Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP boasts a prominent and globally recognized project finance practice. Their experience spans a wide array of sectors, including renewable energy, infrastructure, oil and gas, mining, and telecommunications. They advise sponsors, lenders (commercial banks, multilateral institutions, export credit agencies), and governments on complex, large-scale projects worldwide.
A key strength of Cleary Gottlieb’s project finance practice lies in its cross-border capabilities. The firm has a substantial international presence with lawyers skilled in navigating the legal and regulatory landscapes of diverse jurisdictions. This allows them to seamlessly advise on projects that involve multiple countries, currencies, and legal systems. This is particularly valuable in emerging markets, where they have a deep understanding of the nuances and risks involved.
Cleary Gottlieb’s legal services encompass the entire lifecycle of a project, from initial structuring and due diligence to financing, construction, and operation. They are adept at drafting and negotiating project agreements, including concession agreements, offtake agreements, construction contracts (EPC contracts), and operation and maintenance (O&M) agreements. They also provide expertise in regulatory approvals, environmental and social impact assessments, and political risk mitigation strategies.
On the financing side, Cleary Gottlieb is proficient in structuring and documenting various financing arrangements, including project bonds, bank loans, export credit financing, multilateral lending, and Islamic finance. They advise on the legal aspects of security packages, intercreditor arrangements, and enforcement mechanisms. Their experience includes advising on innovative financing structures and navigating complex debt restructurings in distressed projects.
The firm’s reputation is built on its sophisticated legal expertise, deep industry knowledge, and commitment to client service. They are known for their ability to provide practical and commercially sound advice, while also effectively managing risk and protecting their clients’ interests. Cleary Gottlieb’s project finance lawyers are frequently recognized in leading legal directories and publications as top-tier practitioners in the field, reflecting their continued success in advising on some of the world’s most significant and challenging project finance transactions. Their ability to adapt to evolving market conditions and innovative financial instruments ensures they remain a trusted advisor in the project finance arena.