Energy (excluding oil and gas) in Scotland

Addleshaw Goddard

Addleshaw Goddard remains active on behalf of lenders, developers and investors on an array of renewables and energy transition projects, and has looked to bolster its market offering through the hire of David Cruickshank from Dentons and Steven McAllister from Davidson Chalmers Stewart, who both arrived in 2023. The firm has established strength in regulatory and development issues, including energy consenting, grid, and environmental concerns, and has a roster of landmark projects that require a global, multi-disciplinary team of specialists. Helming the practice is Alan Shanks, an esteemed M&A and financing adviser who has most recently been active on wind, solar and EV charging mandates. Co-lead David McEwing handles M&A and PE transactions for a number of large-cap sponsors and asset managers, while co-head Sarah Baillie has been prolific in the clean tech space, overseeing battery storage, liquid air storage, and carbon capture storage ventures. Suzanne Moir is vital to public sector clients due to her extensive procurement proficiencies, and Fiona Gordon handles a varied stream of contentious and non-contentious planning and environment instructions in both the public and private sector.

Praxisleiter:

Alan Shanks; David McEwing; Sarah Baillie


Weitere Kernanwälte:

David Cruickshank; Steven McAllister; Suzanne Moir; Fiona Gordon


Referenzen

‘Suzanne Moir is responsive, committed and strives to understand our business and therefore our specific needs and risk areas. She is also great at building a rapport with her clients.’

‘The practice utilises a team of proficient and skilled staff to undertake required works. A cost effective working practice is established through the use of a team of varied seniority allowing more junior members to gain valuable experience while more senior employees can concentrate on more detailed technical issues.’

‘Steven McAllister has always been a joy to work with. His knowledge and specific experience within the energy sector means that he understands the, sometimes complex, commerciality of the projects we are working on and is always available to answer queries in a timely and professional manner.’

Kernmandanten

SSE Renewables


SGN plc


SSEN Transmission plc


Flotation Energy


National Grid Electricity Transmission plc


Drax plc


Department of Energy Security and Net Zero


Alcemi Storage Developments UK Limited


Scottish National Investment Ban


Red Rock Power


INEOS


Foresight Group Holdings Limited


Peel Group


ERG


ENGIE


Gravis Capital


EQUANS


Greenvolt


Greenpower International


Envevo Limited


Highlight-Mandate


  • Advising Alcemi Storage Developments on 6GW of Europe’s largest commercial Battery Energy Storage Systems, including the world’s first 1GW project – which is in Scotland.
  • Advising SGN plc on its plans that will see clean hydrogen gas produced and transmitted across Scotland and England, including storage, pipeline advice and the world-first green hydrogen heating network at H100 in Fife.
  • Advising On-site Energy on a range of innovative energy projects in excess of £100m.

Brodies LLP

Brodies LLP ‘has a strong offering in the energy space across multiple legal disciplines’ and delivers astute advice to an array of investment managers, energy operators, and utilities. Renewables projects remain a flagship component of the team’s work, with both onshore and offshore wind and associated battery storage facilities regularly at the fore. Further engagement with pumped hydro, district heating and hydrogen projects are also evident in the team's portfolio of mandates. Spearheading the practice is Keith Patterson who is equally proficient across M&A and project finance and has been recently active on a number of substantial greenfield projects. Co-head Kirsty Macpherson is a key name for developers and landowners seeking development counsel, and is well-regarded for her specialist crofting advice. Sarah-Jane McArthur ‘is widely recognised for her breadth and depth of experience in the heat networks sector’ and is ‘informed by a deep understanding of both the Scottish and wider UK market and of the emerging regulatory framework’, while Alix Bearhop advises on a range of assets from a real estate perspective. The renewables-focused Claire Reid and Donna Cooper also come recommended for their far-reaching practices.

Praxisleiter:

Keith Patterson; Kirsty Macpherson


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Sarah-Jane McArthur; Alix Bearhop; Claire Reid; Donna Cooper


Referenzen

‘Brodies offers excellent availability and communication combined with excellent technical knowledge across a range of subjects.’

‘Kirsty Macpherson is an excellent senior figure in Brodies, managing a team of lawyers and therefore able to assign the correct person to the correct task. Kirsty’s technical knowledge of renewable projects is excellent, but she also has an excellent understanding of land and estate titles, which makes a useful combination across a range of rural estate management issues that we face.’

‘Claire Reid has a phenomenal ability to hold complex information in her mind across long time periods with changing dynamics and circumstances. Her grasp on the detail is exceptional.’

