The energy transition
Our energy team is at the forefront of renewable energy project delivery, having advised on innovative generation, optimisation, and demand-side response projects across all technologies, including emerging renewable technologies such as green hydrogen. We have advised many clients on possible renewable energy solutions for their operations. This includes Pennon on an Energy Recovery Facility encompassing a specific plastics recycling operation, plus the wastewater treatment works run by South West Water to improve the environmental impact of pollution across beaches and coastal areas in Devon and Cornwall.
Climate change
We have strong relationships with The Chancery Lane Project and similar industry bodies that facilitate sustainability-led provisions in contracts. Our cross-sector Net Zero Group understands the requirements of investors and funders in respect of CDP (carbon reporting) and due diligence, the emphasis now placed on biodiversity net gain, and the role of carbon capture and storage (CCS) in sustainability strategies.
Resilience of supply
We regularly advise on issues relating to pollution, safe drinking water and water quality of water systems. Our water lawyers have been heavily involved in addressing key issues affecting the water sector, including the nitrates issue in the Solent and phosphates in Kent. We have worked closely with the Environment Agency and stakeholders to find viable solutions. Developers must mitigate their effects and maintain a nutrient-neutral environment. Our experts are closely monitoring the separation of the UK from the EU and considering the implications that this divergence may bring. As landfill space is rapidly reducing, we are steering waste clients through the consenting and regulation required to develop, operate, and maintain new facilities or adapt existing projects to boost sustainability.
Regulatory challenges
We can help you cut through the constantly changing and often unclear policy and regulation that prevents effective collaboration in the water sector.
We also specifically assist in:
- Local authority contracts – acting for both local authorities and private sector bidders.
- MRF operators.
- Feedstock agreements.
- Haulage agreements.
- Waste broker agreements.
- Landfill – acting for operators and contractors.
- Contracts with the third sector.
- O&M contracts.
- Environmental permits and similar authorisations.
- Contamination of soil or water.
- Odour, noise and dust abatement.
- Packaging waste, WEEE and waste batteries.
- Waste Regulation and Environmental Permitting.
- End-of-waste and circular economy.
- Waste planning appeals and inquiries.
- Environmental Risk Assessments / Health and Safety Issues and legal audits.
