Nath Curtis — WLG Infrastructure and Public-Private Projects Group Co-Chair (EMEA)
Member Voices
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Nath Curtis WLG Infrastructure and Public-Private
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1. Tell us a bit about your practice.
I lead the UK and Europe Infrastructure Finance practice at Gowling WLG, based out of London. We act for a wide range of funder-side institutions as well as for sponsors and developers raising limited recourse financing and refinancing on infrastructure projects. We have three core sectors in which we specialize. These are, (a) the low carbon economy and natural capital, which includes renewable energy generation and transmission, mining, forestry and biodiversity, (b) core infrastructure, including PFI/PPP, transport, education, social housing and student and graduate living and, (c) the digital economy, where we are very busy working on fibre-to-the-home and telecommunications projects. Our primary focus is on mid-market transactions and/or where we can add value by advising on projects that are innovative, market-leading or complex.
2. As a leader of the infrastructure group, what is something valuable you've gained from leading the group?
It is absolutely fantastic to be part of a global network of like-minded lawyers and to hear first hand what are the hot topics in their jurisdictions. This allows us to compare and contrast the different policy and economy drivers that are shaping the priorities for infrastructure investment in different jurisdictions. It provides invaluable background for talking to clients in London more knowledgably about outbound investment opportunities. And it enables us to build a referral base with genuine experts in their field, on a global basis. On a personal level, as someone who has spent a lot of time practicing in, or on deals relating to, South America, Asia and Africa, it is fantastic to stay in touch with market-leading lawyers in these regions via the WLG network.
3. Who is a speaker at an event that left a lasting impression on you and why?
Professor David Hill, of the Environment Bank in the UK. He talks extremely knowledgably about the importance of, and opportunities for, biodiversity net gain projects. The following links to a presentation he has given that is available on-line.