Baird Fogel has joined Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP’s San Francisco office as a partner in the firm’s project finance and renewable energy practice. Previously, Mr. Fogel was general counsel with BP Solar.

Mr. Fogel’s practice will have an expansive focus on energy project development, construction, finance, mergers and acquisitions, compliance, commercial transactions, corporate governance, commercial settlement and general corporate matters, with an emphasis on solar energy projects.

“Baird’s arrival is a tremendous addition to our office and the entire firm,” stated Stephen Mansfield, partner-in-charge of Akin Gump’s San Francisco office. “Baird is a terrific guy with a deep and accomplished track record.”

Added Ed Zaelke, co-head of Akin Gump’s project finance and renewable energy practice, “We have been very successful in adding a number of top-notch professionals to our team this year. We are thrilled that Baird is joining us.”

Adam Umanoff, who also co-heads the practice, concurred, stating, “Baird’s significant experience in the solar industry coupled with his perspective from both a corporate and law firm background will provide great benefits to our clients and our team.”

Mr. Fogel has experience in all facets of the solar industry, including manufacturing, supply chain, distribution, construction, residential, commercial, small scale utility, large scale utility, government relations, investment and finance. His experience includes large-scale commercial transactions, and extends to utility scale projects in North America, Europe, Asia and Australia.

“It is exciting to join what is quickly becoming one of the country’s top project finance and renewable energy teams,” stated Mr. Fogel. “I am anxious to apply the skills and knowledge gleaned from years in the energy industry to clients across Akin Gump’s broad international platform.”

Mr. Fogel received his J.D. from the University of Missouri-Kansas City in 1996, and received his B.A. from Vanderbilt University in 1993.

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