Kernmandanten

Vattenfall Wind Power Limited


Orsted


Fred Olsen Seawind Limited


Gresham House


Banks Renewables


Vattenfall Heat


Energiekontor


Clydesdale Bank


Statera Energy


Binn Group


Low Carbon


Belltown Energy


Highlight-Mandate


  • Advising Statera Energy on the development of the 3GW hydrogen project in Aberdeenshire, Scotland.
  • Advising Banks Renewables on the completion of the sale of a 49.9% stake in Kype Extension Windfarm to Greencoat.
  • Advising Low Carbon Developments on the development of Glen Lednock Windfarm, which is to be developed on a Scottish estate recently purchased to develop a whole range of sustainable projects.

CMS

CMS handles high-end M&A, project finance, development, procurement and disputes work for an enviable roster of large-cap sponsors, global developers, and financial institutions across the full breadth of energy assets, including notable engagement with onshore and offshore wind, hydrogen, battery storage and CCUS, and nuclear projects. The strong planning and consenting practice is coupled with deep-founded environmental and regulatory expertise and ensures the team is frequently instructed on large-scale, multifaceted developments requiring multiple assets and complex grid connection issues. Team lead Chris McGarvey ‘is a first-class energy lawyer’ and is noted for the breadth of his asset understanding and technical expertise. Co-head Robin Hutchinson specialises in planning work and is highly active in the renewable space, while fellow team-leads Gordon Hay and Darren Craig have a strong body of work focused on project finance. Co-head Frank Fowlie has a background in M&A, and Kirsty Nurse is a crucial contact for developers due to her dual-proficiency in commercial and financing affairs. Promoted to partner in May 2023, Vini Cowden takes on infrastructure-related mandates, with close engagement with carbon capture, and Laura Sefton has recently been active on heat network and digital infrastructure projects. Kathryn Nolin also comes recommended, while Fenella Mason joined in September 2023 from Burness Paull LLP.

Praxisleiter:

Gordon Hay; Robin Hutchison; Chris McGarvey; Frank Fowlie; Darren Craig


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Kirsty Nurse; Laura Sefton; Kathryn Nolin; Fenella Mason; Vini Cowden


Referenzen

‘Chris McGarvey is a first-class energy lawyer. Technically brilliant but also knows the market very well and is very commercial and practical. I can’t rate highly enough.’

‘Laura Sefton is great. Her ability to convey complex and evolving rules and regulations around a growing market segment to us was tremendous. Succinct, clear, and able to explain and convey in a way we could quickly comprehend was a life saver. Her delivery of items to her own strict and very very tight timescales and restrictions was just great.’

‘Kirsty Nurse is excellent and very user friendly. I particularly value Kirsty’s flexibility and legal expertise in relation to construction, O&M and PPA agreements within the energy space.’

Kernmandanten

SSE


NeuConnect


Storegga – Pale Blue Dot


Close Leasing Limited


Constantine Energy Storage LLP


bp Aberdeen Hydrogen Energy Limited


Gigabox Developments


SENS Iqony Solar Energy Solutions (UK) Ltd


WRIF HOLDCO C 2 Limited


Triodos Bank UK Limited


SSE plc


HV Storm Holdings AS


Flotation Energy Limited


ScottishPower Renewables


Equitix TEPCO Consortium


Muirhall Energy Limited


Virgin Money


Blackfinch Investments


Elm Wind Holdings Limited


Inch Cape Offshore Limited


Red Rock Power Limited


Luminous Energy Limited


Mitsubishi HC Capital UK Plc


R-Gen Renewables Limited


Lower48 Energy Ltd


bp


Highlight-Mandate


  • Advising on the £85m debt facility to Conrad Energy to assist with the development of 10 battery storage projects across England.
  • Advising on a broad variety of issues on the Acorn CCUS and Hydrogen Projects at St Fergus Gas Terminal, Peterhead.
  • Advising on all aspects of the successful purchase of the 857MW Triton Knoll Offshore Wind Farm Transmission assets.

Pinsent Masons LLP

As a ‘commercially minded firm that understands the market and key issues’, Pinsent Masons LLP is well-positioned to advise a host of pension and infrastructure funds on a variety of low carbon assets and projects, as well as traditional oil and gas clients engaging with renewables and energy transition work. While onshore and offshore wind continues to be a flagship component of the team’s work, the firm is also active in district heating, battery storage and landmark hydrogen and pumped hydro projects. Ian McCarlie and Ronan Lambe co-lead the practice, with the former largely active across the entire renewable projects space, and the latter recognised for his specialism in power purchase agreements and emerging technologies. Jennifer Ballantyne is chiefly focused on the property, planning and environmental aspects of energy developments, and often works alongside Gary McGovern who is another expert in planning matters. Nicholas Carlin ‘is a very experienced construction and offshore wind lawyer and a particular expert in turbine supply contracts’, while Gillian Frew takes the lead on financing instructions. James Todd supports a range of matters and is highly capable handling financing and regulatory issues.

