The ‘smart’ projects, energy, natural resources and infrastructure (PENRI) practice at A&O Shearman earns a strong reputation for its work on a wide range of projects in both energy and infrastructure. Practice head Kent Rowey splits his time between Los Angeles and New York, where he leads on complex and high-value development work for project sponsors, including the multibillion-dollar PPP redevelopment of JFK International Airport’s Terminal One. Airports are one significant facet of the firm’s infrastructure offering, which also covers both traditional infrastructure, including rail and road, and telecoms and digital infrastructure, with significant recent work on data centers, where New York-based Dorina Yessios is a key contact. Also in New York, Nisim (Niso) Matari is reputed for his knowledge of a range of financing facilities. In energy, meanwhile, the practice advises on the financing of projects in wind and solar power, battery storage, and carbon capture. Complex fund structuring and financing are key strengths for the firm, with John Marciano in Washington DC, and Daniel Sinaiko in Los Angeles being sought out by clients for advice on matters relating to tax equity. New York-based Jennifer Wnek has expertise in inverted lease tax equity and construction-to-back leverage debt financing, while Jillian Ashley in New York and Andrea Lucan in Los Angeles are also noted. Sam Kamyans left the firm in June 2023. Further members joined the team following the merger of Allen & Overy and Shearman & Sterling. Cynthia Urda Kassis has particular expertise in the mining and metals sectors. Paul Epstein has broad expertise encompassing toll roads, rail lines, ports, and airports, as well as projects in the energy sector, and is well-versed in refinancings and concession agreements. He advises on complex and high-value financing issues, with notable support from senior associate Jackson Murley. All mentioned lawyers are based in New York.
Project finance in United States
A&O Shearman
Practice head(s):
Kent Rowey
Other key lawyers:
Dorina Yessios; John Marciano; Daniel Sinaiko; Jennifer Wnek; Jillian Ashley; Andrea Lucan; Nisim (Niso) Matari; Cynthia Urda Kassis; Paul Epstein; Jackson Murley
Testimonials
‘The team is smart.’
‘Dorina Yessios is smart and talented.’
Key clients
Clearway Energy Group LLC
The Carlyle Group
SunPower
Ørsted Onshore North America
Voya Infrastructure Management
Summit Carbon Solutions
CIM Group
Tokyo Gas
Inter-American Investment Corporation (IDB Invest)
ENGIE
Vitol Inc.
TOTALEnergies
Generate Capital
Macquarie Capital’s Green Infrastructure Group
ING Capital, LLC and RBC Community Investments, LLC
JERA Renewables
Repsol Renewables North America
Sol Systems
Carlyle Infrastructure Partners
Airglades International Airport LLC
VICO Infrastructure Company LLC
ConRAC Solutions
ENGIE North America
EdgeConneX, Inc.
International Finance Corporation (IFC)
Global Infrastructure Partners
IPI Data Center Partners Management, LLC
Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. L.P. and SUEZ Water Environmental Services Inc.
Ohio State Energy Partners (JV of ENGIE and Axium)
EQT Infrastructure
IDB Invest
Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPPIB)
Work highlights
- Represented Voya Investment Management (Voya) on its mezzanine debt investment in a USD1.9 billion package of debt and tax equity financing with Quinbrook Infrastructure Partners and Primergy Solar for the ground breaking Gemini Solar + Storage Project.
- Represented TOTALEnergies on related construction financing facilities for the Danish Fields and Myrtle solar plus storage projects respectively located in Wharton and Matagorda Counties, Texas and Brazoria County, Texas.
- Represented CIM Group on a 250 MW solar PV project called Aquamarine being developed in San Joaquin Valley, California. The plant is part of the first phase of the Westlands Solar Park (WSP), one of the largest permitted solar parks in the world.
Ashurst LLP
Ashurst LLP ‘s US team has a strong focus on traditional infrastructure, often acting for city and state public authorities on the development of transportation and social infrastructure PPP projects. Betty Cerini in New York and Anna Hermelin in Los Angeles lead the team, with transportation specialist Andrew Smith in New York another key contact. Recent years have seen the firm extend its offering, ferrying over PPP structuring expert Jonathan Turner from London to Los Angeles, and tapping Wes Strickland from Holland & Knight LLP in October 2021 to lead in the firm’s new Austin office. In New York, Matthew Rickards bolsters the firm’s international experience, having advised on significant infrastructure projects in Asia, Europe and North America.
Practice head(s):
Anna Hermelin; Betty Cerini
Other key lawyers:
Matthew Rickards; Matthew Tague; Andrew Smith; Wes Strickland; Jonathan Turner
Testimonials
‘Their ability to teach, transfer knowledge and work with multiple members of an organization, including non-lawyers to bring international best practices to the US is exceptional.’
‘Ashurst’s knowledge of public-private partnerships precedent is unmatched.’
‘Anna Hermelin is awesome. She understands how to help clients reach objectives and successfully work with technical and financial advisors as part of project engagements.’
Key clients
Austin Transit Partnership
New Jersey Economic Development Authority
Fargo-Moorhead Metro Flood Diversion Authority
Georgia Department of Transportation
Maryland Department of Transportation
Los Angeles Metropolitan Transportation Authority (LA Metro)
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey
City of San Jose
California High Speed Rail Authority (as a subcontractor to KPMG)
San Bernardino County
Baker Botts L.L.P.
Baker Botts L.L.P. handles a vast array of matters, ranging from greenfield projects to tax equity financings for a diverse client list that includes institutional lenders and credit enhancers. San Francisco-based Dino Barajas leads the project finance team since the departure of Jeff Kayes in January 2022, and has broad experience in energy and infrastructure transactions, with a particular focus on the Latin American market. Ellen Friedman in New York is a name to note, with notable expertise advising on complex financing structures in projects in renewable energy, renewable fuel, and carbon capture. Also recommended are Frank Schoen and PPP expert Victoria Boyne, both in New York, and tax specialists Michael Bresson and Barbara De Marigny in Houston.
Practice head(s):
Dino Barajas
Other key lawyers:
Ellen Friedman; Frank Schoen; Michael Bresson; Barbara De Marigny; Victoria Boyne
Key clients
Sunnova Energy International Inc.
Work highlights
- Representing Sunnova Energy International as the Borrower in a back-leverage warehouse facility to finance portfolios of residential solar assets that are held in tax equity funds.
Baker McKenzie LLP
Baker McKenzie LLP advises on a variety of aspects of energy project development and project finance, such as supporting clients in their transition to a zero-carbon policy. The practice is jointly chaired by Chicago’s José Antonio Morán and James O’Brien alongside New York-based Clyde Rankin. Morán has particular experience with transactions based in the US, Spain and Latin America, and handles complex projects through their development and operations, while O’Brien brings notable expertise in fossil-fuel, renewable and waste-derived fuel projects. Rankin advises on significant renewable energy projects with vast experience in the wind energy sector. Stan Sirot, who is based in Chicago, focuses on renewable and conventional power projects.
Practice head(s):
Clyde Rankin; José Antonio Morán; James O’Brien
Other key lawyers:
Stan Sirot
Key clients
Advanced Clean Energy Storage I, LLC
Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure Capital, Inc.
Oncor
Natixis and Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria
Gran Americas, other Bogota bus companies
Siemens Financial Services, Inc
Best Buy (Macbeth Solar Project)
Best Buy (Lyons Road Solar Project)
Manulife Investment Management
Work highlights
- Advised Advanced Clean Energy Storage I, LLC, along with Mitsubishi Power Americas, Inc. and Magnum Development, LLC, in the US Department of Energy’s (DOE) $504.4 million loan commitment to develop the world’s largest industrial green hydrogen facility in central Utah.
