Clayton Utz names energy regulatory lawyer as Melbourne partner

Clayton Utz has appointed energy regulatory lawyer Susan Taylor as a partner in the firm’s Melbourne office.

“This is an unprecedented time for energy markets, and I'm delighted to be able to work with a firm of the calibre of Clayton Utz and its broad array of clients to make the most of the opportunity to participate in this transformation,” Taylor said.

Over the past 20 years, she has advised policy makers and regulators on a wide range of complex energy regulatory matters. She has extensive experience in local and international regulated energy markets, having worked as an executive in a major ASX-listed electricity and gas network company and in law firms across Australia, Asia, and the US.

Taylor specialises in regulated electricity and gas markets, including complex regulatory compliance and interpretation cases, commercial matters, M&A, restructures, capital raisings, and reorganisations. As an external adviser to the sector, she has helped her clients manage their energy transition via renewable power projects, embedded network projects, stand-alone power systems, virtual power purchase arrangements and renewable energy products and compliance.

She has led the in-house legal teams of AusNet Services, Victoria’s electricity transmission and distribution network and gas pipeline owner and operator, and Amber Electric, an innovative electricity retailer.

Taylor has also worked at the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission in Washington DC and at the global law firms Heller Ehrman and Sullivan Worcester. She has also played a leading role in the regulatory reform and privatisation of the State Electricity Commission of Victoria and the Gas and Fuel Corporation of Victoria.

“Susan brings an exceptional understanding of energy market reform and regulation. Her background in both private practice and in-house roles, as well as with a major energy regulator and in her own consulting business, means she also appreciates the legal and commercial realities involved with projects,” Clayton Utz national practice group leader Rory Moriarty said. “As our clients continue to meet the challenges of the energy transition and the evolving regulatory environment, Susan’s experience will be invaluable.”