David J. Penna

David J. Penna focuses on complex project development, financing, and mergers and acquisitions involving energy, power, and infrastructure assets. He advises sponsors, lenders, developers, multinational corporations, and governmental entities on strategic transactions, helping structure large-scale projects and investments that support the growth of modern energy systems and digital infrastructure worldwide.

David earned a B.A. from Indiana University before pursuing legal studies and completing a J.D. from Yale Law School. His academic training provided a foundation for advising on sophisticated infrastructure, energy, and finance matters, preparing him to navigate regulatory frameworks, complex financing structures, and cross-border transactions tied to major development projects worldwide.

David represents sponsors, lenders, developers, multinational corporations, and governmental entities in the development and financing of energy, power, and digital infrastructure projects. His work includes transactions involving data centers, towers, fiber, wind, solar, battery storage, biomass, and power transmission projects, as well as natural gas, oil, LNG, and petrochemicals facilities.

David also handles mergers and acquisitions with a focus on transactions involving power generation and digital infrastructure assets. He guides clients through deal structuring, negotiations, due diligence, and financing arrangements, helping stakeholders manage risk and complete complex infrastructure investments across evolving global energy and technology markets worldwide efficiently and effectively.

David previously served in a senior role at the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation, providing strategic policy advice related to national security and international development. His experience there strengthened his perspective on infrastructure investment, public policy, and cross-border financing initiatives that support economic growth and long-term development planning worldwide today.

David has been recognized for his work in project development and financing through listings in Chambers USA – Projects and Chambers Global – Projects, USA, as well as IFLR1000 – Project Development, Project Finance, United States. He also received the Burton Awards for Legal Achievement “Distinguished Legal Writing Award,” 2025.

David J. Penna brings extensive experience across infrastructure finance, project development, and mergers and acquisitions, advising investors, developers, lenders, and public sector institutions on complex transactions. His work supports the financing and construction of critical energy and digital infrastructure that enables connectivity, power generation, and long-term economic development worldwide today.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP
• Member, District of Columbia Bar Association
• Member, New York State Bar Association

Licensed State

• District of Columbia
• New York

Education

• Yale Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Indiana University
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges