Firms To Watch: Energy: transactional

Infrastructure, construction, and projects firm HabrakenRutten established its energy-sector offering with the January 2022 hire of former HVG Law LLP practice head Sander Simonetti, and is active in the renewable energy space.

Firms in the Spotlight Energy: transactional

Van der Feltz Advocaten

Van der Feltz Advocaten logo

Van der Feltz advocaten is an independent boutique law firm, based in The Hague, the Netherlands. The firm focuses on the Construction, Real Estate, Energy, Industrials, Government and Public sector.  The firm’s lawyers advise and litigate on both public and private law matters, often operating at the interface of the two. They focus on matters …

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Energy: transactional in Netherlands

Allen & Overy LLP

Operating as part of the firm’s multidisciplinary projects and real estate cross-practice group, Allen & Overy LLP's energy-sector team assists clients involved in major projects with financing, development, procurement and construction, and permitting. Werner Runge is especially notable for his work in financing projects in renewables – also an area of specialism for Zeeger de Jongh. Marinus Winters is noted for his experience in competition law, while Charles Honée and Leon Hoppenbrouwers are strong in corporate and real estate transactions, respectively. Jochem Spaans is also highly regarded.

Practice head(s):

Zeeger de Jongh; Marinus Winters; Charles Honée; Werner Runge; Leon Hoppenbrouwers

Other key lawyers:

Jochem Spaans; Grace McLeish; Soufjan El Baroudi

Testimonials

‘Integrated approach with high quality individuals and staff makes a valuable team and great support to fall back on in a very challenging environment.’

‘Charles Honée and Zeeger de Jongh stand out.’

Key clients

PMV

Vattenfall

Gemini (windpark)

Macquarie

ENGIE

Duurzame Energieproductie Exloërmond B.V.: Windpark Drentse Monden en Oostermoer

Zonnepark Mosselbanken Terneuzen

Work highlights

  • Advised PMV Fund Management N.V. on their acquisition of a greenfield datacenter in Amsterdam.
  • Advising Vattenfall on the divestment via controlled auction of 32 turbines of its Prinses Ariane onshore windfarm.
  • Advising Macquarie’s Green Investment Group (GIG) on setting up a joint venture with Nobian to form a leading industrial green hydrogen player, the Hydrogen Chemistry Company (HyCC).

Clifford Chance

Clifford Chance has a strong reputation in the energy sector, drawing on its global network and fielding lawyers experienced in corporate, finance, and regulatory law to assist with complex, high-value, and cross-border projects. The firm also has strengths in transactions, including acquisitions and divestments of both assets and companies in the energy sector. Hein Tonnaer, Liesbeth Buiter, and Nanette Rutgers lead the team; they have significant expertise in financing, including for high-energy-use developments such as data centres.

Practice head(s):

Hein Tonnaer; Liesbeth Buiter; Nanette Rutgers

Other key lawyers:

Angela McEwan; Mike Niekoop; Lotte de Bruin; Philip Walsh

Key clients

Vattenfall

Stedin Holding

Encavis

Diamond Generating Europe Limited / Mitsubishi

Eneco

Eteck

Blue Elephant Energy AG

3i Infrastructure and Oiltanking

DIF Capital Partners

Tikehau Investment Management

FMO

Waterland Private Equity

Sunrock

SkyNRG

Partners Group

TPD

PGGM

Rabobank

Work highlights

  • Advised leading European energy company Vattenfall in relation to the agreement with BASF on the sale of 49.5 percent of the offshore wind farm Hollandse Kust Zuid, and further on the onwards sale of a portion of BASF’s stake to Allianz Capital Partners.
  • Advised the lenders in relation to the financing of six Windplan Groen wind farms.
  • Advising the Dutch and French development banks in relation to a loan to Pakistani electricity provider K-Electric.

De Brauw Blackstone Westbroek

Promoted to the partnership in March 2022, Arjan Kleinhout heads De Brauw Blackstone Westbroek‘s energy practice. The team works alongside the firm’s offices in Brussels, London, and Shanghai, in addition to the ‘best friends’ network of independent European firms, to provide support on complex and cross-border transactions in the energy sector. It draws on the expertise of lawyers experienced in M&A, regulation, financing, and environmental law, including finance specialist Menno Stoffer, and advises on matters concerning oil and gas, nuclear, and renewables, as well as carbon capture and storage (CCS) and LNG. Nicolien Van Den Biggelaar left the firm.

