Provided assistance and representation to E.ON Energie Romania and the formerly E.ON Gaz Furnizare, Delgaz Grid in proceedings commenced against the Romanian Energy Regulatory Authority in relation to regulated tariffs and related matters, with an aggregated value of over €200 million.

Assisting Delgaz Grid in challenges against ANRE’s orders approving the regulated rate of return applicable to power and natural gas distribution tariffs in the period 2019 - 2023. In 2019, the regulated rate of return for both sectors have been set by ANRE at a record-low value since the privatizations and has caused the Romanian Government to intervene in 2020 to suspend the effects of the challenged ANRE legislation.

Assisted E.ON Energie Romania to navigate throughout the extensive amendments of the energy legislation in relation to support measures following the increase of prices at international level. In particular, the team has provided the client with an extensive analysis on the application of the consumers support measures introduced by the Romanian Government.

In the context of REPower Europe and the targeted measures to accelerate the deployment of renewable energy sources taken European-wide, the firm assisted E.ON Energie Romania in various mandates such as: (I) assisting the client in relation to the prosumer energy regulation (e.g. conditions to be met by prosumers or analysis regarding energy efficiency and energy performance), (II) challenging in front of ANRE the legal provisions regarding financial responsibility for costs generated by prosumers’ imbalances and (III) assisting the implementation and promotion of a campaign intended to encourage and help consumers to benefit from public funds dedicated to the installation of photovoltaic panel systems for energy production.

Assistance and representation for E.ON Energie Romania against the Consumer Protection Agency and the National Energy Regulatory Authority in challenges against the sanctioning minutes concluded by those authorities. As a consequence of the liberalization of the prices regarding the supply of natural gas and power, the Consumer Protection Agency and the Regulatory Authority conducted several investigations regarding E.ON Energie Romania’s implementation process of the liberalization process with respect to the passive households clients.

Specialist lawyers: Stefan Botezatu, Andrei Petre, Daniela Goreacii, Lorena Samoila. 

Assisted Monsson Group in various renewable projects, including in new projects where the solar and powerplants include storage systems (batteries).

Assisting P3 Logistic and CTP, large logistic and storage operators in Europe, to implement photovoltaic systems for electricity self-consumption.

Assisting Bioenergy, producer of electricity and thermal energy in cogeneration from renewable resources (biomass) that supplies hot water and heat to Suceava municipality (approx. 100.000 inhabitants).

Assisting Donalam, a Romanian steel processing company belonging to an important steel products manufacturing group based in Europe, with legal assistance regarding the construction of photovoltaic power plants for self-consumption and delivery to the grid, and legal advice concerning the optimization of electricity consumption.

Assisting Andritz Hydro with the closing of their subsidiary related to the works done in Portile de Fier I hydro power plant, Portile de Fier II hydro power plant and Lower Olt power plants. 

Specialist lawyers: Dana Dunel-Stancu, Ioan Grosu, Radu Jianu.

Assisting an Italian company in relation to development of Romanian biomass energy facilities. This required an understanding of the relevant technology. In addition a number of issues were raised due to the project regarding its implementation.

Advising central European investor in relation to Romanian photovoltaic project. This required an initial capital restructuring together with review of investment documentation and law in relation to photovoltaic construction and implementation in Romania.

Advising an electricity producer concerning contractual obligations with the Romanian Electricity Regulator and Romanian electricity distributor.

Advising a wind farm developer on documentation and regulations in Romania.

Assisted DWS, the international infra-fund of Deutsche Bank, in connection to the attempted acquisition of the participations within the local subsidiaries of Enel, a multinational distributor of electricity and gas and a leading operator in the power and gas markets of Europe and Latin America, including a red flag analysis with respect to the entire activity of the target companies.

Advising Premier Energy, an important energy distributor from Romania, in connection to the acquisition of B.E.R.G. Sistem Gaz, a natural gas supplier and distributor acting in Maramures county. Legal assistance included representation of the client in relation to the officer receiver and the creditors of the target, drafting and assisting the client in the negotiations for the acquisition of the receivables towards the target and the participations held by the shareholders of B.E.R.G. Sistem Gaz as well as on various post-transaction matters.

Advising Dacian Petroleum, a company acting in the petroleum services field, with respect to various corporate matters in the context of a transfer of undertaking from OMV Petrom, comprising also 40 oil and gas onshore deposits from Romania. Legal assistance included the set-up of more than 40 working points for petrol extraction and processing etc.

Advising BERG Sistem GAZ, a natural gas supplier and distributor acting in Maramures county, in connection to a wide range of matters from corporate amendments, amendments of the restructuration plan to the assistance in the insolvency file, potential acquisition of client portfolio from another gas distributor etc.

Specialist lawyer: Ionut Bohalteanu.

Advising Clariant in connection with aspects concerning the building and operation of a biomass fired combined heat & power plant aimed at delivering electricity and steam to a full-scale commercial cellulosic ethanol plant based on its sun liquid technology which Clariant wishes to develop in Romania. This is the largest project of this type in Romania in the past couple of years and unique by the technology to be used. The assistance includes complex regulatory advice in relation to the operation of the cogeneration power capacity and the structuring of the contractual relationship for the purpose of the building and operation of the cogeneration capacity, as well as permitting aspects including in relation to grid connection. The assistance also included assessment of various contractual structure from the perspective of various limitations existing under Romanian law with respect to the trade of electricity and tolling arrangements.

Representing Distrigaz Sud Retele (part of Engie Romania), the gas distribution services branch of Engie Romania in a major insolvency of state-owned ELCEN, the main thermal energy provider in Bucharest. Apart from the very high stake, this mandate covers extremely complex legal issues, related to the regulatory aspects on energy and providing of thermal energy as public service, financial aspects on state subsidies for such activity, the obligation to continue to supply the distribution services in case of reorganization, the relationship with the other suppliers, the potential reorganization by merger of the debtor. The importance of this insolvency is paramount for the client, in terms of recovery of the past debt, payment of the services during the insolvency and as a future going concern, in the context of the providing of gas distribution services for the production of thermal energy in Bucharest. The matter involved a multi-disciplinary team from the Energy, Litigation/Arbitration, Insolvency/Restructuring/Public Law, Corporate departments.