- Advised Natixis, New York Branch (as Coordinating Mandated Lead Arranger, Structuring Bank, Administrative Agent and the Green Loan Coordinator) and Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria, S.A. New York Branch (as Mandated Lead Arranger) on an approximately $146 million dollar credit agreement to finance the development, construction, ownership and operation of the Centella and Tap Mauro power transmission line projects in Chile by Centella Transmisión, S.A., a subsidiary of Ferrovial S.A.
- Advised Gran Americas USME Provision S.A.S., GMasivo 10 S.A.S., and GMasivo 16 S.A.S―the concessionaires in three separate bus lines within the TransMilenio network in the District of Bogotá, Colombia―in connection with the US Private Placement of $126 million in bonds issued under the Sustainability Bond Framework.
Ballard Spahr LLP
Ballard Spahr LLP is well regarded for its project finance work in both the energy and infrastructure sectors, with a strong roster of clients including lenders and sponsors, project developers, and government entities. The firm often works for both lenders and project sponsors on project finance assignments. Patrick Gillard and Steve Park, who are both based in Philadelphia, lead the P3 and infrastructure team, which has experience advising on projects in areas including transport and waste. John Smolen in Baltimore is also strong in this area, while Washington DC-based Katie Leesman is a key contact for work in energy projects, in particular in solar.
Practice head(s):
Patrick Gillard; Randall J. Towers; Steve Park; John Smolen
Other key lawyers:
Katie Leesman
Testimonials
‘The Ballard team, led by John Smolen, was extremely qualified in the areas of alternative project delivery methods. Each team member had the needed experience and the technical skills to complete the work promptly and professionally.’
‘The final work product was improved by the efforts of all members of the team. The team quickly moved to cover any loose ends, and there was always someone on the team who could be trusted to have the requisite skills and ability to respond to any new issue.’
‘John Smolen is a highly skilled attorney, a problem solver, and he has all the skills and technical abilities to promptly and professionally provide advice and complete all the needed work. I trust John completely, and he made sure I had considered all angles before making decisions.’
‘John Smolen protected our interests, and collaborated well, even when we chose to pursue non-traditional paths in structuring our transaction. He is cordial and witty and was well-liked by all the members of the team. He was never condescending, and we always felt he had our best interests in mind. He is an excellent attorney!’
‘Excel in collaboration and use of technology.’
‘Steve Park is exceptional for P3 transportation transactions.’
Key clients
Constellation Energy Generation LLC (Constellation)
Exelon Corporation (Exelon)
Controlled Thermal Resources, Inc. and its project subsidiaries (collectively, CTR)
McDonald’s Corporation
PECO Energy Company
University of Florida
Virginia Department of Transportation
Pennsylvania Department of Transportation
Nebraska Department of Transportation
Georgia Department of Transportation
University of Florida
Port of Nome, Alaska
Riviera Beach, Florida
Bracewell LLP
Bracewell LLP’s seasoned project finance practice focuses on energy and infrastructure transactions, handling a range of large-scale projects that contain sophisticated finance structures, among others, alongside vast experience of financing of traditional energy projects. The team is helmed by development and finance expert Nicolai J. Sarad in New York, and Houston’s Thomas Tomlinson, with a notable focus on the financing, development, acquisition and divestiture of traditional and renewable energy projects. G Alan Rafte, who is also based in Houston, chairs the firm’s business and regulatory section, while New York-based Danielle Garbien strengthens the team with considerable expertise of power and renewable energy. Martha Kammoun departed in October 2022.
Practice head(s):
Nicolai J. Sarad; Thomas M. Tomlinson
Other key lawyers:
G Alan Rafte; Danielle Garbien
Key clients
Calcasieu River Bridge lenders
Balfour Beatty Investments
Navigator CO2 Ventures LLC
Phillips 66
Beacon Offshore Energy Development LLC
Talos Low Carbon Solutions LLC
Targa Resources
Tallgrass Energy
Permian Highway Pipeline
Standard Solar, Inc
AVANGRID, Inc.
Work highlights
- Acting as legal advisor to the lenders that will commit to provide debt financing to Calcasieu Connector Group, a consortium formed by ACS Infrastructure Development, Inc. Macquarie Infrastructure Development LLC, and John Laing Limited and John Laing (USA) Limited.
- Represented Balfour Beatty Investments as the sponsor to the shortlisted consortium known as Red Soils Justice Partners in its bid for the Clackamas County Courthouse Social Infrastructure P3 Project in Oregon.
- Assisted a US-based airport management company in a joint venture with a confidential partner to pursue airport projects at both public and private airports in the United States, including P3 transactions.
Clifford Chance
A key destination for DFIs and ECAs looking to invest in Latin America and the United States, Clifford Chance handles infrastructure and energy projects ranging from the anticipated acquisition of a biomanufacturing facility in Massachusetts to the financing of a renewable diesel and jet fuel refinery facility in Paraguay. Lori Ann Bean heads the project finance team; she has significant experience of working with international agency lenders and recently advised the DFC on their guarantee of bonds for sustainable infrastructure in Rio de Janeiro. Fabricio Longhin is a Latin America specialist who recently advised Proparco and the FDN on a loan destined for the purchase of 406 electric buses in Bogota. Jessica Springsteen is experienced in renewable energy financings and recently advised European lenders on the financing of a supply chain for the offshore wind sector in New Jersey. Further recommended is Alberto Haito who frequently leads on energy and infrastructure matters in Colombia. All named lawyers are based in Washington DC.
Practice head(s):
Lori Ann Bean
Other key lawyers:
Fabricio Longhin; Catherine McCarthy; Jessica Springsteen; Alberto Haito; Peter Hughes; Patricio Abal; Luis Clouet
Testimonials
‘Relevant deal experience, adaptation capability to new issues and customer focus.’
Key clients
U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC, previously known as OPIC)
Export-Import Bank of the United States
Build America Bureau of the U.S. Department of Transportation
U.S. Department of Energy
Inter-American Investment Corporation (IDB Invest)
International Finance Corporation (IFC)
KfW – the German Development Bank
EKF – Denmark’s Export Credit Agency
CAF – Development Bank of Latin America
Proparco – the French development bank
SACE
Hermes
Corporación Financiera de Desarrollo S.A. (Cofide)
Financiera de Desarrollo Nacional (FDN)
Work highlights
- Advised the US Department of Energy’s Loan Programs Office on a $504.4m loan guarantee for the Advanced Clean Energy Storage Project.
- Advising on the launch of “HyDeal North America”, a consultation platform with the aim to build supply chains that deliver green hydrogen at US$1.50/kg by 2030.
- Advised several financial institutions providing €350m financing for the construction of a mega cruise terminal at PortMiami.
DLA Piper LLP (US)
DLA Piper LLP (US) has a strong track record in renewable energy infrastructure and handles the acquisition, development and sale of solar, wind, and hydro projects. The firms is also currently advising companies on a number of issues relating to the production of hydrogen in the US such as the negotiation of offtake contracts. Robert Gruendel heads the practice from New York; he centers his practice around oil and gas project development. In Washington, Vanessa Wilson leverages her transactional expertise to advises energy companies and infrastructure funds on project construction and financing.
Practice head(s):
Robert Gruendel
Other key lawyers:
Vanessa Wilson
Key clients
Renewco Power
X-Elio North America Development
Shell New Energies US LLC
MJE-Loop Capital
Semco Maritime A/S
Citizens Financial Group, Inc.
