Clifford Chance offers broad expertise in environmental and planning law, advising on LNG, hydrogen, offshore wind, electricity and solar projects, with a clear emphasis on energy-transition and climate-related issues. The practice frequently handles approval procedures and environmental-risk assessments, supported by close cooperation with the firm’s corporate, real estate and finance teams. Mathias Elspaß leads the group, while Katharina Vollmer contributes experience in public construction and environmental compliance. The team also remains active in cross-border mandates, recently assisting a Japanese power provider with offshore wind permits in the North and Baltic Seas. Mira Wilcock is increasingly visible across key mandates. Frederic Mainka left the firm in late 2024 for an in-house position, while Nicolas Brennecke departed for CMS.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Clifford has a well-established team in public law/environmental law.’
- 'Mathias Elspaß is competent and pleasant. The cooperation is at the highest professional level and always collegial, reliable and goal-oriented.’
- ‘A good mix of experience and youth. Committed employees.’
- ‘They consult within a trusting relationship and therefore support the project. Thanks to Louisa Busch, Marie Karle, Mathias Elspaß, Katharina Vollmer.’
Key clients
- Kansai Electric Power Co.
- German LNG Terminal GmbH
- Hanseatic Energy Hub GmbH
- NTT DATA
- 13 Pharmaceutical Companies
- Iqony GmbH
- Gaskraftwerk Leipheim
- VINCI Concessions
- Tishman Speyer
- MB Energy GmbH & Co. KG
- Amprion GmbH / Amprion Offshore GmbH
- bayernets GmbH
- Stellantis & You Deutschland GmbH
- Grenergy Renovables, S.A.
Lawyers
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
Mathias Elspaß
Other key lawyers
Björn Heinlein; Thomas Voland; Louisa Busch; Marie Karle; Katharina Vollmer