News and developments

AKD strengthens its energy practice with the arrival of Thomas Chellingsworth, Christine Delagaye and Laura Pellens

AKD has recruited a leading energy team to strengthen its energy practice. Hiring this team, consisting of partner Thomas Chellingsworth, counsel Christine Delagaye and associate Laura Pellens, underscores AKD's focus on the energy and climate transition and its commitment to supporting energy players in the challenges they will face over the decades ahead.

Thomas, Christine and Laura have many years of experience in the field of energy and climate law, with a clear focus on onshore and offshore renewable energy projects, the regulation of energy infrastructure (including electricity, gas and district heating networks and submarine cables and pipelines), and market organisation (including price regulation, subsidies, the unbundling of monopoly and competitive activities and capacity remuneration mechanisms). Their broad practice, combined with AKD's multidisciplinary approach, offers energy market actors an efficient one-stop shop for their legal questions and full lifecycle support (“drawing board to decommissioning”) for their projects.

Thomas and Christine both have individual rankings in leading international legal directories for their energy expertise. Chambers & Partners places Thomas in the highest Band (Band 1) and recognises Christine as an Associate to Watch; The Legal 500 recognises them as a 'Leading Individual' and a 'Rising Star', respectively.

Thomas about his transfer: “All three of us are really looking forward to starting work at AKD. This is a dynamic and vibrant firm with a clear focus on climate and energy. For Christine, Laura and myself, it is a great opportunity to further expand the energy practice and contribute to the energy transition.”

Carlos Pita Cao, managing partner AKD: “At a time when the energy transition is a focal point and various energy-related questions urgently need answers, we are pleased to welcome Thomas, Christine and Laura to our dedicated Brussels energy team. This expansion is in line with our strategic direction and part of our continuing internationalisation. It also reflects our determination to guide clients and provide targeted legal solutions for a sustainable future.”