Lego group
SG H2 Energy Global
Sonnedix
H&M Hennes & Mauritz Online Shop AB & Co. KG
Work highlights
- Advised Renewco Power in its US expansion through the acquisition of a 1.5GW pipeline of early-stage utility-scale solar projects and 500MW of battery storage projects.
- Advised Shell New Energies US LLC on its agreement to buy 100 percent of Savion LLC (Savion).
- Advised Citizens on the signing of a corporate power purchase agreement to source 100% renewable power.
Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP
Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP pulls together a strong offering in project finance, drawing on the expertise of lawyers in its projects and infrastructure, global finance, capital markets, M&A, tax, regulatory, and disputes practice areas. New York-based Tomer Pinkusiewicz chairs both the projects and infrastructure, and Latin America practices, and has experience advising on project financing matters in conventional and renewable power generation, energy transmission, toll roads, ports, water and wastewater systems, and a wide range of public use facilities. Anita Girdhari focuses on capital markets and infrastructure, and is particularly experienced in Latin America-related transactions. Nicholas Politan has broad transactional expertise, with a focus on renewable energy, while Toren Murphy focuses on PPP work and related concessions. The firm’s clients are primarily on the sponsor side, though it also acts for banks and other major lenders. All named lawyers are based in New York.
Practice head(s):
Tomer Pinkusiewicz
Other key lawyers:
Anita Girdhari; Toren Murphy; Nicholas Politan
Key clients
BHE Renewables
Carlyle Investment Management
Saguaro Power Company
AIP Management
Ferrovial Airports
Macquarie Asset Management
Meridiam Infrastructure
Star America Infrastructure
Morgan Stanley Senior Funding, Inc.
GraMex Investment Holdings LLC
John Laing Investments
Sacyr
Cintra Infrastructures
Vinci Concessions
Greenberg Traurig LLP
Greenberg Traurig LLP advises utilities and energy companies on the acquisition and sale of and investment in energy projects, in particular wind and solar. Experienced transactional lawyer Jeffrey A. Chester in Los Angeles and tax equity practitioner John Eliason in Washington DC co-lead the energy project finance team, while William Garner in Houston, Kenneth Minesinger in Washington DC, and Iskender Catto in New York jointly helm the energy and natural resources group. The team was bolstered in April 2022 with the hires of energy transition specialists Audrey Louison, who is based in the firm’s Washington office, and Eric Macaux, situated in Boston, from Mintz, Levin, Cohn, Ferris, Glovsky and Popeo, P.C..
Practice head(s):
Jeffrey Chester; John Eliason; William Garner; Kenneth Minesinger; Iskender Catto
Other key lawyers:
Audrey Louison; Eric Macaux; Alejandra Garcia Earley
Testimonials
‘Greenberg has a top tier group across all of the practice areas required for a successful renewable project. Whenever a novel problem arises they are always the first firm I call.’
‘ The GT team brings high value expertise across all aspects of project finance. Leaders in large scale energy procurement, project finance, tax equity and development capital facilities are standouts.’
‘Jeff Chester has been the most efficient and experienced attorney I’ve worked with on commercial transactions (across renewables and O&G). ‘
‘Alejandra Garcia Earley has been tremendous with her work on construction term loans, and helping to guide the company for success with follow up transactions.’
Key clients
Greenbacker
Pelion Green Future
Apex Clean Energy, LLC
Oak Creek Energy Systems
Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP
Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP represents governments, companies, and lenders in infrastructure projects ranging from managed toll lanes to courthouse constructions. Additionally, the firm focuses on acquisitions and financing of energy-related assets with a strong focus on the renewables space. John O’Neill heads the PPP and infrastructure practice from the firm’s Richmond office. The experienced lawyer is currently representing Virginia Passenger Rail Authority in a major rail service expansion project. In Washington, head of the energy and infrastructure team Jeffrey Schroeder guides domestic and international clients from both the conventional and renewable energy space through a range of transactions such as portfolio acquisitions and divestitures. Washington resident James Head specializes in university utility systems projects. Also in Washington, Vera Rechsteiner is a tax structuring specialist with notable experience in the Latin American and Caribbean market. Further recommended is Richmond-based Eric Nedell, a commercial financing specialist with a particular focus energy-asset based borrowing and lending.
Practice head(s):
Jeffrey Schroeder; John O’Neill
Other key lawyers:
James Head; Vera Rechsteiner; Eric Nedell; Geoffrey C. Lorenz; Ryan Pedraza
Testimonials
‘HAK is a big firm covering a wide range of specialties. This has helped us to trust the team and be confident that we are getting a good service and experience.’
‘We are very happy to be cared by John O’Neil and Ryan Pedraza, both of them are always available regardless of the time of day.’
‘They have top flight lawyers who have been deeply involved in PPP transactions from all angles–sponsor, owner, contractor, lender, etc.’
‘Their lawyers are highly skilled, have on the ground experience, and can provide as much or as as little advice as you need.’
Key clients
Underwriters Counsel (MUFG)
A consortium comprised of Sacyr Infrastructure USA LCC, NextEra Energy, and Star America Infrastructure Partners LLC
Meridiam Infrastructure North America Corporation
Brightline Trains Florida LLC
Austin Transit Partnership
Arizona Commerce Authority
ASTM North America & DIF Capital
University of Louisville
Louisiana State University
Sacyr Infrastructure USA LLC & Plenary Americas US Holdings Inc.
SH 130 Concession Company LLC
Blueridge Transportation Group
North Carolina Department of Transportation
Commonwealth of Virginia
District of Columbia Office of Public-Private Partnerships
Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation
Purple Line Transit Constructors LLC
Work highlights
- Serving as designated underwriter’s counsel in connection with the issuance by WEC Infrastructure Wind Holding II LLC of approximately $300 million of senior notes.
- Advised a consortium comprised of Sacyr Infrastructure USA, Next Era, and Star America Infrastructure Partners in connection with a bid to build, operate, and maintain the University of Florida utility system.
- Advised Meridiam Infrastructure North America Corporation on its proposal to build, operate and maintain a new courthouse facility.
King & Spalding LLP
King & Spalding LLP ‘s corporate, finance and investments team is sought after by clients including domestic and international energy companies, investors, lenders, and sponsors engaged in projects in energy generation, storage, and transmission. Brandon Dalling leads the team from New York, where he has experience advising on leveraged and acquisition financing structures. Tristan Pelham Webb splits his time between New York and Denver, with a strong practice in greenfield and brownfield developments and construction. Scott Greer and Stuart Zisman are key contacts in Houston, while Jonathan Melmed in New York is a go-to lawyer for private equity energy and infrastructure matters. The firm’s reach was prolongated with the arrival of Fradyn Suarez into its new Miami office in July 2022.
Practice head(s):
Brandon Dalling
Other key lawyers:
Tristan Pelham Webb; Ayesha Chatterjee; Fradyn Suárez; Scott Greer; Stuart Zisman; Jonathan Melmed
Testimonials
‘Outstanding market knowledge and technical legal skills.’
‘Very down-to-earth, responsive and approachable.’
Key clients
Axium Infrastructure
Arevon
Avantus (formerly 8minute Energy)
Brookfield Infrastructure
Global Clean Energy Inc.
Instar
Recurrent Energy
Starwood Energy Group
The Carlyle Group
UBS Infrastructure
Work highlights
- Advised on a syndicated debt financing for the construction and operation of two battery energy storage systems totaling 1.4 GWh.
