Department profile
Barnes & Thornburg LLP

Energy & Natural Resources

USA Guide 2026 : Indiana


Barnes & Thornburg LLP

Rankings

About

Provided by Barnes & Thornburg LLP

Barnes & Thornburg’s experience in energy law enables us to advise on virtually all phases of operations and transactions involving investor-owned, municipal and other types of utilities, generators and service providers. We work with large and small utilities alike, advising on appeals, declaratory judgment actions, injunction proceedings, contract negotiations, condemnation cases, financing, legislation, pole attachment matters, and other aspects of provider operations.

We handle hundreds of rate cases and represent energy and utilities clients before the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Federal Communications Commission in Washington, D.C., and before state and federal courts. Clients turn to us to help resolve issues pertaining to eminent domain, zoning, service area and territorial disputes, and Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) matters. Notably, our team obtained one of the first Certificates of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN) sought under Indiana’s Utility Powerplant Construction Act, and we routinely represent energy clients seeking CPCNs for new generation.

Our team is involved in the full array of financing transactions, including bond issues, public offerings and private placements. We provide counsel regarding compliance with federal and state reporting requirements, jurisdictional conflicts and regulatory approvals.

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Energy & Natural Resources - Indiana

Band 1

Band 1


What the Team is Known For

Barnes & Thornburg LLP has an impressive practice representing clients active in the Indiana energy market. The team is well regarded for its handling of regulatory matters, often appearing before the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission.

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

  • Barnes & Thornburg combine a strong command of Indiana’s regulatory landscape with the ability to navigate highly technical, multi-issue cases.

    Energy & Natural Resources respondentUSA
  • The Barnes and Thornburg team has a depth of experience and a deep knowledge of the legal intricacies of the regulatory world.

    Energy & Natural Resources respondentUSA
  • They keep each other informed, stay current on recent case history, and bring a wealth of knowledge to all filings I have been involved in with the team.

    Energy & Natural Resources respondentUSA
  • We appreciate their knowledge, experience, and work product.

    Energy & Natural Resources respondentUSA
  • B&T have a deep understanding of the operation of water and wastewater utilities.

    Energy & Natural Resources respondentUSA

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers

  • Band 1Nicholas K. Kile
    Band 1Nicholas K. Kile

    Nicholas K. Kile

    Nicholas Kile is sought out by utilities for his strength handling regulatory proceedings before the IURC, including complex rate cases.
    • Nick's broad experience in regulatory and accounting issues is invaluable.

      Energy & Natural Resources respondentUSA
    • Nick has more experience in this industry than anyone I've ever worked with. He understands regulatory accounting issues better than anyone.

      Energy & Natural Resources respondentUSA
    • Nick has a deep grasp of complex regulatory issues. He consistently spots key risks and strategic implications early.

      Energy & Natural Resources respondentUSA
    • Nick is a stellar member of the B&T team. He always has quick suggestions and detailed thoughts on how to best tackle a problem.

      Energy & Natural Resources respondentUSA
    • Nick provides strategic ideas and offers expectations on potential financial outcomes.

      Energy & Natural Resources respondentUSA
  • Band 2Hillary J. Close
    Band 2Hillary J. Close

    Hillary J. Close

    Hillary Close focuses her practice on the Indiana utility space, handling regulatory matters for her energy utility and local government clients.
    • Hillary does a wonderful job of representing the utility at all levels. Her knowledge and experience are invaluable.

      Energy & Natural Resources respondentUSA
    • Hillary stays well-informed on our matters and provides helpful support.

      Energy & Natural Resources respondentUSA
    • Hillary Close always provides excellent service and expertise.

      Energy & Natural Resources respondentUSA

Ranked Individuals at Barnes & Thornburg LLP (2)

Indiana

Members

Provided by Barnes & Thornburg LLP

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