Projects & Energy: Mining & Minerals
Global Guide 2024 : Africa-wide
Band 3
Contact number
+44 20 7997 7040Chambers Review
Trinity International is a stellar boutique with an eminent reputation for early-phase development work across Africa. The firm demonstrates a strong commitment to the continent and is frequently mandated to act for sponsors on innovative IPPs and projects in the renewables sector, including solar, hydro, wind and geothermal. Its further areas of expertise include distribution networks and integrated grid projects. The team is also sought out by governments for advice on energy sector development and is increasingly acting for lenders, including development finance institutions (DFIs) and commercial banks. In addition to its market-leading power practice, the firm is also increasingly active in mining and oil and gas. Its offices are located in London, Paris and Washington, DC.
Work Highlights
- Trinity International acted as counsel to the Early Power consortium in connection with its development of an approximately USD900 million thermal energy project located in Ghana.
Strengths
Provided by Chambers
"One key strength is their understanding of how international lenders think and what they want to see in a contract. When lenders know we are using Trinity we all know there won't be any issues."
"They're very professional and offer a very user-friendly service. They have a very good understanding and knowledge of the space and the market."
"They have a very agile, proactive and practical approach and a deep understanding of local issues."
"They have a clear understanding of IPP deals and they know how to work with other law firms. They are very effective."
"They have a fabulous power practice."
"One key strength is their understanding of how international lenders think and what they want to see in a contract. When lenders know we are using Trinity we all know there won't be any issues."
"They're very professional and offer a very user-friendly service. They have a very good understanding and knowledge of the space and the market."
"They have a very agile, proactive and practical approach and a deep understanding of local issues."
"They have a clear understanding of IPP deals and they know how to work with other law firms. They are very effective."
"They have a fabulous power practice."
Notable Practitioners
Stéphane Brabant is an illustrious lawyer in the African projects and energy space and co-heads the firm's Africa group. A prominent presence throughout francophone jurisdictions, he is particularly well versed in mining projects as chair of the firm's mining group. Based in the firm's Paris office, he is a noted OHADA specialist.
London-based Paul Biggs is a pre-eminent lawyer with extensive expertise in power developments. He is prominent across southern Africa for his representation of developers, lenders and other institutional investors. He is particularly well reputed for his leading position on IPPs across the continent including in Ethiopia, Ghana and Uganda. He assists with a variety of large-scale renewable power projects.
"He's done a great job growing Trinity's practice; he's very specialised."
Firm co-founder Simon Norris is highly respected for his project development work across a number of African power markets. Based in London, he is regularly instructed by sponsors, international finance institutions and government entities on IPPs.
"He is very pragmatic and knowledgeable, and is able to assist with complex challenges."
"He is extremely proactive, very pleasant to work with and understands the mindset of a developer."
Co-head of the firm's francophone and DFI practices, Kaushik Ray frequently handles project financing, development and transactions, particularly in relation to the power sector. With a strong profile in IPPs and renewable energy matters, he regularly advises domestic and international lenders, as well as having additional experience as borrower's counsel.
"He's a very good lawyer who is very strong on power."
Marianna Sédéfian is a rising star who has wide-ranging experience advising on the financing aspects of power, mining and infrastructure projects. Based in Paris, she is typically active on matters in francophone Africa and has complementary expertise in OHADA law.
"She understands what we want to achieve and she proposes pragmatic solutions."
Paris-based Pierre Bernheim is noted for his comprehensive understanding of project finance as well as the regulatory considerations underpinning high-stakes projects.
"Pierre has great knowledge on regulatory issues. He knows what is going on in West Africa under OHADA and can always help us navigate any issues - he's always helpful and gives good-quality advice."