Freeths LLP has a notable energy and projects practice with considerable capabilities in clean and smart energy tech. The group is especially well-versed in the areas of battery storage and district heating, and has experience advising on hydrogen and nuclear transactions. The team includes Michael Bray, who is a seasoned real estate lawyer; Rhianna Wilsher, who has extensive experience with low-carbon energy projects; and Suriya Edwards, a trusted advisor to battery energy storage integrators. Other key lawyers are Ben Derrington, an environmental and regulatory specialist, corporate finance expert Emily Settle, and Ben Moylan, a key banking and finance contact in the sector.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- The team has a broad range of experience in the energy sector, particularly in the setup and delivery of ESCOs for the purpose of heat networks. Their input has been extremely helpful in relation to the role of the public sector in these arrangements.
- Rhianna Wilsher has a wide range of experience and knowledge in heat network delivery and the role of the public sector. Rhianna is excellent at cutting to the key points that need legal consideration and has a great appreciation of the risks and rewards of delivering a heat network.
- The team is very responsive to pressing timescales and has the appropriate level of resources to meet our fluctuating needs. They provide clarity and detail to guide us effectively and robustly.
- I have valued Freeths' down-to-earth approach and clear, factual, innovative, and reassuring advice for a complex and challenging project with regularly shifting targets and a changing legal landscape (new legislation and policy). Their wide experience has been valuable in helping to shape our project.
- On Energy, I have worked with Rhianna Wilsher, who always provides sensible, down-to-earth advice that is based on experience. Rhianna always clearly explains her advice, is knowledgeable about new and emerging legislation and contracting, and I feel confident about the advice I receive.
Key clients
- Centrica plc
- SmartParc
- The Cornwall Council
- Plymouth City Council
- Plymouth Energy Community and Plymouth City Council
- RE Projects Developments Limited
- Clean Earth Energy Group
- Euro Garages Limited
- Photovolt Development Partners GmbH
- Firstway Solar Limited
- Allego Charging Ltd (UK)
- Bristol Airport
- ENGIE UK
- Equans
- Vital Energi
- Chancerygate
- BioDynamic
- Charles Wells
- E.On Drive Infrastructure
- Eastleigh Borough Council
Work highlights
Advised Vital Energi on a geothermal mine water district heating scheme at Seaham Garden Village.
Advised Statkraft on multiple acquisitions to develop its portfolio of clean energy assets in the UK, including two adjoining schemes for a greener grid park (including battery storage) and a hydrogen eFuels facility, as well as solar schemes in Cornwall.
Continuing to advise a Council on a pioneering district heat network to supply renewable heat to up to 4000 homes, a school, a leisure centre and a hospital.
Practice head
Michael Bray; Rhianna Wilsher; Suriya Edwards; Ben Derrington; Emily Settle; Ben Moylan
Other key lawyers
Richard Broadbent; Coralie McKeivor; Veena Velani