Praxisleiter:

Ian McCarlie; Ronan Lambe


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Jennifer Ballantyne; Gary McGovern; Nicholas Carlin; Gillian Frew; James Todd


Referenzen

‘The big and experienced team across different offices means that resourcing is not an issue. Particularly in the offshore wind space, Pinsent Masons’ expertise is near-unrivalled.’

‘Nicholas Carlin is a very experienced construction and offshore wind lawyer and a particular expert in turbine supply contracts. He is very commercial, responsive and a real asset in negotiations.’

‘Pinsents have a strong renewables team with the skills to handle all aspects of renewable energy projects. They are a strong team with a fantastic understanding of client’s business and protecting our position but finding solutions which work for all parties.’

Kernmandanten

Statkraft


EDF Energy Renewables


Ørsted


National Westminster Bank


Vattenfall Heat UK Limited


Glasgow Airport Limited


Temporis Capital


Multiplex


Highlight-Mandate


  • Advised Norwegian state-owned utility Statkraft on the acquisition of a shovel-ready 450MW pumped hydro scheme (known as Project Red John) located near Loch Ness, Scotland from local renewables developer Intelligent Land Investments.
  • Advised several applications to the Hydrogen Production Business Model/Net Zero Hydrogen Fund: HAR1.

Shepherd and Wedderburn

The ‘technically prepared, savvy and hands-on’ team at Shepherd and Wedderburn combines transactional, finance, and development expertise to act on an impressive portfolio of renewables and low carbon projects, acting for top energy developers and operators. The firm demonstrates high levels of activity in onshore and offshore wind, carbon capture and battery storage projects, and hydro and hydrogen schemes, while also possessing a strong body of contentious work with regards to grid connections, application appeals, and project overlaps. Team lead Clare Foster is a seasoned finance expert, while co-lead Colin Robertson is a go-to for investors and developers for real estate issues affecting both brownfield and greenfield sites, and Colin Innes is highly reputed for his planning expertise, especially in regard to offshore and onshore wind consenting. Co-head John Morrison‘s possesses a far-reaching corporate practice spanning joint ventures, M&A, and private equity transactions, while fellow team lead Scott McCallum is sought out for his environmental and contentious expertise. Co-head Susan Swan is key for grid and offtake arrangements and leads the low carbon sub-sector group alongside construction and procurement specialist Euan Murray.

Praxisleiter:

Clare Foster; Colin Robertson; Scott McCallum; John Morrison; Susan Swan; Euan Murray


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Colin Innes


Referenzen

‘Depth of experience and knowledge in the field of offshore wind consenting’.

‘Scott McCallum and his team have a depth of experience and knowledge. Accessible to the client and always providing excellent advice in relation to consenting strategy. Excellent attention to detail, highly organised and efficient.’

‘They know the offshore wind industry very well. They are very technically prepared, savvy and hands-on.’

Kernmandanten

Ocean Winds Limited and Moray Offshore Wind Farm Limited


Renantis UK Limited


ScottishPower Energy Retail Limited


Offshore Wind Power Limited


ScottishPower Renewables


Broken Cross Wind Farm Limited


Ørsted


Statkraft


Scottish National Investment Bank


ILI Group plc


Statkraft


CessCon Decom Limited


Rencore Limited


Canadian Solar


Highlight-Mandate


  • Acting for ScottishPower Renewables on the property, planning and consenting aspects of its entire onshore renewables portfolio.
  • Advising Broken Cross Wind Farm Limited in relation to project finance of the Broken Cross Onshore Wind Farm Project.
  • Advising on the interface between Ørsted’s Hornsea Project Four and the Carbon Capture and Storage Project being developed by the Northern Endurance Partnership.

Burness Paull LLP

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.

Praxisleiter:

Bob Ruddiman


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Peter Ward; Neil Bruce; Sophie Coffey; Nicky Pascoe; Ashley Flanagan; Mark Kirke; Linda Tinson


Referenzen

‘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.’

