Chaired by Kent Rowey in New York, the ‘always available, very knowledgeable, and personable‘ team at Allen & Overy LLP is a multifaceted group which brings together considerable experience in guiding clients through the full life-cycle of a renewable power project. Although it is well positioned to handle energy project M&A, exit strategies, project structuring, construction and regulatory matters, it stands out in the market for its wide-ranging capabilities in the financing space. Testament to this is the group’s involvement in some of the largest and first-of-their kind transactions on behalf of major sponsors, developers, project companies and financiers across the renewable energy spectrum. The practice has experienced a significant expansion over the past year, following the addition of six market-leading partners from Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP, along with the opening of its West Coast offices. Daniel Sinaiko, who is retained by clients in relation to their most complex and high-value transactions in the alternative power sector, is a thought leader on power and renewables. He is based in Los Angeles, where Matthew Nesburn is go-to advisor for large foreign energy companies breaking into the North American market. John Marciano in Washington DC is praised for his longstanding expertise in tax equity and project finance. All three practitioners joined from Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP in March 2021. Sam Kamyans in DC, whose experience covers tax equity and carbon capture project financing, and New York-based Greg Lavigne, who has led on the financing of the first syndicated tax equity investment fund and the first solar and storage peaker plant in the world, are also among the recent arrivals.
Energy: renewable/alternative power in United States
Allen & Overy LLP
Practice head(s):
Kent Rowey
Other key lawyers:
Dan Sinaiko; John Marciano; Matthew Nesburn; Sam Kamyans; Andrea Lucan; Greg Lavigne; Sami Mir
Testimonials
‘Deep “know-how” in Renewables’.
‘John Marciano is an expert in tax equity and project finance.’
‘The entire team we work with at A&O is stellar. They are always available, very knowledgeable, and personable.’
‘Dan Sinaiko and John Marciano are recommended.’
‘The Energy team at A&O is exceptional in their subject matter knowledge and commercial approach to being true partners in a transaction. I have utmost trust in their expertise and counsel.’
‘John Marciano, and their partners and associates are true partners to our team on transactions that bridge numerous technologies and tax structures. They are excellent at tapping other resources and experts within their firm to help get deals done.’
‘The A&O team builds off of precedent of leading some of the most innovative transaction in market. Combined with their professionalism and deep commitment to building relationships, any prospective client would be hard-pressed to find a better firm or team to trust with their business.’
‘This is truly one of the premier renewables finance practices in the US. Attention to detail. Tough but commercial negotiating. Thought leaders.’
Key clients
Clearway Energy Group LLC
The Carlyle Group
SunPower
Ørsted
Voya
Summit Carbon Solutions
CIM Group
Tokyo Gas
Inter-American Investment Corporation (IDB Invest)
ENGIE
Vitol Inc.
TOTALEnergies
Swell Energy Inc.
Macquarie Capital’s Green Infrastructure Group
ING Capital, LLC and RBC Community Investments, LLC
JERA Renewables
Repsol Renewables North America
InfraRed Capital US
Apollo Global Management
Clearway Energy Group LLC
The Carlyle Group
SunPower
Ørsted
Voya
Summit Carbon Solutions
CIM Group
Tokyo Gas
Inter-American Investment Corporation (IDB Invest)
ENGIE
Vitol Inc.
TOTALEnergies
Swell Energy Inc.
Macquarie Capital’s Green Infrastructure Group
ING Capital, LLC and RBC Community Investments, LLC
JERA Renewables
Repsol Renewables North America
InfraRed Capital US
Apollo Global Management
Clearway Energy Group LLC
The Carlyle Group
SunPower
Ørsted
Voya
Summit Carbon Solutions
CIM Group
Tokyo Gas
Inter-American Investment Corporation (IDB Invest)
ENGIE
Vitol Inc.
TOTALEnergies
Swell Energy Inc.
Macquarie Capital’s Green Infrastructure Group
ING Capital, LLC and RBC Community Investments, LLC
JERA Renewables
Repsol Renewables North America
InfraRed Capital US
Apollo Global Management
Work highlights
- Advised CIM Group on a 250 MW solar PV project called Aquamarine being developed in San Joaquin Valley, California.
- Advised Clearway Energy Group on the sale of a 1.6 GW portfolio of utility-scale renewable energy projects located in Texas, California, Hawaii and West Virginia to a partnership engineered by the client between Hannon Armstrong and Clearway Energy, Inc.
- Advised Summit Carbon Solutions in connection with financing a carbon capture project consisting of a series of ethanol plants, pipeline infrastructure, and sequestration formations.
Latham & Watkins LLP
Providing coast-to-coast coverage and benefitting from a global network of offices, Latham & Watkins LLP advises clients on the entire spectrum of legal issues that arise in the renewable energy sector, cutting across offshore and onshore wind, utility and distributed solar power, energy storage and emerging electric power technologies. The ‘very commercially oriented and practical‘ team maintains a busy and varied workload, which features high-end M&A, secured lending, corporate finance and project development. Some of the most notable players in the sector turn to the team for assistance with complex and innovative deals in North America- recent examples include advising on the largest portfolio of battery storage assets financed to date and the world’s largest battery storage project. Based in Los Angeles, Jeffrey Greenberg serves as global chair of the firm’s project development and finance practice. He is widely recognised as a preeminent project finance lawyer, having advised on some of the most significant renewable deals in the market. Also on the West Coast, Omar Nazif is based in San Diego and regularly receives engagements from banks, sponsors and developers in connection with all phases of the development and financing of wind, solar and energy storage projects. Vice-chair of the firm’s global energy and infrastructure industry department, Eli Katz is primarily engaged in M&A and project finance transactions, with a particular focus on tax incentives for equity investors deploying capital to help fund renewables projects throughout the US. He sits in the New York office, where Matthew Henegar is counsel of choice for numerous private equity sponsors, developers and financial institutions, and recently promoted Kelly Cataldo is a name to note for construction financing and investments in renewable projects across Latin America. The Houston office recently welcomed energy deal specialist Trina Chandler from Vinson & Elkins LLP.
Practice head(s):
Jeff Greenberg; Eli Katz; David Schwartz
Other key lawyers:
Matthew Henegar; Omar Nazif; Trina Chandler; Kelly Cataldo; Warren Lilien; Tyler Brown
Testimonials
‘Very commercially oriented and practical.’
Milbank
Singled out for its market-leading reputation in the project financing space in the United States and abroad, Milbank combines overarching finance and M&A expertise with comprehensive energy sector market knowledge. In addition to the team’s unrivalled financing capabilities which has seen it lead on first-of-their-kind financings in the alternative power sector, practitioners are also seasoned in power generation, energy restructurings, and greenfield development mandates across all renewable segments. The group, which is also adept at handling the acquisition and disposition of renewable energy projects and other assets, offers representation to new developers, some of the largest sponsors in the industry, and debt and equity investors in major renewable energy transactions, including tax incentives available for renewable energy development. Based in New York, practice head Daniel Bartfeld stands out for his wealth of experience in multi-sourced financings, project development and M&A activities in Latin America. In the same office, William Bice maintains a broad practice acting for developers, lenders, asset owners and private equity funds. Other names to note in New York include Roland Estevez and Jaime Ramirez, both of whom are skilled in financing deals and cross-border matters involving Latin America. On the West Coast, Mike Duff has in-depth knowledge of joint ventures and partnership structures used to develop, acquire and operate a variety of renewable energy assets, while Timothy Wendling is noted for his project development and finance experience involving wind, solar and geothermal electricity generation projects.
Practice head(s):
Daniel Bartfeld
Other key lawyers:
William Bice; Mike Duff; Roland Estevez; Jeffrey Leider; Allan Marks; Dan Michalchuk; Jaime Ramirez; Henry Scott; Timothy Wendling; Alexander Borisoff
Norton Rose Fulbright
With more than four decades of experience in the power industry, Norton Rose Fulbright boasts a dominant position in the renewable energy market, having handled some of the largest, most innovative renewable projects, and first-of-a-kind transaction structures in the United States in the past few years. A strong tax bench makes the firm a go-to destination for tax equity matters and financing of major renewable projects. Recent highlights for the team include advising on the first large offshore wind project to reach financing in the US, the use of prepaid power contracts in the wind segment, electricity storage projects, and master tax equity financing facilities in the solar rooftop market. The projects team is under the joint leadership of tax and project finance expert Keith Martin in Washington DC, and Ben Koenigsberg in New York, the latter of whom is a key contact for offshore wind project development, as well as M&A and financing transactions. Also sitting in the New York office, Todd Alexander is a highly regarded project finance lawyer, who is called upon by both lenders and developers of renewable energy projects, cutting across solar, wind, hydro and clean coal facilities. Robert Eberhardt , who was counsel in four of the five large solar projects that have been financed to date on a merchant basis, and prominent tax partner David Burton , who is particularly proficient in the structuring of renewable energy investment funds, are other names to note in New York. Becky Diffen in Austin is particularly focused on the acquisition and divestiture of renewable energy assets.
Practice head(s):
Keith Martin; Ben Koenigsberg
Other key lawyers:
Todd Alexander; Robert Eberhardt; Becky Diffen; David Burton; Doug Fried; Caileen Gamache; Robert Shapiro; Luke Edney; Megan Savage
Key clients
Greencoat Capital
Goldwind USA, Inc.
National Grid Ventures
Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure
Longroad Energy
Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners
Fengate Asset Managment
Matrix Renewables
7X Energy, Inc.
Ullico
Total
Kansai Electrical Power Corporation
Primergy Solar
Savion, LLC, a subsidiary of Macquarie Capital
Belltown Power
Work highlights
- Represented 7X Energy, Inc. in the US$220m sale of 9 GW of US solar development projects and 1GW of “safe harbour” equipment—one of the major development company M&A deals in 2021.
- Represented C2 Energy Capital LLC on the nine-figure sale of distributed solar platform subsidiary C2 Omega LLC (C2) to EDP Renewables North America LLC (EDPR NA).
