Allen & Overy Bratislava, s.r.o. handles both contentious and non-contentious work on behalf of major energy producers, distributors and suppliers. Practice head Martin Magál is experienced in project development, while Peter Šťastný is known for his ‘ability to assess the benefits and risks of the matter and to explain their impact on the case’. Tomáš Búry is noted for his expertise in high-value energy M&A deals and JVs.
Projects and energy in Slovakia
Allen & Overy Bratislava, s.r.o.
Practice head(s):
Martin Magál
Other key lawyers:
Tomáš Búry; Peter Šťastný
Testimonials
‘High professionality, knowledge and approach.’
‘The firm has lawyers which have a good reputation in the sectors on which they focus, and are willing to understand also the technical, financial and business details of cases.’
‘Martin Magál has the ability to look at the matter comprehensively and to provide pragmatic advice fitting into the overall strategy.’
Key clients
Západoslovenská distribučná, a.s.
Východoslovenská distribučná, a.s.
ZSE Energia a.s.
SPP – distribúcia, a.s.
Work highlights
- Representing Západoslovenská distribučná, a.s. and Východoslovenská distribučná, a.s. in over 60 disputes where electricity producers are claiming back the payment of the G-tariff.
- Assisting SPP – distribúcia, a.s. with the implementation of EU Regulation 2022/1854, which related to an emergency intervention to address high energy prices.
- Advising Západoslovenská distribučná on the energy regulation aspects of distribution tariffs.
Barger Prekop s.r.o.
Barger Prekop s.r.o.'s team of 'experts in energy infrastructure' handles the gamut of M&A deals, dispute resolution, and regulatory matters affecting the sector. Roman Prekop is experienced in all aspects of regulatory, dispute resolution and transactional work, while Adrian Barger specialises in competition issues relating to the energy sector. Monika Simorova handles matters pertaining to natural resources, as well as regulatory matters in the gas and electricity space. Matus Lahky is noted for his knowledge of both EU and domestic compliance issues relevant to the energy sector.
Practice head(s):
Roman Prekop; Adrian Barger
Other key lawyers:
Monika Simorova; Matus Lahky
Testimonials
‘They are experts in energy infrastructure, and they understand both EU and Slovak regulation. Their lawyers know not only the law but they also understand the energy business, including pricing regulation and cross-border issues, and also related competition, state aid issues and disputes.’
‘They are very easy-going and proactive, they are always available and responsive. We appreciate that they have see the big picture.’
‘I work mostly with Roman Prekop, Matus Lahky, Monika Simorova – each of them has some niche specialisation, but also can substitute each other. They are a good team, nice people to work with. ’
Hillbridges
Hillbridges recently benefited from the expansion of its projects and energy practice, with Zoran Draškovič and Peter Hodál bringing over a five-strong team from Aldertree legal s.r.o. in November 2022. The firm has a core focus on competition and energy regulation, as well as handling relevant transactional and contentious work. Miroslav Trenčan and Martin Čabák remain key senior contacts.
Practice head(s):
Miroslav Trenčan; Zoran Draškovič; Martin Čabák
Other key lawyers:
Andrej Adamčík; Barbora Malik; Filip Juriš; Peter Hodál
Testimonials
‘This is a highly experienced team with a core group of senior lawyers who have a very hands-on approach to matters on which they advise. In the projects and energy space, they have demonstrated a breadth of expertise (including in the areas of regulatory, competition and EU law), as well as deep insight into the way the market operates.’
‘Zoran Draškovič is a very experienced lawyer with significant expertise in the energy sector. He is responsive and easy to work with.’
Key clients
Energetický a průmyslový holding, a. s. (EPH)
Slovenské elektrárne, a.s.
PPA Controll, a.s.
Emergency Oil Stocks Agency, Slovakia
Transpetrol, a.s.
Nafta, a.s.
Eustream, a.s.
GLP
Queensway Restaurants Slovakia s.r.o.
NFŠ, a.s. and Tehelné, a.s. (part of Grafobal Group)
Work highlights
- Advising GLP on the development of a logistics area near Bratislava’s international airport.
- Advising EP holding on the sale of a 49% stake in the Slovak energy company SSE.
- Advising Slovenské elektrárne, a.s. on a €1.8bn contract related to the decision of the Ministry of Economy of the Slovak Republic to impose obligations to secure the price of electricity supplies for selected groups of customers on the client.
