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Burges Salmon supports Leep Utilities on expansion of its utility networks portfolio

By Emma Andrews

18 Jun 2026 2 min read

Telecommunications towers and pylons viewed from below against a blue sky

The firm has advised Leep Utilities on its acquisition of a district heating and electricity network in Milton Keynes.

The transaction sees Leep Utilities expand its growing portfolio of utility networks, supporting the delivery of essential infrastructure to residential and commercial developments. The acquisition reflects continued investment in decentralised energy and utility solutions as demand for efficient, lower-carbon networks increases.

We advised Leep Utilities on all aspects of the deal, bringing together expertise from across our Projects and Corporate teams, alongside specialist support spanning real estate, tax, employment, pensions, environment and commercial.

The team was led by Partner Emma Andrews, supported by Solicitor Lucy Ashmore, with the corporate transaction being led by Partner Camilla Usher Clark, Director Gregory Nash, and Solicitors Gina Green and Jacob Hall.

“We are pleased to have supported Leep Utilities on this strategic acquisition, which strengthens its position in the utilities infrastructure market. The deal highlights the continued evolution of multi-utility provision and the role these networks play in supporting new developments and long-term energy transition goals. As the heat networks sector expands and market regulation comes into force, this transaction represents an early example of M&A in the clean heat sector—activity which we expect to accelerate in the coming months.”

Emma Andrews, Partner

“This acquisition marks another important step in the growth of our network portfolio. Burges Salmon’s cross-disciplinary expertise, significant M&A experience and understanding of the utilities sector were invaluable in helping us deliver this transaction efficiently and effectively.”

Jim Brennan, Leep Utilities

The acquisition reflects a sector experiencing increasing momentum from an M&A perspective, driven by evolving regulatory frameworks and growing market maturity. As activity continues to build, experience in delivering these complex transactions is becoming increasingly important for developers, investors and operators.

Our involvement in this transaction reflects the firm’s continued role advising on complex, first-mover deals in emerging areas of the energy and utilities market.