Top 10 Pioneering Projects and Energy Lawyers in South Africa 2023

With South Africa being a hotbed for projects and energy sector development, the market has seen an influx of distinguished legal practitioners who have significantly contributed to the growth of this industry. From advising financial institutions, government agencies, to project sponsors on intricate financing deals and regulatory matters. These lawyers have set an industry standard for excellence. This feature delves into the expertise and accomplishments of some of the leading Projects & Energy lawyers in South Africa.

The legal sector in South Africa has many a lawyer who has demonstrated exceptional commitment and competence in the Projects & Energy sectors. Despite having diverse educational backgrounds and legal experience, these practitioners are united by their common passion for law and their undying spirit to render the best legal advice. Their ingenuity has set them apart in this industry. From renewable energy to oil and gas projects, these lawyers are the driving force behind the massive strides South Africa has made in these sectors.

Whether you are looking for an expert in project finance, regulatory matters, or infrastructure development, South Africa has a rich pool of talent poised to provide remarkable solutions. Regardless of your legal needs, this feature is intent on presenting a detailed profile of illustrious legal practitioners in the Projects & Energy sector who, through diligence and resilience, have distinguished their names. The lawyers are presented in no particular order.

Brigette Baillie

Brigette Baillie is a highly regarded expert in project finance mandates and is known for her proficiency in mining, energy, and infrastructure project development and financing. Serving in the Projects & Energy industry across Africa, she uses her expertise in transactional matters to assist clients from the Herbert Smith Freehills firm’s Johannesburg office.

Jason van der Poel

Jason van der Poel is a prodigious lawyer with a diverse portfolio of clients including sponsors and developers. A gem in the Projects & Energy sector, Jason’s expertise spans across southern and eastern Africa and supports clients on infrastructure as well as oil and gas projects. Jason practises law at Webber Wentzel.

Daryn Webb

Daryn Webb consistently engaged on infrastructure projects across sub-Saharan Africa. Admired for his skills in renewable energy, mining, oil and gas, and PPP mandates, he diligently serves financial institutions, project sponsors, and government bodies from his Johannesburg-based practice Bowmans.

Lara Bezuidenhoudt

Heading the firm’s projects and finance department at Fasken, Lara Bezuidenhoudt is renowned for her proficiency in PPP and project finance mandates. Lara’s experience spans across a variety of sectors including energy, transportation, and mining where she acts on behalf of government agencies, lenders, and sponsors.

Alexandra Cluver

Alexandra Cluver adeptly handles a range of matters in the project finance and energy industry based on her rich wisdom in renewables transactions and regulations. Operating out of Johannesburg and continually advising clients in relation to South Africa’s REIPPP programme, she plays an integral role at Allen & Overy (South Africa) LLP

Simone Bryson

Simone Bryson, a lawyer at Fasken, is a rising star with a notable track record in advising lenders and developers on energy projects and project finance.

Jackie Midlane

Based out of Johannesburg, Jackie Midlane leads the banking and finance team at Norton Rose Fulbright where she regularly advises on domestic and international financing mandates, including project financing.

Blaize Vance

Blaize Vance, the managing partner of Fasken, is applauded for his exceptional handling of energy projects relating to renewable energy, gas and coal. Positioned in Johannesburg, he works on behalf of both lenders and borrowers on project finance affairs.

Kieran Whyte

Kieran Whyte, practising at Baker McKenzie, operates a longstanding projects practice with a specific emphasis on energy development. Based in Johannesburg, he frequently handles a range of local and cross-border matters including PPAs, due diligence and infrastructure development.

Chris Moraitis

Acting across transportation infrastructure and energy project mandates at Werksmans Attorneys, Chris Moraitis expertly handles both transactional and regulatory matters. As the leader of the firm’s infrastructure, energy and projects practice, he constantly breaks new ground.