Burness Paull LLP has a team of ‘true subject matter experts, which assists clients to quickly get to the heart of the relevant topic and issue’. The firm is well positioned to act on a host of projects, representing international energy companies, developers and local authorities on both early stage and operational asset work. The team underpins M&A and project development expertise with key regulatory know-how and has notable presence in the renewables, low-carbon and clean tech spaces. Bob Ruddiman leads the practice, and Peter Ward is very active in the onshore and offshore wind space and is able to provide crucial insights in grid connections, off-take agreements, and power-purchase agreements. The ’dynamic, experienced, well-connected and knowledgeable’ Neil Bruce is chiefly focused on the property aspects of energy sector work, and Sophie Coffey engages closely with funds and lenders on project finance mandates. Nicky Pascoe is lauded for her ‘first-rate and deep knowledge’, especially with regards to the real estate aspects of developments, while Ashley Flanagan, who has a similarly focused practice, has embedded understanding of nuclear assets. Mark Kirke and Linda Tinson joined in May 2023 from CMS and Ledingham Chalmers LLP, respectively.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
- Profile
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The team clearly have a good understanding of the practical implications of the legal matters they opine on and can very quickly and effectively communicate the real life implications of different legal options etc. This provides confidence that they are a well experienced team and a safe pair of hands.’
‘Neil Bruce and Alan Gibson have both been particularly helpful and attentive, with understanding of the renewables industry which extends well beyond their areas of expertise.’
‘The Burness Paull energy and natural resources team have unique experience among their peer firms in Scotland, particularly in relation to the development of renewable energy projects. We regularly work alongside Burness Paull on renewable energy engagements where they cover the local counsel scope. They have true subject matter experts, which assists clients to quickly get to the heart of the relevant topic and issue.’
‘Neil Bruce effectively coordinates the team's service offering. He is dynamic, experienced, well connected and knowledgeable.'
‘We are very grateful of Burness Paull's ability to comprehend our unique challenges and aspirations. The attention and attempt to understand our larger business, and their personalised approach fosters a sense of partnership, as opposed to a purely transactional relationship. It's evident from our end that the firm genuinely cares about our success, and this commitment translates into tailored legal strategies that align with our business objectives.'
‘Ashley Flanagan's personal nature and being adept at balancing professionalism with a personable demeanour creates an environment that encourages open dialogue. To us, she is top standard of being an external counsel.'
- 'Nicky Pascoe's relationship with us is characterised by a genuine friendliness and a down-to-earth approach, creating an atmosphere of trust and ease. This works hand in hand with the first-rate and deep knowledge that we receive from her, across new projects and existing workflows. Despite the complexity of legal matters presented, she has consistently demonstrated a willingness to engage in open and transparent communication. We can’t fault the legal advice that is given to us.'
- 'Neil Bruce has adept legal skill and a personal nature and approachability that has elevated his role in our eyes beyond that of external solicitor. This personal touch, combined with a legal expertise, makes Neil a coveted adviser for us. Striking a balance between professionalism and a friendly demeanour, his calm composition and understanding approach in negotiations has been instrumental in resolving disputes and fostering positive relationships within the industry. We value Neil's “outside the box” thinking on how to manoeuvre in the legal world, rather than being subject to tired planning processes.'
Key clients
- EDF Energy Renewables
- Orsted
- Statkraft UK
- Ventient Energy
- Invenergy Wind Europe
- Brockwell Energy
- Fred Olsen Renewables
- BayWa r.e. UK
- Brookfield Renewables
- Vattenfall
Work highlights
- Advised West Burton Energy on all aspects of the acquisition of the 2.9GW Thorpe Marsh battery storage project, one of the largest battery developments globally.
- Advised North Kyle Wind Farm Limited (Brockwell Energy) on the project development of the 220.5MW North Kyle onshore wind farm and aspects of the subsequent £190m debt financing.
- Advised EDP Renewables on all aspects of the acquisition of two 50MW battery storage projects near Inverness, including the Balnacraig Project.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next generation partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Neil Bruce
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Sophie Coffey
Practice head
Bob Ruddiman
Other key lawyers
Peter Ward; Neil Bruce; Sophie Coffey; Nicky Pascoe; Ashley Flanagan; Mark Kirke; Linda Tinson