Kinstellar
Kinstellar's dedicated energy team advises on renewables, financing, and development projects. Roman Oleksik has extensive transactional and regulatory experience, while Adam Hodoň regularly advises on tax issues pertinent to the sector. Miroslav Németh has experience providing both corporate and regulatory advice to major players in the energy sector. Erik Neupaver is also recommended.
Practice head(s):
Roman Oleksik; Adam Hodoň
Other key lawyers:
Miroslav Németh; Erik Neupaver
Testimonials
‘The team consists of several professionals who are highly qualified in the field of energy law and they are active not only in the field of legal practice but also within working groups aimed at the improvement of the regulatory environment as well as the academic sphere.’
‘Besides his exceptional professional knowledge in this field, Roman Oleksik is also a very outgoing and helpful person.’
‘High professionals.’
Key clients
Lucron
Chirana T. Injecta
Nafta
SPP – distribúcia
HELLA
MITISKA
GARBE
Slovak German Chamber of Commerce
Slovalco
Vinci Concessions
Veolia Energia Slovensko
Východoslovenská energetika
Západosloveská energetika
Kepler Trading
Lahav Green Energy
DXT Commodities
Premier Energy
NET4GAS
QMB Energ
Work highlights
- Advising Lucron on all energy-related aspects of its development of NESTO, a new residential district in Bratislava.
- Advising a number of companies in Slovakia on the development of on-site photovoltaic power plants.
- Advising VINCI CONCESSIONS and Meridiam, as sponsors, and local subsidiary Granvia on commercial contracts.
LEGATE, s.r.o
LEGATE, s.r.o
counts major energy players, both local and pan-European, among its core clients. The team regularly advises clients on both greenfield and brownfield projects. Peter Vrábel is noted for his contentious expertise; Miroslav Dudlák has significant regulatory experience; and Alena Pláňavská is the name to note for contractual issues.
Practice head(s):
Peter Vrábel; Alena Pláňavská; Miroslav Dudlák
Testimonials
‘The Legate team is very proactive and able to promptly identify new challenges and risks deriving from the legal environment. They are focused on various aspects of the energy market, including European Commission policies. Extremely competent and to the point, very experienced and reliable. It is a group of stellar lawyers and very pleasant to work with.’
‘Peter Vrábel is one of the best lawyers I have worked with. A dedicated professional with excellent team and project management skills. He impresses through his breadth and depth of expertise on energy matters and willingness to go the extra mile to ensure delivery and client satisfaction. The level of communication, strategic thinking, confidence, sophistication and responsivenes have been amazing.’
‘The lawyers from LEGATE are very customer oriented and always try to find the best solution for us in any assignment they are given. And in our case they also provide us very good value for money.’
‘Mostly I work with Peter Vrábel – a true professional with a very good overview and legal knowledge, always ready to provide a good analysis of a given issue and possible solutions to the given issue and the recommend one with the pros and cons. Besides being very professional, he is also a person with a very kind and friendly attitude.’
‘The team provided us with creative solutions based not only on national but also EU law.’
‘Peter Vrábel is a highly experienced lawyer.’
Ružička & Partners s.r.o.
Ružička & Partners s.r.o.' project infrastructure, PPP and public procurement team is highly regarded for the breadth of its work, which spans project financing and development, as well as contentious work relating to both Slovak and EU law. Ján Azud regularly advises government bodies on high-profile infrastructure projects, including major PPP road and e-toll projects, while Dana Nemčíková typically handles transactional work. Peter Bartoš is experienced in representing clients before relevant administrative bodies. Michal Kohn is noted for his knowledge of competition law.
Practice head(s):
Ján Azud
Other key lawyers:
Dana Nemčíková; Peter Bartoš; Michal Kohn
Key clients
Ministry of Economy of the Slovak Republic
Valaliky Industrial Park
Ministry of Health
Slovenský plynárenský priemysel a.s.
KOOPERATIVA poisťovňa, a.s. Vienna Insurance Group
National Motorways Company
Metrostav
Kúpele Sliač
JESS (Jadrová energetická spoločnosť Slovenska, a. s.)
