Christopher Townsend

Known for his visionary approach, Chris helps clients anticipate industry trends and craft practical, comprehensive solutions. He brings over 25 years of experience advocating for progressive energy market participants other than the local utilities, addressing complex energy challenges and developing forward-thinking strategies. He has been instrumental in shaping frameworks that promote efficient competition, representing large industrial, institutional, and commercial energy users, municipalities, and alternative energy suppliers individually and as members of broad-based coalitions.

Chris also advises energy project developers on innovative initiatives, providing guidance through the evolving energy landscape. He is deeply engaged in regulatory proceedings before the Illinois Commerce Commission and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, as well as legislative initiatives in the Illinois General Assembly, advancing energy market efficiencies. His clients include consortia of large energy consumers, retail energy suppliers, and municipal and private water entities. Globally, Chris has partnered with the U.S. State Department and advised the Government of Iraq on multibillion-dollar energy and infrastructure projects.

Whether navigating complex regulatory matters or pioneering infrastructure projects, Chris delivers imaginative, client-focused guidance that sets him apart as a leader in the energy legal field.