The energy practice at Bracewell (UK) LLP pairs ‘strong legal expertise’ with ’valuable commercial insight’, making it a key port of call for the realisation of leading global renewables projects. An expert in Middle Eastern jurisdictions, Oliver Irwin heads the team and acts for major global energy companies on the development and finance of cross-border renewable generation and storage projects. Tom Jamieson stands out for his knowledge of Middle Eastern and African markets and assists international sponsors and lenders in the development and debt financing of wind, solar, and battery assets. Gordon Stewart advises financial institutions and corporates on M&A and financing transactions across the clean energy sector.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘The have a deep understanding of the sub-Sahara African jurisdiction and understand energy - they are approachable and simplify complexity.’

  • ‘The team possesses not only strong legal expertise but also valuable commercial insight, both of which are essential for ensuring a smooth execution of the project.'

  • ‘I have always approached Bracewell for files which are very time sensitive. They have always met the deadlines set, provide partners throughout the deal, and make sure that the whole process is as hassle free as possible for the client.'

  • 'The areas of expertise in which they have advised us are always very specific and novel and we always felt accompanied throughout the process. Despite the complexity, they do not hesitate to spend their time and energy in demystifying the issues. They also speak the language of the business perfectly.'

  • ‘Tom Jamieson and Gordon Stewart are innovative lawyers who understand both sides of a problem and always come up with a neat and balanced solution. They are skilled and experienced Project finance lawyers that are readily available and provide world class service. They have an ability to simplify complexed and technical drafting and identifying risk.’

  • ‘Oliver Irwin and Tom Swarbrick stand out for their exceptional combination of legal expertise and commercial acumen. They provide timely, practical support at every stage, helping to navigate complex issues and ensure the smooth execution of the project. Their proactive approach, deep sector knowledge, and calm, solutions-oriented mindset make them indispensable partners.’

  • ‘Tom Jamieson and Gordon Stewart did a fantastic job earlier this year under extreme transaction time pressure too- they are pragmatic but yet remain diplomatic to the end. They are also smart and capable.’

  • ‘It is an absolute pleasure to deal with Tom Jamieson and Gordon Stewart: even when they are dealing with complex matters, they make it plain sailing. They also have a very deep understanding of the renewables sector, and are clearly up to speed with the novelties that are coming up, and bring their European expertise to African assets, whilst being mindful of the specificities of the jurisdiction.'

Key clients

  • Japan Bank for International Cooperation
  • Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Bank
  • Standard Chartered Bank
  • CrossBoundary Energy
  • AMEA Power
  • Westa Solar
  • Absa Bank and Standard Bank
  • Helios Energy Investments
  • Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company PJSC
  • TotalEnergies Renewables International
  • JERA Co. Inc.
  • International Power S.A. (Dubai Branch)

Work highlights

Advised Japan Bank for International Cooperation and the commercial lenders on the development and financing of the 600 MW Al-Ghat and the 500 MW Wa’ad Al-Shamal wind IPPs.
Advising CrossBoundary Energy and its shareholders on its initial $140 million senior debt commitment from the Standard Bank of South Africa in order to scale its renewable energy portfolio across Africa.
Advising AMEA Power on the development and financing of the 300 MW Aysha wind IPP in Ethiopia.

Lawyers

Next Generation Partners

Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Practice head

Jason Fox; Oliver Irwin

Other key lawyers

Tom Jamieson; Gordon Stewart