Kernmandanten

EDF Energy Renewables


Orsted


Statkraft UK


Ventient Energy


Invenergy Wind Europe


Brockwell Energy


Fred Olsen Renewables


BayWa r.e. UK


Brookfield Renewables


Vattenfall


West Burton Energy


EDP Renewables


ERG


Queequeg Renewables


MUFG Bank


CALA Homes


National Westminster Bank plc


IM2 Power


Ancala Midstream


Radiant Energy


West Burton B Limited


ESB


Eelpower


Gore Street Capital


Bluestone Energy


Greencoat Capital


Cairngorm Capital Partners


Infinis Energy


Endurance Energy


InstaVolt


Fortum


Apatura


CNG Fuels


Adtek Limited


Temporis Capital


Highlight-Mandate


  • 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.

Anderson Strathern

Assisting a wide array of clients including landowners, developers and investors, Anderson Strathern has established strength advising on the planning, property and regulatory aspects of key projects in the Scottish market, with a large focus on onshore and offshore wind and solar matters. M&A and joint ventures also remain a core elements of the practice, as well as a growing number of clean tech and emerging energy assets matters. Practice head Bruce Farquhar is a go-to name for transactional work and is a key adviser for the firm’s extensive roster of renewable energy clients. Co-head Martin Whiteford has an extensive scope of asset engagement and has recently been involved with wind, hydrogen, tidal, and anaerobic digestion gas projects. Property specialist Dixcee Fast, rural land expert Sheonagh Richards, and planning and environment professional Chris Devlin act as further team heads.

Praxisleiter:

Bruce Farquhar; Martin Whiteford; Dixcee Fast; Sheonagh Richards; Chris Devlin


Referenzen

‘They are just outright professionals.’

‘Bruce Farqhar is always available to help.’

‘The AS team have helped our business on several occasions over the years both directly and indirectly through client and partnership arrangements. They have acted for us in contractual drafting terms, negotiating, helping on technology and providing direct advice to both ourselves and clients.’

Kernmandanten

The Crown Estate Scotland


Emergya Wind Technology


Aukera B.V


Eco-Projects IOM


Oak & Green


Ripple Energy


Eurowind Energy


Qair


Locogen Limited


Greenforty Development Limited


Power Circle


ReFLEX Orkney Limited


Cloud Zuos


BlackRock


Bluefield Solar


NextEnergy


Encavis


Vento Ludens Limited/ Hydro Ludens Limited


Livos Renewables


Elgin Energy


Thöni Industriebetriebe Gmbh


Longspur Capital


Buccleuch Estates


DHG Hydro


iPower


Scottish Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Association


Emergya Wind Technology


Cireco (Scotland) LLP


Turbyn Investments Limited


Qair Scotland Limited


Speeca Energy Limited


Koehler Renewable Energy Limited


Kirk Hill Wind Farm Limited


SynchroStor Ltd


Voltis


Derill Water Solar Farm Ltd


Armstrong Capital


Highlight-Mandate


  • Advising Crown Estate Scotland on the Scotwind leasing round – granting property rights for seabed in Scottish waters for up to 27GW of new commercial scale offshore wind generation.
  • Advising Ripple Energy on the development of the Derril Water solar project.
  • Advising Qair Scotland (a joint venture between Qair and ECO Projects IOM Limited) to develop, build, operate, and own a portfolio of onshore wind and solar assets in the UK.

Burges Salmon LLP

Burges Salmon LLP has a strong record in cradle to grave delivery on a range of energy projects, including solar, offshore wind, hydroelectricity, and CCUS. In particular, the firm has a notable focus on handling project development instructions, often supporting on the consenting, land acquisition, and construction side of ventures. Team head Craig Whelton is chiefly recognised for his planning and consenting work and also regularly acts as advocate in planning hearings and inquiries. Danny Lee is sought out by a number of multinational strategics for his corporate finance expertise, while Stuart McMillan is especially well-regarded for his project finance specialism. Promoted to partner in 2023, Claire MacLean leverages her real estate background to counsel investors, developers and funders on an array of project development issues. Gregor Hayworth comes recommended for his contentious practice.

Praxisleiter:

Craig Whelton


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Danny Lee; Stuart McMillan; Claire Maclean; Gregor Hayworth


Referenzen

‘The team has excellent in depth knowledge of their subject matter and are very supportive and instructive from both a legal and commercial perspective. I have worked with several law firms over the years, but Burges Salmon is my most trusted advisor.’

‘In my opinion, the overriding distinguishing feature of Burges Salmon is their delivery of ‘team’. Their team becomes part of our team, such that the lines between the two are barely discernible. Their sense of responsibility and accountability for driving the deal through leads to a truly exceptional service – anticipating, leading, driving, seamlessly taking the baton!’