Practice head(s):

Arjan Kleinhout

Other key lawyers:

Michael Schouten; Bernard Spoor; Jasper van Uden; Claire van der Hoeven

Testimonials

‘Upon request they work with a small and dedicated team which they can maintain throughout a long period of time. If needed they can enlarge, but will size down once possible again without any discussion. They are able to fluently combine knowledge and skills of main actors such as Michael Schouten and Arjan Kleinhout.’

‘Michael Schouten uses his experience as lawyer and partner to make true connections and deliver strategic legal advice. Extremely pleasant and accessible to work with on long-term M&A projects. In addition, Arjan Kleinhout always seems to be up-to-date and able to immediately and appropriately step in where needed.’

Key clients

Gasunie

Port of Rotterdam

Porthos – consortium of Port of Rotterdam, Gasunie and EBN

TenneT

Shell

GasTerra

Ørsted

Nobian

NAM

NEA/ Stichting voorbereiding PALLAS reactor

Foundation Preparation Pallas reactor (PALLAS)

The Kingdom of the Netherlands

Varo Energy

Royal Vopak

Gate LNG Terminal

Cofra

EBN

Pertamina

Work highlights

  • Advising on two projects concerning hydrogen: the H2 Backbone (Gasunie) and HyTransPort.RTM (Gasunie & Port of Rotterdam).
  • Advising Porthos on an energy transition project, including advising on public law and planning and environmental aspects, the regulatory regime (including EU ETS impact), transactions aspects (for example, setting up the joint venture) and commercial contracting.
  • Acting as lead counsel for TenneT, handling energy developments involving regulatory, planning and environmental matters as well as financing issues and extensive litigation.

NautaDutilh

The ‘excellent‘ energy practice at NautaDutilh is praised by clients for its work on transactional matters including M&A, joint ventures, and project financing. The team is led jointly by Harm Kerstholt, Jaap Jan Trommel, Iris Kieft, and senior associate Lisa Schoenmakers, and has experience of renewable heat and energy, hydrogen, and CCS. Herstholt and Van Trommel bring deep expertise in M&A, while Kieft has a broad environmental practice. Nima Lorjé is a key contact for competition work, and Schoenmakers stands out for her ‘dedication‘ across the range of matters.

Practice head(s):

Harm Kerstholt; Jaap Jan Trommel; Lisa Schoenmakers; Iris Kieft

Other key lawyers:

Ole de Vries; Nima Lorjé

Testimonials

‘The team is highly competent – as would be expected of any firm of this standing – and also very personable. Working with them is a pleasure, not just work, which is something that stands out in the sterile M&A environment. In addition, they possess a substantial amount of rare and industry-specific knowledge.’

‘Lisa Schoenmakers and Harm Kerstholt form an excellent team. They really operate as a team and manage to stand in for each other at any time. Both have supported us for many years now and always at the same high standards. Professional and dedicated.’

‘Harm Kerstolt is obviously very knowledgeable about the power industry. Lisa Schoenmakers led the transaction from beginning to end and worked relentlessly all the way through. The quality of her work and her dedication are greatly appreciated.’

Key clients

Groendus

Neste

Eteck

Eneco

PZEM

Shell

TotalEnergies

Dutch State

Warmtebedrijf Rotterdam

Nobian

Petrobras

Nebras Power

PensionDanmark

SHV Holdings (& subs) incl. NPM

Vermilion

Sonnedix

Vopak

TenneT

SABIC

Waldorf Investments

ENGIE

Equans

S&P Platts

Nederlandse Aardolie Maatschappij

Copenhagen Infrastructure Fund

FRV Energy

Intergen

Braskem

Nouryon

Green Investment Group

The Carlyle Group

Chemelot

Work highlights

  • Advising PZEM NV on the restructuring and subsequent carve-out of their wholesale activities in a competitive auction process.
  • Advised Distro Energy, S&P Platts and the Port of Rotterdam on establishing a joint venture to create a peer-to-peer renewable energy trading platform based on AI trading software and blockchain technology.
  • Assisting ENGIE with its multibillion-euro sale of Equans, the newly created services unit of the French energy group Engie (ENGIE PA), preceded by a highly complex and multifaceted restructuring of the Equans companies.

