International law firm Simmons & Simmons has expanded its energy, natural resources and infrastructure (ENRI) practice in Germany by hiring partner Dr Thorsten Volz.

An energy sector specialist with a career spanning 20 years, Thorsten joins the firm’s Düsseldorf office, moving to Simmons from another international law firm.

Thorsten brings a wealth of expertise in regulatory and M&A in the energy space, with significant experience advising on investments in renewables, as well as the traditional energy sector. He holds an impressive track record supporting a range of influential clients, including large utilities, banks, investors, project developers, heavy industries and energy traders.

Focusing exclusively on the energy and renewables sectors, the partner hire will bolster the capabilities of Simmons’ growing ENRI practice in Germany – supporting growth locally, while also strengthening the firm’s global practice.

Led by partner Dr Jens Gölz and operating from Düsseldorf, Frankfurt and Munich, the Germany ENRI team brings together international specialists working on cross-border matters across project finance, M&A and project M&A, PPA’s and energy contracts, tax, environmental law, construction, real estate, regulation and competition.

Commenting on the partner hire, Dr Jens Gölz commented: “We are very pleased to have secured the hire of Thorsten. Since its establishment, the Germany ENRI team has seen success advising on high profile local and cross-border transactions; bringing in Thorsten is now the next major step in our growth plans. As a fully dedicated M&A partner working in the renewables and energy sectors, he will be a hugely important member of the team, enabling the practice to further expand its reach.”

On joining Simmons, Thorsten commented: “I’m excited to be joining Simmons’ ENRI team in Germany and become part of the firm’s extensive global network. I’m confident the firm will benefit from my relationships and wide experience in the energy and renewables sectors. I look forward to building on the work of Jens and the team to generate new opportunities – particularly in the energy transition space.”