Assisting on the buy-side Engie Romania with respect to the acquisition from Gazprom of the controlling stake in Wirom, a major regional natural gas distributor and supplier in Southern Romania. The project required mastery of complex regulatory aspects and a harsh negotiation of liability clauses.

Assisting Valorem, a large French renewable energy group in relation to the development of a 50 MW project in Dobrogea region (permitting, general energy framework, specific PPA framework, construction related aspects etc.).

The firm is advising Steag on various matters regarding the renewable power project which it holds and operates in Romania. The advice includes complex regulatory and contractual matters related to electricity market trading and generally to the operation of the wind farm. The constant changing regulatory environment in the energy field raises complex legal issues on which we act upon request from Steag.

Specialist lawyers: Lucian Bondoc, Monica Iancu, Cosmin Stavaru, Bogdan Bunrau, Viorel Dinu, Simona Petrisor.

Legal assistance with regard to setting up companies, transfer of shares, obtaining specific approvals, creating plants.

Advising PPC Group in its agreement with Evryo Group, owned by Macquarie Asset Management, to acquire their renewable energy portfolio in Romania, including 629 MW RES in operation and about 145 MW in pipeline assets.

Advising Erste Group Bank AG and BCR on the €214 million financing related to the development of a 99.2 MW onshore wind project acquired by Nala Renewables from OX2. The deal includes a long-term power purchase agreement with a multinational corporate offtaker.

Advising UK-based Nala Renewables Limited, a global power and renewable energy investment platform and independent power producer, in the acquisition from Monsson Group of a ready-to-build photovoltaic park in Caras Severin, with a total installed power of approx. 61 MWp.

Advising Nofar Energy, one of the most dynamic renewable energy investors in Romania, in the signing of the  acquisition agreement for 100% shares in Aviv Renewable Investment, the project company developing a 160 MW photovoltaic park in Giurgiu County. The transaction adds to a larger collaboration between the law firm and Nofar Energy, related to renewable energy projects in Romania with a total installed capacity of 643 MW, on matters including corporate M&A, Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) and Operation and Management (O&M) contracts, financing agreements, as well as regulatory aspects.

Advising Greek-based Motor Oil Renewable Energy Single Member (MORE), leader in the Eastern Mediterranean energy sector, in the 86 MW deal marking its entry on the Romanian renewable energy market. MORE alongside Premier Energy Group, through Alive Renewable Holding Limited, has acquired its first two new photovoltaic projects in Buzau County, with a total installed capacity of 86 MW and an additional 18 MWh energy storage capacity. The projects also contemplate the development of battery storage. The acquisition is subject to customary competition clearance and FDI approvals. 

Specialist lawyers: Nadia Badea, Loredana Ralea, Andreea Sisman, Radu Costin, Lavinia Dinoci, Carmen Buzenche, Diana Borcean, Ecaterina Burlacu, Eleonora Udroiu, Nicolae Grasu, Roxana Barboi, Filip Marinau, Adelina Seserman, Georgiana Cupas.

The law firm provides constant support and advice to OMV Petrom on regulatory matters with impact on client’s current activity and projects in Romania.

Assisting ENI during the court proceedings initiated by the client for the annulment of the Competition Council’s decision imposing a fine of approximately €2.6 million.

The firm provided legal assistance with the drafting of all documentation necessary for the purpose of selecting the intermediary, financial institution/consortium of financial institutions, in charge with trading Electrica stocks on the stock exchange market. Legal assistance during the meetings of Electrica board of directors, the Ministry of Economy/Department of Energy and the Energy Privatisation Department. Legal assistance during the evaluation process of the tenders submitted following the awarding notice for selecting a broker to trade Electrica on the stock exchange market. Legal assistance with drafting various opinions on the tendering process.

Specialist lawyers:Sorin David, Anda Rojanschi, Ovidiu Bold, Dan Dascalu, Ana-Maria Iordache, Ioana Cercel, Adina Oprea, Lucian Bozian.

Assisting leading power company on the acquisition of two Romanian companies operating solar parks.

Advising Hidroelectrica on a planned 144A IPO of shares, the most important privatization to occur on the Romanian capital markets and, when closed, the most valuable Romanian IPO (if it is for 15% of the issuer’s share capital, it will have a value informally approximated at €750 million).

Assisting leading power company on the acquisition of two Romanian companies operating wind parks.

Assisting Canadian company on the possible acquisition of several wind farms and PV parks developments in Romania.

Assisting French private equity fund in relation to the complex due diligence and development of a 50 MW Wind Farm.

Specialist lawyers: Claudiu Munteanu-Jipescu, Loredana Chitu.

Advising PNE Wind Romania Energy Holding in connection with 120 MW wind farm projects development in several locations in Romania as well as in connection with the sale of the projects. The firm provides day to day advise to PNE Wind in connection with their project companies in Romania developing wind energy projects. The team is dealing with all legal aspects encountered by the client in connection with its investments in Romania.

Advising Global Green Energy, a local company, to develop solar projects in various locations in Romania. The assistance covered legal structuring and licensing requirements. In a multi-practice team the firm advises the client on various corporate and tax matters in addition to regulatory specific.

Advised Freepoint Commodities Europe LLP in connection with the impact of legislative changes in Romania at the end of 2018 imposing a new tax on turnover for the players in the energy sector as well as, more recently, on the state of emergency measures impact due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Advised a subsidiary of PNE A.G. to develop solar projects in several locations in Romania. The law firm assisted the client to set-up the project companies, to secure the land for the project development and with the licensing process and further development.