- Assisted National Grid Ventures with the formation of a joint venture with RWE Renewables with the goal of developing offshore wind projects in the New York Bight.
Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP
Offering wide-ranging expertise across all asset types, including onshore and offshore wind, utility-scale solar, battery storage, geothermal and alternative fuels, as well as hydrogen, biomass and waste-to-energy, Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP is one of the first ports of call for clients engaged in high-profile and innovative transactions and projects in the renewable energy space. On the financing front, the team is experienced in the funding of large-scale renewable projects involving every conceivable type of debt, equity and lease transactions. Tax equity matters are a strong point for the department, which is also seasoned in acting for developers and sponsors in the context of large portfolio transactions involving the sale and disposition of renewable assets throughout the country. Based in San Francisco, Les Sherman handles project development and sell and buy-side M&A of solar, wind, battery storage and other renewable projects. He jointly chairs the department with two attorneys based in Houston, Blake Winburne and Dahl Thompson, the latter of whom is seasoned in all stages of the structuring, development, financing, acquisition and disposition of renewable energy projects and companies. In the San Francisco office, Mark Weitzel stands out for his wealth of experience in tax equity investments and project development in the electric power sector, while Eric Stephens is particularly recommended for distributed solar projects and energy storage matters. Kristin Seeger‘s notable areas of practice include utility-scale solar transactions and renewable energy projects M&A. She is also located in San Francisco. Teresa Hill joined the Seattle office from K&L Gates in February 2022.
Practice head(s):
Blake Winburne; Dahl Thompson; Les Sherman
Other key lawyers:
Mark Weitzel; Eric Stephens; Brad Gathright; John Cook; Kristin Seeger
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
Work highlights
- Advised Elawan Energy in connection with the U.S. aspects of the sale by its majority owners of an 80% interest in Elawan Energy to Japanese financial services group Orix Corporation.
- Assisted Charlottesville, Virginia-based Apex Clean Energy with the sale of a majority stake in the company to funds and other accounts managed by Ares Management Corporation (NYSE:ARES).
- Represented Ares Management in the acquisition, development and combined $450m debt and $250m tax equity financing of the 302 MW Lincoln Land Wind project in Morgan County, Illinois.
Vinson & Elkins LLP
Boasting an impressive track record in renewable and clean energy power generation and electric transmission projects in the United states and internationally, Vinson & Elkins LLP showcases strength across wind, solar, geothermal, biofuels, carbon capture and storage projects. The team is often called upon by an array of investors, developers, lenders, and suppliers looking for guidance in all steps of the development, financing, acquisition and sale of renewable projects. Advising traditional energy clients in their investments in or adoption of cleaner energy sources is a growing area of focus for the department. Houston-based John B. Connally IV and Kaam Sahely , who splits his time between Houston and Austin, jointly head up the department. Sahely is regularly engaged by investors and developers in relation to large-scale projects and transactions involving renewable and sustainable energy assets. The renewables group was significantly boosted by the addition of a preeminent renewable energy finance team from Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati. Michael Joyce, whose areas of expertise cover wind, solar and storage issues, and Lauren Collins, who has helped develop some of the most complex renewable energy financing transactions in the market joined the Los Angeles office. Recent arrivals also include Aaron Prince in New York and Austin-based Sean Moran, who brings together knowledge in technology and power generation matters. Peter Marshall is a key attorney in Dallas for private equity funds and financial sponsors, while Danielle Patterson in Houston devotes her time to the energy and infrastructure sectors, advising on M&A, and project development.
Practice head(s):
John B. Connally IV; Kaam Sahely
Other key lawyers:
Sean Moran; Michael Joyce; Eamon Nolan; Lauren Collins; Aaron Prince; Peter Marshall; Danielle Patterson
Key clients
8 Rivers Capital, LLC
Wells Fargo
IFM Investors Pty Ltd. / Buckeye Partners
Goldman Sachs Asset Management, L.P. / Goldman Sachs Renewable Power
Blackstone Alternative Credit Advisors
JPMorgan Capital Corporation
Terra-Gen
Morgan Stanley
Citibank
Siemens Financial Services
RBC Bank
Union Bank
Soft Bank
Work highlights
- Advising 8 Rivers Capital, LLC, (8 Rivers) in connection with two clean energy projects.
- Advised Wells Fargo on its approximately $350m tax equity commitment in a 485 MW solar project in Spotsylvania County, Virginia, which is the largest solar facility east of the Rocky Mountains.
- Advised Buckeye Partners, and Nala Renewables in connection with their acquisition of a majority interest in Swift Current Energy.
Winston & Strawn LLP
The sizeable energy industry group at Winston & Strawn LLP fields multidisciplinary knowledge in practice areas key to the successful completion of transactions involving power and renewable assets, and the financing and development of renewable energy projects. The team is seen with great regularity acting for financial firms in debt financings for renewable and alternative energy projects and portfolios, but particularly stands out for its track record in finance and development work involving energy storage, and securitization and finance of Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) assets. Over the last year the practice continued to be active in energy M&A deals, and in the negotiation of Power Purchase Agreements and storage agreements for a wide range of offtakers. The department is jointly led by four practitioners based across the country: Mike Blankenship in New York, Joe Karp in San Francisco, and Mike Pikiel and Rich Shutran in New York. Shutran’s experience encompasses a cross-section of M&A transactions, finance and development work, attracting mandates from major developments, owners and operators of energy projects. Also in NY, Jonathan Birenbaum acts for strategic and financial participants in financings, projects, acquisitions and dispositions involving alternative and conventional power assets. Besides being a ‘go-to lawyer for power purchase agreements‘, Karp is among the premier energy project development lawyers in the US; his experience spans wind, solar, biomass, geothermal and other technologies. Laurae Rossi in Los Angeles stands out in for her capabilities in renewable energy projects and leads on several sophisticated debt transactions.
Practice head(s):
Mike Pikiel; Rich Shutran; Joe Karp; Mike Blankenship
Other key lawyers:
Laurae Rossi; Jonathan Birenbaum; Chris Kolosov; Tom Solomon
Testimonials
‘The team at Winston has all of the necessary expertise and harnesses its institutional knowledge of its clients very well. What makes the team special is their level of dedication to their clients. They are always available to their clients, happy to help, and a pleasure to speak with. Though not litigators, they advocate for their client in a reasonable and even-handed manner, building credibility with all parties’ counsel.’
‘Jonathan Birenbaum is a wonderful human being. If he were a physician, he would be described as having a gracious, witty, and kind bedside manner. His gregariousness belies his years of experience, industriousness, and insight as to how to avoid future potential perils.’
‘Joe Karp is our go-to lawyer for power purchase agreements. He is very good at negotiating with our counter-parties; personable yet firm.’
‘Joe Karp is at the very top end of our outside counsel. He is really viewed as a part of our team.’
‘Chris Kolosov is an extremely hard working, efficient and effective construction lawyer especially when it comes to post contract disputes.’
Key clients
7X Energy, Inc.
AxInfra US LP (Axium Infrastructure)
Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART)
Hecate Energy LLC
HSBC Bank USA, National Association
John Hancock Life Insurance Company (U.S.A.)
Keybank N.A.
MJE-Loop Capital Partners LLC
Work highlights
- Represented Hecate Energy LLC (Hecate) in connection with a sale of a 40% minority interest to global energy powerhouse Repsol.
- Represented HSBC Bank USA, N.A. in connection with a $1.75bn debt facility comprising a construction, term loan, and letter of credit financing for four wind projects, with approximately 1,050 MW of capacity; and construction of a 150-mile 345 kV transmission line, both located in New Mexico.
- Continues to represent clients in the securitization of Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) bonds originated in residential PACE programs administered nationwide.
Baker Botts L.L.P.
The renewable and clean energy group at Baker Botts L.L.P. is rated for its ‘deep experience of representing developers, tax equity and long term investors’ in numerous ‘complex, bespoke and oftentimes unprecedented transactions’. Typical mandates range from M&A involving power, utilities and renewable energy assets to project development, bankruptcy restructurings, auctions, financing and tax equity investments. Jeff Kayes, who is based in San Francisco, oversees the project finance practice, and assists clients in connection with such transactions for wind, solar, biomass and hydroelectric facilities. Sitting in the New York office, transactional lawyer Michael Didriksen has acted as lead counsel in several transactions spanning all renewable segments, including battery storage. Adam Griffin and John Papaspanos are key contacts in New York for domestic and international project finance and tax equity deals. Leslie Hodge left the firm in August 2021.
Practice head(s):
Michael Didriksen; Jeff Kayes
Other key lawyers:
Elaine Walsh; Peter del Vecchio; Adam Griffin; Natasha Khan; Emil Barth; John Papaspanos
Testimonials
‘Baker Botts’ renewable energy practice is robust and is amplified by deep experience representing developers, tax equity and long term investors.’
‘The Baker Botts renewables team lawyers, and especially Peter Delvecchio, are expert in the many areas relevant to the renewables practice (regulatory, corporate, real estate, tax, etc.).’
‘Jeff Kayes and Adam Griffin are both level-headed and forward thinking advisors.’
‘Very responsive, knowledgeable and efficient. The team has been able to juggle multiple projects while providing thorough legal advice.’
‘Baker Botts has a very cohesive team that is extremely knowledgeable and professional. They are quick to respond and be available. There is rarely a need to remind or re-request services or follow-up as with some law firms that just seem too over-inundated with clients to move transactions along at a fast pace. Baker Botts does not force their services/opinions on us; rather they offer and listen to our suggestions – collaboration is fantastic and we were extremely successful last year despite the pandemic and remote work. This law firm has been my favorite to work with over at least 15 others in the past 6-7 years.’
‘I am fortunate to work with Peter del Vecchio (Of Counsel) for over 6 years and not only is he well versed in energy law, he is a professional in every sense of the word, going above and beyond for his clients. I am extremely happy to be working with Jeff Kayes again this year. He has a very strong expertise in energy finance and loan/sale matters. A take-charge partner, he succeeds in keeping multiple parties on track to move transactions quickly and smoothly.’
