Troutman Pepper Locke announced that Ben Cheatham has joined the firm’s Tax and Benefits Practice Group as a partner based in Washington, D.C. His addition strengthens the firm’s transactional tax capabilities and expands its presence in the renewable and transitional energy sectors.
Cheatham joined the firm from McDermott Will & Schulte and brings extensive experience in U.S. federal income tax matters involving renewable energy projects. He advises clients on financing, development, operations, acquisitions, and dispositions, with a focus on investment, manufacturing, and power production tax credits, credit transfer transactions, and compliance with the Inflation Reduction Act’s prevailing wage and apprenticeship requirements.
Cheatham represents lenders, sponsors, and borrowers in a variety of transactions and has advised clients during IRS audits and litigation involving the U.S. Department of Justice. He previously led renewables tax planning for one of the largest renewable energy developers in the United States, providing guidance on Inflation Reduction Act implementation and organizational tax matters.
Troutman Pepper Locke said the appointment aligns with its strategy of expanding its energy tax practice as regulatory developments continue to reshape the renewable energy market. The firm’s Tax and Benefits Practice Group advises clients on domestic and international tax matters and serves industries including health sciences, private equity, manufacturing, financial services, insurance, energy, and real estate.
KEY QUOTES:
“Ben’s arrival reinforces our long-term strategy to expand our energy tax capabilities. His breadth of experience handling projects from early-stage structuring through exit will be crucial to clients facing complex tax issues in the renewables space.”
Jim Earle, Leader of Troutman Pepper Locke’s Tax and Benefits Practice Group
“As regulatory pressure reshapes the renewables landscape, clients need highly skilled advisors like Ben who understand how tax rules are driving their markets in real time. His invaluable in-house experience enables him to anticipate client needs and deliver practical, industry-informed solutions that support energy projects in D.C. and across the country.”
Chris Jones, Washington, D.C. Office Managing Partner And Leader Of Troutman Pepper Locke’s Energy Regulatory Practice Group
“Troutman Pepper Locke’s long-standing reputation for being at the cutting edge of market development is what makes the firm an ideal home for my practice. I’m excited to join this team and contribute to helping clients navigate complex energy tax landscapes.”
Ben Cheatham