- Advised on the closing of two credit facilities and $97 million letter of credit facility for Cornerstone.
- Advised on a joint venture with the Morongo Band of Mission Indians and Coachella Partners LLC, in connection with a note purchase agreement.
Kirkland & Ellis LLP
Led by experienced transactional partners Rohit Chaudhry and Roald Nashi from the firm’s Washington DC office, Kirkland & Ellis LLP's energy and infrastructure practice has experience advising leading lenders and sponsors, in particular in the private equity space, on the financing of major projects in areas from oil and gas to wind and solar, LNG, and infrastructure including semiconductor facilities and data centers. In the New York office, Robert Eberhardt has broad experience covering wind and solar power and storage projects, while Michael Masri is particularly knowledgeable about energy tax credits and government incentive programs, and Tatiana Monastyrskaya advises PE firms and investment and commercial banks. In Washington DC, Brian Greene stands out for his work with lending agencies and investors.
Practice head(s):
Rohit Chaudhry; Roald Nashi
Other key lawyers:
Robert Eberhardt; Michael Masri; Tatiana Monastyrskaya; Kelann Stirling; Brian Greene; Greg Howling; Rob Warfield; Olivia George; Sebastian Chan
Testimonials
‘The group did an excellent job on the transaction. They were able to help navigate challenging counterparties and situations. They have amazing attention to detail.’
‘Brian Greene has a great owner’s mindset helping us figure out which points were worth fighting and which ones were not worth engaging.’
‘Tatiana Monastyrskaya is unrivaled in terms of brilliance, creativity, speed, and business-minded focus.’
Key clients
Apollo Global Management
ArcLight Clean Transition Corp.
Ares Management
Blackstone
Bluescape
Brookfield Asset Management
Carlyle
CarVal
CleanCapital
Cypress Creek
EQT Infrastructure
Generate Capital
Investec
Kindle Energy
KKR
Macquarie
Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan Board
TPG Rise Climate and The Rise Fund
True Green Capital
Vineyard Wind
Apollo Global Management
ArcLight Clean Transition Corp.
Ares Management and Ares Infrastructure and Power
Blackstone
Bluescape
Brookfield Asset Management
Carlyle
CarVal
CleanCapital
EQT Infrastructure
Generate Capital
I Squared Capital
Investec
KKR
Macquarie
Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan Board
TPG
Warburg Pincus
Work highlights
- Advised Blackstone Energy Partners III L.P. in connection with the development and construction financing of the Champlain Hudson Power Express.
- Advised Blackstone Infrastructure Partners in its $3bn equity investment in Invenergy Renewables Holdings.
- Advised Ares and its portfolio company, Apex Clean Energy Holdings, in the $650m financing for a 30 GW portfolio of renewable projects.
Latham & Watkins LLP
Latham & Watkins LLP‘s project development & finance practice has deep, broad expertise in the full range of energy and infrastructure projects, with particularly notable recent work in offshore wind and LNG, where Jason Webber and Jonathan Rod are especially experienced. Global practice chair Jeff Greenberg divides his time between Los Angeles and New York, with significant experience advising on large-scale and complex projects in the energy sector. Local finance department chair Chirag Dedania acts for commercial and investment banks, private equity funds, and other sponsors on projects in oil and gas, LNG, and infrastructure, including the development of the new terminal 6 at JFK Airport. His colleague Warren Lilien frequently leads on big data centers and other digital infrastructure matters. Kelly Cataldo is also a name to note: her practice centers around renewables and she recently advised Apex Clean Energy on a suite of transactions connected to the Great Pathfinder Windfarm in Iowa. Gianluca Bacchiocchi and Guido Liniado are key contacts for work in the Latin American market, and Cameron Lyons‘s practice extends to project and acquisition financing of LNG, residential solar, wind, and battery storage projects. All mentioned lawyers are based in New York.
Practice head(s):
Jeff Greenberg
Other key lawyers:
Jason Webber; Jonathan Rod; Chirag Dedania; Warren Lilien; Kelly Cataldo; Matthew Henegar; Gianluca Bacchiocchi; Paul Hunt; Guido Liniado; Eli Katz; Cameron Lyon
Key clients
Apex Clean Energy
ArcLight Capital LLC
Ares Capital
Avenue Capital
Blackstone Infrastructure Partners
BNP Paribas
Brookfield Renewable Partners
Cordelio Power
Cheniere Energy Partners
CIBC
Cordelio Power Inc.
ECP (Energy Capital Partners)
Iberdrola/Avangrid
Innergex Renewable Energy
KeyBank
Microsoft Climate Innovation Fund
Mizuho Bank, Ltd.
MUFG Bank, Ltd.
Natixis
Orion Energy Partners, LLC
Queensland Investment Corporation (QIC)
Royal Bank of Canada
T1 Power Holdings, LLC
Tellurian Inc.
Terra-Gen Power, LLC
Venture Global LNG
Apex Clean Energy
ArcLight Capital LLC
Ares Capital
Avenue Capital
Blackstone Infrastructure Partners
BNP Paribas
Brookfield Renewable Partners
Cordelio Power
Cheniere Energy Partners
CIBC
Cordelio Power Inc.
ECP (Energy Capital Partners)
Iberdrola/Avangrid
Innergex Renewable Energy
KeyBank
Microsoft Climate Innovation Fund
Mizuho Bank, Ltd.
MUFG Bank, Ltd.
Natixis
Orion Energy Partners, LLC
Queensland Investment Corporation (QIC)
Royal Bank of Canada
T1 Power Holdings, LLC
Tellurian Inc.
Terra-Gen Power, LLC
Venture Global LNG
Work highlights
- Advised Venture Global LNG on the successful closing of the $13.2 billion project financing for the initial phase of the Plaquemines LNG facility.
- Advised Terra-Gen on the US$959 million project financing of the second phase of the Edwards Sanborn Solar Storage Facility in California.
- Advised American Triple I as part of JFK Millennium Partners’ US$4.2 billion deal to develop the new terminal 6 at JFK Airport.
Mayer Brown
With notable expertise in renewable energy projects and a particularly strong reputation in PPP work, Mayer Brown is sought after by clients including major multinational banks and other investors, private-sector projects sponsors, and city and state authorities around the country. Paul Astolfi and Joseph Seliga co-lead the firm’s projects and infrastructure team from the firm’s Illinois office. Astolfi is an experienced renewable energy transactional partner and in a recent highlight represented a trio of banks in providing construction debt leverage for Apex’s Great Pathfinder Wind Project. Seliga is well regarded for his work on a wide range of infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges, airports and ports, and mass transit. David Narefsky is a key contact for government transactions work, while Stephanie Wagner has made PPP a cornerstone of her practice. The firm’s renewable energy expertise extends to projects in offshore wind, solar, and battery storage. Names to note here include Robert Goldberg in Houston and Jeffrey Davis in Washington DC, who jointly spearhead the firm’s renewables practice, as well as tax specialists Amanda Rosenberg in Los Angeles and John Tormey in Washington DC. Nadav Klugman left the team in April 2024.