Advised the Romanian start-up Watto Stations in connection with the setup/incorporation process of the company. The law firm provided regulatory framework assistance for the Romanian start-up Watto Stations in relation to the setup/incorporation process prior to the investment made by Early Game Ventures. In the second stage, the team assisted Early Game Ventures with the investment in Watto Stations.

Specialist Lawyer: Paula Corban - Pelin.

Providing a comprehensive service to our energy and resources clients in areas like: renewable, upstream and downstream oil&gas electricity, gas, water, waste, low carbon/sustainability and regulation across all disciplines. Our team will help clients to structure, acquire, finance and implement projects and manage their investments and, together with our international partners, can deliver integrated cross-border legal services that are unrivaled covering the full spectrum of Energy and Natural Resources related issues.

Assisting an important investor acting in the field of production of green energy in acquiring the majority shareholding of a Romanian company holding a wind farm located in Constanta County, part of a complex investment of Euro 5,000,000.

Assisting 6 different companies in acquiring and developing wind farms on Dobrogea plateau and Muntenia plateau, project targeting a total power output of more than 450 MW. Assisting a Romanian owned company in acquisition of an SPV, holding a micro-hydro power plant project near Bistrita Nasaud.

Assisting one of the largest state owned thermo power plants in Romania in extending its capacity (agreements with the constructions companies, environment authorities etc.). Assisting one of the most important power traders on the Romanian market to conclude a EUR 39.3 million PPA with an important energy producer.

Assisting through all the phases of an important project that consisted in the merger of 5 of the main energy producers on the Romanian market. Assisting several clients during the negotiation process with a major water base energy producer under a force majeure situation.

Specialist lawyers: Doru Traila, Silviu Stratulat, Adriana Almasan, Andrei Albulescu; 

Assisting a leading Romanian energy producer (state owned) in six litigation files vs the energy traders, having mutual claims evaluated at the amount of EUR 450 million. The claims derive from long term sale-purchase contracts concluded with the Client and could have a significant impact on the latter’s commercial activity. The client’s undergoing insolvency procedure.

Advising the largest copper domestic Romanian producer (state owned) in a litigation case vs. a business partner, the value in dispute exceeding EUR 17,3 million. The case concerned the annulment of a contract and it was successfully finalized, the client being exempted of the claims. The trial was two-folded and started in 2010, the favorable solution permitting the client to rewind the privatization process

Representing a mining company regarding the qualification of an investment as a state aid.

Specialist lawyers: Ioana Oprea, Andreia Dumitrescu;

Assisting Next Energy Partners in relation to several disputes against major market players arising out of power sale-purchase agreements (including EFET format contracts). Such players include a major heavy industry producer, a major player in the distribution of power and gas, a major player involved in the regional distribution of energy and a producer of heating. The team so far successfully secured the client’s interests and won several court cases.

Assisting Fondul Proprietatea in the sale of its minority shareholdings in several companies pertaining to the Enel group (E-Distributie Muntenia, Enel Energie Muntenia, E-Distributie Dobrogea, E-Distributie Banat and Enel Energie) in
the context of Enel’s sale of its business in Romania. The firm’s assistance included structuring the transaction, preparing and/or reviewing the transaction documents and extensive negotiations with the other party. 

Assisting Fondul Proprietatea in the sale of its minority shareholdings in Engie Romania Group to the majority shareholder of the Engie Romania Group, i.e. GDF International. The assistance included, structuring the transaction and negotiations with the other party of the transaction documents. 

Specialist lawyers: Alina Stancu Birsan, Cristina Filip, Alexandru Birsan, George Trantea, Alin Grapa, Lavinia Cazacu, Malina Palade, Andreea Banica.

Assisted Afenex LTD, a prominent private equity firm focused on renewable energy, engaged the law firm to assist with the strategic acquisition of Hepa Green Energy in Romania. This acquisition is linked to a 50 MW photovoltaic project, marking Afenex LTD's entry into Romania's renewable energy market. The team executed comprehensive legal due diligence covering corporate, real estate, and energy sectors and skillfully managed the merger and acquisition (M&A) proceedings to ensure a seamless transition.

Providing legal services to Sungrow Renewable Energy Investment PTE, a Singaporean company, as they enter the energy sector. The firm’s support includes thorough legal due diligence on advancedstage projects and crafting a strategic market entry plan. These services ensure compliance with legal standards while facilitating Sungrow’s smooth transition into the energy market, supported by the firm’s expertise.

Offered full legal assistance to Alternative Green Investment Europe Sl for the deployment of battery energy storage systems in Romania. Their services included an in-depth analysis of the legal framework and advising on the acquisition of land plots.

Assisted Alive Energy SRL & Premier Energy PLC in acquiring an operational 18 MW wind farm project, composed of three separate farms, and a future 8 MW development project. The team ensured a smooth acquisition by navigating regulatory requirements, including the transfer of permits and contracts, and adapting to legislative changes during the process. Despite tight deadlines and challenging negotiations, the team’s deep understanding of energy law and regulatory frameworks ensured compliance and facilitated a successful transaction. The acquisition resulted in the addition of one of Romania’s most profitable renewable energy projects to the client's portfolio.

Advised INVL Renewable Energy Fund I for the financing of five solar power plants with a total capacity of 51 MW in Romania. The team played a key role in securing the projects, navigating complex construction financing arrangements, and ensuring successful execution. With extensive expertise in energy projects, the team provided invaluable guidance during lengthy negotiations and the signing of financing documentation. This represented the first cross-border financing of a renewable energy project in Romania and marked the second wave of renewable energy developments in the country.

Assisted INVL Renewable Energy Fund I in the acquisition of two photovoltaic projects under development: 71.04 MW in Bratovoesti and 60 MW in Robanesti and Pielesti, Dolj County. The team conducted buyer due diligence, identifying and addressing technical energy-related legal issues, which were incorporated into the transaction documentation. Expertise in navigating complex project documentation and regulatory frameworks ensured successful acquisitions. Strategic legal guidance was also provided to optimize the energy and regulatory approach, interacting with authorities to mitigate compliance risks and ensure smooth project implementation. 

