons LLP’s Dublin office frequently collaborates with the firm’s Belfast team to advise on cross-border energy transactions, assisting international clients with the financing and development of energy projects in Ireland. The practice also provides advice on corporate transactions involving energy assets, as well as commercial matters, including power purchase agreements. The team is focused on the renewable energy sector, advising on wind, solar and battery storage projects. Garrett Monaghan co-heads the practice with Richard Murphy, who works across the Belfast and Dublin offices.

Practice head(s):

Garrett Monaghan; Richard Murphy

Key clients

Strategic Power Projects Limited

OBM Solar Limited

Ulster Bank

Revolve Renewable Power Limited

AIB

BNRG Neoen

Obton

Solar21

Farra Marine

Foresight

Encavis

Naturgy

Viotas

NTR plc

ElectroRoute

Aught Wind Farm Limited

Work highlights

  • Advised Arjun Infrastructure Partners, through Silver Square Wind 2, on the acquisition of Ballyhoura Wind, which owns the 19.2MW onshore Ballyhoura wind farm in Co Cork, and CCWFL, which owns the 27.5MW onshore Slievecallan wind farm in Co Clare, from Brookfield Renewables.
  • Advising ElectroRoute on two long-term power purchase agreements with Evishagaran Wind Farm and Craiggore Energy, which are being developed by ERG, a leading Italian independent producer of energy from renewable sources.
  • Advised BNRG Neoen, a joint venture between Irish-based developer BNRG Renewables and French developer Neoen International, on the financing for the Hilltown, Hortland and Millvale solar farms in counties Meath, Kildare and Wicklow, which have a combined capacity of 58MW.