‘The team has worked with me on a number of complex, bespoke and oftentimes unprecedented transactions in a variety of sectors. They have innovated and provided the legal substance to protect us in potential downside scenarios as our primary goal being preservation of capital.’
‘Adam Griffin (partner) has become more of a counsel than my lawyer. I trust his opinion on both legal and commercial matters. John Papaspanos (sr associate) has become my close #2 in terms of making sure i get his opinion.’
Key clients
AES Corporation, The
Aspen Power Partners
Centaurus Renewable Energy LLC
CenterPoint Energy, Inc.
Cleco Corporate Holdings
GCM Grosvenor
Global Atlantic Financial Company
Hannon Armstrong
Hull Street Energy
NRG Energy, Inc.
Parasol Renewable Energy LLC
Puget Sound Energy
Sunnova Energy International, Inc.
Talen Energy Corp.
Transmission Developers, Inc.
Work highlights
- Representing Transmission Developers in developing a $3bn-plus, cross-border, 1,250MW underground/underwater high voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission line from the US-Canada border into New York City, named the Champlain Hudson Power Express Project.
- Representing The AES Corporation in connection with a 10-year strategic alliance with Google to accelerate the growth and adoption of clean energy by leveraging Google Cloud technology to pioneer innovation in the sector.
- Acting for Hull Street Energy, which entered into a definitive agreement to acquire the management team and development pipeline of Foundation Solar Partners, an independent renewable development company that specializes in identifying and developing utility-scale solar generation projects in select markets in the eastern United States.
DLA Piper LLP (US)
Noted for its extensive global reach and strong domestic presence, DLA Piper LLP (US) fields the ability to advise on the development, financing, sale, construction and operation of renewable generation projects, including solar, onshore and offshore wind and biomass facilities. Sponsors, lenders, equity investors and public entities regularly seek the team’s assistance in the financing and development of energy storage projects. Green hydrogen is another strong point for the department, which also handles tax equity investments and sale-leaseback matters. Practice head Vanessa Richelle Wilson has a wealth of experience in project finance, M&A transactions and infrastructure development in the renewable energy space. She is based in Washington DC.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Emma Jiang
Key clients
SG H2 Energy Global
Solis LLC and Parasol Renewable Energy LLC
Exelon
Softbank Energy
Invenergy
Greencoat Capital
FirstSolar Inc.
EDP Renewables
SER Capital
Cypress Creek
Plus Power
Work highlights
- Representing SG H2 Energy Global in an offtake agreement for clean energy hydrogen plant in Southern California, advising on the development and financing of a green hydrogen production facility.
- Representing SoftBank Energy in the development and sale of a 40 MW solar generation facility in Hawaii, including negotiation of Power Purchase Agreement with Maui Electric.
- Advised Invenergy on the negotiation of the balance of system agreement for Phase 1 of the Samson Solar Energy Center, a new 1,310-megawatt solar energy generation facility that will be the largest in the US and second largest in the world upon completion.
Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP
Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP‘s power and renewable practice showcases particular strength in the utility M&A, renewable investments and capital markets fronts. During the review period, the team has been particularly active in complex wind and solar power project acquisitions, financings (including tax equity transactions), investments and legislative initiatives for a broad range of clients. The firm’s well-connected global offices network also make it a go-to choice for projects which require a multi-jurisdictional approach. The department is managed from New York by Peter Hanlon, who assists investors with complex transactions in the renewables space, and Nicholas Politan, whose areas of expertise include wind, solar and other renewable technologies. Transactional lawyer Emad Khalil has represented participants in energy projects throughout the United States and internationally. He is based in New York, where Marwan Azzi, who recently joined from White & Case LLP, is recommended for acquisitions and investments in renewable energy projects in the US and abroad. Gerald Farano in Denver possesses a strong track-record in the purchase and sale of renewable assets, financings and project development.
Practice head(s):
Peter Hanlon; Nicholas Politan
Other key lawyers:
Gerald Farano; Emad Khalil; Marwan Azzi
Key clients
Energy Transfer and Rover Pipeline
Marathon Petroleum Corporation
SB Energy Global Holdings
Berkshire Hathaway Energy Company
BHE Renewables
Neptune Regional Transmission System
Hudson Transmission Partners
TC Energy
Wisconsin Power and Light Company
Versant Power (f/k/a Emera Maine)
Westlands Water District
Bayou Bridge Pipeline (Energy Transfer
IMG Energy Solutions
Tampa Electric Company
Dakota Access Pipeline (Energy Transfer)
Energy Transfer and Rover Pipeline
Marathon Petroleum Corporation
SB Energy Global Holdings
Berkshire Hathaway Energy Company
BHE Renewables
Neptune Regional Transmission System
Hudson Transmission Partners
TC Energy
Wisconsin Power and Light Company
Versant Power (f/k/a Emera Maine)
Westlands Water District
Bayou Bridge Pipeline (Energy Transfer
IMG Energy Solutions
Tampa Electric Company
Dakota Access Pipeline (Energy Transfer)
K&L Gates
Noted for its in-depth knowledge of corporate energy sourcing, whereby energy consumers step directly into the energy supply stream, K&L Gates boasts an impressive track record of non-utility buy-side renewable power purchase agreements. The team is particularly well positioned to assist clients in a range of industries with purchasing renewable power, installing on-site distribution generation, and procuring carbon reductions. Energy storage is also among the core areas of expertise for the department, which has been increasingly engaged by clients seeking to pair energy storage resources with new or existing solar and wind assets. In addition, practitioners are seasoned in the entire spectrum of renewable project development, including but not limited to renewable natural gas and hydrogen projects. Based in Seattle, Elizabeth Crouse is particularly sought after by investors, developers and operators in the renewable and carbon capture industries. Buck Endemann in San Francisco is a ‘recognized leader in the biogas and broader renewable energy project development industry‘.
Practice head(s):
Elizabeth Crouse; Buck Endemann
Other key lawyers:
William Holmes; Eli Hinckley; Kenneth Gish; Lana Le Hir
Testimonials
‘Buck Endemann is an outstanding lawyer and recognized leader in the biogas and broader renewable energy project development industry.’
Key clients
Microsoft Corporation
Brookfield Renewable Partners LP
EDPR
Marin Clean Energy
Ever-Green Energy
EDF Renewables
Core Solar, LLC
Sustainable Capital Finance
Sojitz US
Southwest Gas Corporation
Port of Seattle
Work highlights
- Representing Microsoft in the preparation of the contracts for the procurements, and in the preparation and negotiation of the carbon removal procurement contracts with individual carbon removal projects located around the world.
- Represented Brookfield Renewable Partners LP (NYSE: BEP) in its $810mn acquisition of Exelon Generation Company’s distributed generation development platform and development team.
- Advised EDPR on all aspects of the negotiation of a build-transfer agreement pursuant to which EDPR will build and transfer to an investor-owned utility a 200 MW solar project located in Indiana.
King & Spalding LLP
Led from New York by Jonathan Melmed , King & Spalding LLP‘s renewable energy practice is a go-to choice for private equity funds looking to buy, sell and invest in traditional renewable energy companies, solar and wind power plants, renewable natural gas and battery storage projects. Working in close collaboration with the firm’s preeminent project development and construction team based in Houston, the team is prepared to handle hybrid M&A, project finance and tax equity transactions, multi-jurisdictional regulatory matters and commercial agreements. Practice head Melmed is the lead M&A and private equity lawyer for renewable energy and alternative power clients. With particular focus in the power and renewables sectors, Adam Hankiss is another transactional expert to note in New York. Based in Houston, Scott Greer chairs the global energy and construction transactional practice, representing owners and developers in a range of domestic and international projects, including carbon sequestration, hydrogen and energy storage facilities.
Practice head(s):
Jonathan Melmed
Other key lawyers:
Scott Greer; Adam Hankiss; David Runnels; Stuart Zisman
Key clients
Axium Infrastructure
Brookfield Infrastructure Group
D.E. Shaw Renewable Investments
Atlas Holdings
Instar Asset Management
Starwood Energy Group
The Carlyle Group
UBS Infrastructure
Macquarie Capital
KKR Infrastructure
Capital Dynamics
Blackstone Infrastructure
Global Clean Energy, Inc.
Hobo Renewables Diesel
Ridgewood Infrastructure, LLC
Arevon Asset Management
Work highlights
- Represented Axium Infrastructure US Inc. in a purchase and sale agreement with Recurrent Energy, LLC pursuant to which Axium will acquire an 80% interest in 350MWs of battery energy storage projects under development in Riverside County California.
- Advised Capital Dynamics, Inc. on the $900m acquisition on a leveraged buyout basis of an approximately 300MW portfolio of operating solar power plants located in California, Delaware and Arizona from LS Power.
- Represented affiliates of client, D. E. Shaw Renewable Investments, L.L.C. in the acquisition, tax equity financing and project financing of a 149MWac solar project located in White County, Illinois, from Headwater Renewables LLC.
Mayer Brown
Praised by clients for its ‘vast experience and market presence‘, Mayer Brown has recently expanded with the strategic addition of a group of five attorneys from Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP in November 2020. Eric Pogue, who is among the new joiners in the New York office, brings a wealth of experience in the renewable energy sector, notably in the fields of development, financing and acquisition of the entire array of asset types, including solar, wind, hydro and biomass. The renewable and alternative energy team, which already enjoyed a strong reputation in the market, is now better positioned to act for a broader roster of clients- such as sponsors, investors and lenders- in all types of transaction structures and emerging technology matters, ranging from battery storage, and carbon capture to fuel cell and offshore wind. Paul Astolfi in Chicago has over two decades of experience in the industry. He oversees the practice with Robert Goldberg in Houston, whose experience covers project finance, development and M&A, and Washington DC-based Jeffrey Davis , a key contact for tax equity financings. Nadav Klugman in Chicago stands out for his broad capabilities in project finance.