Stibbe

Praised by clients for the ‘very precise and professional advice‘ it provides, Stibbe energy and industry team has expertise across the range of energy-sector transactions, from project development to M&A and controlled auctions. The firm often handles complex cross-border mandates, including in the development of innovative technologies such as carbon capture and storage. Practice head Martin In de Braekt has ‘great knowledge of the energy industry’, while counsel Li Wee Toh has particular experience in matters relating to on- and offshore wind and the energy transition.

Practice head(s):

Martin In de Braekt

Other key lawyers:

Li Wee Toh; Jaap Waverijn

Testimonials

‘Very precise and professional advice.’

‘Martin In de Braekt is an excellent lawyer. Great knowledge of the energy industry. Understands the business and provides excellent legal advice.’

‘Very reactive and prepared.’

‘Solid team of senior and junior lawyers with deep expertise in Dutch renewable energy industry and related regulations. Very responsive and good commercial instincts.’

Work highlights

  • Advising RWE in a highly competitive controlled auction concerning the EUR 500,000,000 acquisition of a 1.4-gigawatt gas-fired power plant (Magnumcentrale) in the Eemshaven as well as an adjacent 5.6 megawatts solar plant.
  • Advising Air Liquide in respect of the Porthos-project.
  • Advising AVR Afvalverwerking (AVR) – part of Cheung Kong (Holdings) Limited, a multinational conglomerate, based in Hong Kong – on the acquisition of a 100% equity stake in the Amsterdam-based energy-from-waste company AEB Holding N.V. (AEB) from the municipality of Amsterdam.

Bird & Bird

Support on major projects is a core focus for the energy, corporate and projects team at Bird & Bird, which has expertise advising on the development of wind farms and solar parks, as well as on hydrogen and blockchain-based technological solutions. Sophie Dingenen heads the practice, and has a strong reputation for cross-border work. Roger Van Buuren is a key contact for project financing.

Practice head(s):

Sophie Dingenen

Other key lawyers:

Arnoud Knijnenburg; René Rieter; Roger van Buuren

Testimonials

‘Sophie Dingenen is very responsive and hands-on. Her experience with corporate PPAs make hers a great support in PPA negotiations and template (term sheet and PPA) creation.’

Key clients

Bonaire Brandstof Terminals

Hydrogenics Europe NV

Equigy

Alternus Energy Inc

Borealis

McCain Foods Europe

BayWa

Lagerwey

Enercon

Unisun

Urenco

TotalEnergies Renewables

Sunrock

Canadian Solar

Work highlights

  • Acting as lead counsel to TotalEnergies Renewables on the structuring of the consortium together with Ørsted, for the development and construction of offshore wind park HKW, and negotiation and drafting of all the development, construction, and operation agreements in relation to the wind park.
  • Acting as lead counsel to Bonaire Brandstof Terminals, the subsidiary of the Dutch state, including advising on a project to secure the supply of energy to households.
  • Advising Cummins’ subsidiary Hydrogenics on structuring of a consortium with Bilfinger; and negotiating and drafting all the contractual documentation for the development and construction of the hydrogen facility for RWE in the Eemshaven.

Houthoff

Clients including domestic and multinational energy companies, project developers, and financiers seek out Houthoff for advice and support on the full spectrum of transactional matters. The team handles renewable energy work, in particular offshore wind, alongside innovative projects including carbon capture and storage. M&A and joint ventures are also areas of strength, with team lead Kirsten Berger especially well regarded here. Jacques Kröner is another key name, particularly in the waste-to-energy space.

Practice head(s):

Kirsten Berger

Other key lawyers:

Jacques Kröner; Marc van Beuge

Testimonials

Extensive experience in the sector and high knowledge of the market.’

‘Very clear in their suggestions and explanations. Quick and clear answers. Very detailed revisions and recommendations. High collaboration and involved with the teams and project.’

Key clients

Porthos

ENGIE

Corre Energy

Huntsman

Plastic Energy

NOGEPA, VEN, VGN, VLNG

Twence

Van Oord

TotalEnergies

Varo

DCC

Vitol

Work highlights

  • Acting as project counsel to Porthos Development, which aims to construct and operate the first large-scale, commercial, open access offshore carbon capture and storage (CCS) facility in the Netherlands.
  • Advising global fertiliser giant Yara regarding the construction and operation of a 100MW electrolysis facility for hydrogen production in a joint venture with Ørsted at Yara’s plant in the Netherlands.
  • Advising Corre Energy (jointly with Arthur Cox) on the development of the first large-scale electricity storage facility.

