Los Angeles, CA – In a strategic move to fortify its tax and energy transition practices, Vinson & Elkins LLP (V&E) welcomed Jorge Medina, former Shearman & Sterling LLP partner, to its ranks. The addition, effective from Thursday, comes as part of V&E’s commitment to providing an enhanced spectrum of services.
Broadening Horizons: A Client-Driven Decision
In an exclusive conversation with Law360, Medina highlighted the driving force behind his transition from Shearman, where he spearheaded the project development and finance practices while heading U.S. renewables. “It was primarily a client-driven decision,” Medina stated. With the surge in workload spurred by the Inflation Reduction Act, he recognized the need for a more expansive and experienced team to cater to the growing demands.
V&E: The Perfect Fit
“V&E checked all the boxes,” emphasized Medina. The move aligns seamlessly with his goal of delivering comprehensive services to clients navigating the intricacies of the evolving legal landscape.
V&E Adds Jorge Medina: Journey of Expertise: From Dewey & LeBoeuf to SolarCity and Beyond
Medina’s legal journey began at Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP after earning his law degree from the University of California, Berkeley. While at SolarCity, later acquired by Tesla, he assumed roles as deputy general counsel of tax and associate general counsel of tax and special projects lead, reporting directly to Tesla CEO Elon Musk for two years. His versatile experience also includes co-leading the energy and infrastructure practice at Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP before joining Shearman last year.
20 Years in Renewables: A Varied Perspective
Reflecting on his two-decade-long career in renewables, Medina noted his experience from an in-house attorney to a senior business role, and recently, managing practice groups at major law firms. His current practice at V&E involves representing top sponsors and tax equity investors in diverse renewable energy sectors such as solar, wind, hydrogen, carbon capture, geothermal, biofuels, and electric vehicle transactions.
V&E Adds Jorge Medina: Noteworthy Deals and Milestones
Among Medina’s notable achievements is representing Dutch pension manager APG Asset Management NV in its acquisition of a 49% stake in the $1.2 billion Gemini project, expected to be the nation’s largest solar project. Another significant deal involved representing Complete Solar Holding Corp. in its $888 million merger with The Solaria Corp., resulting in the formation of Complete Solaria Inc.
Excitement for the Future at V&E
Looking ahead, Medina expressed excitement about leveraging a broader network of attorneys at V&E to support both himself and his clients. He anticipates contributing to energy transition transactions, aligning with his extensive background.
V&E’s Perspective on the New Addition
Keith Fullenweider, V&E’s chair, welcomed Medina, acknowledging that his “breadth of experience will be a tremendous asset” to clients. The timing of the move is opportune, given the expected substantial demand for investments in the energy transition, especially in transactions structured to benefit from tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act.
