Stephens Scown advises ReneSola Ltd on the acquisition of two 5MW solar projects

The renewable energy and corporate teams of leading South West law firm Stephens Scown LLP have acted for ReneSola Ltd, one of the world’s largest renewable energy companies and a world leader in the construction of solar plants, advising on the acquisition, build and connection of two 5MW solar projects in Nottinghamshire.

ReneSola secured the projects from Copthorne Investments Limited, an associated company of Hazel Capital LLP, with further acquisitions in the pipeline.  ReneSola is looking to accelerate the development of its pipeline of renewables projects across the UK as part of its long-term commitment to the UK’s renewables industry.

Stephens Scown advised ReneSola on the deal, led on the property and renewables elements by partner and head of renewables, Sonya Bedford and on the corporate elements by corporate partner, Simon Morris, with assistance from solicitors Justin Butt, Beth Johnson, Hanna Virta and Sarah-Jane Williams.

Sonya Bedford, head of renewables at Stephens Scown, said: “This deal is the latest in an exciting period for ReneSola.  It was complex due to the number of sites and tight timescales involved in order to achieve ReneSola’s desire to build out under 1.3 ROCs. Working closely with our client and a number of third parties, we were able to give expert commercial advice every step of the way, from preparing certificates of title and completing a full due diligence exercise on both projects, to advising on the issues surrounding planning, grid connection and accreditation of the projects. We were delighted to be able to advise ReneSola in the successful conclusion of the deal.”

Antonio Ponce, Business Development Director of ReneSola Ltd, said: "The best thing [about this transaction] is that we completed it in a short timeframe with Stephens Scown’s great and unconditional support.” 

This latest deal builds on Stephens Scown’s extensive expertise within the solar market. To date the team has been involved in assisting over 1GW of solar projects either in the pipeline, contracted or built nationally within the UK.

Stephens Scown’s renewable energy team has 11 specialist lawyers focussing on renewable energy work – making it the largest in the region. The team has been recognised by independent legal guide, Legal 500, which highlights the expertise of the team’s head, Sonya Bedford.  The firm is passionate in its support for sustainable energy, from solar to wind farms, hydro-electric power and anaerobic digestion plants.  The firm advised on the country’s very first wind farm at Delabole in Cornwall, as well as the first solar farm at Wheal Jane in Cornwall.  The team now works for clients with projects throughout the UK and Europe.

Stephens Scown has over 290 staff, including more than 50 partners, across its offices in Exeter, Truro and St Austell. For more information visit www.stephens-scown.co.uk