Practice head(s):
Paul Astolfi; Robert Goldberg; Jeffrey Davis
Other key lawyers:
Eric Pogue; Nadav Klugman; Elena Rubinov
Testimonials
‘Paul Astolfi’s team at Mayer Brown is deeply knowledgeable of all the market, commercial and legal dimensions of the renewables industry sector in the USA. They provide unique advice and deep expertise on all key contractual and legal elements of renewables deals, from straightforward PPA deals, to more complex tax equity financing, to very complex equity financings and M&As.’
‘Over time, Paul Astolfi has become our most trusted advisor on all renewable energy matters in the USA. Not only is his knowledge of the sector incredibly deep and up to date, but he also knows us extremely well. He invests a great deal of time and energy to continuously build this relationship with us, and it pays tremendous dividends in each of the many deals for which he advises us every year. His services are truly customized to us.’
‘Very experienced team from all sides of the market (equity, tax equity, debt, and project counterparty contracts). Allows the team to be on point yet commercial, finding paths through stalemates more efficiently than other firms. Vast experience and market presence.’
‘Seemingly always available, positive, constructive, and takes the time to carefully explain positions which helps all parties eye the goal of closing a deal vs. arguing and drafting for the sake of it. In our experience, the solid working relationship has led to real personal connections where we each know the others key points institutionally.’
Key clients
Morgan Stanley
First Sentier Investors
Credit Suisse AG
Santander Bank, NA,
Societe Generale
CaixaBank
CDPQ
Deutsche Bank AG
Comerica Bank
KKR & Co
National Renewable Solutions
McDermott Will & Emery LLP
With ‘superb bench strength‘, McDermott Will & Emery LLP is particularly praised for its ‘expertise in renewable energy transactions‘. Its varied client roster is predominantly made up of developers, lenders, large private equity funds and public utility companies which turn to the firm for assistance with the development and financing of renewable energy projects. Additionally, the team has a proven track record in high-value and complex investments in the renewable space involving solar, wind, hydrogen, carbon capture, renewable diesel and biofuels. Edward Zaelke , whose experience in the renewable energy sector spans more than 30 years, leads the global energy project finance group. He is based in Los Angeles, and has a strong background in the representation of companies engaged in the development, financing and operation of wind and solar power, biomass, geothermal and renewable natural gas projects. Tax expert Philip Tingle , who is based in Miami, stands out for his work on behalf of public utilities in obtaining tax equity financing for their renewable energy projects. Carl Fleming in Washington DC has in-depth knowledge across the entire value chain of the renewable industry and is trusted counsel to public and private entities.
Practice head(s):
Edward Zaelke; Philip Tingle
Other key lawyers:
Carl Fleming; Heather Cooper; Joel Hugenberger; Jim Salerno
Testimonials
‘Expertise in renewable energy transactions; superb bench strength.’
‘Jim Salerno’s expertise in renewable energy transactions allowed him to counsel me in a sophisticated equipment transaction and to take over the negotiations when I was unavailable.’
‘Carl Fleming is always available to help, even in a crunch, and always brings even-keeled market insights regardless of the circumstance.’
Key clients
AEP
AES Distributed Energy
Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp
Apex Clean Energy
CIT Bank
Credit Suisse
Franklin Park Advisors
Innogy renewables (RWE renewables)
LS Power
NiSource, Inc
Northern Indiana Public Service Company LLC (NIPSCO)
Primergy Solar
Q Cell
Rakuten Capital
Scout Clean Energy LLC/Quinbrook Infrastructure Partners
S-Power (AES renewables)
Terra-Gen Power
Terraform Power (TERP)
US Wind Inc.
Work highlights
- Representing Rakuten Capital in the purchase and sale of $100m infrastructure assets in UK.
O'Melveny & Myers LLP
The renewable energy practice at O’Melveny & Myers LLP comprises energy-focused practitioners with significant experience in project development, energy transactions, and regulatory matters at the federal and state level. Led from Los Angeles and New York by Michael Hamilton and Junaid Chida respectively, the practice is frequently engaged by banks and financial institutions, tax equity investors and developers. Co-head Chida is regarded for his work in the structuring and management of M&A and financing transactions in the renewable energy sector. Project finance and energy M&A lawyer Jeff Hoffner is a noteworthy practitioner in LA, who is seen with great regularity in matters pertaining to the construction and financing of renewable projects. The group expanded with the addition of four attorneys from Thompson & Knight in June 2021, including energy specialists Katie Coleman and Phillip Oldham in Austin, and subsequent opening of an office in Texas.
Practice head(s):
Michael Hamilton; Junaid Chida
Other key lawyers:
Jeff Hoffner; Arthur Hazlitt; Katie Coleman; Phillip Oldham
Key clients
Berkshire Hathaway Energy
Citicorp
Goldman Sachs & Company
John Laing Group plc
Kemper Corporation
Monitor Power
Morgan Stanley & Co.
OCI Solar
Wells Fargo Bank, B.A.
Work highlights
- Acted for Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. in its purchase of ownership interests in a holding company that owns and operates three wind power projects in Texas.
- Advised Monitor Power Systems AS in connection with the development and project financing of an 80 MW solar power facility that will service a desalination plant being constructed to provide potable water to the New Administrative Capital in Egypt.
- Assisted Kemper Corporation with its tax equity investment of up to $100m in a portfolio of residential solar projects under development by Sunrun Inc.
Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman, LLP
At the forefront of the energy transition to a low-carbon economy, Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman, LLP guides clients in an array of transactional matters involving offshore wind, energy storage, solar power and hydrogen. In fact, it was one of the first global law firm to launch a group dedicated to the development of hydrogen projects worldwide. Renewable energy M&A and project financings for electric power generating facilities in Texas and California are core areas of activity for the team, which is also often engaged in sector-related regulatory matters. Mona Dajani in New York has led numerous financings and project development transactions involving solar, wind, hydrogen, hydroelectric, geothermal, biomass, waste to energy and Net Zero disruptive technology. She manages the practice with Robert James , who splits his time between San Francisco and Houston. Also in New York, Shellka Arora-Cox offers legal support to private equity investors, sponsors, developers, lenders and contractors in renewable energy matters throughout the US and abroad. Based in Los Angeles, Jorge Medina specializes in the tax aspects of renewable energy investments and financing transactions.
Practice head(s):
Mona Dajani; Robert James
Other key lawyers:
Thomas Gump; Alicia McKnight; Jorge Medina; Shellka Arora-Cox; Irina Tsveklova
Key clients
Archaea Energy
CMS Enterprises
Chevron
Mitsubishi Hitachi
NextEra Energy Partners
Noon Energy Inc.
Renewable Energy Group
Shikun & Binui USA (S&B USA)
Work highlights
- Represented Archaea Energy LLC in a business combination agreement with Aria Energy and Rice Acquisition Corporation to create a $1.15bn company dedicated to reducing carbon emissions through landfill gas conversion, CO2 sequestration and green hydrogen.
- Represented CMS Enterprises in the acquisition of a majority stake in the Aviator Wind project, the largest single-phase and one-site onshore wind development in the US.
- Advised NextEra Energy Transmission, LLC, a subsidiary of NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE: NEE) on its definitive agreements with affiliates of Blackstone to acquire GridLiance Holdco, LP and GridLiance GP, LLC (GridLiance) for approximately $660m.
Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP
Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP fields a 'strong broad specialist team for the renewables/energy sector', advising clients on all stages of renewable energy generation projects across the country. Developers, lenders, utilities and infrastructure investors make up the team's varied client base, which regularly seeks advice on debt financing transactions, tax equity deals and acquisitions and divestitures of renewable and alternative power developments. Katherine Gillespie co-leads the team, which is primarily based in Chicago. With more than two decades of experience in this field, Gillespie has handled several development, financing, and M&A transactions involving wind, solar and other renewable assets. Also in the Chicago office, Amit Kalra and Andrew Ratts are key contacts for tax equity matters. On the West Coast, fellow co-head Tony Toranto is based in San Diego, and brings together comprehensive knowledge of both conventional and renewable energy projects. Christine Hourcade-Hoefliger in San Francisco focuses on the sale, acquisition and financing of renewable assets.
Practice head(s):
Katherine Gillespie; Tony Toranto
Other key lawyers:
Amit Kalra; Andrew Ratts; Paul Kaufman; Christine Hourcade-Hoefliger; Elliot Hinds; Katarzyna Levecke; Benjamin Huffman; Andrew Mina
Testimonials
‘Great industry insights and strong broad specialist team for the renewables/energy sector. They have handled highly structured and complex deals for us working to structure bespoke transactions while also diligently managing typical asset level diligence. Have collaborated well in our switch to SimpleLegal billing and have met all of our requests over the years, one of our core external counsels we depend on.’
‘Christine Hoefliger has been our main partner and relationship manager and has handled everything from matter management, leading legal support/advice/drafting as well as broad management of billing/pricing/corporate support to the team. She has an excellent mix of legal execution, commercial understanding, and relationship management that has made working with SM seamless and our growth over the years feel less overwhelming.’
Key clients
174 Power Global
Able Grid
Akuo Energy USA Inc.
ALLETE Clean Energy, Inc.
Arevon
ArtCenter College of Design
Avangrid, Inc.
Bridge Bank
Brookfield Power U.S. Asset Management LLC
Capital Power Corporation
CarVal Investors, LLC
CIT Bank, N.A.
Clearway Renewables LLC
ConnectGen Operating LLC
Consolidated Edison Development, Inc.
Cordelio Power
Crestwood Biofuels Investors, LLC
Crossover Energy Partners
EDF Renewable Energy, Inc.
EDP Renewables North America
ENGIE North America Inc.
Eni S.p.A.
Exelsior Energy Capital LP
Falvez Energy
Fifth Third Bank
Fortistar Services, LLC
Foss Maritime
Gexa Energy, L.P.
Goldwind USA, Inc.