Železničná spoločnosť Slovensko
Ružinov city district
Dopravný podnik Bratislava
MOL
Slovnaft, member of MOL Group
Západoslovenská energetika member of E.ON Group
Západoslovenská distribučná, member of E.ON Group
Penta Hospitals International
Inobat Energy
ČEZ
OLO a.s.
Siemens
Strabag
The Capital City of Slovakia Bratislava
Slovak Post
Work highlights
- Advising the Slovak Republic on the development of the Valaliky strategic area in Eastern Slovakia by way of a €1bn greenfield investment by Volvo.
- Advising Slovenský plynárenský priemysel on its entry into the Croatian, Italian, French and Polish LNG markets.
- Advising the Slovak Republic on its participation in a bidding process for the investment of Winkelmann group into a €100m production plant.
Dentons
Dentons handles a span of energy and projects work, ranging from financing and transactions, to regulatory advice and dispute resolution, including arbitrations. Juraj Gyárfáš heads up the team, and is increasingly focused on renewable energy mandates. Patricia Gossányiová is known for advising groups of senior secured creditors to major domestic electricity producers. Peter Panek, Katarina Pecnová and Peter Kubina are further key contacts.
Practice head(s):
Juraj Gyárfáš
Other key lawyers:
Peter Kubina; Patricia Gossányiová; Katarina Pecnová; Peter Panek
Key clients
GRUNT
Tatra banka
Západoslovenská energetika
Jadrová a vyraďovacia spoločnosť (JAVYS)
Sev.en Energy
Work highlights
- Advising Grunt, a major Slovak investment and real estate development group, on the sale of shares in GEON ENERGY, s. r. o. and GEON, a.s. to ENGIE Services, a.s.
- Advised a club of banks led by Tatra banka, and including UniCredit Bank Czech Republic and Slovakia, Slovenská sporiteľňa and Československá obchodní banka, on a €160m syndicated loan to MH Teplárenský holding.
- Advising Západoslovenská energetika on obtaining financings by way of long-term credit facilities from different domestic banks.
Eversheds Sutherland, advokátní kancelár, s.r.o.
Co-led by Annamária Tóthová and Bernard Hager, the team at Eversheds Sutherland, advokátní kancelár, s.r.o. supports local and international clients on a range of transactions in the energy sector. The group is able to leverage the firm's pan-European network to advise on pertinent EU law issues. Mária Sadloňová is also recommended.
Practice head(s):
Annamária Tóthová; Bernhard Hager
Other key lawyers:
Mária Sadloňová; Ján Macej; Katarina Brath Liebscherova; Sylvia Berová
Testimonials
‘They always consider the matter comprehensively, always look for solutions to the client’s problem, and try to provide answers to all questions. It is a very human approach, and answers are formulated in such a way that even non-lawyers can understand them. Also a short delivery time.’
‘Great professional and human approach – open communication, ability to defend their opinions, very good communication skills, ability to support the client in any matter, ability to explain the legal aspects of a matter clearly and comprehensibly to the client, quick feedback.’
Key clients
SLOWEB s.r.o.
BIA Plastic and Plating Technology Slovakia s.r.o.
RAJO s.r.o.
Letisko Košice, a.s. – Airport Košice, a.s.
ewia s.r.o.
Gunvor International B.V., Amsterdam, Netherlands and its Slovak branch
GRANVIA, a. s.
KOSIT a.s.
TSR Slovakia s.r.o.
Dekonta s.r.o.
Work highlights
- Advised ewia s.r.o. on developing a project for waste treatment and incineration.
- Advised Dekonta s.r.o. on shipments of hazardous waste from Belarus to Slovakia.
G. Lehnert s.r.o.
Known for its ‘very commercially minded, pragmatic and team oriented’ approach, G. Lehnert s.r.o. combines its capabilities in contractual, commercial and transactional work to handle the gamut of non-contentious matters affecting touching on energy and projects. Tomáš Luščoň is regularly instructed by clients active in the production of biofuels. Norbert Smaho and Jana Tögelová are the key transactional experts to note. Lucie Schweizer oversees the dedicated compliance and strategies team, while Jana Hamarová focuses mainly on EPC contracts.
Practice head(s):
Tomáš Luščoň; Norbert Smaho; Jana Tögelová; Lucie Schweizer
Other key lawyers:
Jana Hamarová
Testimonials
‘The firm is generally very commercially minded, pragmatic and team oriented. They have been incredibly effective in challenging matters and the team has always secured expected, results adding value.’