Assisted an international energy developer providing smart sustainable solutions in relation to the development of several photovoltaic projects in Romania. The advice includes energy specific authorisation and licensing aspects.

Assisted AJ Renewables in the sale of a 292 MW solar project in Butimanu, Dambovita County, one of Romania’s largest photovoltaic projects. The team conducted detailed due diligence, focusing on energy specific regulatory requirements, ensuring compliance with evolving energy laws, permitting, and environmental standards. In addition, strategic advisory services were provided to optimize the energy regulatory approach, mitigating risks and maximizing value for the vendors. Leveraging deep expertise in energy law, the team navigated complex regulatory frameworks, engaging with authorities to address challenges and secure compliance throughout the sale process. 

Specialist lawyers: Alexandru Pruteanu, Andreea Caragui, Cezar Gusu, Ciprian Glodeanu, Cristina Gavrila, Mihaela Ciocirlea, Patricia Barbu.

Currently assisting Lord Energy in two groundbreaking investigations under the REMIT regulation. These investigations, which are novel on the Romanian market, focus on alleged manipulation behaviours in the electric energy markets and the wholesale gas markets. Their involvement in these high-stakes matters is poised to guide future investigations in the EU, making it critical to identify and correct procedural irregularities.

Assisting Tinmar Energy in an important investigation concerning their client's operations, where transactions on the day-ahead market were under scrutiny for potential market manipulation under the REMIT. This project is of paramount importance, as it directly impacts their client's freedom to conduct its business on the Romanian energy market, in accordance to its own objectives and within the letter of the law. Their knowledge of EU Law and the activities of the Agency for the Cooperation of Energy Regulators is instrumental in providing support and ensuring their client's interests are protected throughout the investigation. 

Specialist lawyers: Manuela Guia, Otilia Vilcu, Violeta Geru, Teodora Balas, Malin Unguru.

Provide legal consultancy to a company specialising in energy production for operating SPVs (Special Purpose Vehicles) established for the development of renewable energy projects. This company is part of an international group whose business spans the entire oil and gas chain, from the exploration and production of crude oil and natural gas to power generation.

Drafting a report on the legal local constraints applicable to a Romanian company that provides marine and logistics services to an offshore Romanian oil and gas company operating an offshore maritime platform located in the Black Sea.

Specialist lawyers: Cristina Bojica, Florin Dogaru.

1. Advising Black Sea Oil & Gas on all aspects related to the implementation of the Midia Gas Development Project (MGD), the first offshore gas production and offshore-onshore infrastructure to be carried-out in Romania in the last 30 years. The assistance covered all legal matters related to concession rights, transfers of participating interest in the concession, permitting, regulatory and compliance matters, land acquisition and securing of rights of way, connection with the NTS and gas transmission matters, EPCIC and drilling agreements, gas sale agreements and procedures, licensing, ESIA process, $200 million project finance, general corporate and commercial matters, as well as public and governmental affairs, advocacy and enactment of necessary legislation. As MGD is becoming an energy transition vehicle, the team is advising the client on all matters regarding the development of an onshore solar park, an offshore wind farm and of offshore green hydrogen. Specialist lawyers: Oana Ijdelea, Siranus Hahamian, Lorena Vasvari, Alexandru Popescu.

2. Advising Raffles Energy in relation with the acquisition from OMV Petrom of the 100% participating interest in several onshore petroleum blocks. The mandate includes the full suite of the acquisition process, including a detailed legal due diligence on real estate and regulatory and permitting matters, the structuring of the transaction and the reviewing and amendment of the seller’s proposed draft business transfer agreement and the entire package of the transaction documents. Specialist lawyers: Oana Ijdelea, Siranus Hahamian, Lorena Vasvari, Luiza Catalinescu.

3. Advising Green Genius on all aspects related to corporate, real estate, regulatory, compliance and licensing requirements for the development of several solar projects in Romania, reaching a planned capacity of 500 MW, including the entry into standard EPC contracts with various third parties. Specialist lawyers: Oana Ijdelea, Siranus Hahamian, Luiza Catalinescu.

4. Advising Renovatio Group in relation to the development of Borzesti CCGT having an installed capacity of 420 MW. A particular challenge of the mandate consisted in the obtaining of Transgaz regulatory approvals and negotiation and execution of connection agreements  with the national gas transmission system. Specialist lawyers: Oana Ijdelea, Alexandru Popescu, Lorena Vasvari.

5. Advised Crest Energy on various energy market requirements, including applicability of price caps and other regulatory measures. Specialist lawyers: Oana Ijdelea, Lorena Vasvari, Andreea Tudor.

Advised Danish developer Jantzen Renewables ApS on its transaction with OMV Petrom, the largest integrated energy company in Southeast Europe, for the purchase of the Helios 1 photovoltaic cluster in Romania – one of the largest renewable energy transactions in Romania in 2023 (the deal enjoyed large media coverage). With the installed power estimated to be approx. 710 MW, the cluster will be one of Southeast Europe's most significant photovoltaic projects, powering around 280,000 Romanian households annually. The team advised on all matters including the restructuring of the land acquisition financing and the guarantees aimed at offering comfort to future project buyer (as well as data room set-up assistance, vendor due diligence, drafting project memos, reliance letters, SPA review, negotiations assistance). The team has also become day-to-day advisor for Jantzen Renewables on all the matters concerning their projects in Romania, including title insurance as new product in Romania for renewables projects, covering land title and permitting, untested land development regulatory advice and guidance, with focus on bankability.

Advised Canadian Nuclear Partners, a subsidiary of Ontario Power Generation, on the framework agreement for refurbishing Unit 1 at the Cernavoda nuclear power plant, operated by Nuclearelectrica. Valued at approx. €240 million, this agreement marks a crucial milestone in the refurbishment project. Canadian Nuclear Partners will provide project management services, technical assistance, and professional training specific to the CANDU power plant's refurbishment. The team supported the client on all participation aspects, including nuclear liability, regulatory compliance, public procurement law, and corporate matters, ensuring a comprehensive approach since their entry into the Romanian market.