Greenbacker Renewable Energy Corporation
Hanwha Q Cells
Hecate Energy LLC
Homestead Capital USA LLC
Invenergy LLC
i.on renewables LLC
Jaton LLC
Longroad Energy Holdings, LLC
Mitsubishi UFJ Lease & Finance Co., Ltd.
Montopolis Storage, L.P.
Nestle USA, Inc.
New Resource Solutions
Nexamp, Inc.
NextEra Energy Resources, LLC
Oak Creek Energy
Open Road Renewables
Oriden (Mitsubishi Power Americas)
Pacific Mercantile Bank
Photosol
Pivot Power
Plus Power
Ranger Power
RC Energy
RWE Renewables Americas, LLC
sPower, LLC
Sure Power LLC
Telamon Energy Solutions
Tenaska
TerraForm Power LLC
U.S. Bancorp Community Development Corporation
United States Solar Corporation
Waste Management, Inc.
Wells Fargo, N.A.
X-Elio Energy, SL
ZCF Wind Wall, LLC
Zions Bancorp
Work highlights
- Represented ALLETE in several transactions in the past 12 months, including the tax equity financing of a 303MW wind project in Johnson and Pontotoc Counties, Oklahoma.
- Represented EDF Renewables in the tax equity financing of two wind projects in Texas and four solar projects in California, totalling 889MW across all projects.
- Represented ENGIE in connection with a hybrid financing transaction of a large portfolio of distributed generation solar projects located in Illinois, Massachusetts, Vermont and other states.
Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP
Led from Houston by David Lieberman, Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP‘s energy and infrastructure group attracts regular engagements from a variety of investors, lenders and companies from the power and renewable energy sector. With the ability to assist clients with the entire spectrum of their commercial needs, the team is particularly adept at handling M&A and financing transactions involving solar, wind and other alternative power. Project development, corporate restructuring, securities issuances and regulatory matters are also part of the broad service offering. Practice head Lieberman has led advice to numerous clients in alternative power and renewable transactions, notably M&A and project finance. Matthew Einbinder in Houston frequently represents borrowers and lenders in financing matters, while Brian Chisling in New York is a key contact for independent power producers, private equity funds and financing parties in acquisitions and divestitures in the renewables sector.
Practice head(s):
David Lieberman
Other key lawyers:
Brian Chisling; Matthew Einbinder
Testimonials
‘Knowledgeable in sector. Depth of internal expertise in renewable energy matters.’
‘David Lieberman, as partner, knows the client and client team very well and is able to bring lenders’ concerns to the right people on the client side deal team.’
Key clients
American Electric Power, Inc.
BlackRock Energy and Power Infrastructure Group
Blackstone
Citibank
Credit Agricole
EQT
Goldman Sachs
Global Infrastructure Partners
ITC Holdings
KeyBank National Association
Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co.
Morgan Stanley
MUFG
NextEra Energy
PPL Corporation
The Royal Bank of Canada
Stonepeak Infrastructure Partners
Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation
Terra-Gen LLC
Vivint Solar
Work highlights
- Advised EQT Infrastructure V fund on its acquisition of Cypress Creek Renewables.
- Advised Global Infrastructure Partners on its acquisition of MAP® RE/ES, the renewable energy business of MAP® Energy.
- Acting for Algonquin Power & Utilities in the announced $2.846bn acquisition by Algonquin subsidiary of Kentucky Power Company and AEP Kentucky Transmission Company from American Electric Power.
Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP
Combining deep sector strength with a formidable multi-disciplinary offering covering financing, M&A, and project development, the energy and infrastructure practice at Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP is is well placed to advise clients on work throughout the renewables life cycle, from project development and finance, through to buy- and sell-side project M&A. Financing mandates are a core strength for the department which is routinely engaged by borrowers and lenders in debt and equity transactions for the development of wind and solar projects throughout the United States. Department leader Lance Brasher has a strong background of acting for tax equity investors, developers and lenders in all phases of solar, wind and other alternative power projects. He sits in the Washington DC office, and receives key support for attorneys based across the country: Nike Opadiran in DC, who focuses on project finance, development and M&A; energy development and financing specialist Julia Czarniak in New York; and tax expert Sean Shimamoto in Palo Alto.
Practice head(s):
Lance Brasher
Other key lawyers:
Nike Opadiran; Julia Czarniak; Sean Shimamoto
White & Case LLP
Benefiting from core energy-focused transactional lawyers based out of the firm’s New York offices, and also able to resource matters utilizing practitioners with more generalist M&A, finance and tax credentials, White & Case LLP advises across the full array of financing structures, mergers, acquisitions and divestitures in the renewable energy space. On the transactional front, the team is adept in deals across diverse levels of asset investments, including portfolio, singe asset or partial interest deals. The team’s project finance credentials are noteworthy, especially its experience of transactions involving energy tax credits. Nandan Nelivigi leads the Americas energy, infrastructure, project development and finance practice out of the New York office. Marius Griskonis is the main point of contact for renewable energy mandates; he assists sponsors, developers and investors with the construction, financing, acquisition and sale of renewable energy projects. Raymond Azar is another practitioner to note in New York for this type of work. All named attorneys are based in the New York office.
Practice head(s):
Nandan Nelivigi
Other key lawyers:
Marius Griskonis; Raymond Azar; Saghar Khodabakhsh
Key clients
Avangrid, Inc. and Avangrid Renewables, LLC
Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company PJSC – Masdar
Calpine
EIG Global Energy Partners
Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power, Alpha Asset Management, Sprott Korea Investment, Hana Financial Investment and Korea Investment & Securities
Morgan Stanley Energy Partners
Alberta Investment Management Corporation (AIMCo)
East West Bank
Schneider Electric, GreenStruxure and AlphaStruxure
Korea Midland Power Co., Ltd., a Korean corporation (KOMIPO)
Work highlights
- Representing Avangrid Renewables, LLC as a 50% equity investor in connection with the financing of, and tax equity investment in, the 800 MW Vineyard Wind I offshore wind project, located off the coast of Massachusetts, US.
- Acted as lead transactional counsel to a consortium of Korean investors, consisting of Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP), Alpha Asset Management, Sprott Korea Investment, Hana Financial Investment and Korea Investment & Securities in connection with the acquisition of a 49.9% cash equity interest in a portfolio of four wind projects in the US totalling 852 MW.
- Represented Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company PJSC – Masdar, in its acquisition of a 50% cash equity stake in a clean energy portfolio with total capacity of approximately 1.6 GW from EDF Renewables.
Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP
Led from Houston by Matt Kapinos, Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP has a strong reputation acting on behalf of sponsors, commercial and investment banks and other financial institutions, private equity funds, contractors and developers on the development, financing, and M&A work associated with domestic and international renewable power projects throughout the value chain. Renewable energy tax credit advice and alternative power project acquisition and finance deals are the core areas of activity for the department, which is based between Texas and California. Kapinos primarily focuses in the energy and infrastructure sectors, handling a range of project development, M&A and strategic joint ventures in the renewable power space. Based in Los Angeles, Dan Lynch is best known for his experience in project finance matters. The department was impacted by the recent departure of a number of key partners including John Marciano to Allen & Overy LLP.
Practice head(s):
Matt Kapinos
Other key lawyers:
Dan Lynch; Shariff Barakat
Key clients
Excelsior Renewable Energy Management Co.
Tennessee Valley Infrastructure
Tokyo Gas America Ltd.
JERA
NextPower
The Stream Companies
Baker McKenzie LLP
Baker McKenzie LLP houses a ‘multidisciplinary team‘ comprised of attorneys with considerable experience across the renewables and clean technology value chain. The team showcases a strong focus on assisting clients in the negotiation and structuring of all stages of renewable energy project development, debt and equity financings, M&A transactions, regulatory matters and carbon credits. Practitioners to note in the Chicago office include José Antonio Morán , who besides advising on project finance and development in the United States, stands out for his track record in transactions with ties to Spain and Latin America, and James O’Brien , who is often retained by project sponsors and lenders. Also in Chicago, Stan Sirot maintains a broad practice in the renewables space, providing support in the areas of power purchase agreements, joint ventures, tax equity transactions and M&A. Based in New York, Clyde Rankin oversees the North America projects practice, where he is counsel of choice for several sponsors in project finance and renewable energy.
Practice head(s):
Clyde Rankin; José Antonio Morán; James P. O’Brien
Other key lawyers:
Stan Sirot; John Watson; Gina Sato; Matthew Martin
Testimonials
‘There was a multidisciplinary team that was able to integrate and rank different inputs providing specific advice on legal risks management under business oriented strategy. The role of team members able to “translate” US legal practice in renewable sector into Spanish legal equivalents was paramount for a successful closing of the transaction.’
‘José Morán was outstanding in his capability to interface US and Spanish legal environments.’
Key clients
Siemens Financial Services, Inc.
Mitsubishi Power Systems Americas, Inc. and ACES Delta, LLC – American Clean Energy Storage ProjectAmerican Clean Energy Storage Project
EDF Renewables, Inc.
Caterpillar Inc.
Repsol Energy Ventures, S.A.
J-POWER USA Development Co., Ltd.
Vestas Mediterranean A/S and Vestas WTG Mexico, S.A. de C.V. (Vestas)
Corporación Acciona Energías Renovables, S.A. (CAER)
Estée Lauder Companies Inc.
Pfizer
Repsol, S.A.; Repsol Renovables, S.L.U.
Goal Number Seven
Work highlights
- Advised Siemens on various transactional renewable energy matters over the past year, including a joint venture valued at $2.7bn to build and operate a 349 mile-long HVDC transmission line.
- Advised Naturgy as lead counsel on its acquisition of Hamel Renewables, a solar and energy storage development platform in the United States from Macquarie’s Green Investment Group.
- Representing the project company, ACES I, LLC and its sponsor, Mitsubishi Power Systems Americas, Inc., in the leading hydrogen production and storage project in the US, the American Clean Energy Storage Project.