Loyens & Loeff

Loyens & Loeff‘s energy and infrastructure practice group operates across the Netherlands and Belgium, where corporate partner Jan-Willem van Rooij and real estate and renewables specialist Koen Panis are the key names, respectively. The team acts for clients including banks, funds, and utility companies, on matters ranging from M&A to project development, where Van Rooij is particularly well regarded. Senior associate Victor van Nuland is also noted.

Practice head(s):

Jan-Willem van Rooij; Koen Panis

Other key lawyers:

Max Oosterhuis; Roland de Vlam; Victor van Nuland; Anne Brugmans

Testimonials

‘Very satisfied with the advice of the team: good balance between involvement and keeping distance. People are very dedicated, with timely responses to emails. Excellent knowledge of the energy market.’

‘Koen Panis and Victor van Nuland are very dedicated people, with knowledge and excellent communication skills.’

‘Strong content knowledge on wind energy deals. Quick response and high flexibility. Strong commitment.’

‘Very good experiences working with Victor van Nuland. Strong people and process management skills.’

Key clients

Plug Power Inc.

Consortium of APG and OMERS Infrastructure

Ørsted A/S

Vattenfall N.V.

Pure Energie

ING Bank N.V.

Re:cap Global Investors AG

Green & Durable Energy (part of Belgian Hasco Invest)

Work highlights

  • Advised Plug Power Inc. on approx. EUR 100 million acquisition of Frames Group
  • Advised the consortium of APG and OMERS Infrastructure on the acquisition of Groendus, the provider of an energy transition platform in the Netherlands
  • Advised Ørsted A/S on forming a consortium with a large European energy player and the auction process to acquire two 700MW offshore wind farm sites as part of the Holland Coast West Tender

Simmons & Simmons

Rob Hendriks and David Shearer lead the energy, natural resources and infrastructure team at Simmons & Simmons, which is sought after by clients including financial institutions, investors, and energy and utilities companies. Hendriks has deep energy-sector transactional experience, including in M&A, private equity, and restructurings. Shearer, meanwhile, is a key contact for clients in the oil and gas industry.

Practice head(s):

Rob Hendriks; David Shearer

Other key lawyers:

Luc Cohen; Bart Koolhaas

Key clients

Arcus Infrastructure

Brookfield Infrastructure

Cairn Energy

DIF Capital

DZ Bank

ENEL S.p.A.

Macquarie

Lightsource bp

Nedstack

Orim Energy

State of the Netherlands

Stone City Energy

Work highlights

  • Acting as project counsel to a consortium of Stone City Energy, EDF, Nebras and Siemens Energy on the development, construction and financing of a $1.2bn combined-cycle gas turbine power plant in Uzbekistan.
  • Advised a leading global infrastructure fund on its proposed acquisition of a minority equity stake in a 1.5GW offshore wind farm under development off the Dutch coast.
  • Advised Nedstack Fuel Cell Technology on its joint venture with LAVO Hydrogen Storage Technology to develop utility scale Hydrogen PEM fuel cell storage products in Australia.

Stek

Stek has a broad energy and utilities offering covering transactional, project financing, and regulatory work for clients including major national energy companies, distributors, funds, and investors. Reijnoud Homveld is a key contact, with experience in both M&A and projects. Coen Thomas is strong on capital-intensive projects, and Claudia Beele stands out for her ‘in-depth knowledge‘ of the renewables space.

Practice head(s):

Jan Erik Janssen; Reijnoud Homveld; Claudia Beele; Coen Thomas; Herman Wamelink; Sharon Kaufmann

Testimonials

‘Very experienced team in the energy, especially renewable energy, sector in the Netherlands. In addition to supporting utility scale sale processes for renewable energy assets, they are able to provide expert advice on regulatory topics in the energy sector and competition law internally and on short notice.’

‘Claudia Beele is a very skilled lawyer with in-depth knowledge in her field who is able to help out with excellent and hands-on advice. A joy to work with.’

‘The team has a hands-on and pragmatic approach and a deep understanding of renewable energy deals. We value the proactive and friendly way of communication. Timelines are kept and the quality of the work is excellent.’

‘Coen Thomas is knowledgeable and very responsive. His experience in the construction industry is impressive. Razor-sharp and always available. Recommended for any large construction project.’

Key clients

a.s.r.