Continues to advise European Energy, a leading Scandinavian green energy firm, on over 10 projects in Romania, aiming for a total capacity exceeding 2,000 MW across various stages of development. The assistance includes documentation and tender management for solar farms in various locations. The team provides comprehensive support on development permitting, EPC contracts, public tenders, and project financing. The team bridges gaps with local developers, navigates permitting challenges, and implements innovative solutions to incentivize stakeholders, ensuring successful project execution and protecting the client's interests.

Advising Enery Element GmbH on vendor due diligence for four solar farms under development in Romania, totaling approx. 1,300 MW across various locations. Their support includes vendor due diligence, title insurance for land title and permitting risks, and securing project lands while addressing landowner claims. They also assist in resolving land title issues and navigating zoning regulations, ensuring bankability amid new legislative challenges. Their involvement extends to project structuring and preparing for sale or joint ventures, providing sensitive regulatory advice to facilitate financing and compliance with evolving sector requirements.

Continuing its longstanding advisory role for DXT Commodities in the Romanian natural gas sector. The team provides insights on trading, legislation, and various regulatory matters, conducting a comprehensive analysis of the gas market in Romania. They also liaise with the regulatory authority ANRE to ensure compliance and navigate evolving regulatory frameworks, supporting DXT Commodities in maintaining its operational effectiveness within the market.

Specialist lawyers: Iustinian Captariu, Victor Constantinescu, Catalin Dinu, Sandra Gheorghe, Denisa Constantin, Catalin Graure, Madalina Perte, Diana Istov, Ioana Criste, Ioana Popescu, Dana Sarbu, Corina Stanciu, Cosmin Vasilescu, Lidia Zarnescu.

Assisted Clear Energy Group (the ultimate beneficial owner of the project was a company based in Ukraine) in making its decision to set up Biogas projects in Romania. The client’s intention was to build and operate a green electricity production project from biogas and they provided assistance in relation to all applicable legislation related to such projects, including tax related advice. The firm’s advice was essential for the client to be able to start biogas projects in Romania and related to the entire legal framework for the project. Such comprehensive legal service was something new in Romania.

Specialist lawyers: Alexandru Mocanescu, Razvan Cretu, Marina Pacuraru, Alexandru Sorici.

Engie Romania (member of Engie Group), a major operator on the Romanian natural gas market, filed a claim against the Romanian Energy Regulatory Authority, requesting the issuance by the Authority of an order to adjust the regulated prices for the natural gas supply, the unitary regulated revenue and the total unitary regulated revenue. The company also requested the payment of damages to compensate for the losses. This has been a complex case, requiring highly specialized skills. The legal issues at stake were novel and, to the best of our knowledge, had never been submitted to the courts’ scrutiny in the past. The law firm's involvement concerned, inter alia, establishing the litigation strategy, drafting litigation documents and representing the client in court.

The law firm is advising their long standing client Engie Romania (member of Engie Group), one of the largest global energy players, in five disputes against the Romanian Energy Regulatory Authority (ANRE) and/or against S.N.T.G.N Transgaz, the technical operator of the Romanian National Transport System for natural gas, over the calculation of the regulated tariffs for the exceeding of the capacity reserved in the National transport system for natural gas and recovery of the amounts which were wrongly invoiced to our client. These cases are of a highly technical nature, requiring highly legal specialized skills, understanding of the technical aspects involved in the transportation of natural gas and as well as an in-depth knowledge of the natural gas sector. Furthermore, the legal issues at stake are novel and the manner in which they will be settled by the Court is of paramount interest to the future functioning of the natural gas market. The firm is currently representing the client in the legal proceedings against the regulatory authority and against S.N.T.G.N. Transgaz. The court of first instance has already confirmed the firm's client position in one of the cases.

Assisted Engie Romania (member of Engie Group) in a litigation file against the Romanian Energy Regulatory Authority, by which the client sought the annulment of a fine applied by this authority. The subject matter of the dispute consisted in the fulfilment by Engie Romania of a regulatory obligation. Apart from exempting the client from the payment of an important fine, winning this case constitutes a landmark victory with regard to the manner in which the fulfilment of such obligation should be assessed by the authority. The firm's involvement concerned, inter alia, establishing the litigation strategy, drafting litigation documents and representing the client in court. In October 2019, the Bucharest Tribunal has ruled in favor of the firm's client. The decision is final.

The firm has represented Wirom Gas (member of Engie Group), an operator on the Romanian natural gas market in a claim against the Romanian Energy Regulatory Authority, requesting damages for the Authority’s failure to fulfil its legal obligations concerning the setting of regulated tariffs for the distribution of natural gas. This has been a complex case, requiring highly specialized skills. It must be emphasized that the legal issues at stake were different from the other cases concerning the energy sector described in this submission. Such legal issues were novel and, to the best of the team's knowledge, had never been submitted to the courts’ scrutiny in the past.

Assisted Expert Petroleum, a company specializing in resources optimization, operations restructuring and production enhancement techniques, in a new dispute initiated by a local NGO, Asociatia Salvam Campia de Vest, regarding the annulment of a series of petroleum agreements operated by the firm's client. In January 2018 the Court ruled in favor of the client. The NGO filed a recourse, the firm is currently assisting the client in the appeal phase.

Specialist lawyers: Bruno Leroy, Andreea Toma, Eleanora Udroiu, Mihnea-Ioan Ratiu.

Retained by a consultancy company specialized in energy and infrastructure projects, covering financial and legal structuring, project management and research, with regards to the acquisition of a Solar Parks Portfolio (5 distinct parks) from a clean energy independent power producer (IPP) and important energy sector investor.

