Our team of expert lawyers specializing in environmental law, infrastructure, and energy provides legal assistance to companies, organizations, major financial institutions, and sponsors in financing, investment, acquisition, and development operations related to both traditional and renewable energy projects. Our extensive track record of innovative solutions has enabled us to acquire in-depth knowledge of the peculiarities of laws and regulations, as well as the challenges that may affect the ability to finance or acquire projects in the energy sector.
In addition to our experience in traditional energy sectors, such as oil and gas extraction, refining, and the supply of natural gas and electricity, we also have a strong focus on renewable energy. Our renewable energy consultants oversee a significant number of projects in this sector, including wind farms, photovoltaic plants, solar parks, and energy storage facilities.
The energy team comprises specialists with diverse expertise (administrative lawyers, corporate and tax law experts) who work in a coordinated manner to meet our clients’ needs, covering all phases of project development.
Thanks to technological advancements and government incentives, the renewable energy sector is experiencing significant development and growth on a global scale. Investments in new renewable projects are increasing, prompting companies to adopt new business models and seek greater efficiency throughout the entire production chain. Additionally, the challenges related to climate change and the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions are driving many countries to increasingly focus on renewable sources, opening up further opportunities for growth and innovation in the sector. Our energy team has developed vertical expertise in this field. Learn more.
We assist our clients in all phases of the authorization procedure for renewable energy plants (FER), providing customized consultancy based on the specific needs of the project.
In the specific case of permits for photovoltaic and wind plants, we manage the applications related to construction permits, operational permits, and requests for connection to the electrical grid, as well as any funding requests from the GSE (Gestore dei Servizi Energetici).
We also handle the authorization procedures for biomethane and biomass necessary for the construction and operation of plants, along with the management of applications for connection to the gas and electricity networks.
Furthermore, we offer our clients a comprehensive consultancy service on the Simplified Authorization Procedure (PAS), which allows for the expedited and simplified approval for the construction and operation of renewable energy plants, provided that the requirements set forth by the relevant regulations are met
We oversee operations related to public funding from European and Italian sources for renewable energy projects, providing specific support for regional Italian regulations and guiding our clients through the phases of applying for and managing public financing.
Our assistance covers all stages of the financing process, including support in any disputes with public entities.
The verification of administrative aspects is essential to avoid issues related to permits and requirements mandated by local and national regulations, as well as to ensure that projects comply with the incentives provided under the ecobonus system. Additionally, the analysis of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) aspects and suppliers is another key element, in line with the European directive on sustainability due diligence. The verification conducted by our professionals ensures our clients maximum transparency and security in their investments.
Infrastructure projects in the energy sector and renewable energy involve the construction of plants, distribution networks, power stations, and all necessary components to ensure efficient and sustainable energy production and utilization. The design of infrastructure requires careful preliminary analysis and the drafting of a definitive project that outlines all stages of development, from acquiring necessary approvals to the execution of infrastructure works. In Italy, the reliability of management projects for interventions is a crucial aspect in ensuring the success and sustainability of such works.
To support clients in this area, our team of lawyers specialized in infrastructure provides legal assistance for obtaining the necessary permits and for drafting contracts related to procurement, supply, and land rights and availability (link to contract page).
Public-Private Partnership (PPP)
A useful tool for financing infrastructure projects is the public-private partnership (PPP). This involves an agreement between a public entity and a private entity to collaborate in the construction and management of public works. The PPP enables the acquisition of financing for infrastructure development while also providing guarantees of economic sustainability. The signing of the partnership contract occurs after a phase of selecting the private partner and evaluating the project, which includes analyzing its technical and economic characteristics, as well as any associated risks and opportunities. Our legal team manages the entire project, from preliminary assessment to contract drafting.
Contracts in the energy and renewable sources sector are essential for regulating the relationships between the parties involved in the construction and management of plants. Among the most common types of contracts are those for procurement related to renewable energy plants, contracts concerning land rights and availability, EPC and GSE supply agreements, maintenance and O&M contracts, and sales agreements (such as Power Purchase Agreements – PPAs), as well as purchase and co-development agreements.
Our team provides legal assistance and consultancy for energy communities, a model of collective self-consumption based on renewable energy. We offer support in all phases of establishing and managing an energy community, including consultancy on the implementing decree and access to state incentives. Additionally, we assist in understanding how an energy community operates and in defining the technical requirements necessary for the installation of photovoltaic systems and other renewable sources.
The renewable energy industry is constantly evolving and facing increasing competition. M&A transactions are therefore a strategy adopted by many companies in the sector to expand their operations, diversify their project portfolio, and increase their production capacity. Moreover, M&A operations can facilitate easier access to financing for larger projects, enhance market presence, and provide greater financial stability. However, the M&A process in the energy sector can be complex and requires a thorough assessment of associated risks, careful planning, and in-depth knowledge of industry laws and regulations. In this context, our M&A team can play a crucial role in identifying legal and regulatory risks, evaluating investment opportunities, and supporting the client throughout the negotiation and closing process.
Fabio Luongo
Stefano Corrà
Andrea Peruzzo
Marco Muscettola Among the Top Lawyers in Energy & Natural Resources in Italy
Corporate M&A Small Cap, Employment, Energy & Infrastructures, Equity Capital Markets
Marco Muscettola – Corporate M&A Mid Cap, Corporate M&A Small Cap, Debt Capital Markets, Finance, Private Equity, Energy & Infrastructures
Marco Muscettola Among the Top Lawyers in Energy & Natural Resources in Italy
LEXIA Among the Top Firms; Marco Muscettola Among the Leading Professionals in M&A