Practice head(s):
Joseph Seliga; Paul Astolfi
Other key lawyers:
David Narefsky; Stephanie Wagner; Robert Goldberg; Jeffrey Davis; Amanda Rosenberg; John Tormey
Key clients
Accelerate Maryland Partners (Transurban and Macquarie)
Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT)
Citigroup Capital Markets
Gateway Program Development Corporation (GDC)
HMSHost Corporation
Meridiam Infrastructure
East Interchange Builders
CenTrio
Michigan Department of Transportation
State of Illinois
Morgan Stanley
Facebook (Meta)
Leeward Renewable Energy
Norddeutsche Landesbank Girozentrale (NordLB)
Blackstone
KKR
Republic Services
First Caribbean Bank
Santander Bank
Leeward Renewable Energy
Work highlights
- Represented Accelerate Maryland Partners on the execution of the Phase P3 pre-development agreement for the Maryland Department of Transportation’s I-495/270 P3 project.
- Advised the Gateway Program Development Corporation and the Gateway Development Commission on its comprehensive rail infrastructure investment program.
- Advised East Interchange Builders, LLC, on the Georgia Department of Transportation’s I-285/I-20 East Interchange Project, a design-build-finance P3 project.
McGuireWoods LLP
McGuireWoods LLP has a strong presence in transactions in the energy sector, advising clients including financial institutions, developers, and private equity and infrastructure funds involved in the financing and development of projects in solar and wind in particular. Baltimore-based energy industry team lead Brian Kelly has broad M&A experience, while Brennen Keene in Richmond and Durham McCormick in Houston co-head the renewables team. Other key practitioners include transactional partners Timothy Callahan and Evelyn Kim, who are based in Chicago and San Francisco, respectively.
Practice head(s):
Brian Kelly; Brennen Keene; Durham McCormick
Other key lawyers:
Timothy Callahan; Evelyn Kim
Key clients
KeyBank National Association
Caprock Renewables
Dominion Energy, Inc.
Starwood Energy
Work highlights
- Advises KeyBank National Association in relation to equipment, construction and permanent financings for developers of wind farms and solar plants.
- Advised Dominion Energy on contracts for the construction of a 2.6-gigawatt Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind (CVOW-C) commercial project.
- Represents Starwood Energy Group Global in a joint venture with Leyline Renewable Capital to develop and finance two battery storage projects.
Milbank
Milbank enjoys a reputation as a market leader in project finance, with its sizeable global project, energy and infrastructure finance team well equipped to advice debt and equity investors, private sponsors, financial institutions, private equity funds, and developers on the full range of projects. Multi-sourced financing and complex debt and equity structures are key strengths, and the firm is especially active in the Latin American market, where its activities include advising on major projects in power generation and transmission, multi-purpose ports and transportation links, and M&A in the energy, development, and construction sectors. Daniel Bartfeld heads the team from the New York office, where William Bice is also highly regarded for his broad experience acting for clients on power generation projects, both domestically and internationally. Daniel Michalchuk is another key contact for power projects, while Jeffrey Leider and Richard Hillman are also names of note. Allan Marks in Los Angeles is especially recommended for infrastructure work, with notable support from senior associate Talia Lake who is developing a focus on rail projects.
Practice head(s):
Daniel Bartfeld
Other key lawyers:
William Bice; Alexander Borisoff; Roland Estevez; Richard Hillman; Michael Klaus; Jeffrey Leider; Allan Marks; Daniel Michalchuk; Jaime Ramirez; Henry Scott; Carolina Walther-Meade; Tim Wendling; Talia Lake
Key clients
MUFG Bank, Ltd
Société Générale
Royal Bank of Canada
Investec Bank plc
ArcLight Energy Partners Fund VII, L.P.
Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation
BNP Paribas Securities Corp.
CIT Bank
Credit Agricole
ING Capital
MUFG Bank, Ltd.
Global Infrastructure Partners
Fanalca and Transdev
Blackrock
Natixis
Prumo Logistica S.A.
Cathcart Rail
Work highlights
- Advised MUFG Bank Ltd. and Siemens Financial Services, Inc. on the financing of the a500 kV power transmission line between La Virginia, Colombia and Nueva Esperanza, Colombia.
- Advised Saavi Energía on the acquisition of the Tierra Mojada combined cycle power plant in Jalisco, Mexico from Fisterra and Blackstone.
- Advised Investec in connection with its US$58 million financing of the construction and operation of the natural gas fired electric generation facility in Lee County.
Morrison Foerster
Advice on complex cross-border financing transactions in emerging global markets is at the core of Morrison Foerster‘s agency finance practice. Co-lead Ann Lilienthal is sought out by agency and other lending institutions, and focuses her practice on Latin America, Central and South Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, while co-lead Greg Smith is recommended for his expertise in development and financing of projects in a range of energy and infrastructure industries, such as financial services, hospitality, housing, manufacturing, mining, telecommunications, and transportation. Associate Christopher A. Pearson is recommended for his focus on project and corporate finance transactions. All mentioned lawyers are based in Washington D.C.
Practice head(s):
Greg Smith; Ann Lilienthal
Other key lawyers:
Christopher A. Pearson
Key clients
Inter-American Investment Corporation
U.S. International Development Finance Corporation
U.S. Department of Energy
Export-Import Bank of the United States
International Finance Corporation
African Development Bank
Nederlandse Financierings-Maatschappij voor Ontwikkelingslanden N.V. (FMO)
Japan Bank for International Cooperation
European Bank for Reconstruction and Development
CDC Group plc
Export-Import Bank of Korea
Nippon Export and Investment Insurance
Central American Bank for Economic Integration
Inter-American Investment Corporation
U.S. International Development Finance Corporation
U.S. Department of Energy
Export-Import Bank of the United States
International Finance Corporation
African Development Bank
Nederlandse Financierings-Maatschappij voor Ontwikkelingslanden N.V. (FMO)
Japan Bank for International Cooperation
European Bank for Reconstruction and Development
CDC Group plc
Export-Import Bank of Korea
Nippon Export and Investment Insurance
Central American Bank for Economic Integration
Work highlights
- Advising DFC on its US$85 million financing of the eCombustible hydrogen project in Brazil.
- Advising DFC on its financing of Orb Energy Private Limited.
- Advising DFC on all aspects of its financing of a new 12-fibre pair subsea cable system.
Norton Rose Fulbright
A sustained focus on renewables has seen Norton Rose Fulbright handle a number of significant transactions in the space, such as six offshore wind leases on the New York Bight, while the firm’s vibrant PPP practice is reflected in the representation of a broad array of clients including sponsors, lenders, contractors and public authorities. Experienced partner Douglas M. Fried heads the US infrastructure and resources team from the New York office; global infrastructure lead Douglas Buchanan splits his time between New York and Vancouver. The project finance team is co-helmed by Keith Martin in Washington DC and Ben Koenigsberg in New York. In Los Angeles, James Berger centers his practice on energy project transactions. In a recent highlight, he represented Jupiter Power LLC in relation to debt financing for six stand-alone battery storage projects. Dallas-based senior counsel Luke Edney has broad expertise in conventional and renewable energy projects, while senior associate Deanne Barrow in San Francisco has experience extending to energy storage, carbon capture, and EV charging infrastructure projects.
Practice head(s):
Keith Martin; Ben Koenigsberg; Douglas M. Fried; Douglas Buchanan
Other key lawyers:
James Berger; Luke Edney; Deanne Barrow; Todd E. Alexander; Noam Ayali; Rhodri Evans; Jacob S. Falk
Testimonials
‘The team is highly knowledgeable in the PPP space. We have been consistently impressed by the depth of their industry expertise and their commercial, results-oriented approach to negotiation.’
Key clients
Jupiter Power LLC
North American Development Bank
Siemens Financial Services, Inc.
Matrix Renewables USA, LLC
Lightsource BP Renewable Energy Investments Limited
Cypress Creek Renewables
Savion and Macquarie Capital’s Green Investment Group
First-Citizens Bank & Trust Company (“CIT Bank N.A.”)