‘Danny Lee is a great leader. Always available and reassuringly calm even under intense pressure. Claire MacLean has an unbelievable ‘can do’ attitude. Claire will tear down any obstacle, in a beautifully gentle and unassuming way, to get the job done.’

Kernmandanten

Drax Energy Solutions Ltd


National Westminster Bank plc and Export Development Canada


Engie


Renantis


Bluefloat


Wind 2/Voltalia UK Limited


Voltalia UK Limited


Harbour Energy


BayWa


Solar 2


Zestec Renewable Energy


Ampyr


Progressive Energy


Balance Power Project Ltd


Dentons

Frequently sought out by domestic and international industry players and public authorities for its astute M&A, finance, development expertise, Dentons is an active presence in the Scottish market, handling marquee projects across all asset types, with a notable stream of mandates pertaining to hydrogen, carbon capture, and battery storage. The firm is especially well regarded for its deep regulatory knowledge, as well as its equity investment work. Gareth Tenner oversees a number of the firm’s key client relationships and is chiefly focused on the renewables space, advising a roster of developers, lenders and investors. Carolyn Burns is the key figure for regulatory counsel and handles a variety of arrangements and licenses, as well as grid issues. Brian Hutcheson and Paul Flynn also come recommended.

Praxisleiter:

Gareth Tenner


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Carolyn Burns; Brian Hutcheson; Paul Flynn


Kernmandanten

Aggreko


BEIS


BP


Ofgem


Pale Blue Dot


Tenaga Nasional Berhad


XLinks Limited


Diamond Transmission


DESNZ


Wood plc


Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office


Abrdn Global Private Markets Fund


Banks Group


Indigo Pipelines Limited / Indigo Power Limited


Highlight-Mandate


  • Acting for Pale Blue Dot as project counsel for the £4bn project development of the Acorn Carbon Capture & Storage project in Scotland.
  • Advised BEIS/DESNZ in relation to the Energy Prices Act 2022, and in relation to: the Energy Price Guarantee scheme; the Energy Bill Relief Scheme; the extension of the Energy Bill Support Scheme to Northern Ireland; a proposal to cap electricity generator revenues; and several other schemes.
  • Acting for Scottish National Investment Bank on multiple equity transactions.

Gillespie Macandrew LLP

Possessing a team of ‘highly capable and committed‘ advisers, Gillespie Macandrew LLP provides a wide-ranging offering and is particularly well-positioned to act on the development, regulatory and commercial aspects of renewable projects, particularly in the onshore and offshore space. Land, planning, consenting and regulatory issues continue to be a prominent feature of the firm’s workload. Derek McCulloch spearheads the practice and advises on corporate and commercial instructions, while Amy McDowell is a strong choice for wind projects and covers an array of issues, from crofting work to grid connections. Simon Williams acts on joint ventures, commercial agreements and project developments, and is highly knowledgeable of energy transition and clean tech ventures. Colin Hamilton is recommended for his wind and grid expertise, whereas Rae Gilchrist is noted for her supporting presence across the full range of practice matters.

Praxisleiter:

Derek McCulloch


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Amy McDowell; Simon Williams; Colin Hamilton; Rae Gilchrist


Referenzen

‘The team at GM are highly capable, committed and a pleasure to work with.’

‘Colin Hamilton is an extremely calm, confident and capable hand, and a pleasure to work with.’

‘Derek McCulloch is tenacious and will go above and beyond for his clients.’

Kernmandanten

SSE


Viking Energy


Seagreen Wind Energy


Berwick Bank Wind Limited


Clyde Windfarm (Scotland) Limited


REG Power


Innova Renewables


Eden Sustainable


Tillicoultry Quarries


Greentech


Highlight-Mandate


  • Advising in relation to the Berwick Bank Offshore Wind Farm with planned capacity of up to 4.1GW on onshore land requirements and offshore proximity and crossing agreements in both the Scottish and English onshore connections to grid.
  • Acting for Seagreen on phase 1 of what will be one of Scotland’s largest offshore windfarms with potential capacity of 1.075GW to power 1.6 million homes.
  • Advising Viking Energy on a full range of aspects for the circa 450MW windfarm development in Shetland.