‘We often work with Tomáš Luščoň and Jana Hamarová and they are both exceptionally easy to work with. They know the sector, they know what we need and want, and they always come up with something which makes us think differently and brings added value.’
‘Throughout the years they have covered every part of our needs. They prove a high level of expertise, but what is more important to me, they are doing their best to also understand the business point of our cases. Clearly, they are a very good team, capable and flexible.’
‘I have worked with many lawyers from this firm, and what I appreciate most is the constant quality of each of them. This means that not only the individuals are capable, but also the management of people and work is at a very professional level.’
‘High level of knowledge – professional approach to clients – fast and prompt problem solving.’
Key clients
ROSSI Biofuel Zrt., Hungary
ENVIRAL, a.s., Slovakia
MEROCO, a.s., Slovakia
Slovenské liehovary a likérky, a.s., Slovakia
Poľnoservis, a.s., Slovakia
ENAGRO, a.s., Slovakia
Biodizel Vukovar d.o.o., Croatia
ENVIEN Magyarország Kft., Hungary
Ethanol Energy a.s., Czech Republic
Envien Trading SA, Switzerland
RT LOGISTIC, a.s., Slovakia
Digitance s.r.o.
Work highlights
- Advised ROSSI Biofuel Zrt. on the delivery and construction of plants for the production of crude glycerine, FFA/FME, recycled methanol, glycerine and biodiesel in Komárom, Hungary.
- Advised ROSSI Biofuel Zrt. on the delivery and construction of a plant for the production of methanol using a novel technology for the recovery and conversion of municipal waste.
- Advised ENVIRAL, a.s. on the delivery and construction of a plant for teh production of biogas from de-oiled thin stillage.
Poláček & Partners
Poláček & Partners‘ energy practice is regularly instructed to advise on regulatory issues affecting electricity, heat and gas production and supply. Energy-related litigation is another area of strength; Pavol Poláček, Jozef Hudák and Nikoleta Kakusová are all key contacts for such work, and regularly appear before courts of all levels, as well as the relevant regulatory bodies. Juraj Ondrejka rounds out the roster of notable senior practitioners.
Practice head(s):
Pavol Poláček; Jozef Hudák; Juraj Ondrejka; Nikoleta Kakusová
Testimonials
‘Reliable, professional, business oriented and result oriented.’
‘Excellent understanding of new energy legislation.’
‘Young but professional, enthusiastic and hard-working. Nothing is impossible for them. They have proven their excellent expertise in the energy sector, but the can also make a very fast and professional shift to another hard sector like construction and offer an exceptional service there as well.’
Key clients
Priemyselný park Štúrovo, a.s.
Voltalia Central & Eastern Europe s.r.o.
GreenWay Infrastructure
Slovak Association of Photovoltaic and Renewable Energy Industry (SAPI)
Prievidzské tepelné hospodárstvo, a.s.
Enprotech, a.s.
Energie2, a.s.
ECOSTART, a.s.
Greenlogy,a.s.
wind & energy GmbH
Association of Energy Suppliers
Nitrianska teplárenská spoločnosť, a.s.
Slovenská elektrizačná prenosová sústava, a.s.
Work highlights
- Assisting Priemyselný park Štúrovo, a. s. with the operation of a major local electricity and gas distribution network, and advising on the development of a 30MW photovoltaic power plant.
- Represented Nitrianska teplárenská spoločnosť, a.s. in a dispute over the control of a local industrial area and ownership of heat generation sources.
- Advised the Slovak Association of Photovoltaic Industry and RES on an inter-ministerial commentary relating to the new legal regulation of the electricity and gas market rules.
SOUKENÍK – ŠTRPKA, s. r. o.
SOUKENÍK – ŠTRPKA, s. r. o.'s diverse client list in the energy space spans major players focused on gas transportation, hydropower, energy transmission and electricity production. Founding partner Peter Štrpka leads the energy department, and has an equal workload of contentious and non-contentious mandates. Andrea Erbenová is a key contact for matters concerning renewables. Juraj Babiš is also noted.
Practice head(s):
Peter Štrpka; Andrea Erbenová; Juraj Babiš
Key clients
Slovenská elektrizačná prenosová sústava, a.s.
BDR THERMEA GROUP, B.V. (operating in Slovakia by BDR Thermea Košice, s. r. o.)
