Steptoe LLP is a go-to firm for handling complex litigation for both traditional energy and energy transition, with a robust client base that includes numerous electric utility systems. The firm is also sought after for its expertise in antitrust issues in the space. Daniel Mullen and Richard Roberts co-lead the Washington-based group. Mullen focuses his practice on defending clients in FERC and CFTC investigations and assisting them in developing robust energy regulatory compliance programs. Roberts is also active on contentious matters, handling private litigation for clients alongside trying cases before the FERC and appeals courts. He also excels at counselling energy clients on market manipulation and antitrust matters. William Keyser is also a key partner handling regulatory litigation and transactions for a host of clients including electric utilities, transmission providers and energy storage developers. Karen Bruni is a particularly active associate, aiding in cases related to enforcement and antitrust issues.
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Accolades

Client satisfaction

Key clients

  • Duke Energy
  • Southern California Edison (SCE)
  • Eversource
  • PacifiCorp
  • Berkshire Hathaway Energy
  • NorthWestern Energy
  • Evergy
  • American Electric Power (AEP)
  • Hashwatt, Inc.
  • Rhode Island Energy (RIE)

Work highlights

  • Represented Duke Energy Corp., and won a summary judgment in federal district court in Charlotte, dismissing antitrust and unfair competition counterclaims brought against Duke by NTE Carolina II LLC and alleging approximately $1bn in damages.
  • Represented HashWatt in Pennsylvania state court in a contractual dispute with its energy supplier, who is seeking to terminate the power supply contract early without having to pay significant damages for doing so.
  • Negotiated a settlement on behalf of PacifiCorp, the subject of a longstanding investigation by FERC’s Office of Enforcement for alleged violations of certain mandatory NERC Reliability Standards.

Lawyers

Leading partners

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

Daniel Mullen
Richard Roberts

Leading associates

Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.

Karen Bruni

Practice head

Daniel Mullen; Richard Roberts

Other key lawyers

William Keyser; Shaun Boedicker; Chris Zentz; Karen Bruni