Energy

The energy sector faces constant challenges caused not only by the “usual suspect” of governmental regulation, but also by powerful extrinsic forces and factors, as the recent Covid-19 health crisis has shown all too well (e.g. the significantly lower oil price environment that we are experiencing). At the same time, the need to lower greenhouse emissions and the general trend towards the “greener” renewable sector, has given rise to alternative means of financing, as shown from the recent example of the Green Senior Preferred Bond issued by the National Bank of Greece, directing the use of proceeds at providing financing to existing and new green projects (including RES).

Moreover, given the tightening legal framework, waste management is becoming a priority issue for many stakeholders. Forward thinking investors are already utilizing ways to combine waste management with the production of energy sources, such as biogas.

Against this tumultuous background, clients can take solace inthe fact that Koutalidis Law Firm is a “one-stop shop” irrespective of their standpoint (lender, investor, consultant, developer or sponsor) and their general business goals (transactional or dispute-specific). This is made possible through the seamless cooperation of our Administrative Law, Energy, RealEstate, Tax, Corporate Law, Dispute Resolution and “Invest in Greece” practice groups.

On the transactional front, our lawyers regularly advise clients in a variety of energy sector ventures(e.g. RES such-as PV, Wind and Biogas – High efficiency co-production of Heat and Electricity, Oil & Gas, Mining, waste management and energy utilization from such management etc) on all matters related to new and existing projects (start-up, project development and operation, project financing, M&A and privatizations and ancillary corporate, tax, regulatory, antitrust and civil law issues). A key aspect for which our team is renowned is how we assist in maximizing the project’s bankability, by suggesting realistic solutions that make the project more attractive to financing entities.

On the disputes end, our lawyers work tirelessly so as to minimize litigation risks. This is done at 3 stages: in contract drafting and negotiation (by incorporating the proper dispute resolution mechanism and avoiding vague, disputes-prone language); throughout the life of the investment (by being hands-on and proactive in every transaction so as to avoid litigation and cultivate smooth relations between the parties); and during the dispute itself, by fiercely and efficiently litigating before the Greek Courts and international arbitral tribunals, while facilitating amicable settlement – also through mediation – where appropriate and in our clients’ interests.