Harper Macleod LLP

Harper Macleod LLP has a strong client base that instructs its energy and natural resources team on a number of key Scottish projects, with wind, solar, and battery storage work continually at the fore. The firm is well-geared to act on a wide body of contentious work, including increased climate change litigation, and has an active secondary market offering. Helming the practice is Omar Ali, who is highly proficient in advising on the property and real estate aspects of large-scale projects, especially in regard to grid connection offers and planning routes. Pamela Todd ‘provides first-class support’ to developers and investors with extensive activity in the wind space, while Lewis Hendry has a broad remit of work. David Bone retired in April 2024.

Praxisleiter:

Omar Ali


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Pamela Todd; Lewis Hendry


Referenzen

‘Excellent knowledge of renewable energy industry.’

‘Pamela Todd is highly knowledgeable, commercially aware and respected by other lawyers, which assists in reaching acceptable outcomes for all parties. Experienced and very easy to work with.’

‘Highly professional, approachable and diligent. They have an excellent network with other legal providers. They understand, and are sympathetic to, their client’s practical requirements to assist with navigating the legal landscape.’

Kernmandanten

Fred. Olsen Renewables


EnergieKontor


Forestry and Land Scotland


Pennon Group Plc


Ardersier Port


GreenPower International


Inverness and Cromarty Firth Green Freeport


Greenpeace


Ocean Winds


Greenswitch Capital


Highlight-Mandate


  • Advised Fred. Olsen Renewables Limited on the development of phase 4 of Crystal Rig wind farm, which will bring the total development to over 260MW.
  • Advised Pennon Group on the acquisition of the solar farm at Cullerlie in Aberdeenshire from Elgin Energy, dealing with all property, planning, environmental and grid connection matters.
  • Appointed as sole legal adviser to act for Inverness and Cromarty Firth Green Freeport Limited, one of only two green freeports in Scotland, including assisting in attracting investment into the offshore wind and hydrogen industries.

Morton Fraser MacRoberts

As a result of a merger which combined entrenched expertise in developer and landowner-focused advice, Morton Fraser MacRoberts has a robust projects practice that is able to assist clients across the entire energy space. The firm has extensive experience overseeing the development and commercial aspects of substantial renewable projects, with specialist planning, crofting and regulatory acumen; it has also recently been engaged with significant M&A and PE transactions, complex procurement instructions, and public inquiries. Team lead Nick Jones‘ broad skillset is frequently utilised by wind developers for both early stage and operational commercial advice. Gail Watt is an agriculture and rural property specialist, often addressing key issues affecting the development and extension of renewable builds. Douglas Milne acts for a range of developers and public authorities on planning issues, while Nick Atkins is a nuclear expert.

Praxisleiter:

Nick Jones


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Gail Watt; Douglas Milne, Nick Atkins


Referenzen

‘The experience of the team working on our projects is excellent. Their attention to and understanding of our needs and requirements goes over and above that of other firms. They are innovative in their approach to problem solving for us.’

‘Their personal attention is exceptional – the partner responsible for our projects, Nick Jones, is always available and willing to work to our timescales.’

‘Ability to call on partners/experts across planning/property/M&A/energy if unusual queries come up.’

Kernmandanten

SSE


Coriolis Energy


Renantis UK


E Power


GridCodePower


United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority, Dounreay Site Restoration Limited


Scottish Ministers


Historic Environment Scotland


Highlight-Mandate


  • Acting for Chirmorie Wind Farm Limited on the site assembly of numerous land, access and cabling agreements for leases and servitudes for the Chirmorie Wind Farm Project, a 76MW 21-turbine consented project located approximately 7km south-west of Barrhill, South Ayrshire.
  • Acting for SSE (specifically SSEN Transmission) in relation to major elements of its Pathway to 2030 programme, advising on the contract documentation for the procurement of Converters and Cable for the Arnish to Beauly HVDC Link and the Spittal to Peterhead HVDC Link, including the preparation of bespoke Framework Agreements and NEC3 Engineering and Construction Contracts.
  • Acted for onshore wind engineering specialist Realise Energy Services in obtaining a multi-million-pound investment from London-based private equity firm Rockpool Investments.

TLT

Lauded as ‘dedicated, hard working, technically sound and providing commercial, pragmatic and pragmatic advice’, TLT is trusted by a number of key energy players, developers and funders in the Scottish market for M&A, project development, and project finance counsel, demonstrating a strong understanding of renewables and energy transition assets. Damien Bechelli leads the team and oversees energy portfolio acquisitions and disposals. Joanna Hamilton is an energy-focused real estate lawyer, while Amy Campbell, who also has a real estate background, chiefly focuses on investments and project development work. Nick Shenken joined the firm in February 2024.