Nomura Corporate Funding Americas, LLC
EDPR NA Distributed Generation
Brookfield Asset Management
Northland Power Inc.
Avangrid Renewables, LLC
Republic Services Renewable Energy
Key Capture Energy, LLC
Invenergy, LLC
Sol Systems LLC
Storm Management NV
The Port Authority of New York & New Jersey
ENGIE North America Inc.
US Department of Transportation
US Environmental Protection Agency
Landmark Development Services Company
QIC
AustralianSuper
KeyBank National Association
American Triple I
Acciona
Shikun & Binui
Macquarie
Enwave Energy Corporation
Centrio
Work highlights
- Represented the lenders on the closing of a$78.2m debt financing for 330 MWh of standalone battery storage projects in California.
- Represented a group of investors, in its recent closing of a $350m cross-jurisdictional credit facility with Amp Energy.
- Represented Lightsource BP in relation to the $533m debt financing of 395 MW AC portfolio of solar power facilities in Arkansas and Louisiana.
Nossaman LLP
The Los Angeles-based infrastructure team at Nossaman LLP has carved out a robust niche as the primary legal advisor for public sector clients, with an emblematic example being the firm’s recent representation of the Maryland Department of Transportation on the negotiation of an agreement for a 16.2 mile light rail system between the Maryland suburbs and Washington DC. The team is led by Patrick Harder, whose varied practice encompasses PPP and construction manager at-risk matters. Social infrastructure specialist Yukiko Kojima frequently works alongside Harder and chaired the Design Build Institute of America’s PPP committee from its inception. Further recommended are Andrée Blais and Corey Boock, who are currently co-leading on the contract solicitation and development for the procurement of a modern bus storage facility for the SFMTA.
Practice head(s):
Patrick Harder
Other key lawyers:
Yukiko Kojima; Andrée Blais; Corey Book
Work highlights
- Advising SANDAG on a design-build project for a border crossing for the San Diego-Baja California region.
- Advised Maryland on the negotiation of the amended P3 agreement and resolicitation of the replacement design-build contractor to complete s 16.2-mile light rail system.
- Representing VTA on its procurement of design-build agreements for the Rail Systems, Newhall Yard / Maintenance Facility and Station components of BSVII.
O'Melveny & Myers LLP
With a broad domestic and international reach, O'Melveny & Myers LLP ‘s project finance energy industry group acts for a broad range of energy clients including banks, holding companies and developers in scenarios ranging from the acquisition of energy infrastructure assets to the financing of LNG facilities in the Horn of Africa. Ably steered by Michael Hamilton in Los Angeles and Junaid Chida in New York, the team is especially active in Texas with the opening of an office in Houston in May 2022, the firm’s third new office in the state in ten months. The project development and finance group is chaired by the Los Angeles based trio of Elizabeth Dubeck, Eric Richards and the aforementioned Hamilton; it acts for a broad range of clients with transportation and sports infrastructure clients standing out as recent focuses for the team. Social infrastructure specialist Denise Raytis is noted for her ability to lead on complex PPP transactions such as the redevelopment of Terminals 6 and 7 at JFK Airport. Transactional lawyer Maria Von Schack is another name to note.
Practice head(s):
Michael Hamilton; Junaid Chida; Elizabeth Dubeck; Eric Richards
Other key lawyers:
Junaid Chida; Jeff Hoffner; Elizabeth M. Dubeck; Denise Raytis; Maria von Schack; Harout Dimijian; Phillip Oldham; Monica Hwang; Jason Schumacher; Steven V. Torello; Ryan Cicero;Ryan Sears; Will Becker
Key clients
Matador Resources Company
State of California Department of Finance
MPS Infrastructure (formerly known as Monitor Power Systems AS)
Puerto Rico Public-Private Partnership Authority
Vantage Airport Group
JetBlue Airways
State of Hawaii
Avports LLC
California High Speed Rail Authority
LaGuardia Gateway Partners
Jefferies LLC
California Science Center Foundation
Metrolink
Citigroup Global Markets Inc.
Alameda Corridor Transportation Authority (ACTA)
UBS Financial Services Inc.
Work highlights
- Advised Matador Resources Company on its agreement for one of its wholly owned subsidiaries to acquire Summit Midstream Permian, LLC.
- Representing MPS Infrastructure in connection with the development and financing of LNG and gas fired generation facilities in Somaliland.
- Representing a consortium consisting of aviation stakeholders on their plans to redevelop, finance, and operate Terminal 6 and Terminal 7 at New York John F. Kennedy International Airport.
Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP
Praised as ‘one of the few true, one-stop shops’, Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP‘s energy & infrastructure group advises on the whole range of project financing, including bank loans and capital markets debt in the energy and infrastructure sector, with strong experience in advising developers, financial institutions and public agencies on complex PPP transactions, such as Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA) and Private Activity Bonds (PABs) financings. In Houston, global sector lead for energy and infrastructure Blake Winburne is reputed for his expertise in the electric power sector, including oil, gas, wind and solar, landfill gas and biomass energy, while Houston-based global head of the energy and infrastructure practice Dahl Thompson‘s experience extends to a wide range of complex commercial transactions. With ‘exceptional knowledge of the PPP business’, New York’s Matthew Neuringer, who was promoted to partner in 2022, is praised by clients for his ‘exceptional knowledge of the PPP business’, and is well-versed on the whole range of PPP projects, such as telecoms, rail, highways, airport, detention centers, school and energy. In San Francisco , lead of the renewable energy practice Les Sherman is well-versed in advising on wind and solar energy projects, as well as battery storage. Global co-head of infrastructure Daniel Mathews and lead infrastructure partner Young Lee, both based in New York, are also recommended.
Practice head(s):
Blake Winburne; Dahl Thompson; Les Sherman; Daniel Mathews; Young Lee
Other key lawyers:
Matthew Neuringer; Rohit Sachdev; Chris Moore
Testimonials
‘Time after time, Orrick team can react quickly and efficiently do deal with all our transactional issues. Be it existing investments, those requiring restructuring or opportunities always find that Orrick can deliver.’
‘Dan Mathews has been our go to lead partner. He surrounds himself with great team members those with the right knowledge to deal with issues at hand.’
‘Knowledge of the industry, from the perspective of customers, developers, and contractors.’
‘Matthew Neuringer – Exceptional knowledge of the P3 business, able to help us position ourselves well with sponsors.’
‘The finance capabilities of Orrick dovetail beautifully with their overall projects expertise, allowing them to guide projects through a wide range of financings with relative ease.’
‘Rohit Sachdev, on the projects side, works beautifully with finance gurus like Chris Moore to shepherd projects through financing. Orrick’s broad range of capabilities in the renewables space makes them one of the few true, one-stop shops.’
Key clients
Apex Clean Energy
Elawan Energy
Ares Management
Enlight Renewable Energy
CleanCapital
Total
Consolidated Edison Development
Recurrent Energy
Distributed Solar Development
Clearway Energy
Generate Capital
State Street Bank & Trust
Sempra Energy
Macquarie Capital
Pattern Energy
RWE/E.On Renewables
ENGIE North America
Orsted (formerly Lincoln Clean Energy)
sPower
Calpine Corporation
BP Wind Energy North America
Eurus Energy
Intersect Power
Broad Reach Power
Algonquin Power
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey
New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority
Macquarie Asset Management
Meridiam Infrastructure North America
IFM Investors Pty Ltd
ACS Infrastructure Development
Fluor Enterprises, Inc.
