The team, led by partners Anna-Marie McAlinden and Glenn Watterson, has enjoyed a prolific year, working on transactions totalling over £160 million and delivering renewable energy projects producing electricity equivalent to that used by over 200,000 UK homes.

Both partners have additional legal expertise that complements the energy sector. Ms McAlinden is one of the leading partners in the firm’s commercial property team, while Mr Watterson is a partner in the corporate team with a special interest in both technology and intellectual property.

Ms McAlinden said: “This is a critical time for the planet; the devastating impact of climate change is starting to reveal itself with more ferocity and at an alarming rate. It is clear that the climate emergency is real, and now.

“However, there are hopeful signs that we are reacting at all levels of society. Northern Ireland now has a new Climate Change Act with a net zero target (for most sectors) by 2050, and a new path to net zero energy strategy.

“Many of our clients have been delivering on emission reduction projects both here and elsewhere in Europe for many years and are already making a difference.

“The recent climate legislation (and the policies that will hopefully result from it) should be a driver for even more businesses to deliver projects that will help to reduce emissions. With so many years advising at the helm of this sector, we will be well placed to continue to guide businesses operating in this sector as it expands and develops.

“The projects we are working on can be vast, are usually complex, but all are quite extraordinary in their own right. When engaged on these projects we offer our clients a full team approach, which often includes legal guidance from across Mills Selig, ranging from construction to banking, to litigation and beyond.”

She added: “In the context of the growth of this sector and the critical need for a more renewable energy development, the recruitment of Aveen is key and something we are extremely pleased with.

“She will be one of a very small pool of lawyers in this country who will be trained as an expert in this specialist field at this pivotal time. Our team is expanding as our client needs expand, and we aim to continue on this trajectory as we go forward.”