Legal Counsel : Projects

EDF power solutions South Africa; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading renewable energy firm in Cape Town seeks a skilled Legal Counsel to provide legal expertise throughout the lifecycle of renewable energy projects. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in project development and finance and will play a key role in ensuring the legal success of major infrastructure projects. Join us and contribute to groundbreaking renewable initiatives across Southern Africa.

Qualifications

• Qualified and admitted attorney specializing in project development or finance in renewable energy.
• 4+ years professional experience as a qualified attorney.
• At least 2 years in a law firm with exposure to renewable energy.

Responsibilities

• Advise on and draft agreements related to land rights.
• Provide legal guidance for project acquisitions and due diligence.
• Draft and review documents for project financing and financial close.

Skills

Project development

Construction law

Finance in renewable energy

Excellent written and verbal communication

Education

LLB degree

Job description

Overview

About EDF Power Solutions Southern Africa

EDF Power Solutions Southern Africa is the merger of EDF Renewables and EDF's International Division in the region, committed to becoming a leading provider of integrated energy solutions. With 4 operational wind farms (140 MW), over 1.4 GW under construction (wind, solar, and battery storage), and ambitious plans to deliver 5 GW of renewable projects by 2030, the company is driving sustainable development across Southern Africa.

The Role

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Legal Counsel : Projects to provide legal expertise across the entire lifecycle of renewable energy projects—from development and bidding through to financing, construction, operation, and decommissioning. This role is critical in safeguarding the company's interests, ensuring compliance, and enabling the successful execution of major infrastructure projects.

Responsibilities

• Advise on and draft agreements related to land rights (leases, servitudes, wayleaves, option agreements)
• Support on environmental permits, appeals, and compliance matters
• Provide legal guidance for project acquisitions, due diligence, and joint development agreements
• Draft and review documents for project financing and financial close, including PPAs, IA, EPC, O&M, BOP, and supply agreements
• Manage external counsel and liaise with lenders' legal teams
• Advise on bids (public and private), ensuring compliance with strategic and legal requirements
• Oversee corporate governance, including drafting resolutions and supporting board meetings
• Provide ongoing legal support during construction and operations, including claims, disputes, and contract management
• Research, monitor, and ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations
• Drive adherence to compliance and ethics policies

Qualifications & Skills

• Qualified and admitted attorney, specialising in project development, construction, and / or finance in renewable energy or infrastructure
• LLB degree (required)
• 4+ years' professional experience as a qualified attorney
• At least 2 years in a law firm with exposure to renewable energy, project finance, or infrastructure projects
• Highly organised with strong attention to detail
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Able to work independently and collaboratively across teams
• Persuasive, solutions-oriented, and professional under pressure
• Committed to confidentiality and ethical practice

Why Join Us?

This is a unique opportunity to join a rapidly growing renewable energy leader and play a pivotal role in the legal success of groundbreaking projects across Southern Africa.

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