Asper

Avantium

DIF Capital Partners

EBN

Ecorus

Eneco

Energie-Nederland/Heat supply sector

Enexis

ENGIE

Equans

Equinix

Groenleven /Baywa Re

Invest NL

Nature Energy

Nuts Groep/Budget Energie

Port of Amsterdam

PZEM

SemperPower

Stedin

TAQA

Tata Steel

Total Energies

Vattenfall

Virya Energy

Zelfstroom

Work highlights

  • Advising a.s.r. on the acquisition from Vattenfall and financing of part of the Princess Ariane wind farm in the Wieringermeer, including advising a.s.r. on the PPA and O&M aspects.
  • Advising Enexis Group on the divestment of its subsidiary Fudura B.V. through a controlled auction process to a consortium of PGGM Infrastructure Fund (PGGM) and DIF Capital Partners (DIF).
  • Advising DIF Capital Partners and Virya Energy on the acquisition of a majority stake in the VoltH2 group.

BJTK

Corporate boutique BJTK fields a dedicated renewable energy and projects team with experience advising on wind, solar, hydrogen, and biomass, infrastructure such as electric vehicle charging, and startups and scale-ups. Practice head Rutger Jansen is regarded as ‘very entrepreneurial‘, with broad experience in energy-sector M&A. The ‘client-driven and preciseInge Timmerman is also noted.

Practice head(s):

Rutger Jansen

Other key lawyers:

Inge Timmerman

Testimonials

‘Boutique, extremely dedicated, well trained at major law firms. Their client base in the energy sector is enviable. They have really managed to carve out a growing niche for themselves in projects and sustainability.’

‘Inge Timmerman is very client-driven and precise. Rutger Jansen is very entrepreunerial, and really thinks alongside the client.’

Key clients

Anesco Nederland

Bio Energy Netherlands

BayWa r.e.

Biofuel Groningen

Carbon Equity

CEE Group

Cooll Sustainable Energy Solutions

Energiefonds Overrijssel

Enerzjyk Skûlenboarch

ENGIE

EPICo

GroenLeven

INB Group

OrangeGas

Pacifico Energy Partners

Patronale Solar

Patronale Life

Power2X

Prowind

Windpark Koningspleij

Windpark Scheldewind

YARD Energy

Zonnepark A73

Work highlights

  • Advised Patronale Solar NV on several (envisaged) transactions in the renewable energy sector in the Netherlands.
  • Advised GroenLeven on the sale of various ground-mounted solar parks in the Netherlands.
  • Advised Power2X on a partnership with Danish Fund manager Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners’ Energy Fund to build MadoquaPower2X, a EUR 1 billion industrial-scale project for the production of green hydrogen and ammonia in Sines, Portugal.

CMS

With experience across acquisitions and divestments, financing, and project development, CMS‘ energy and climate change group is well regarded by clients including national and international energy operators and funders. Experienced corporate lawyer Cecilia van der Weijden leads the team, while Martika Jonk is a key contact for clients in the oil and gas industry.

Practice head(s):

Cecilia van der Weijden

Other key lawyers:

Martika Jonk; Arno Moret; Femke Stroucken; Simon Sanders; Bart-Adriaan de Ruijter

Testimonials

‘Sharp and delicate, even when put in line of fire’

‘The ability of CMS NL and CMS UK to work together with a strong team and close collaboration is the key value from CMS. The firm uses expertise in the energy sector across the UK and NL to give the best advice both from a legal perspective but also from a practical and commercial perspective.’

‘Martika Jonk is a very strong individual with great legal knowledge and practical application. Demonstrates good understanding of client issues and can provide very helpful support to navigate complex issues, sometimes cross-border.’

‘CMS has a good knowledge of the energy market and contractual standards. Easy and pleasant to work with. Firm in their statements when needed and flexible when items are less important. The availability is excellent, even at very short notice. The quality of the work is of a high standard and CMS understands the client’s position with little explanation.’

‘Able to accurately solve complex issues with difficult counterparts and delivered well tailored solutions.’

‘Cecilia van der Weijden stands out because of her professionality, dedication and problem-solving skills’

‘Quick responses; reliable advice.’

‘Pleasant people to work with.’

Key clients

Ib Vogt GmbH

Equitix

Voltiq

Brookfield

Greencoat Capital

Venterra

Transnet

Ionity

Kansai Electric Power Co., Inc.

Trio Solar 2 B.V.