Ballard Spahr LLP
Ballard Spahr LLP has broad capabilities across the full range of renewable energy mandates, assisting lenders and project sponsors with a combination of project finance, development, construction arrangements and transactional matters. The team is also well positioned to act for investors in the acquisition and sale of renewable projects encompassing a wide range of technologies, including solar, offshore and onshore wind, biogas, biodiesel, geothermal electric generation and hydroelectric facilities. The department is jointly led by two practitioners based in Philadelphia: Steve Park and Patrick Gillard, the latter of whom has a sophisticated utility finance practice which also covers complex capitalization structures and M&A transactions. Raymond Faricy in Minneapolis has notable strength in wind and solar power projects, where he advises developers and owners at all stages of project development, land rights, power purchase agreements and financing issues. Based in Las Vegas, Bruce Johnson is recommended for the development and financing of energy generation and transmission facilities.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Dirk Michels; Raymond Faricy; Bruce Johnson; Katie Leesman; Matthew Vantusko
Key clients
BayWa r.e. USA, LLC
Morgan Stanley and JP Morgan
Controlled Thermal Resources, Inc. and its project subsidiaries (collectively, CTR)
Sacyr Plenary Utility Partners Idaho
Bracewell LLP
Standing out for its 'excellent knowledge of the energy industry', Bracewell LLP is proficient in emerging technologies such as biomass, carbon capture and hydrogen. Focused on renewable energy M&A and project development, the practice is sought after by a myriad of industry participants, ranging from sponsors and developers to private equity funds and contractors. Complex commodity transactions, including solar and wind hedges, virtual and physical power purchase arrangements between independent power producers and utilities is another strong point for the department, which is led from Houston by Ryan Holcomb . Holcomb is seasoned in a variety of transactions involving renewable energy projects, while Alan Rafte - another contact in Houston- leads on transactions involving offshore and onshore wind facilities, carbon sequestration and capture. Danielle Varnell, who is based in Washington DC, is regarded for her experience in renewable energy M&A, including portfolio acquisitions and multi-party joint ventures. Danielle Garbien in the Los Angeles office is a key advisor to developers, financial institutions, commodities and energy companies in power and renewable energy PPAs and hedging transactions.
Practice head(s):
Ryan S. Holcomb
Other key lawyers:
Danielle Varnell; Danielle Garbien; Alan Rafte; Frank Lee; Laura Sheldon
Testimonials
‘Every lawyer at Bracewell is an energy lawyer. They are both legal and industry experts. Across the energy spectrum.’
‘Excellent knowledge of the energy industry. Careful. Available all of the time.’
Key clients
Invenergy, LLC
Sol Systems LLC
Equinor
Competitive Power Ventures, Inc.
OGE Energy Company
NRG Energy, Inc.
Standard Solar Inc.
Work highlights
- Representing Invenergy, LLC in the sale and development of a portfolio of solar plus battery storage projects to a consortium of three Wisconsin utilities.
- Represented Sol Systems LLC in a transaction that included a significant minority investment in Sol Systems LLC from KKR to scale the company’s Impact + Infrastructure approach and a joint venture between Sol Systems and KKR pursuant to which KKR committed up to $1bn to acquire shovel-ready solar development projects throughout the United States.
- Chief outside project counsel to Equinor Wind (f/k/a Statoil Wind), a global energy company, concerning its flagship offshore wind projects in the United States: Empire Wind I and II and Beacon Wind, which lie in federal waters offshore New York and Massachusetts.
Eversheds Sutherland
Eversheds Sutherland provides legal support to independent power producers, energy traders, investors and utilities across the range of matters pertaining to renewable and alternative energy sources. With experience advising clients throughout the life-cycle of renewable energy projects, the team helps them navigate the siting and permitting processes from start to finish, assists with joint ventures, and commodity-specific regulations. Typical mandates also include renewable project-specific tax credit financing and commercial deals, including EPC contracts and power purchase agreements. Led by Dorothy Black Franzoni in Atlanta, the team stands out for its comprehensive knowledge of the offshore regulatory environment, managing stakeholder engagement and shepherding clients through the complex permitting processes for US offshore energy projects. Ram Sunkara, who is based between Houston and Atlanta, oversees the renewable corporate procurement group, and is regarded for his work in the project development, finance and tax equity spaces. Madeleine Tan in New York heads up the social infrastructure practice, while Thomas Warren in Atlanta showcases an impressive track record in the development, construction and operation of wind, solar, geothermal, biomass and hydro assets.
Practice head(s):
Dorothy Black Franzoni; Ram Sunkara; Madeleine Tan; Thomas Warren
Other key lawyers:
Amish Shah; Joshua Belcher; Kyle Wamstad; Jackson Allen; Alyssa Walker
Key clients
Consolidated Edison Clean Energy Businesses
Minnkota Power Cooperative
Uber
Magnetar Capital
Kaua’i Island Utility Cooperative
WEC Energy Group
CIM Group
Elements Markets
Work highlights
- Advising Consolidated Edison Clean Energy Businesses, Inc. on acquisitions and dispositions of renewable energy projects in varying stages of development.
- Represented Minnkota Power Cooperative in the project development, tax structuring, tax equity and debt financing of Project Tundra, the next frontier in clean energy, which will be, when completed, the largest carbon capture and sequestration project in the world, and will capture 90 per cent of the CO2 emitted by Minnkota’s coal-fired facility.
- Advised Uber on entering into an aggregation deal to purchase wind energy from Enel Green Power.
Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP
Best known for its strong credentials in financing and tax equity, the renewable energy practice at Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP is a top destination for several financial institutions investing and lending into wind, solar and other clean power projects. In addition, the practice is well versed in the development and acquisition of renewable energy projects and portfolios, involving wind, solar and geothermal facilities. Leader of the energy and infrastructure group Jeffrey Schroeder is primarily focused on domestic and international project finance and other financing transactions, including but not restricted to tax equity, Rule 144A offerings and mezzanine debt. He is based in Washington DC, where Hilary Lefko stands out for her experience in tax credits for the production of electricity from renewable sources. Michael Klaus in San Francisco is recognized for his work in the fields of project finance, development and M&A.
Practice head(s):
Jeffrey Schroeder
Other key lawyers:
Hilary Lefko; Michael Klaus; Geoffrey Lorenz; David Lowman
Husch Blackwell LLP
The ‘responsive and competent‘ renewable energy group at Husch Blackwell LLP handles an impressive volume of mandates, bringing together multi-disciplinary expertise across project finance, tax equity finance, corporate deals, energy regulations, real estate and construction issues. Entirely devoted to renewable energy project development, financing and transactions, the team acts for a variety of clients, including developers, investors and lenders involved in wind, solar and battery storage projects throughout the United States. The energy and natural resources team is jointly led by Cacki Jewart in Austin, and Steven F. Carman and John Crossley, both of whom sit in the Kansas City office. Crossley is the main point of contact for renewable energy matters, and routinely acts for project developers, sponsors and investors in this space. Focused on energy regulatory law, Maria Faconti is an up-and-comer in Austin, where Chris Reeder is also recommended for regulatory proceedings.
Practice head(s):
Steven F. Carman; John Crossley; Cacki Jewart
Other key lawyers:
Chris Reeder; Maria Faconti
Testimonials
‘Responsive and competent.’
‘The Husch renewable team is top notch and best in class.’
Key clients
Diode Ventures
Savion, LLC
Copenhagen Instructure Partners
ENGIE North America Inc.
LightsourceBP Renewable Energy
Orsted Onshore North America, Inc.
Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp. (and Liberty Utilities Co.)
Longroad
Cordelio Power
Taaleri Energia Oy
Jupiter Power
174 Power Global
Ares Energy Infrastructure
Swift Current Energy
Greenbacker Capital
Scout Clean Energy, LLC
Enel Green Power North America, Inc.
Santander Bank
CIBC
MUFG
Sumitomo
Natixis
Dynamic Holding
Green Plains
Sustainable Development Capital Ltd
Kirkland & Ellis LLP
Kirkland & Ellis LLP is recurrently sought out by major investors in some of their most significant renewable energy transactions, including the acquisition and sale of renewable assets, and financing of alternative projects. Benefitting from a strong network of domestic offices with energy expertise across Texas, New York, California, and Washington D.C., the firm has advised on deals, especially M&A, involving cutting-edge technology in the energy transition segment. Andrew Calder in Houston jointly oversees the department with Rohit Chaudhry in Washington DC, the latter of whom is noted for representing private equity funds, developers, lenders and institutional investors in a plethora of transactions, including project finance, M&A and project restructurings. Roald Nashi is another contact in DC especially for private equity and infrastructure funds. Based in Houston, John Pitts concentrates in M&A, private equity and divestitures in the energy sector, which are also among Kristin Mendoza's areas of expertise. She is located in New York.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Kristin Mendoza; Roald Nashi; John Pitts
Key clients
Apollo Global Management Inc.
ArcLight Clean Transition Corp.
Bluescape Energy Partners
Brookfield Asset Management
CleanCapital LLC
Cypress Creek Renewables
EQT Infrastructure
Macquarie Capital
KKR
Stonepeak Infrastructure Partners
The Blackstone Group
Trilantic Capital Partners
True Green Capital
Warburg Pincus LLC
Work highlights
- Assisted KKR with a combination of two related transactions by which KKR will invest approximately US$ 1.4bn in renewable energy assets.
- Advised Apollo Global Management Inc. on the sale of its interest in Arlington Valley Solar Energy II (“AVSE II”).
- Advised KKR in connection with the signing of definitive documentation to acquire the Thermal business of Clearway Energy, Inc. (NYSE: CWEN, CWEN.A), for total consideration of $1.9bn.
