მთავარი

Expertise. Experience. Efficiency.

News

BGI advises TEPCO in acquisition of stake in Georgian HPP

BGI has acted for Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO), Japanese energy giant, in one of the most significant M&A deals in Georgia in recent months. The deal was closed successfully on 28 April 2020 despite fundamental challenges posed by the state of emergency imposed due to the Covid-19 pandemic and related restrictions and closures.

TEPCO has acquired 31.4% of the shares in Dariali Hydropower Project, located in Kazbegi Municipality, Georgia. Dariali HPP commenced commercial operations in December 2015, supported by a 15-year power purchase agreement with ESCO, the market operator in Georgia’s electricity sector. Dariali HPP’s annual energy generation amounts to 510 million kWh. It is also the first carbon-neutral project in Georgia and among all EBRD-financed projects worldwide.

“TEPCO brings much-needed know-how and experience to Georgia, strengthening the country’s energy security and independence. This deal complements our impressive portfolio of hydropower projects, highlighting that BGI remains the market leader and the law firm of choice for major foreign investors” said Partner Sandro Bibilashvili, who led the BGI team working on this transaction.

Zaza Bibilashvili is a well-known and highly regarded figure in the Georgian legal market. One of the founding partners of the firm, he oversees projects and is a key contact for clients. Lasha Gogiberidze has been called "one of the leading lawyers in Georgia" and "a central person not just in capital markets, but in the legal market in general." Considered an expert in capital markets and project finance work, particularly in the energy sphere, he is highly respected by his peers, who say: "He`s among the top lawyers who shaped the legal market."

Chambers Global - 2016

Solid team with vast experience of handling a wide spectrum of corporate and commercial as well as financial matters. Particularly well versed in project finance and boasts an impressive track record in some of the country's biggest energy and infrastructure projects. Popular choice for prominent international and local clients, including financial institutions and corporates from an array of industry sectors. Clients are impressed with the team's approach, saying: "The best thing is their coming up with proactive advice and suggesting a structure. They are able to work under pressure and respond immediately." Another client adds: "As soon as we give them a project we don't need to double-check anything." Other typical comments are: "They are a top-tier firm on the market with highly skilled, efficient and solution-oriented lawyers."

Chambers Europe - 2017
A leading figure in capital markets and M&A, Lasha Gogiberidze has an enviable track record of acting on the market's highlight deals, primarily advising banks, including international developmental institutions. He wins praise for his responsiveness and is described as "very client-focused and understanding of our needs."

 

Chambers Global - 2018