DIF Infrastructure
Bank of America Merrill Lynch
Transurban
New York City Health + Hospitals Corporation
Work highlights
- Advised Intersect Power on securing $3.1bn in project financing to fund the construction and operation of a 1.5 GW solar plus 1 GWh storage portfolio.
- Advised Primergy on deploying utility-scale and distributed solar and battery energy storage projects across North America.
- Advised PANYNJ on the the $13bn redevelopment and expansion of John F. Kennedy International Airport.
Paul Hastings LLP
Paul Hastings LLP recently extended its energy and infrastructure offering with a cluster of notable hires from Shearman & Sterling LLP in May 2022, including Robert Freedman and Gregory Tan, who now head the team, and Alexandro Padrés. The firm advises a strong roster of clients, including banks, financial institutions and private equity investors, on the financing of projects in natural gas, solar and wind, and battery storage. The team, with Padres as leading partner, is currently representing JP Morgan Chase Bank N.A. as lead arranging and structuring bank on financing for the acquisition of Chilean energy firm Colbun’s transmission by Celeo Redes, with a transaction value of approximately $1.3bn. The practice is competent in both domestic and international work, with particular expertise in the Latin American market, where Freedman, Tan, and Padres are all experienced, along with Thomas Sines, who was promoted to the partnership in February 2022, and Elicia Ling. Tan is also noted for his expertise in global finance, project development, limited recourse and structured financing. All mentioned lawyers are based in New York.
Practice head(s):
Robert Freedman; Gregory Tan
Other key lawyers:
Alexandro Padrés; Thomas Sines
Key clients
BNP Paribas
Crédit Agricole
Société Générale
MUFG Bank
ING Capital
Bank of Montreal
Mizuho Bank
JP Morgan Chase Bank
Deutsche Bank
Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation
Truist Securities
KeyBanc Capital Markets
Nomura Securities
First Citizens Bank
Work highlights
- Represented the lenders and arrangers in connection with $460m construction to term loan facility and tax equity financing structure to El Sauz Ranch Wind Hold Co LLC for the construction of a wind farm in Texas with a nameplate capacity of approximately 300 MW.
- Advised MUFG Bank, Ltd., First-Citizens Bank & Trust Company and ING Capital LLC|in connection with the $720m financing extended to MRP Golden Finance in connection with its acquisition and refinancing of a portfolio of 10 natural gas-fired power plants in California.
- Advised the note purchasers and letter of credit providers on the refinancing of the non-recourse debt of a portfolio of renewable assets in Chile owned by Innergex Renewable Energy Inc, consisting of a $710m issuance of green bonds maturing in 2036 , and a $93.1m letter of credit facility.
Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP
Reputed for its ‘strong client knowledge and good commercial management’, Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP’s energy and infrastructure practice group advises clients on the whole array of project finance transactions in the sector, with a particular strong focus on energy projects. In 2022, the team represented JPMorgan Chase Bank, N/A in connection with SilverBow Resources, Inc.’s tenth amendment to its reserve-based credit agreement, increasing the maximum credit amount to $2bn. M&A and financing expert David Lieberman in Houston heads the practice, and is experienced in advising high-profile clients such as Blackstone, Stonepeak Infrastructure Partners and Global Infrastructure Partners. Houston-based Matthew Einbinder focuses his practice on representing borrowers, direct lender and lenders in complex banking and credit transactions, while senior counsel and transactional lawyer Amy Beller in New York is also recommended.
Practice head(s):
David Lieberman
Other key lawyers:
Matthew Einbinder; Amy Beller
Testimonials
‘Strong client knowledge and good commercial management.’
Key clients
BlackRock Energy and Power Infrastructure Group
Blackstone
Citibank
Credit Agricole
EQT Infrastructure
Goldman Sachs
Global Infrastructure Partners
JPMorgan
Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co.
Morgan Stanley
MUFG
NextEra Energy
The Royal Bank of Canada
Stonepeak Infrastructure Partners
Terra-Gen LLC
BlackRock Energy and Power Infrastructure Group
Blackstone
Citibank
Credit Agricole
EQT Infrastructure
Goldman Sachs
Global Infrastructure Partners
JPMorgan
Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co.
Morgan Stanley
MUFG
NextEra Energy
The Royal Bank of Canada
Stonepeak Infrastructure Partners
Terra-Gen LLC
Work highlights
- Advised Wells Fargo Securities, LLC, as administrative agent, on Terra-Gen Finance Company, LLC’s project financing which consisted of a $50 million senior secured term loan facility.
- Advised EIG Management Company, LLC on a development loan for specified gas assets in Appalachia.
- Advised Acquiom Agency Services LLC as administrative agent and BlackRock as lender in connection with Crowley Alaska Logistics, LLC’s $120 million first lien term loan credit facility.
Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP
The energy and infrastructure projects team at Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP is headed by Lance Brasher from the Washington DC office, and advises both lenders and sponsors on projects including gas-fired power plants, renewables such as wind and solar, and battery energy storage systems. Also in Washington, Paul Kraske specializes in negotiating and preparing documentation for energy projects. Drew Baldinger joined the firm in May 2022; his Houston-based practice centers around M&A and financing matters for solar, wind and gas-to-liquids energy projects. Another name to note is leveraged financing expert David Armstrong, who splits his practice between firm’s offices in New York and Toronto.
Practice head(s):
Lance Brasher
Other key lawyers:
Paul Kraske; Drew Baldinger; David Armstrong
Troutman Pepper
Troutman Pepper‘s capital projects & infrastructure team is equipped to handle the whole array of project finance transactions in the energy sector, with particular strength in renewable energy tax equity and debt financing. The practice is jointly led by New York’s Craig M. Kline, and John Leonti, who splits his time between New York and Los Angeles. Kline is noted for his expertise in construction finance, leveraged transactions and take-out debt, while Leonti advises clients, including major utilities, tax equity investors, independent power producers and renewable energy developers, on a range of complex financial transaction in the energy sector. Tax experts Adam Kobos in Portland and Anne C. Loomis in Richmond are also recommended. New York’s Justin Boose left the practice in January 2022.
Practice head(s):
John Leonti; Craig M. Kline
Other key lawyers:
Adam Kobos; Anne C. Loomis
Key clients
Spruce Power
AES Clean Energy
Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.
Pinnacle Financial Partners
Plus Power
Microsoft
Goldman Sachs
UBS Asset Management
Duke Energy Renewables
Dominion Energy
I Squared Capital
Work highlights
- Represented Spruce Power in its sale to XL Fleet. The acquisition of Spruce Power was completed in September using funds managed by HPS for total cash consideration of approximately $58 million and the assumption of approximately $542 million of debt.
- Represented J. Aron (a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.) as energy hedge provider to purchase energy generated by two solar plus storage projects located in Riverside County, California.
- Represented Wells Fargo, as tax equity investor, in connection with the tax equity investment in an operating 105 MW wind project.
Vinson & Elkins LLP
Vinson & Elkins LLP is active in major projects in both traditional and renewable energy and power across the country, with a particular strong renewable energy practice, and a strong presence on the East and West Coasts and Texas. Eamon Nolan and Michael Joyce jointly lead the team, based in New York and Los Angeles, respectively. Nolan is a prominent project finance attorney with experience in complex transactions in both the US and Latin American markets, while Joyce has a strong focus on solar and wind projects. Sean Moran in Austin has particular expertise in complex financial structuring, and Lauren Collins in Los Angeles has a niche focus on tax issues in project finance. Transactions expert Aaron Prince in New York and Alan Alexander in Houston are also recommended, with Alexander’s expertise including complex downstream projects, as well as energy transition matters.