VODOHOSPODÁRSKA VÝSTAVBA, ŠTÁTNY PODNIK
Glortex a.s.
KRON ENERGY, s. r. o.
green energy slovakia, s. r. o.
Priemyselný park Štúrovo, a. s.
PV Olichov s. r. o.
TRANSPETROL, a.s.
HAUSBERG, s. r. o.
DELTA Trade ZH s.r.o.
BL Development, s. r. o.
Work highlights
- Representing Vodohospodárska výstavba in numerous energy-related disputes against Slovenské elektrárne.
- Successfully represented Slovenská elektrizačná prenosová sústava, a.s. in a retrial following the decision of the European Court of Justice that levying energy costs is contrary to EU law.
- Advising BDR THERMEA GROUP, B.V. on its business activities in Slovakia.
BBH advokátska kancelária, s.r.o.
The energy department at BBH advokátska kancelária, s.r.o. specialises in waste management issues, especially in connection with waste from electric and electronic equipment. Miroslav Fašung is the head of the energy team, and is expertly supported by Olga Beláňová, who is well versed in regulatory matters, as well as issues concerning grid connection and distribution.
Practice head(s):
Miroslav Fašung
Other key lawyers:
Olga Beláňová
Testimonials
‘The key capability of BBH’s team is the ability to provide us with swift and practical solutions to our issues.’
‘Miroslav Fašung is a versatile and proficient lawyer, who understands our business and is able to provide us with top-level advice.’
Key clients
ESCO Distribučné sústavy, a.s.
ENVIDOM Združenie výrobcov elektrospotrebičov pre recykláciu
EKOLAMP Slovakia – Združenie výrobcov a distribútorov svetelnej techniky
KC pre staré vozidlá
Auto Recycling
ČEZ ESCO, a.s. – member of ČEZ Group
ČEZ, a.s.
ESCO Slovensko, a.s.
FORTISCHEM, a.s.
MH Teplárenský holding, a.s.
SkyToll, a.s.
Work highlights
- Advised ESCO Slovensko, a JV between ČEZ and SPP, on the acquisition of the majority share in BIOPEL.
- Assisted EKOLAMP Slovakia with the preparation of new template documentation regarding reserved obligations and applicable general terms and conditions.
- Advised ENVIDOM on the readjustment of template contracts relating to the removal of waste.
Havel & Partners
Havel & Partners provides comprehensive advice to key players in the energy sector, including on acquisitions, public procurement and state aid issues. The team is often involved with regulation of relationships in the sector; Michal Blahovec is noted for his expertise in this type of work. Josef Hlavička and Ondřej Majer jointly lead the team.
Practice head(s):
Josef Hlavička; Ondřej Majer
Other key lawyers:
Michal Blahovec
Key clients
Naftogaz of Ukraine
TRANSPETROL
UGI/AmeriGas
FLAGA
Reticulum Holding
GARBE
Work highlights
- Representing Naftogaz of Ukraine in proceedings related to natural gas transit issues.
- Advising state-owned company TRANSPETROL on issues related to the operation of crude oil pipelines.
- Advising UGI/AmeriGas on a range of issues, including permits and licenses, as well as handling representation in administrative proceedings before the relevant Slovak administrative and customs authorities.
Paul Q Law Firm
At Paul Q Law Firm, transactional work, including mergers and acquisitons, in the energy space makes up the core of the practice. Regulatory issues are another area of strength. Boris Brhlovič is the key senior contact.
Practice head(s):
Boris Brhlovič
Stentors
Co-led by Michal Hulena and Vladimír Kordoš, the team at Stentors tpyically advises on the production and distribution of energy, as well as projects relating to alternative and renewable sources. The firm also deals with issues related to waste management. The team is noted for its close relationship with the relevant regulatory bodies and public authorities in Slovakia and abroad. Erik Schváb is another key name.
Practice head(s):
Michal Hulena; Vladimír Kordoš
Other key lawyers:
Erik Schváb
Key clients
Alpiq Energy SE
Correggio Consulting
Inphinity s. r. o.
Invest4SEE RE Investment Holding GmbH
Axpo Solutions AG
Work highlights
- Assisted Alpiq Energy with the negotiation of parent guarantees for electricity and gas delivery.
- Advising Correggio on regulatory and compliance matters in Slovakia.