Herbert Smith Freehills Acted on Oman's 500 MW Solar Project
Herbert Smith Freehills Acted on Oman's 500 MW Solar Project
Leading international law firm Herbert Smith Freehills has played a pivotal role in securing financial close for the landmark Manah I Solar PV Plant project in Oman, further solidifying its commitment to supporting the region's renewable energy initiatives.
Set to be operational by 2025, the 500 MW solar power plant, located in the Ad Dakhiliyah region, represents a significant step forward in Oman's ambitious energy transition plans. Developed by Wadi Noor Solar Power Company – a partnership between EDF Renewables Middle East and Korea Western Power Co Ltd (KOWEPO) – the project will not only generate clean energy but also contribute to environmental sustainability by avoiding over 700 thousand tons of CO2 emissions annually.
Herbert Smith Freehills, underlining its expertise in complex energy transactions, provided strategic legal counsel throughout the project. The firm's Dubai-based team, led by partner Phil Hanson, played a key role in navigating the legal landscape and ensuring a successful financial close on December 25, 2023.
"We are delighted to have advised on this project," expressed Hanson, highlighting its alignment with Oman's green energy goals. "It further strengthens our longstanding relationships with EDF Renewables and KOWEPO, and solidifies our commitment to supporting sustainable development initiatives in the region."
The breadth of Herbert Smith Freehills' involvement is evident in the diverse team composition supporting the transaction. Alongside Hanson, senior associates Adel Shageev and Charles Oliver, along with associates Maria Zerkalova, Rohy Alsaad, Umu Wurie, and Yulia Turkina, and trainee Donati Llapashtica, provided comprehensive legal expertise.
Furthermore, partner Nick May, of counsel Nick Rutter, and associate Konstantin Korennoy advised on the project's hedging aspects, while partner Michaël Armandou and avocat Félix Laval-Sébire offered crucial support on French law matters.
