Clifford Chance LLP boasts a robust power team recognised for guiding clients through the entire spectrum of energy projects, spanning both conventional and nuclear power. John Wilkins chairs the firm’s global nuclear group, leveraging his expertise to advise on high-profile nuclear power projects, including cross-border matters concerning the extension of nuclear power plants. Nicholas Hughes heads the firm’s Africa practice for power and renewables, advising on cross-border and domestic M&A, restructurings, and joint ventures, while Jeremy Connick acts as a consultant, routinely assisting clients with complex power transactions. Complementing this leadership are Praveen Jagadish, noted for handling nuclear power projects, and Edward Bretherton, who focuses on procurement, construction and operations and maintenance (O&M) for complex construction projects in the nuclear power sector.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'John Wilkins showed really great management of relationships over a long and stressful transaction.'
  • 'Their experience and specialist knowledge in the field of nuclear projects makes them stand out.'
  • 'It is only through the expert knowledge and exceptional availability of John Wilkins throughout our negotiations and especially during the crucial final hours that we managed to land this deal.'
  • 'The team has a great knowledge of the area and a commitment to the work that is second to none.'
  • 'Strong technical skills and attention to detail.'
  • 'Strength in depth, commercial and pragmatic, expert.'
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Key clients

  • NNB Generation Company
  • Belgian Government
  • Whitetail Energy
  • Aby Dhabi National Energy Company (TAQA)
  • GRIDSERVE

Work highlights

  • Advised NNB Generation Company on the development and financing of the new Sizewell C nuclear power station in the UK, the largest single asset infrastructure project in Europe.
  • Advised the Belgian Government in connection with the extension of the operating life of two end-of-life nuclear reactor units operated by Engie (Electrabel) in Belgium.
  • Advised Abu Dhabi National Energy Company PJSC (TAQA) on its investment in Xlinks First Limited (Xlinks), the developer of the first of a kind Morocco-UK high-voltage direct current interconnector project.

Lawyers

Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Nicholas Hughes, John Wilkins

Other key lawyers

Jeremy Connick, Praveen Jagadish, Edward Bretherton