Praxisleiter:

Damien Bechelli


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Joanna Hamilton; Amy Campbell; Nick Shenken


Referenzen

‘The Scotland Energy team is excellent. Each member is approachable, dedicated, hard working, technically sound and provide commercial, pragmatic and pragmatic advice. The team is very collaborative and works well with other parts of the firm and of course with the client.’

‘However busy Joanna Hamilton is, she is always available, engaged and will make time for you. She is a true industry expert and will always provide well thought through and practical advice.’

‘Amy Campbell  is one of the best lawyers I have worked with. She is exceptionally approachable and available at all times. She really knows her stuff and is technically excellent but equally pragmatic/commercial and has helped to navigate a number of negotiations to achieve the result we required. An already risen star!’

Kernmandanten

Intelligent Land Investments Group PLC


REG Power


Energy Saving Trust


TAG Energy


Low Carbon


ILI Energy Storage PLC


Fig Power


Advance Grid Solutions


Renewco Power


JBM Solar


Energy IO


Highlight-Mandate


  • Advised Scottish-based clean energy development company, ILI Pump Storage Hydro PLC (ILI), on the completion of the sale of the Red John Pumped Storage Hydro scheme to Statkraft.
  • Acted for the Energy Saving Trust, in a partnership with NatWest and Airbnb, which aims to improve the energy efficiency of UK Airbnb hosts’ homes.
  • Advised Scottish-based clean energy development group, Intelligent Land Investments Group P.L.C (ILI), on the completion of the sale of its 50MW battery storage project at Balnacraig, Alness, Highlands to EDP Renewables.

BTO Solicitors LLP

Lauded for its ‘depth of experience and knowledge of the sector’, BTO Solicitors LLP advises renewable operators, developers and landowners on the full suite of commercial and development issues, most notably option agreements and leases. Recent projects include wind, solar, hydro, EV charging infrastructure, and battery storage facility matters. Nicolas McBride and Scott Wyper co-lead the practice, with the former reputed for his real estate and property acumen and the latter for his funding and project structuring expertise. Emma Barclay and Marieclaire Reid also come recommended for their development and financing knowledge.

Praxisleiter:

Scott Wyper; Nicolas McBride


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Emma Barclay; Marieclaire Reid


Referenzen

‘We have dealt with the BTO Energy team for many years. They have a depth of experience which is exceptional and their knowledge of the sector is excellent.’

‘The team are excellent. Scott Wyper has excellent in-depth knowledge and experience and is very calming and assured. I would have no hesitation in recommending Scott and his team to any client or contact. Outstanding.’

‘Fantastic team, super proactive and responsive. Excellent knowledge of M&A and ability to draft for complex transactions with multiple contingencies.’

Kernmandanten

Mungo Park LTD


CRF Hydro Power Limited


Angus Braidwood & Son Limited


Triodos Renewables Buchan Limited


Balcas Bioenergy Limited


Booth Welsh Automation Limited


Barran Caltum Wind


The Natural Power Consultants Limited


Montrose Estates (1993) Limited


Highlight-Mandate


  • Acting for Mungo Park LTD, Scotland’s principal Starbucks Drive Through operator, in relation to a roll out of electric vehicle charging points at numerous premises.
  • Instructed by CRF Hydro Power Limited to negotiate an option agreement and lease for a significant hydro scheme.
  • Acting for Angus Braidwood & Son Limited in respect of negotiation funding agreements with the developer of a Gas Peaking Plant in Falkirk.

Davidson Chalmers Stewart

‘A real gem in the Scottish market’, Davidson Chalmers Stewart is an established adviser to a range of clients active in the renewable energy space, demonstrating a high level of activity on onshore and offshore wind; the group adeptly manages the property, planning, land access, development, and corporate aspects, acting for both new and established ventures. Solar, battery storage and grid instructions also feature in its varied book of work. Team lead Andy Drane focuses on the landowner side of complex projects and is well placed to act across the full range of renewable assets. The real estate and property-focused Nicola Scott enjoys close connections to a multitude of energy providers and developers and possesses a similarly broad renewables practice, while Laura Tainsh is chiefly noted for her commercial, regulatory and environmental acumen. Henrietta Talbot spearheads a number of client instructions, especially those with a landowner focus.

Praxisleiter:

Andy Drane


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Nicola Scott; Laura Tainsh; Henrietta Talbot


Referenzen

‘DCS’s Renewable Energy Team are a real gem in the Scottish market. They are able to help across a range of legal disciplines, providing sensible, commercial and pragmatic advice.’