Equinor

Allego

AEB (Afval Energie Bedrijf Amsterdam)

GroenLeven

Lukoil

Ørsted

Shell

Vattenfall

Trio Investment

Aroundtown

Enercon

NextGen

Work highlights

  • Advised German TSO Transnet BW on its participation in a crowd balancing platform for electricity transmission system operators, called Equigy.
  • Advised Kansai Electric Power Co., Inc., the second largest utility company of Japan on its participation in a consortium led by Glennmont Partners and comprising other institutional investors from the USA and Germany, which has acquired a 50% ownership share in the Borkum Riffgrund 3 offshore wind farm from Ørsted.
  • Advised Trio Investment on the successful acquisition, development and financing of solar photovoltaic (PV) park Dalfsen, the Netherlands.

Dentons

The energy group at Dentons includes lawyers experienced in corporate, environmental, regulatory, and public law. The team assists with project development and financing, with an increasing focus on renewables and sustainable financing. Jan Jakob Peelen leads the team, while banking and finance practice head Marcel Janssen is also active.

Practice head(s):

Jan Jakob Peelen

Other key lawyers:

Jaqueline Bell; Marcel Janssen; Dieuwke Kist

Testimonials

‘Experienced due diligence party for all relevant legal fields. Great understanding of their clients needs in relation to closing transactions. Good listeners who are very helpful to determine what is a must have or nice to have for their clients’

‘Jan Jakob Peelen is a very intelligent energy lawyer. He has seen it all in his career. Creates for everybody involved a comfortable situation. Marcel Janssen is a commercial finance lawyer with a great network, a typical dealmaker, and refuses to take no for an answer.’

‘For all aspects the right people with different expertise can be made available. It is a diverse group of people that are easy to collaborate with.’

‘Besides expert knowledge on environmental cases, they also have an eye for the human factors. They will listen to clients as non-lawyers with an open view and help to break down and understand the legal language.’

Key clients

Eurus Energy

GIDARA Energy

Gate Terminal

Hanwha Q Cells

ING Bank

LC Energy/Low Carbon

Petrofac International Ltd.

Rabobank

RWE

Shell

Solarfields Projecten B.V.

Triodos Group

Vopak

Yanmar

Veolia

Total

Nordsol

Work highlights

  • Advising Rabobank on the acquisition financing of part of the Prinses Ariane wind farm, which was acquired by ASR and sold by Vattenfall.
  • Advising Yanmar Holdings on its acquisition of a majority share in ELEO Technologies, a fast-growing battery technology company based in Helmond, the Netherlands.
  • Assisting Petrofac in its bid for the construction of a 2GW 525 KV HVDC Offshore Substation.

Eversheds Sutherland (Netherlands) B.V.

Eversheds Sutherland (Netherlands) B.V.'s energy and infrastructure team provides full life-cycle support on projects including on- and offshore wind, solar, and biofuels. Competition specialist Michel Chatelin co-leads the team with Miriam Van Ee, a corporate and M&A lawyer with a strong energy-sector focus and a reputation for ‘amazing problem-solving and communication skills‘. Wieger ten Hove and Max van Drunen are also noted.

Practice head(s):

Miriam van Ee; Michel Chatelin

Other key lawyers:

Pim van Leersum; Wieger ten Hove; Max van Drunen

Testimonials

‘Miriam van Ee has amazing problem-solving and communication skills. She delivers on every transaction.’

‘Miriam van Ee is uniquely positioned within this market and has a network that can assist with moving deals forward efficiently.’

Key clients

Energiefonds Overijssel

United Momentum, Clean Electricity Generation

Shell

ib vogt

Solarfields Projecten

Solarcentury

Statkraft

Iron Mountain

Infinergy

Glennmont

Kingspan

Perpetual Next

Cyrus One

2tokens

Groenleven/BayWa

Klimaatgarant

Work highlights

  • Advised a solar developer on the realisation of a 116MW solar farm.
  • Advised NBIM on a €1.375 billion acquisition of a 50% interest in the Borssele 1 & 2 offshore wind farm in the Netherlands.
  • Advised LyondellBasell on a grid connection dispute with grid operator Enexis

Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer

Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer is active on significant transactions in the energy sector, acting for both energy suppliers and investors. Winfred Knibbeler is a key contact for clients in the industry, while Alexander Doorman has significant transactional experience, including advising on joint ventures, M&A, and matters relating to energy price increases.

Practice head(s):

Alexander Doorman

Other key lawyers:

Winfred Knibbeler

Testimonials

‘Good market knowledge and up to date with the latest developments and excellent global network. In addition, the team is both legally excellent and commercially minded, which means that all aspects come into their own in a transaction that is of importance. They are a trusted advisor and always one step ahead.’