Retained by an important energy projects developer with regard to all legal aspects pertaining to the development and sale of three green energy projects with a total capacity of 750 MW. The team advised the client regarding structuring the transaction, assistance in the negotiation and drafting of the transaction documents and assistance in the projects' development process. Their assistance spans corporate (i.e. changes of the registered offices, transfers of shares, capital increases), M&A, real estate and permitting (with regards to the environment, as well as complex real estate and energy aspects).

Retained by an important European specialist in photovoltaic solutions with regards to all legal aspects pertaining to the development and sale of one photovoltaic power plant of almost 30 MW capacity. They advise the client regarding structuring the transaction, assistance in the negotiation and drafting the transaction documents and assistance in the projects' development process. Their assistance spans corporate, M&A, real estate and permitting (with regards to environment, real estate and energy aspects).

Representing the top Romanian energy supplier to numerous public institutions and companies of strategic interest in Romania, in the acquisition, from foreign investors, of two distinct photovoltaic parks with a combined capacity of 3 MW. Their assistance consisted of complete support in the acquisition, including negotiation of the transaction, full scope due diligence, drafting the transaction documents, complex regulatory, real estate, permitting, employment and energy matters.

Advising AMV Beta in connection with its claim against The National Agency for Mineral Resources in relation to the rejection of their client’s application for prospective permits to begin an important mining investment in Romania. They have assisted the client with submitting a claim to the administrative courts with a view to compelling the authority to issue the permits. Their work has included the thorough assessment of the regulatory and permitting framework pertaining to the mining and extractive sector in support of drafting all necessary documentation to be submitted to the administrative courts, as well as representing the client before the courts.

Specialist lawyers: Gelu Maravela, Dana Radulescu, Anca Baitan.

Providing comprehensive assistance to Solar Turbines Europe throughout all stages of bid preparation, encompassing the drafting of requests for clarification and proposals for the amendment of specific contractual terms, as well as establishing a proper participation structure for the sectoral procurement organized by Transgaz having as scope Preventive and Reactive Maintenance Services on Compressor Units produced by Solar Turbines in Natural Gas Compressor Stations with an estimated value of $18 million.

Assisted Naxxar Renewable Energy, one of the largest wind farm developers for the development and sale of a 685.6 MW wind project consisting of +110 Wind turbine Generators (WTG), clustered under 7 (seven) SPV to Polenergia, the largest private Polish energy group, one of the landmark transactions in energy in recent years.

Assisted and represented Transenergo COM, a major Romanian energy supply and trading company, in three complex international arbitrations before the German Arbitration Institute (seat of arbitration: Paris and Bonn) and the Court of International Commercial Arbitration attached to the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Romania (seat of arbitration Bucharest) deriving from EFET international agreements for the sale of electricity and involving multiple claims in excess of €3.5 million. The disputes involve parties from multiple jurisdictions (e.g. Romania, Bulgaria, Austria, Switzerland and Hungary) and the applications of different laws (lex arbitri, lex contractus, and law governing the parties’ capacity to arbitrate).

Assisting Hidroelectrica, the leading Romanian energy provider in connection with a complex arbitration dispute arising in connection with a complex infrastructure project of national importance regarding the rehabilitation of one of the largest hydropower plants in Romania and initially involving multiple claims and counterclaims with an amount in dispute in excess of €30 million.

The law firm is advising and representing one of the largest distributors of electrical power in Romania, in various complex multimillion EUR disputes. The Energy and Natural Resources department has provided legal and technical insight required for the evidentiary material used in this case and assisting the accountancy and fiscal expertise. By performing an analysis of the regulatory and compliance aspects of the energy distribution business and auditing its conformity they are required to provide lines of specialised argumentation for litigators.

Specialist lawyers: Iulian Popescu, Ana Maria Abrudan, Angela Porumb, Razvan Graure, Andrei Ormenean, Iuliana Iacob, Madalina Trifan, Cristian Cepesi, Alina Man, Liviu Viorel, Sirin Stan (Omer), Cristina Solcan, Sorina Baroi, Adina Enache, Carolina Mitea, Andrei Popa.

Assistance provided to the largest Hungarian company responsible for the production, distribution and sale of electricity in the acquisition of a micro-hydro power.

Assistance provided to one of the world’s largest publicly traded international oil and gas companies in complying with all the regulatory requirements in view of obtaining various permits and a new zoning documentation required for the offshore project.

Assistance provided to a multinational European energy company in the assessment of the secondary legislation issued by the national regulatory authority in energy from perspective of compliance with national and EU regulatory principles and filling administrative complaints and respectively court against the relevant regulations issued by the regulatory authority.

Assistance provided to one of the largest oil and natural gas producer in Romania and South-Eastern Europe in relation to the interpretation and impact of the newly regulated market obligations introduced initially by the Government Emergency Ordinance 114/2018 and further amended by GEO 19/2019 and GEO 1/2020 and detailed by the secondary legislation.

Assistance provided to one of the largest Romanian electricity suppliers in the implementation of a platform for concluding remote contracts for the supply of electricity and natural gas to end clients, including households.

Specialist lawyers: Gabriela Cacerea, Ruxandra Bologa, Adina Chilim-Dumitriu.

Advising the owners of Interagro Development, a local energy player, on the full divestiture from a 165 MW photovoltaic project around Cluj Napoca in a private competitive international exit process.

Advising PPC Renewables (former Enel Green Power) on the extension of its largest wind power farm in Romania, the ZEPHIR project, involving an investment budget in excess of €200 million.

Advising Fondul Proprietatea in numerous litigation initiated against the Romanian State's and ANRE's decisions to re-establish the regulated market for the energy supplied to household consumers. The firm also assist Fondul Proprietatea with their requests to the European Commission to intervene on this matter.

Advised DEER (the distribution company part of the vertically integrated undertaking/VIU Electrica, one of the main players in Romania as far as the generation, distribution and supply segments are concerned) engaged us to perform a thorough legal review of the unbundling rules proposed by the company’s shareholders.

