McGuireWoods continues expanding its tax advisory capabilities for energy clients with the return of Marc Nickel, who rejoins the firm as a partner in San Francisco. He brings nearly two decades of in-house and private practice experience advising companies on tax rules affecting the energy industry, most recently as a senior vice president with Aon’s global M&A and Transaction Solutions team.
Nickel counsels clients on the qualification of transactions for renewable energy tax credits, application of existing tax laws to new technologies, multistate product launches, and resolution of tax controversies. Before joining Aon in 2024, he was an associate at McGuireWoods focused on energy-related tax advisory work.
Nickel previously held senior legal roles at Sunrun and Pacific Gas and Electric Company, where he advised on renewable energy matters and managed tax transactions worth hundreds of millions of dollars, and practiced at multiple Am Law 100 firms.
“Marc’s return to McGuireWoods is a testament to the strength of our energy and tax teams,” said Gerald V. Thomas II, deputy managing partner of the firm’s corporate practice. “His combination of law firm, in-house, and brokerage experience gives him a unique perspective on complex energy tax matters.”
Durham McCormick, a tax partner and co-leader of the firm’s Renewable Energy Practice Group, added: “Marc’s extensive work on federal energy tax credits, state and local tax incentives, and tax policy advocacy positions him to serve clients at the forefront of renewable energy transactions.”
McGuireWoods’ Renewable Energy Practice Group represents developers, independent power producers, sponsors, utilities, and infrastructure funds across energy sectors including biomass, geothermal, hydropower, nuclear, battery storage, solar and wind. The firm’s Tax Practice Group advises on sophisticated transactions including mergers and acquisitions, buyouts, restructurings, financings and international investments. The firm consistently earns top rankings for its energy industry capabilities in Chambers USA and the Legal 500 United States.
“I am excited to return to McGuireWoods, where the energy team is second to none,” Nickel said. “Leading Aon’s West Coast tax insurance efforts immersed me in the commercial fundamentals that drive these transactions, and I look forward to putting that grounded perspective to work for our clients.”
Nickel’s arrival continues McGuireWoods’ West Coast expansion, including the recent addition in San Francisco of tax partner Andrew Chan. Earlier this year, the firm added transactional and litigation partners in Los Angeles and launched a new office in Seattle.
“Marc strengthens our West Coast presence and deepens our ability to serve renewable energy clients,” said Todd Dressel, managing partner of McGuireWoods’ San Francisco office. “His practical experience and industry relationships make him an outstanding addition to our team.”