Fieldfisher‘s energy and utilities practice, which is part of the EU regulatory group, is praised for its ’pragmatic and professional approach’ to commercial and regulatory matters. The practice is co-led by regulatory partner David Haverbeke and by Wouter Vandorpe, who offers ‘practical, legally solid solutions’ in connection with large energy projects. Together with Nicolas Celis, the team’s key contacts are well-regarded for their ability to handle contentious matters related to licensing and regulatory issues, including proceedings before the Belgian Constitutional Court and the EU Court of Justice. The team also regularly advises on joint venture negotiations and power purchase agreements.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘What makes Fieldfisher unique is the in-depth knowledge of legislation in the energy field, the local practices and pitfalls, and the way to find solutions.’

  • ‘What makes the Wouter Vandorpe stand out is the unique mix between legal competences and the understanding of the field of an energy operator. Nice and efficient collaboration. Pragmatic and professional approach.’

  • ‘Wouter van Dorpe is a very qualified lawyer who understands the business very well. Wouter and his team are very approachable and are always willing to make time available to discuss any questions you may have. ’

  • 'Wouter Vandorpe has the gift of thinking along with his client, putting forward practical, legally solid solutions that effectively help the client move forward. This, combined with extensive expertise and a vast network, ensures that we rely on Wouter to expand our business.'

  • ‘We were happy to be assisted by Fieldfisher. The team was friendly and made sure they were available at important moments. They gave us some good insights in the market.’

  • ‘We were happy with the way we were supported by Fieldfisher! We were supported by Guillaume van Doorslaer, David Haverbeke and Nicolas Celis, who each did a good job in assisting us in a difficult negotiation process.’

  • ‘High skill value of the team in terms of corporate power purchase agreements.’

  • ‘David Haverbeke and Wouter Vandorpe were very attentive to customer needs and expectations. Excellent contact in view of collaborating with other FF partners in the other offices in other countries.’

Key clients

  • 2Valorise
  • Amundi
  • BayWa
  • Bnewable
  • BStor
  • Centrica
  • Eneco
  • FuelCell Energy
  • Greenpulse
  • Groenleven
  • Helexia
  • Lhyffe
  • L'Oreal Energie Verte
  • MIVB/STIB
  • Pluq
  • Service Public de Wallonie
  • Slovenske Elektrarne
  • Storm Management
  • Sunrock
  • Unilin
  • Virya Energy
  • Vlaams Energiebedrijf
  • Windvision

Work highlights

  • Advised Centrica on their flexibility services on regulatory and contractual matters, including its relationships with the relevant regulatory authorities.
  • Advised FuelCell Energy on its European strategy regarding hydrogen production and the roll-out of CCUS technology in the EU, including advocacy mapping and regulatory monitoring.
  • Assisted Sunrock with its strategy around solar energy projects in multiple European countries, including the UK, Belgium, France and Italy.

Lawyers

Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

David Haverbeke, Wouter Vandorpe

Other key lawyers

Nicolas Celis, Guillaume van Doorslaer