Key clients

E.On / Essent

Enexis

PGGM

IK Invest

Royal Boskalis Westminster

Canada Pension Plan Investment Board

Work highlights

  • Advising Royal Boskalis Westminster N.V. (Boskalis) in relation to the proposed public offer by its major shareholder HAL Holding N.V. (HAL).
  • Advised E.On (including its Dutch subsidiary Essent) on the disposal of its Dutch mid-market power and gas B2B business to Eneco, a Netherlands-based energy company owned by Mitsubishi and Chubu Electric Power.
  • Advised PGGM on its acquisition of Fudura, a regulated energy metering company, from its current owner Enexis (public gas and electricity network operator).

Norton Rose Fulbright

Norton Rose Fulbright‘s energy team is jointly led by banking partner Wouter Hertzberger and environmental specialist counsel Matthijs Van Leeuwen. The team has a strong focus on project finance, providing transactional assistance to developers, utilities, banks, and other clients engaged in energy-sector activities including gas storage and wind power generation.

Practice head(s):

Wouter Hertzberger; Matthijs van Leeuwen

Testimonials

‘Norton Rose Fulbright Netherlands delivers great advice under extreme time pressure and complex situations.’

Key clients

ABN AMRO

Ballast Nedam

BritNed

British Petroleum

Bluescape Resources

Denham Capital

DNV-GL

ENGIE

HSBC

IBVogt GmbH

ING Bank

NOP Agrowind

Orsted

RWE/Essent

Sete Brasil Participacoes SA

Westermeerwind

Windpark Krammer BV

World Fuel Services

Energy Storage Netherlands

In.Credible

Kroningswind

Ventolines

Green Investment Fund Ltd

Rabobank

Inpex Corporation

Neoen

Work highlights

  • Advised a syndicate of two Dutch and one Belgian bank, Coöperatieve Rabobank U.A., Nederlandse Waterschapsbank N.V. and KBC Bank NV, on the financing of an 80 MW on-shore wind farm in the Netherlands, which will consist of 19 wind turbines and will be developed by Kroningswind B.V. (Windpark Kroningswind).
  • Advised INPEX Corporation on its stock transfer agreement with Diamond Generating Europe B.V., which is indirectly owned by Mitsubishi Corporation, to acquire a 50% stake in the Luchterduinen offshore wind farm and a 15% stake in the Borssele III/IV offshore wind farm, each operating off the coast of the Netherlands.
  • Advised Neoen on the negotiation and drafting of a virtual power purchase agreement in respect of the 404 MW wind farm in Mutkalampi, Finland.

Ploum

The energy group at Ploum has historic strength in the oil and gas sector, and is extending its reach into renewables, including the developing area of hydrogen as well as solar and wind. Maayke Maas-Cooymans specialises in public and environmental law, while experienced corporate and commercial partner Stephan Sluijters leads on transactional mandates, and receives praise from clients as a ‘dealmaker and a real expert‘.

Practice head(s):

Stephan Sluijters; Jolande van Loon; Maayke Maas-Cooymans

Other key lawyers:

Geert de Nijs

Testimonials

‘Ploum’s energy transactional practice is characterized by always putting the client’s need first while achieving the best deal possible for them. Particularly noteworthy is the exceptional sector expertise and the commitment to handle even difficult transactions at short notice to the client’s utmost satisfaction.’

‘Great team. They are hands on with a very practical approach and all and all are just very nice to work with.’

‘One-stop shop with all skills and competencies required in the sector available. Great communication and relationship management.’

‘Full service firm with deep energy sector knowledge. Great track record for energy work in the broadest sense. Ploum really handles the full spectrum of energy and corporate related work for both domestic and multinational clients. Go-to-firm with can-do mentality.’

‘Stephan Sluijters has great knowledge of the industry, he is there when you need him and he understands the client’s business interests very well.’

‘The team around Stephan Sluijters is very committed, and engages with clients and counterparts in a professional and friendly manner. Team members are diligent, available and willing to understand the business side, which makes this team a good and pragmatic partner.’

‘Stephan Sluijters is strong in energy-related matters and has a pragmatic approach. Good dealmaker and a real expert. Ready to go the extra mile to get the best result for the client. Very pleasant and to-the-point communication.’