Advised Axpo Solutions AG, part of the Swiss based energy giant Axpo Group, on (i) the conclusion of a long-term financial power purchase agreement (PPA) for an onshore windfarm with Macquarie; and (ii) the interpretation of various legal provision in the legal framework dealing with compensation schemes for gas and power consumers including, without limitation, on the limits of dealing with the suppliers and clients in bilateral contracts as well as on applying for compensations.

Specialist lawyers: Florian Nitu, Bogdan C. Stoica, Vlad Neacsu, Ciprian Dontu, Mihaela Ion, Irina Ivanciu, Raluca Rusu, Justin Anghel, Ioana Cazacu, Luana Dragomirescu, Ela Marin, Ana-Maria Popa, Claudia Salomia, Diana Dobra, Ioana Lazar, Bianca Tarascu, Crina Stan.

The energy specialized team has provided comprehensive legal advice to Tinmar Energy on compliance with national and European energy regulations, by navigating complex regulatory frameworks related to energy production, distribution, and  trading and ensuring adherence to all applicable laws and guidelines.

Legal assistance to Saves Enerji, significant renewable energy company based in Turkey, concerning the contracts for difference mechanism including submission of the financing application, negotiation on the application documentation, contracts review for a project with an estimated value of €30 million and providing comprehensive recurring legal assistance to Romanian subsidiaries of Saves Enerji, on intricate regulatory matters, including compliance with national legislation, in relation to the construction, development, and operation of photovoltaic parks in Romania.

Legal assistance to a Romanian company developing photovoltaic projects up to a ready-to-built stage consisting of a comprehensive due diligence process performed on multiple streams including legal, tax and financial reports.

Specialist lawyers: Georgiana Singurel, Adrian Coman, Fraga Varadi.

Advised OX2 AB on the sale during a competitive process of a 99.2 MW self developed onshore wind farm located in the Eastern part of Romania to Nala Renewables, a joint venture between IFM Investors and Trafigura. The project will consist of 16 Vestas turbines, V162-6.2 MW™. The project has secured grid access through a connection contract signed with Transelectrica in March 2023. OX2 will be responsible for the construction of the wind farm. Construction will start in the third quarter of 2024 while commissioning is planned for the first half of 2026. The deal includes a 12-year PPA (power purchase agreement) with a multinational corporate offtaker. The agreement covers a significant part of the electricity output generated by the wind farm.

Advised ENGIE Romania on the acquisition of an operational wind farm with a capacity of 80 MW majority owned by the EnerCap Group.

Assisted Evryo Group, owned by funds managed by Macquarie Asset Management, in relation to the sale of its renewable energy portfolio to PPC Group. The transaction includes the Evryo Wind Farm, Romania’s largest operational onshore wind farm, with a total installed capacity of 600 MW, and the group’s hydropower system comprising 4 hydroelectric plants and associated hydro facilities, with a total installed capacity of approx. 22 MW. The Evryo Wind Farm is operated by Tomis Team, MW Invest and Ovidiu Development, and the hydropower system by TMK Hydroenergy Power.

Advised Macquarie Asset Management (MAM) on the sale of CEZ Vanzare to Premier Energy PLC, owned by the Czech private equity fund, Emma Capital.

Acted as Romanian legal counsel in relation to Aramco’s acquisition of 10% equity interest in HORSE Powertrain Limited, the new global powertrain solutions company, alongside Renault Group, Zhejiang Geely Holding Group and Geely Automobile Holdings Limited. Aramco is one of the world’s leading integrated energy and chemicals companies. HORSE  Powertrain Limited was formed on May 31, 2024, by Renault Group and Geely and is incorporated and headquartered in London, UK.

Specialist lawyers: Mihai Ristici, Roxana Ionescu, Costin Taracila, Vlad Stamatescu, Bogdan Cordos, Cezara Urzica.

Permanent assistance on the execution of production enhancement contract between Petrofac Solution &Logistics and OMV Petrom.

Advising an oil & gas international group in connection with structuring and creation of an investment fund as a way to promote investments in a number of sectors such as energy and infrastructure, with projected investment values of over USD 1 billion. 

Advising an international oil group with operations in 15 countries on the environmental compliance matters for Vega Refinery located in Ploiesti. As part of our mandate, we are advising on the permitting of the project, as well as regulatory, tendering and contract issues.

Advising a private oil and gas exploration and production company focusing on conventional exploration, development and production opportunities on various issues resulted from the acquisition of 19 onshore oil & gas fields, workover rigs and associated crews from the largest Romanian oil and gas group, including on the take-over of several gas power generation units and the power distribution grid pertaining to the aforementioned oil fields. 

Representing a major energy company active in hydro power generation and services in complex disputes for the recovery of receivables from one of the most important energy traders.

Assisting one of the largest international energy providers in finalizing the acquisition of 13.6% of the share capital of two Romanian distribution and supply companies, which increased its interest to 78%; the acquisition of the additional share stake involved a total consideration of EUR 400 million. 

Advising China General Nuclear Power Corporation on a large-scale investment estimated at €7.2 billion for the development of Units 3 and 4 at the Cernavoda Nuclear Power Plant in Romania.

Legal assistance for NIS Petrol, the local indirect subsidiary of Gazprom, in the process of acquiring land plots suitable for the development of petrol stations.

Legal assistance to Eurotransgaz SRL, Transgaz’ subsidiary in Moldova, concerning the award of works contracts for the execution of the Pipeline interconnecting Romania’s Gas Transmission System with Moldova’s Gas Transmission System, Phase II, for the Iasi-Ungheni-Chisinau Direction.

Assisting CEZ in relation to its ongoing operations on the Romanian energy market, including advice on energy, regulatory/compliance, corporate, M&A and post-privatisation, PPP and procurement, as well as dispute resolution matters pertaining to client’s operations on the local market.

Legal advice to CEZ AS in connection with the acquisition of High Tech Clima SRL and its branch, High-Tech Clima DOO Serbia. The services included assistance in concluding and negotiating the transaction documents, as well as in the notification to the competition authorities.

