Pels Rijcken’s energy team stands out for its ‘sound knowledge’ of high-profile and sector-critical trends, leveraging strong public and private sector relationships across project, contentious, commercial, and regulatory mandates. Iman Brinkman pairs ’in-depth knowledge with good litigation skills’, serving as a key contact among the Dutch state, municipalities, energy producers and operators, and gas and electricity suppliers. Brinkman brings expertise regarding grid connections and market operation, heat and cold projects, and grid congestion issues. Lianne Barnhoorn focuses her practice on the planning and environmental law aspects of wind and solar power projects.

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Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'In-depth knowledge of the energy sector, not only legal but also the technical aspects. The advice given is practical and to the point.'
  • 'The office is accessible and approachable. Communication is always timely, accurate, and the legal advice is of high quality.'
  • 'Experts in very specialist topics that aren't easily found elsewhere.'
  • 'Very knowledgeable, reliable, as well as flexible.'
  • 'Very knowledgeable in the energy domain and has a unique position in this relative niche.'
  • 'The individuals are very approachable and always friendly. Additionally, they have an excellent understanding of the political-administrative context in which they provide advice.'

Key clients

  • Essent (E.ON)
  • Scholt
  • Dutch State
  • ACM (Dutch Energy Regulator)
  • Municipality of Rotterdam

Work highlights

Successfully represented the Dutch State in high-profile litigation about priority access to the Dutch electricity system.
Represents the Dutch State in a new climate case against Greenpeace and eight residents of Bonaire.
Successfully represented the Minister for the Environment in various complicated administrative proceedings about her refusal to revoke licences for wind farm projects ‘Rietvelden’ and ‘Blauw’.

Lawyers

Leading partners

The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

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

Iman Brinkman

Other key lawyers

Lianne Barnhoorn