James is a planning lawyer based in Edinburgh who advises developers on major energy infrastructure projects both in Scotland and across the UK including onshore and offshore wind energy, solar energy, carbon capture and storage, hydrogen, nuclear, and energy from waste projects. James is also experienced in advising on the consenting aspects of port development.
James has advised on all consenting aspects of nationally significant infrastructure projects including drafting of DCOs and written submissions to DCO examinations, advising on consultation with interested parties, negotiation of protective provisions and side agreements, case-making, compulsory acquisition and EIA and HRA related advice.
James is experienced in advising on Electricity Act 1989 and town and country planning and appeal procedures including attendance at hearing and inquiry sessions.
His recent work includes:
- Bp plc on the Net Zero Teesside DCO application for a gas-fired generating station with a carbon capture and CO2 transportation and storage network, and H2 Teesside DCO comprising a blue hydrogen production plant and hydrogen pipeline network on Teesside
- EDF Energy including secondment to advise on Sizewell C DCO application, and on the exercise of powers under the Hinkley Point C DCO, and a material change application to the Hinkley Point C DCO
- Vitol Group on DCO application for a 299MW gas fired power station on Humberside and gas connection pipeline
- major port developer on planning and marine licensing consents for a Scottish Renewable Energy Hub, a bespoke, riverside marine berth capable of accommodating the world’s largest offshore wind installation vessels and upgrading of a 140-acre cargo handling site
- major onshore wind farm developers including Statkraft and RWE on s36 applications across Scotland
- major offshore wind farm developers including Scottish Power Renewables and RWE on disposal of transmission assets under OFTO regime
James contributes to the activities of Scottish Renewables, Renewables UK and the Scottish Property Federation.