Specialist lawyers:Sorin Vladescu, Irina Moinescu, Cristian Radu.

Offered legal advice for one of the most important oil company in Romania concerning the organization of public procurement procedures for a series of major projects, with an estimated value of EUR 400 million.

Provided legal assistance and representation to a consortium of several local and international companies in the energy and constructions sector in drafting and advocating claims and complaints against a public procurement procedure for the award of a supply contract of modules for electricity and heat cogeneration with an estimated value of approximately EUR 5 million.

Offered successful legal assistance and representation to a local company in connection with an award procedure organized by the mining company CUPRU MIN S.A. ABRUD with an estimated value of around EUR 2 million.

Legal advice provided to a major Romanian company regarding the concession of mining ponds drain services. Litigation concerning modernization of energy companies - legal assistance and representation concerning a litigation with Oltenia Energy Complex for the modernization works and capital repairing services.

Offered legal assistance and representation in litigations concerning the legal right to extract oil and natural gas from natural deposits located on privately-owned land.

Specialist lawyers: Iulia Vass, Bianca Bello;

Providing legal assistance and representation to a top player on the electricity distribution market in connection with drafting and filing all legal documents necessary in order to obtain the cancellation of Orders issued by the National Regulatory Authority for Energy (NRAE) setting the values of distribution tariffs for two of our client’s subsidiaries.

Providing legal assistance to an electricity supplier and trader for Romania of an international market leader in the solar energy field, in connection with all aspects related to the start-up of its business, including trading electricity and green certificates on the relevant markets, internal procedures and regulations relevant for the electricity supply agreement, as well as drafting and reviewing electricity supply agreements, ESCO agreements and other services agreements, in accordance with the specific applicable legislation.

Providing legal assistance to an important local player in the renewable energy field in connection with the proposed sale of two operational solar parks to an American investment fund, including a review of various legal documents, such as LoI and share sale and purchase agreement, fulfilment of the conditions precedent, as well as correspondence with the investor.

Providing legal assistance to a Romanian subsidiary of an Israeli company activating in the renewable energy field, with respect to all energy-related issues, including for the relevant permits/approvals, negotiating and communicating with the grid operators, drafting agreements and letters in connection with the development and operation of a wind project with an installed capacity of 100 MW: access to the grid, development and permitting (building permits, technical or connection permits) as well as restructuring of the ready-to-build project consisting of the division of the wind park into 3 smaller projects and, consequently, the transfer of the existing superficies agreements and building permits among the project companies.

Providing legal assistance to a major European group active in the solar energy field, consisting of drafting an update to the legal due diligence reports in connection with the project companies developing the 50MW solar power plants.

Legal advice to Societatea Nationala Nuclearelectrica, a state-owned Romanian nuclear energy company regarding various matters, including regulatory advice in nuclear energy, foreign direct investment and corporate matters, IP matters, project financing and procedure to attract new investors in a SMR capacity installed in Romania, selection procedure for new investors that are required for the financing of the rehabilitation works and commissioning of reactors 3 and 4 of the Cernavoda Nuclear Power Plant and for the SMR technology, advising on the EPC agreement clauses regarding the retubing, refurbishment and infrastructure works for reactor 1 of the Cernavoda Nuclear Power Plant.

Acted as legal advisor to DRI BV, a growing investor and operator in renewable energy in Romania and the EU, in relation to the finalisation of the staggered share deal acquisition of a Romanian company that developed 49.38 MW installed capacity photovoltaic power plant located in Mures county, finalisation of the development, construction process and financing process and legal assistance with the final payment milestone negociated by the parties.

Advised ADNOC, one of the largest oil and gas companies in the world, on its acquisition of a 24.9% shareholding in the Austria-based energy and chemicals group OMV AG, from Mubadala Investment Company. The team' legal advice included Austrian law matters, including M&A, merger control and FDI. The acquired stake was worth about €3.9 billion. The law firm works in an integrated team alongside ADNOC's international counsels Shearman & Sterling and Gibson Dunn Crutcher. Through this transaction ADNOC increased its shareholdings in both Borealis and Borouge, bolstering its footprint in the chemicals sector,  enabling synergies and unlocking significant growth opportunities across its broader chemicals portfolio, in particular at Borouge.

The energy team assisted DRI BV, a growing investor and operator in the renewable energy sector in Romania and the EU, on the finalisation of the acquisition of a 60 MW installed capacity wind power plant located in Ruginoasa village, Iasi county included complex due diligence, the drafting and negotiating of the share purchase agreement, other closing transactional documentation for the implementation of the project. The project involved accessing an €55 million senior facility from Kommunalkredit Austria AG. The law firm’ Banking & Finance team advised DTEK Renewables International BV on legal matters concerning the credit facility agreement and the other related finance documents concluded by the borrower and other security providers with Kommunalkredit Austria AG, one of the first wind farm financings in Romania to be provided based on merchant power pricing. The project will help supply many households with sustainable and clean energy and the team is proud to have contributed to it as part of its own sustainability policyenergy team provided comprehensive legal support to DRI BV, a prominent and expanding investor and operator in the renewable energy sector, active in Romania and across the European Union. The assistance was rendered in connection with the acquisition of shares in a Romanian company that had developed a second cutting-edge photovoltaic (PV) project with an installed capacity of 50 MW, strategically located in Mures county.

The legal services provided were multifaceted and innovative, encompassing: due diligence and transaction support, transactional work where the legal team drafted and negotiated a sophisticated share purchase agreement. This document incorporated innovative clauses to address specific risks identified during the development process, including provisions for future regulatory changes and performance guarantees.

Specialist lawyers: Bryan Jardine, Ileana Glodeanu, Claudia Chiper, Andreea Zvac, Adina Aurel, Dana Toma, Vladimir Plugarescu, Sorin Dumitru, Alexandru Asaftei, Iulia Curca, Catalin Sabau, Andrei Turcu, Vlad Catana, Elena Dragan, Marius Moldoveanu, Ana Florea, Maria Popescu.