Mr Curnow, who was global co-head of Bakers’ renewable energy practice, joins Ashurst’s Sydney office in his new role, as does Ms Hilson, while Ms Phillips joins its Melbourne office.

Ms Curnow is described as one of the nation’s leading renewable energy lawyers, holding extensive expertise in all aspects of the market, including project development, innovative offtake agreements, energy regulation, and financing.

Ms Hilson is a specialist in contracting and regulatory matters, with particular expertise in revenue contracts “that underpin major energy projects", a statement from Ashurst confirmed.

Further, Ms Phillips holds strong expertise in greenfield energy projects – including wind and solar, as well as battery and pumped hydro. She specialises in acting for sponsors on a lead project role for the structuring and development of solar, wind, pumped hydro and energy from waste projects in the NEM states, the statement read.

“We are thrilled to welcome Paul, Zoë and Kate to our platform,” said Ashurst energy and resources practice group head Richard Guit. 

“The world is changing and we are growing our business to meet the opportunities. Australia will become a global renewable energy powerhouse as Asian economies reposition toward a low carbon future.

“Ashurst is at the forefront of this evolution and it is fantastic that Paul, Zoë and Kate share our vision. They will play a pivotal role in driving further growth of the firm’s market-leading energy practice.”

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Ashurst Sydney office managing partner, Harvey Weaver echoed a similar sentiment.

“To have attracted such a high calibre renewable energy team reflects the growing strength and reputation of Ashurst’s award-winning Energy & Resources practice, the quality of our clients, and our ability to provide the most innovative and professional legal solutions,” he added.

“These appointments are well aligned with our focus on strengthening our capabilities in key growth areas, and are evidence of our commitment to expanding the Ashurst team with the best legal talent to capitalise on future opportunities.”

Commenting on his new role, Mr Curnow said: “I am excited to be joining Ashurst’s highly regarded energy practice in Sydney, and along with my team, look forward to the opportunity to play a key role in the partnership as it further matches its delivery capability to meet the demands of the fast-paced energy transition, underpinned by net zero carbon commitments of countries and corporates alike.

“Ashurst has a strong market standing in the energy sector and its Australian and Asian reach provides a great platform from which to service clients across the whole energy supply chain. We look forward to collaborating with the global team to deliver exceptional outcomes for the firm and our clients.”