Bracewell LLP offers comprehensive expertise in energy regulation, with a strong focus on matters before FERC and the CFTC, including significant enforcement experience. The firm advises clients on regulatory issues tied to renewable energy generation, electric transmission, offshore and onshore wind projects, as well as solar and storage developments, covering compliance, rate, and access matters as projects become operational. Known for its strength in energy transition projects, the team also excels in litigation and disputes involving complex regulatory issues and provides strong transactional support across the sector. The practice is led by Catherine McCarthy, chair of the energy department, who has over 30 years of experience in electric energy regulation, securing FERC and state authorizations, and handling market and compliance matters. Deanna King in Austin focuses on regulatory compliance and litigation, while Michael Brooks specializes in commodities and derivatives law, often representing clients in federal investigations. Theodore F. Duver in New York advises renewable energy companies on federal and state regulatory issues, and Tyler Johnson represents energy marketers and transmission owners in FERC compliance and appellate litigation. Boris Shkuta represents energy clients in a diverse array of high-stakes FERC and federal court proceedings including electric transmission owners and generation owners. All team members are based in Washington DC unless otherwise specified.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Bracewell has a strong team with a deep understanding of the regulations, regulators, and regulatory structure overseeing the energy business.’

  • ‘Michael Brooks is excellent.’

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Key clients

  • New York State Electric & Gas Corporation and Rochester Gas and Electric Corporation
  • ENGIE North America Inc.
  • Powerex Corp.
  • Alliance of Cooperative Energy Services Power Marketing LLC
  • SSE Renewables
  • Global Infrastructure Partners
  • Shell Energy North America (US), L.P.
  • Calpine Corporation
  • Rockland Capital, LP
  • Equinor Wind (f/k/a Statoil Wind)

Work highlights

  • Advising New York State Electric & Gas Corporation and Rochester Gas and Electric Corporation (RG&E) on FERC matters related to the $1.25 billion investment in local transmission facilities required to deliver renewable resources to load in response to New York State’s Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act goals.
  • Advising Powerex in negotiations and proceedings related to wholesale electricity market activity, including the establishment of legal and regulatory frameworks for cross-border participation in newly organized wholesale electricity markets in the western United States.
  • Advised SSE Renewables in connection with regulatory risk analyses of major offshore wind acquisition opportunities and successive stages of potential bidding for an offshore wind asset portfolio on the US East Coast. SSE Renewables ultimately declined to invest in the project.

Lawyers

Hall of fame

The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.

Next generation partners

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

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

Catherine McCarthy

Other key lawyers

Deanna King; Michael Brooks; Theodore Duver; Tyler Johnson; Boris Shkuta