Patrick R. Pennella assists in the representation of major energy industry participants, including electric utilities, nuclear plant operators, and oil and gas pipelines. Patrick assists electric utilities in civil litigation in the Court of Federal Claims in claims against the government for breach of contract relating to disposal of spent nuclear fuel. He advises electric and natural gas clients on regulatory compliance issues, ratemaking proceedings, and enforcement matters before the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. Additionally, he provides regulatory advice on energy-related commercial transactions.
Patrick also represents utilities and power producers looking to reduce their carbon emissions by transitioning to natural gas and through the deployment of renewable energy projects.
Prior to joining the firm, Patrick clerked at the US Court of Federal Claims. Previously, he served on active duty as an officer in the US Coast Guard, where he was assigned aboard two ships and to several staff assignments with duties ranging from assisting in the preparation and defense of the Coast Guard’s budget, developing policies to prevent and respond to sexual assaults, and supervising compliance inspections of Coast Guard recruiting offices.
Patrick graduated from the Antonin Scalia Law School at George Mason University, where he served as a research editor of the George Mason Law Review. While earning his law degree, Patrick continued to serve on active duty and concurrently interned with the Coast Guard’s Office of the General Counsel, where he assisted with the legal representation of Coast Guard members who were involved in administrative service-connected disability proceedings or who were victims of sexual assault.
Member, Practice Group of the Year, Energy, Law360 (2019)
US Coast Guard, Commissioned Officer (Reserve) (2018-present)
US Coast Guard, Commissioned Officer (Active Duty) (2007-2018)
Research Editor, George Mason Law Review (2016-2017)
Fulbright Scholar (2007-2008)
Certified Defense Financial Manager (American Society of Military Comptrollers) (inactive)