Simon Ratledge

Practice Areas

Simon Ratledge, co-founder of ASAFO & CO., is dual-qualified at the Paris Bar and as a Solicitor (England & Wales). His practice focuses on major power, energy/natural resources and infrastructure projects and financings across the African continent, with a strong emphasis on renewable energy projects (solar, wind, biomass, geothermal), thermal projects (fuel oil, gas and coal) and hydro-power projects.

With 25 years of experience, Simon has established himself as a trusted expert in project finance. He provides invaluable guidance to a diverse range of clients, including major European, African, Asian, and international development banks, commercial lenders, and sponsor groups. Simon's extensive knowledge and expertise make him a key figure in facilitating successful project finance strategies in some of Africa’s most dynamic and challenging markets.

Career

Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP

Energy & Infrastructure Group | Partner (2016 – 2019)

Simmons & Simmons LLP

Energy & Infrastructure Group | Partner (2012 – 2016)

Linklaters LLP

Energy & Infrastructure Group | Trainee Solicitor, Associate, Managing Associate, Partner (1994 – 2012)

Professional Memberships

Law Society (England & Wales)

Paris Bar

Languages Spoken

English, French, German

Work Highlights

• Advising the developers to a major urban transport system project in Central Africa.

• Advising AfDB, BADEA, BOAD and OPEC Fund with respect to the financing of a 120 MW dual fuel Power Plant in Senegal (Malicounda Project).

• Advising AfDB and EAIF with respect to the Essor solar-based mini-grid program in DRC.

• Advising Facility for Energy Inclusion’s Off-Grid Energy Access Fund (OGEF) in relation with a loan to BBOXX DRC to finance its solar home systems business in DRC.

• Advising Globeleq and IPS West Africa on the 250MW “Phase IV” expansion of the Azito gas fired IPP in Côte d’Ivoire.

• Advising EDF on the Biovéa 46MW biomass power Concession located in Côte d’Ivoire.

Education

Awards