McGuireWoods LLP
As clean energy takes centre stage in the domestic and global market, McGuireWoods LLP has been increasingly working with utilities and infrastructure funds to execute business transactions focused on renewable energy. Major solar and wind developers feature on the team's varied client roster, which often seeks assistance with project financing and development. The firm is a top destination for developers and utilities engaged in renewable energy deals in the Southeast, and new market participants in relation to transactions and project development. Brennen Keene in Richmond is particularly adept at providing real estate transactional and land-use guidance on a range of renewable energy projects. He co-heads the practice with Durham McCormick in Austin, who focuses on tax structuring for renewable energy deals. Michael Woodard , who is based in Richmond, leads on M&A and financing transactions in the energy space, which are also areas of expertise for Timothy Callahan in Chicago.
Practice head(s):
Brennen Keene; Durham McCormick
Other key lawyers:
Mike Woodward; Timothy Callahan
Shearman & Sterling LLP
The global project development and finance group at Shearman & Sterling LLP is frequently engaged in complex transactions in the renewable energy sector. Providing advice on wind, solar, hydro and other alternative power projects, including green hydrogen and electric vehicles, the practice is skilled at representing sponsors, developers, investors, financial institutions and infrastructure funds in project diligence, financing and M&A throughout the Americas. The department is led from New York by project finance expert Gregory Tan and Robert Freedman, who has combined experience in project finance and development, restructuring of renewable assets and sector-related M&A. Alexandro Padrés , who also sits in New York, has a strong track record of project finance in clean energy projects across Latin America. Augusto Ruiloba in the same office is another practitioner to note for this type of work.
Practice head(s):
Gregory Tan; Robert Freedman
Other key lawyers:
Alexandro Padrés; Augusto Ruiloba
Key clients
MUFG Bank
Northwestern Mutual
DNB Bank
BNP Paribas
ING Capital
Mizuho Holdings Inc.
CIT Bank
Engie Energía Chile S.A.
OMERS Infrastructure
Scotia Capital, Inc.
Work highlights
- Advised OMERS Infrastructure on its agreement with a fund managed by Ares Management Corporation to acquire 100% of Navisun LLC, an independent distributed generation solar power producer.
- Advised Mizuho Bank and KeyBanc, as coordinating lead arrangers, and CoBank, ACB and Silicon Valley Bank, as joint lead arrangers on the credit facilities to Kapolei Energy Storage as borrower, to develop, construct, finance and operate an approximately 185 MW/565 MW-hr battery energy storage facility, located in Kapolei, Hawaii.
- Advised DNB Bank ASA, as Administrative Agent, the Mandated Lead Arrangers, Lenders and Issuing Banks, the Offshore Collateral Agent and Offshore Depositary, and the VAT Lender in connection with the approximately $170m financing of a wind project (the “Copihue Portfolio”) with a total installed capacity of 148.5 MW in the Republic of Chile.
Holland & Knight LLP
Holland & Knight LLP – the result of the August 2021 merger between Holland & Knight LLP and Thompson & Knight – fields an energy and natural resources practice that has recognised credentials in the development and financing of renewable energy projects, including offshore wind, solar, geothermal and other alternative energy facilities across the United States and Latin America. The team experienced a transformational year with the recruiting of new co-head Timothy Moran, who was formerly at DLA Piper LLP (US) and now sits in the New York office. He has an impressive background in the acquisition and divestiture of renewable asset portfolios and companies. Based in Austin, Juan Alcalá co-chairs the group that possesses combined knowledge of the traditional oil and gas sector and experience in clean technology and alternative power. Besides its transactional capabilities, the team is also sought by clients in relation to regulatory approvals and energy litigation. Houston-based George Humphrey oversees the energy transition group, and is praised for his experience in project development and finance, strategic joint ventures and M&A transactions. Mark Kalpin in Boston advises on the negotiation of PPAs, EPC agreements, and purchases or sales of renewable generation projects.
Practice head(s):
Juan Alcalá; Timothy Moran
Other key lawyers:
Stephen Humes; George Humphrey; Mark Kalpin
Testimonials
‘The H&K team has a wide breadth of knowledge and experience. They are strongly positioned to support those of us in the energy sector with our core business needs and ancillary matters as they arise.’
‘George Humphrey is our long-time counsel. He takes the time to understand our commercial needs and the best way to support in house counsel to achieve our goals. He has a broad range of experience that he taps to best represent us.’
‘Tim Moran has helped us out on a number of project financings, M&A deals and the work-outs. They provide an unmatched level of service compared to other firms we have used.’
‘Tim Moran effectively leads his teams making sure the interests of his client is always first – which is not always easy in a big law firm with different constituencies and personalities.’
Key clients
Exelon Generation Company
New York Green Bank
Migdal Insurance
Orsted North America, Inc.
Longwood Medical Energy Collaborative, Inc.
Boston Scientific Corporation
SunPower Corporation
Navisun LLC
Solar Project Development Group
Credit Agricole CIB
Proman Global Development LLC
Work highlights
- Counsel to Exelon in connection with the sale of its solar business across nearly 600 sites across the U.S., to Brookfield Renewable Partners LP and its institutional partners.
- Acting as lead federal regulatory counsel in connection with the development by Orsted – the world’s largest offshore wind developer – of seven proposed offshore wind projects in the United States.
- Representing Plug Power in its development of a green hydrogen production facility, which will purchase 345 MW of wind power from a wind project developed by Apex Clean Energy, Inc.
Troutman Pepper
Fielding the ability to act for clients across all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, Troutman Pepper offers legal support in the full range of renewable energy, natural resource and federal policy matters. The team is a strong force in renewable energy tax equity transactions on behalf of investors and sponsors, and is also well versed in all types of debt and equity financings for energy industry participants. Recent engagements have seen the group advise on matters involving solar, wind, biomass, geothermal and hydro power, as well as battery storage and hydrogen infrastructure assets. Furthermore, the team demonstrates strong credentials in supporting Fortune 500 companies in their corporate sustainability initiatives. Co-head John Leonti is based in Los Angeles and specializes in project finance, while fellow co-leader Craig Kline in New York oversees domestic and cross-border transactions involving renewable energy assets. Adam Kobos is a well-known attorney in Portland, who is routinely sought out by tax equity investors, project developers and sponsors.
Practice head(s):
John Leonti; Craig Kline
Other key lawyers:
Adam Kobos; Hayden Baker; Christine Byrnes
Key clients
Duke Energy Renewables
Southern Power Company
Wells Fargo
Broad Reach Power
NextEra Energy Resources
Fifth Third Bank
Competitive Power Ventures
National Grid Renewables
The Huntington National Bank
Spruce Finance
EDF Renewable Energy
Skyline Renewables, LLC
Dominion Energy
BNRG Renewables
Generate Capital, Inc.
Lendlease Energy Development LLC
M&T Bank
I Squared Capital
Work highlights
- Assisting Duke Energy Renewables Solar, LLC and its affiliates with the debt financing of a 360MW portfolio of utility-scale solar projects.
- Represented Southern Power Company, as both transaction and local counsel, in its role as Sponsor in a tax equity transaction for two stand-alone storage projects known as the Tranquillity BESS Project, which is a 72MW/288MWh battery storage facility located in Fresno County, California, and the Garland BESS Project, which is an 88MW/352MWh battery storage facility located in Kern County, California.
- Represented Skyline Renewables LLC in connection with restructuring its existing energy hedge transactions with Merrill Lynch Commodities.
Clifford Chance
Clifford Chance undertakes a variety of transactional work in the alternative energy space, but is perhaps best known for its involvement in the financing of renewable energy projects across the United States. The firm is a popular destination among US-based investment banks active in the Latin American energy sector, and is also often engaged in multilateral and export credit agency financings in LATAM and Africa. Department head Lori Bean, who is based in Washington DC, and is counsel of choice for numerous commercial banks and institutional investors in the development of renewable energy projects. She receives key support from Fabricio Longhin , who also works out of DC, and advises on all aspects of project development, concession contracts and financing matters. Hugo Triaca in New York is particularly noted for his experience in equity and debt offerings, and corporate governance.
Practice head(s):
Lori Bean
Other key lawyers:
Fabricio Longhin; Hugo Triaca; Peter Hughes; Alberto Haito
Key clients
DFC
U.S. Ex-Im Bank
U.S. Department of Energy
IDB Invest
IFC
KfW – the German Development Bank
EKF – Denmark’s Export Credit Agency
CAF – Development Bank of Latin America
Proparco – the French development bank
Allianz
Solarpack
Paracel
Reden Development Chile
Grenergy
Genneia
AES Corporation
Work highlights
- Advising on the launch of “HyDeal North America”, a consultation platform established by the Green Hydrogen Coalition with the aim to build scaled supply chains that deliver green hydrogen at US$1.50/kg by 2030.
- Advised DOE LPO in its role as loan guarantor regarding the consent processes related to the sale of the Shepherds Flat wind project from Caithness to Brookfield and Brookfield’s subsequent requests to repower the project and finance the repowering with tax equity, construction debt, and back-leverage financing.
- Advised IDB Invest on the financing to Neoen SA for two battery storage projects with a total capacity of 11MW and 8 MWh to be installed at the existing Capella and Providencia solar plants in El Salvador.
Dentons
With offices around the globe, Dentons has built a reputation for acting for governmental bodies and their utility entities in energy compliance and advocacy work. The firm has a strong profile in regulatory matters before the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), including proceedings involving project development, enforcement and compliance. The team has seen recent growth with several new clients seeking assistance with corporate governance, renewable energy policy and procurement of power projects. Transactional matters involving renewable assets are also part of the service offering. Clinton Vince in Washington DC manages the global energy sector. In the same office, Emma Hand is proficient in energy efficiency issues, while Peter Thieman is specialized in energy regulatory and M&A matters. Carl Steen, who splits his time between Los Angeles and New York, is regarded for his transactional and regulatory capabilities in the utilities space.
Practice head(s):
Clinton Vince
Other key lawyers:
Emma Hand; Peter Thieman; Carl Steen; Justin Mirabal
Key clients
City Council of the City of New Orleans
CPS Energy
Tri-State Generation & Transmission Association
Anterix
Rayburn Country Electric Cooperative Inc.
