Band 1
Provided by Harm Kerstholt
Harm Kerstholt is a partner at AKD, specialising in the energy sector. With over 25 years of experience, he advises on M&A, joint ventures and renewable energy projects, including offshore wind, solar and hydrogen.
At AKD, Harm guides clients through complex transactions and projects, ensuring compliance with Dutch and EU regulations. Clients praise his practical approach, with Legal 500 noting:
“Harm Kerstholt is a best-in-class corporate energy lawyer… providing creative solutions for complex matters, he is a hard-working lawyer, down to earth, polite, amiable, and able to achieve the best results for his client.”
Previously, Harm was a partner at a leading Dutch law firm, where he advised on major energy transactions, including significant investments in energy infrastructure and offshore wind projects.
His work covers acquisitions, divestments and project financings, with a focus on ESG integration and Dutch climate objectives. From 2016 to 2019, Harm worked in New York, handling cross-border deals and advising on US–European joint ventures. This gives him a broad, international perspective.
A 1998 graduate of the University of Groningen, he combines deep legal expertise with market insight. At AKD, Harm supports energy companies, project sponsors and public entities in navigating the energy transition, contributing to the firm’s commitment to practical, client-focused legal services in a rapidly evolving sector.
Provided by Chambers
Harm Kerstholt advises clients on joint ventures and acquisitions in relation to energy projects, especially in wind and solar developments. He additionally assists with battery storage and carbon capture matters. He joined AKD in September 2025 after having worked at NautaDutilh.
Provided by Chambers
I think it goes without saying that Harm Kerstholt is one of the best energy lawyers in the Netherlands, if not the best. He is very kind and nice to work with.
Harm Kerstholt always supports us. He is really creative and proactive, and he also thinks of solutions.
Harm Kerstholt is a practical lawyer with a very good understanding of the buy-side of the energy market.
When we have major issues, we are always happy to bring them to him as he is very knowledgeable.
He is able to describe very complex matters in an extremely understandable manner. He is also always available and delivers work on time.
I think it goes without saying that Harm Kerstholt is one of the best energy lawyers in the Netherlands, if not the best. He is very kind and nice to work with.
Harm Kerstholt always supports us. He is really creative and proactive, and he also thinks of solutions.
Harm Kerstholt is a practical lawyer with a very good understanding of the buy-side of the energy market.
When we have major issues, we are always happy to bring them to him as he is very knowledgeable.
He is able to describe very complex matters in an extremely understandable manner. He is also always available and delivers work on time.