Practice head(s):
Eamon Nolan; Mike Joyce
Other key lawyers:
Sean Moran; Lauren Collins; Aaron Prince; Alan Alexander
Testimonials
‘Collaboration with teams including subject matter experts and consultant advisors.’
‘Willing to send a partner alone to all client meetings rather than always bring an associate and charge for two attorneys at team negotiating meetings.’
Key clients
MN8 Energy, Inc.
Wells Fargo Central Pacific Holdings, Inc.
Macquarie Capital (USA) Inc.
Houston Energy, Inc.
Wells Fargo Central Pacific Holdings, Inc.
Macquarie Capital (USA) Inc.
Houston Energy, Inc.
Work highlights
- Advised Terra-Gen in the approximately $270 million construction financing and $136 million tax equity financing for the 64.5 MW Tehachapi Plains, 60.3 MW Oasis Power, and 14.4 MW Oasis Alta wind generation facilities in Kern County, California, and the 61.2 MW Coachella and 46.8 MW Painted Hills wind generation facilities in Riverside County, California.
- Advised Wells Fargo in their tax equity investment to construct the 145 MW Aragonne Mesa Wind Project and to repower the 90 MW Aragonne Wind project, both in Guadalupe County, New Mexico.
White & Case LLP
White & Case’s Americas Energy, Infrastructure and Project Finance and Asset Finance Regional Section is noted for its ability to offer special expertise in the development, financing, acquisition and sale of energy and infrastructure projects to a roster of high-profile clients. Praised by clients for its capability to ‘manage complex transactions quite easily’, the team is well-versed in the full range of project finance transactions, with reputed lawyer Nandan Nelivigi standing out for his ability to advise clients on all stages of oil & gas projects. ‘Go-to expert’ Dolly Mirchandani leads the Global Industry Group, Infrastructure, Transportation & Logistics team, which is reputed for ‘delivering the best commercial and legal outcomes’, and is equipped to handle the whole life cycle of PPP projects, including development, financing, restructuring and sale of greenfield and brownfield PPP projects. Transactional lawyer Evelyn Balassiano is recommended for her work in PPP matters in an array of sectors, including airport, toll roads, rail and water, while counsel Claire Watson focuses her practice on the development, acquisition and financing of infrastructure assets, and is praised by clients for her ‘excellence in managing large and diverse stakeholder groups’. All lawyers are based in New York, unless mentioned otherwise. Former practice co-head Christopher Richardson left the team in March 2024. Nadav Klugman joined the firm from a previous role at Mayer Brown in April 2024.
Practice head(s):
Dolly Mirchandani
Other key lawyers:
Nandan Nelivigi; Morgan Somerset; Evelyn Balassiano; Claire Watson; Nadav Klugman
Testimonials
‘The White & Case infrastructure team has depth, the ability to access a global team of experts to support the deal and deal with any unusual issues arising and work well with their global offices across time zones to deliver around the clock service. ‘
‘Dolly Mirchandani is the go-to expert in this field in North America. She knows all the key players in the field and is always willing to test new ideas and approaches to deliver the outcomes we seek. Dolly is ably supported by Morgan Somerset (Associate) and Evelyn Balassiano.’
‘Dolly Mirchandani, Claire Watson and Evelyn Balassiano are all great at their jobs. They are excellent at solving problems and managing large and diverse stakeholder groups.’
Key clients
Avangrid Renewables, LLC
IceConnector ehf
Calpine Corporation
NordLB
Wells Fargo
National Bank of Canada
Rabobank
Sonnedix
Rockville Capital
Mizuho Bank, Ltd.
KOMIPO
Onward Energy
Saudi Aramco
Credit Suisse
Investec
Credit Agricole
Morgan Stanley
Transurban USA Inc.
Ridgewood Infrastructure Partners
Cintra
Ferrovial
John Laing
DIF Capital Partners
Transit Wireless
US Department of Transportation (the Build America Bureau)
JLC Infrastructure
IDE Americas, Inc.
Work highlights
- Representing Avangrid Renewables, LLC as equity investor in connection with the $2.3 billion debt financing of, as well as tax equity investment arrangements for, the 800 MW Vineyard Wind offshore wind project, located off the coast of Massachusetts, US.
- Advised the Saudi Arabian Oil Company (Saudi Aramco) on a long term, US$15.5 billion infrastructure transaction with a consortium of investors led by affiliates of BlackRock Real Assets and Hassana Investments Co. to optimize Saudi Aramco’s gas pipeline network through a lease-and-lease-back arrangement.
- Advising the senior bank lenders comprising 13 banks in connection with a non-recourse senior secured financing of the US$4.7 billion redevelopment of Terminals 6 and 7 at the JFK International Airport.
Winston & Strawn LLP
Winston & Strawn LLP ‘s ‘diligent’ energy & infrastructure group is co-chaired by Latin American transactions specialist Rich Shutran and experienced transactional lawyer Michael Pikiel. The team is especially active on the lender side of major traditional and renewable energy transactions. Pikiel is also co-chair of the firm’s project finance practice group, a role he shares with Alan Hoffman, a resourceful lawyer who is highly experienced in sports facilities financings. Fellow sports specialist Jason Goldsteinn recently provided key support to Hoffman in the firm’s representation of Oak View Group in the renovation of the Climate Pledge Arena. In Los Angeles, Laurae Rossi is a renewables debt transactions expert who is renowned for her ability to handle a prodigious amount of cases. Adding depth to the team’s debt financings expertise is Hao Huang, who is also based in Los Angeles. Further recommended is Miami-based Richard Puttré who chairs the Latin America projects team. All lawyers mentioned are stationed in New York unless otherwise specified.
Practice head(s):
Mike Pikiel; Rich Shutran; Alan Hoffman; Richard Puttré
Other key lawyers:
Laurae Rossi; Jason Goldstein; Jason Hellwig; Patrick Selinger; Dan Shapiro; Hao Huang; Anne Gibbons
Testimonials
‘Winston & Strawn has proven over decades of service to our various executives to be trusted, intelligent, diligent (external) part of our business.’
‘Rich Shutran has helped our companies grow from their formation, through capitalize raise and monetization. He is trusted and respected by our team to–in effect–provide advise as if he were actually one of our executives.’
‘One of the few firms to have such vast experience over P3s in the US.’
‘Mike Pikiel knows the market better than most.’
Key clients
Hecate Energy LLC
KeyBank, N.A.
Kiewit Development Company
Sacyr Infrastructure USA LLC
WattBridge Energy (ProEnergy)
Axium Infrastructure
ATB Financial
Barclays Capital, Inc.
DNT Asset Trust (a subsidiary of JPMorgan Chase & Co.)
Empire State Thruway Partners LLC
Harrison Street Real Estate, LLC
John Laing Investments Ltd.
JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association
Kiewit Development Company
Kiewit Meridiam Partners LLC
Mass Ave Housing Partners LLC
Meridiam Infrastructure
National Bank of Canada
Oak View Group
Star America Infrastructure Fund
Work highlights
- Represented WattBridge Energy with respect to the project financing for a new 288 MW gas-fired electric generation facility in Brazoria County, Texas.
- Represented the developer in connection with a $1bn+ financing for the renovation of the Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle.
- Represented the lenders supporting East Interchange Builders LLC in connection with a project to design, build, and finance the I-285/I-20 East Interchange MMIP.