Capital Power Corporation
Blue Wolf Capital Fund V, LP
Nuclear Development
Colorado Springs Utilities
Pacific Summit Energy
CIBC FirstCaribbean Bank
Tenaska
Enbridge Inc.
InfraRed Capital Partners
Work highlights
- Advised CPS Energy on its 400-megawatt project in San Antonio, Texas, to help meet the city’s 2020 renewable energy goals.
- Acted as federal energy regulatory, litigation and strategic counsel for Tri-State regarding all aspects of its game changing transition to becoming a regulated public utility subject to the jurisdiction of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC).
- Providing strategic advice to Anterix in connection with its efforts to play a key role in the modernization of communications infrastructure in the nation’s various critical infrastructure sectors, and particularly in the utility sector.
Greenberg Traurig LLP
Greenberg Traurig LLP is well-positioned to advise a balanced array of stakeholders engaged in mandates at all phases of a renewable energy project from constructions through to financing and M&A. The team is prominent in the hydroelectric, solar and wind power realms, and is consistently engaged by top developers and tax equity financing parties. The firm’s cross-border experience is also noteworthy, especially when it comes to renewable sector-related matters in Latin America. Jeffrey A. Chester in Los Angeles is recognized in the renewable energy project finance space, but also assists with M&A and tax equity mandates. Based in Washington DC, John Eliason, who joined from Foley & Lardner LLP in June 2021, has a strong following among tax equity investors and sponsors. Chester and Eliason oversee the department with William S. Garner in Houston, Kenneth Minesinger in DC and Iskender Catto in New York.
Practice head(s):
William Garner; Kenneth Minesinger; Iskender Catto; Jeffrey Chester; John Eliason
Other key lawyers:
April Kim; Alejandra Garcia Earley; Ernesto Danache
Testimonials
‘From partner level to associate level, every player worked like some who really cared about the client’ needs and simply got the job done.’
‘Jeffrey Chester (Global Co-Head of Energy Project Finance) has proved himself as a guru in the renewable energy sector. Our company, a multinational corporation operating in the US, needs balanced opinions and solutions and Jeff has never failed to surpass our expectations in terms of delivering the results and persuading relevant parties in transactional projects.’
Key clients
8minute Solar Energy
BayWa r.e.
ConEdison
Inversiones Latin America Power Ltda.
KEPCO
Samsung Renewables
Apex Clean Energy, LLC
Idemitsu Renewables
8minute Solar Energy
BayWa r.e.
ConEdison
Inversiones Latin America Power Ltda.
KEPCO
Samsung Renewables
Apex Clean Energy, LLC
Idemitsu Renewables
Work highlights
- Lead counsel to Apex Clean Energy as seller of 385 MW Isabella Wind project.
- Lead counsel to BayWa r.e. as developer, sponsor, and seller in construction, financing, and sale of 250 MW Amadeus Wind Project.
- Lead counsel to 8minute Solar Energy in connection with the negotiation of master framework supply agreements and procurement of solar modules, trackers and inverters, each from multiple suppliers, for over 3,000 MWs of fully contracted solar projects that will be built over the next three years.
Nossaman LLP
Although Nossaman LLP has expertise in assisting alternative energy sector clients in the development and acquisition of renewable projects, it adds particular value on permitting and compliance challenges under the Endangered Species Act (ESA), NEPA, and the Clean Water Act. Wind and solar developers feature on the firm’s client base, which retains it for the preparation and negotiation of habitat conservation plans and the securing affiliated incidental take permits under the ESA. Other key clients include tax equity investors and national utilities that rely on the firm’s expertise on environmental due diligence and project permitting under all major federal land management statutes. Department head Svend Brandt-Erichsen is a go-to lawyer in Seattle for permitting, compliance and regulatory development matters. Rebecca Barho in Austin is an ESA expert, and advises on the preparation of habitat conservation plans, while Brooke Marcus in the same office is a key contact for electric generation and transmission companies, storage energy clients and species conservation bankers seeking assistance with federal wildlife issues in the context of renewable energy acquisitions.
Practice head(s):
Svend Brandt-Erichsen
Other key lawyers:
Paul Weiland; Rebecca Barho; Brooke Marcus; Brian Ferrasci-O’Malley
Key clients
GE Energy Financial Services
Energy and Wildlife Action Coalition (EWAC)
Avangrid Renewables, LLC
Engie North America
Scout Clean Energy
Ares Climate Infrastructure Partners
Pattern Energy Group LLC
Electron Hydro LLC
North Central Valley Solar Holdings, LLC
Primergy Energy
Work highlights
- Conducts federal wildlife due diligence reviews of potential wind energy investments (new projects and repowering) for GE EFS throughout the United States.
- Assisted Avangrid with obtaining the first-of-its-kind Endangered Species Act permit for wind energy for potential incidental take of the California condor.
- Provides environmental and federal wildlife law advice to national coalition of 25 members consisting of investor-owned electric utilities, electric transmission providers, and renewable energy entities operating throughout the United States, and related trade associations.
Paul Hastings LLP
Drawing on the firm’s expertise in M&A, private equity, emerging technologies, finance and regulatory issues, Paul Hastings LLP recently launched its global energy transition and infrastructure team, which is particularly well-versed in the carbon offsets markets and at representing investors in major transactions involving alternative energy companies and assets. The practice is frequently engaged in state and federal regulatory issues arising in the context of major renewable energy projects, including conservation needs and tribal law matters. Solar energy facility permitting is another area of strength for the department, which is under the leadership of Kfir Abutbul in Houston. Abutbul has a strong track record of corporate transactions in the renewable energy space, and is often retained by investment firms in the funding of alternative energy companies. Jenna McGrath is a name to note in Washington DC for energy regulatory matters, including electric storage.
Practice head(s):
Kfir Abutbul
Other key lawyers:
Chris Carr; Jenna McGrath; Andrew Heather
Key clients
Terra-Gen Power
8minute Solar Energy
EDF Renewables
Intersect Power
Recurrent Energy
Kayne Anderson Capital Advisors (now Irradiant Capital)
PBF Energy
Oak Hill Advisors
Sandbrook Capital
Acciona Energy
Glidepath No
Leeward Renewable Energy
Work highlights
- Advised Oak Hill Advisors on an innovative $500m sustainable forestry joint venture with Bluesource targeting the purchase of one million acres of woodland for the generation of carbon offsets.
- Assisting 8minute Solar Energy to secure incidental take permits and related mitigation for four solar projects totaling more than 3,000 MW that, when built, will provide more than 3% of California’s electricity.
- Representing Caithness Energy in all aspects of the $700m sale of Shepherd’s Flat Windfarm to Brookfield Renewable Partners.
Reed Smith LLP
Reed Smith LLP provides legal assistance to a variety of clients in relation to the development, financing, acquisition and disposal of renewable power projects. Fielding domestic and international bench strength, the team’s transactional capabilities go beyond conventional M&A and financing, and also encompass the trading of all major power-related commodities. Prajakt Samant in London and Stan Perry in Houston jointly chair the global energy and natural resources practice group. Based in Princeton, Henry King has significant experience in the purchase and sale of renewable projects both during the development stage and after commercial operation. Brendan McNallen in San Francisco is recommended for project development and finance in the renewable energy generation, storage, transmission and distribution segments.
Practice head(s):
Prajakt Samant; Stan Perry
Other key lawyers:
Henry King; Brendan McNallen; Stephane Nguyen
Testimonials
‘As new to the US market we needed counsel who are competent and familiar, not only with our line of business, but also to the challenges we face and out lack of insight into the US market . We have found that in Reed Smith. The speedy and competent service came highly recommended and we have not been disappointed.’
‘Reed Smith handles a variety of work for us, but the two primary areas are transactional work for renewable energy projects and disputes. Our company has had a long relationship with the Reed Smith team that spans more than 25 years. The Reed Smith team understands our business extremely well and has done a good job of keeping up with industry developments. The team members are responsive, highly skilled, practical, and easy to work with.’
‘Brendan McNallen is a pleasure to work with. His smooth, calm demeanor belies an extremely effective negotiating style. Brendan is responsive, dependable, and proactive. He’s an excellent person to have on your team.’
Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP
A varied client roster, comprising utilities, independent power producers , investors, sponsors, developers, lenders and owners, turns to Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP for assistance with an array of transactional, commercial and compliance matters involving power and renewable energy generation assets. Bringing together cross-practice expertise, the group has extensive experience working on the debt and equity financing of renewable power projects, including solar, wind, hydroelectric, biomass technology and energy storage. Recent engagements also include renewable energy M&A, commodity transactions, climate change-related structures, hedging instruments and compliance advice. The team is jointly led by Norman C. Bay, who also oversees energy regulatory and enforcement mandates, and Athena Eastwood in Washington DC, with both taking the lead in commodities matters. Corporate and financial services partner Jorge Kamine, who splits his time between DC and New York, ‘is a subject matter expert in renewable/alternative power with a special expertise in large, complicated deal structures‘.
Practice head(s):
Norman C. Bay; Athena Eastwood
Other key lawyers:
Archie Fallon; Jay Hughes; Jorge Kamine
Testimonials
‘Jorge Kamine is a subject matter expert in renewable/alternative power with a special expertise in large, complicated deal structures and stressed situations. He has excellent client management skills and can clearly communicate issues, topics and terms to accelerate a deal process.’
‘Service, professionalism, accessibility, client first orientation, proactiveness.’
Key clients
Bloom Energy
Caliche Development Partners
Catalyze Holdings, LLC
Citigroup Energy, Inc.
EDF Renewables
Futures Industry Association Inc. (FIA)
Haddington Ventures
Lightsource
LS Power Group
Newlight Partners LP
NextEra Energy Marketing
Panamint Capital
PJM Interconnection LLC and PJM Settlement LLC
Resource Environmental Solutions
SunEnergy1
Supergas Energy
Tonopah Solar Energy, LLC
Vitol Inc.
WIRES