‘Geert de Nijs supports projects in an excellent manner: he is not only strong and creative on the strict legal merits but also has a good eye for dimensions such as the relationship between shareholders and its possible evolution over the years, which is equally invaluable advice.’

Key clients

Eneco N.V.

European Energy A/S

Joulz / Zonel

NoordZeeWind C.V.

BayWa r.e. / GroenLeven

Vattenfall

COVA

Deltalinqs

COVA – The Netherlands Petroleum Stockpiling Agency

BP

VNPI / VOPAK

Vattenfall

CrossWind – Joint Venture of Shell and Eneco

ABN AMRO Sustainable Impact Fund

Joulz

Social Investment Managers and Advisors, LLC (SIMA) and Angaza (Angaza)

Work highlights

  • Advised BayWa r.e. / GroenLeven on the development and sale of various solar parks to various investors as well as other projects.
  • Advised Shell on its acquisition of MS Tolls from Trevipay.
  • Advised ABN AMRO Energy Transition Fund on its divestment of MP Solar.

Van Doorne

The energy, industry and renewables team at Van Doorne is led by Léone Klapwijk, Rogier Schellaars, and Hugo Reumkens, and has experience of project development and corporate M&A. Schellaars is strong in dispute resolution and arbitration, while Reumkens is well regarded for corporate deals. The firm further strengthened its transactional offering with the October 2022 hire of Diederik Maessen.

Other key lawyers:

Diederik Maessen; Deborah Nizamoeddin; Victor van Ahee

Testimonials

‘Van Doorne’s key value lies in their all-round capabilities, covering the entire energy industry. In this industry there are no simple solutions, so when Van Doorne brings the breadth of their team to the table, that is very helpful.’

‘Victor van Ahee is newly added to this team, but he is already a great adviser to lean on. Victor is an experienced adviser in the industry on energy and environmental complexities, and good to work with.’

 

Key clients

Port of Rotterdam

TenneT TSO B.V.

Stedin Holding B.V.

Warmtebedrijf Holding B.V.

Heerema Marine Contractors Nederland SE

Artic Terminal

Albert Schweitzer Ziekenhuis

Ennatuurlijk B.V.

Dunea N.V.

Friesland Campina N.V.

Work highlights

  • Advised the Rotterdam Municipality as 97 per cent shareholder of Warmtebedrijf Rotterdam with the sale of the Warmtebedrijf Rotterdam to Vattenfall.
  • Advised RockRose (NL) CS5 B.V., a subsidiary of Viaro Energy, on the partial takeover of the licences F5/F4a East in the Dutch North Sea from the Nederlandse Aardolie Maatschappij B.V. (NAM), owned by Shell and ExxonMobil.
  • Advised Port of Rotterdam on its current governance structure, including the duties and powers of the Executive Board and the Supervisory Board and the information obligations towards both Port of Rotterdam’s shareholders, in view of the energy transition and the strategic transactions and collaborations arising from it and related to it.

AKD

AKD's energy team is active on renewables projects and in the growing area of sustainable heat. Marjolein Dieperink heads the practice, with experience in subsidy grants, permits, and state aid. Corporate and M&A partner Lennart Crain provides notable support on transactional matters.

Practice head(s):

Marjolein Dieperink

Other key lawyers:

Lennart Crain

DLA Piper

Gerard Kneppers and Pieter Paul Terpstra lead the energy and natural resources group at DLA Piper and have notable experience in the renewable energy sector. The practice draws on the firm’s expertise in project finance, as well as its global network, to advise on major cross-border projects.

Practice head(s):

Gerard Kneppers; Pieter Paul Terpstra

Other key lawyers:

Richard Fens; Arjen de Snoo; Stefanie Postema

Key clients

Bank Nederlandse Gemeenten (BNG)

BASF

Chint Solar / Astronergy

DGB Biofuels

FMO (Nederlandse Financieringsmaatschappij voor Ontwikkelingslanden)

GPS Group

Hamburg Commercial Bank

ING Bank

Rabobank

Segro

Work highlights

  • Advised BASF on the project financing of the construction of the off shore wind farm Hollandse Kust Zuid.
  • Advising Coöperatieve Rabobank U.A in its capacity as mandated lead arranger in relation to the syndicated project financing of Solar Park Groot Roodehaan.
  • Advising DBG on the development and expansion of several biofuel plants in the Netherlands as well as on the supply chain to collect the feedstock, as it requires advice on international waste transport regulations and the standards to meet to qualify as biofuel (RED and RED II).