In-House Counsel - Energy Law Specialist

Placements24; Richards Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Retirement plan

Professional development

Collaborative work environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly specialized In-House Counsel with a focus on energy law to join its legal team in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. The role centers on project development, regulatory compliance, and complex contract negotiations within the South African energy sector.

The ideal candidate has an LLB, SA-qualification, 5+ years in energy law, and proven experience with PPAs and energy regulations.

Qualifications

• LLB degree from a recognized university.
• Admitted as an Attorney or Advocate of the High Court of South Africa.
• 5+ years of energy law experience (in-house or law firm).
• Experience with renewable energy projects and PPAs.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert legal advice on energy law including project development, PPAs, transmission, and distribution.
• Review, draft, and negotiate complex energy sector contracts.
• Ensure compliance with energy regulations, environmental laws, and government policies.
• Advise on regulatory applications, permits, and licenses for energy projects.
• Manage legal risks in energy project development and operations.

Skills

Energy law

Contract negotiation

Regulatory compliance

PPA experience

Communication skills

Education

LLB

Admitted Attorney (SA High Court)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the renewable energy sector, is seeking a highly specialized In-House Counsel with a focus on energy law to join their dynamic legal team. This critical role, based in the industrial heartland of Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal , will be instrumental in providing expert legal counsel on a broad spectrum of energy-related matters, including project development, regulatory compliance, and contract negotiation. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of the South African energy landscape, extensive experience with energy infrastructure projects, and a strong ability to navigate complex regulatory frameworks. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the sustainable energy future of the region while working within a supportive and innovative corporate environment. We are committed to attracting top legal talent passionate about the energy transition.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide expert legal advice on all aspects of energy law, including project finance, power purchase agreements (PPAs), transmission, and distribution.
• Review, draft, and negotiate complex commercial agreements specific to the energy sector.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant energy regulations, environmental laws, and governmental policies.
• Advise on regulatory applications, permits, and licenses required for energy projects.
• Manage and mitigate legal risks associated with energy project development and operations.
• Conduct legal due diligence for mergers, acquisitions, and joint ventures within the energy sector.
• Collaborate with business development, engineering, and finance teams on strategic energy initiatives.
• Represent the company in negotiations with regulatory bodies, partners, and other stakeholders.
• Stay abreast of evolving energy policies, market trends, and legislative changes impacting the sector.
• Liaise with external counsel on specialized legal matters pertaining to energy law in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal .

Requirements

• A Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree from a recognized university.
• Admission as an Attorney or Advocate of the High Court of South Africa.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience practicing energy law, either in-house or at a reputable law firm.
• Demonstrated expertise in renewable energy projects (solar, wind, hydro) and associated legal frameworks.
• Thorough understanding of South African energy legislation, regulations, and policy developments.
• Proven experience in negotiating and drafting power purchase agreements (PPAs) and other energy-related contracts.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and strategic thinking abilities.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet demanding deadlines.
• Integrity and a commitment to ethical legal practice.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Opportunity to work on impactful and transformative energy projects.
• Exposure to a leading organization at the forefront of the energy transition.
• Professional development and continuous learning in a specialized field.
• Comprehensive health and retirement benefits.
• A collaborative and forward-thinking work environment in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal .
• Contribution to South Africa's sustainable energy future.
• Potential for career growth within the organization.