Shoosmiths LLP is particularly well regarded for its clean energy development work, acting for developers, investors and funders across the full project lifecycle, from construction through to operation. The team is led by sector co-heads James Wood-Robertson, Chris Pritchett and Helen Burnell, supported by real estate specialists Liz McKillop Paley and Liam Phillips. Wood-Robertson is a trusted adviser to developers, funders and offtakers on a wide variety of power purchase, route-to-market and energy supply arrangements, with particular specialist experience in PPAs. James Haikney and Jennifer Clarke are also key members of the team in Leeds.
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Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- The individuals I have worked with at Shoosmiths are distinguished by their approachability, responsiveness, and strong commercial mindset. They are easy to work with, communicate clearly, and are effective at keeping matters progressing. They bring a pragmatic and innovative approach to problem-solving, thinking creatively and developing 'outside the box' solutions where appropriate. Their collaborative style and willingness to engage closely with the client team make them a reliable and trusted partner on projects.
- Shoosmiths’ Energy and Projects practice is distinguished by its strong commercial focus and client-centric approach. The team combines solid legal expertise with a clear understanding of the realities faced by developers and investors, providing advice that is both practical and aligned with commercial objectives.
- Chris Pritchett is an expert in the field of EVs and renewable projects. Not only is he extremely knowledgeable, but he is also a great person to work with and someone you can rely on to provide a practical solution for difficult projects.
- The team always provides practical and tailored advice in a format that is accessible to non-lawyers.
- James Wood-Robertson is a really good, hands-on partner as he stays engaged even when the associates are leading. He has good industry knowledge and a really pragmatic, commercially-minded approach to the advice he gives. James Haikney is outstanding, with top-tier analytical and numerical skills that allow him to interpret complex industry technical details with ease. Both James and James are excellent communicators with non-lawyers, and they keep the legal jargon to a minimum.
Key clients
- EnergieKontor
- Foresight Group
- ENGIE UK
- RWE
- Sembcorp
- Relode
- Future Biogas
- InfraRed Capital Partners
- NeuConnect
- UK Renewables Energy Group
- Generate Capital
- Alpha Real Capital
Work highlights
Advising Energiekontor on the development and disposal of multiple large (37-50MW) onshore wind farms in Scotland.
Preparing and negotiating a suite of route to market (RTM) power purchase agreements for RWE in respect of the Vanguard East and Vanguard West offshore wind projects.
Appointed to NeuConnect’s legal panel as primary adviser in the UK on a wide range of mandates.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
James Wood-Robertson; Chris Pritchett; Helen Burnell
Other key lawyers
James Haikney; Jennifer Clarke