DLA Piper leverages its international network to handle large scale, cross-border energy projects for a range of financial services clients, especially renewable energy projects throughout Europe, including offshore wind and PPAs. Advice on future markets more generally is at the core of the group’s work, such as hydrogen and LNG, often stemming from M&A given the firm’s broader focus on M&A. Michael Cieslarczyk leads the group, a practitioner often present in matters advising on the energy supply of large data centres. This advice also extends to contractual matters and energy infrastructure projects, in which Christopher Ollech is heavily involved, particularly when it comes to contractual and regulatory issues for e-mobility services.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'DLA Piper's energy practice combines deep sector knowledge with strong legal and commercial insight, which makes them a valuable strategic partner for us. The team is highly responsive and demonstrates a clear ability to navigate complex projects. DLA Piper has shown a clear willingness to adapt to client needs, including offering tailored billing models for long-term projects.'
- 'The individuals we work with at DLA Piper distinguish themselves through a combination of deep sector knowledge and a proactive, solution-oriented mindset. Their expertise has been crucial in our rapid expansion.'
- 'The quality is high, and we value their proactive communication.'
- 'Highly motivated and engaged. Very prepared, and smooth transitions between different contacts.'
- 'Very fast responses. Highest dedication to the assignment.'
- 'The DLA Piper energy team is well integrated across different jurisdictions. The DLA Piper team has a very strong regulatory and contractual focus. They are recognised throughout the industry and on the forefront of industry developments.'
- 'The individuals at DLA Piper Germany stand out for their exceptional blend of legal acumen, commercial insight, and collaborative spirit.'
- 'DLA Piper Germany distinguishes itself through its seamless integration of global capabilities with deep local expertise, offering clients a unique blend of international reach and market-specific insight. The team is known for its multidisciplinary approach, combining legal excellence with commercial pragmatism across key sectors such as corporate, real estate, and technology. Clients benefit from innovative tools like AI-driven compliance platforms, flexible billing models, and a strong commitment to ESG and diversity.'
Key clients
- BASF
- Blackstone
- EWE HYDROGEN GmbH
- EWE Go GmbH
- GLP
- Solar215 GmbH
- SUSI Partners
- Uniper
- EWE Trading
Work highlights
Advised BASF on the acquisition of 49% of the shares in the German offshore wind farms Nordlicht 1 and 2 from Vattenfall.
Advised Uniper as a panel law firm, e.g. in connection with energy trading issues, commodity repo contracts, banking regulatory and antitrust issues, etc. in Germany, UK, Scandinavia, Middle East, Singapore, etc.
Advised EWE HYDROGEN in connection with the hydrogen activities of the EWE Group, including drafting standard hydrogen supply contracts, participating in tenders, negotiating hydrogen supply contracts with various end customers, drafting electricity purchase agreements (PPAs) and with regard to regulatory requirements.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Michael Cieslarczyk
Other key lawyers
Christopher Ollech; Wolfram Distler