‘It’s easy to work with the whole team and I am always grateful to have their support.’

‘Nicola Scott is an exceptional solicitor, delivering consistently commercial, pragmatic advice and driving complex transactions forward and over the line. As a renewable energy developer, we especially value her personal breadth of industry knowledge complementing her exceptional technical and legal skills. She is a delight to work with and a valued support.’

Kernmandanten

Peel NRE Renewables (IOM) Limited


ABO Wind UK Limited


Cambusmore Ltd


The Farm Energy Company Limited


Low Carbon UK Wind Development Company Limited


Somerby Energy Limited


Muirhall Energy Limited


WKN Sallachy Limited


Peel Cubico Renewables Limited


Highlight-Mandate


  • Advising Peel NRE Renewables (IOM) Ltd on multiple investments in renewable energy projects across the UK.
  • Advising Low Carbon UK in connection with its first site acquisition in Scotland, with a project situated in Argyll & Bute.
  • Advising Farm Energy on multiple private wire projects in the Ayrshire area.

Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP

Fielding a ‘partner-led, commercial, experienced and pragmatic’ team, Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP shows considerable expertise regarding wind, battery storage, hydrogen and district heating projects, handling joint ventures, commercial agreements, project financings, and disputes for established energy players across the UK. Richard Cockburn is the firm’s national head of energy and oversees a range of developer and contractor client relationships and project instructions. Paul Mason has expertise in commercial property work, while Chris McLauchlan is highly adept at real estate finance mandates.

Praxisleiter:

Richard Cockburn


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Paul Mason; Chris McLauchlan


Referenzen

‘The team from WBD working on our project has a unique blend of experience where they have people who have physically worked in the energy industry, this gives a real valuable perspective when dealing with items on our project. The firm has a wide variety of subject matter experts, which has meant when the project reaches into other areas, they have been able dip into this knowledge providing a total package giving us the leading edge in our project.’

‘An understanding of the rapidly evolving green energy sector.’

‘Richard Cockburn is hard working, user friendly and makes himself available. He also understands the particular pitfalls likely to be associated with green technology energy transactions.’

Kernmandanten

Harbour Energy


Shell


TotalEnergies


Getech plc


Petrofac


Weatherford


H2 Green


ENI


RES


Scottish Power


RWE


SENER


SeAH Wind


Triodos Bank


Highlight-Mandate


  • Advising RES on its £3bn JV with Octopus Renewables to develop green hydrogen plants across the UK.
  • Advised Triodos Bank on financing, real estate and energy issues in relation to the two term loan facilities to Oxygen Conservation to fund the purchase of properties from Buccleuch Estates for a rewilding project.

Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie LLP

‘Providing a well-rounded, comprehensive service to clients with sound knowledge of the sector’, Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie LLP provides a strong projects service that is especially geared towards the early stage of projects, including the planning, consenting and environmental aspects of multi-faceted renewable builds. Helming the practice is Andrew McFarlane, who is regularly called upon for his ability to project manage a variety of complex energy ventures and works closely with landowners and developers. Fraser Gillies is an onshore wind specialist and heads up the firm’s planning division, often working alongside Nicola Martin, who demonstrates a similar calibre of planning expertise; the duo provide pre-application advice and assessment report assistance. Esme Macfarlane is noted for her broad practice and has recently focused on battery storage mandates, and Elizabeth Tainsh is also a key name to note.

 

Praxisleiter:

Andrew McFarlane


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Fraser Gillies; Nicola Martin; Esme Macfarlane; Elizabeth Tainsh


Referenzen

‘WJM’s team are very experienced in renewable energy development. They provide a well-rounded comprehensive service to clients with sound knowledge of the sector.’

‘The team are friendly and accessible as well as being exceedingly knowledgeable in the planning and environmental impact assessment of renewable energy developments’.

‘My experience of working with Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie LLP has been wholly positive. I have found the team members to be very personable. The quality of advice, presentation and communications are excellent. I would have no hesitation in recommending this practice.’

Kernmandanten

Renewable Energy Systems Limited


Energiekontor UK Limited


Fred Olsen Renewables Ltd


BayWa r.e. UK Limited


RWE Renewables UK Onshore Wind Limited


SETT Wind Energy Development Limited


REG Power Management Limited


Boralex Limited (formerly Infinergy Energy)


ESB Energy


Coriolis Energy Limited


Highlight-Mandate


  • Advised SETT Wind Energy Development in relation to Shepherds Rig Wind Farm.
  • Advised RES on all property matters relating to the Holmston Battery Storage Project, Ayr.