“David is the best attorney I have ever worked with. He frequently answers questions just before we would ask them and is very personable.”
— Chambers USA 2025
David Proaño co-leads the firm’s national Energy Industry team, representing clients across the nation in the utility and energy industries. Ranked Band 1 by Chambers in Energy and Natural Resources in Ohio, David focuses his practice on utility matters, rate-making, regulatory compliance, commission investigations, retail and wholesale energy contracts, behind-the-meter generation and commercial disputes and business issues in the utility and energy sectors. David has over a decade of experience with multiple facets of the energy industry, including advising energy-intensive commercial and industrial energy users and large data centers on establishing and expanding utility service. He routinely appears and practices before the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) on utility, rate-making, regulatory and litigated matters, including representing energy trade associations in rate-making matters, natural gas companies in utility matters and serving as lead defense counsel in several major PUCO investigations of certified retail energy suppliers. Recognized by Chambers USA for his “strong business acumen” and ability to “adapt to different markets and product lines,” David brings strategic insight and versatility to his multifaceted utility and energy practice.
David’s experience also includes advocating for clients before federal and state trial and appellate courts, bankruptcy courts and arbitration panels, and he has a proven track record representing clients on major matters involving a wide range of commercial disputes. David combines candid advice, strong writing skills and powerful advocacy to achieve the best possible outcomes for clients.
In addition to an active regulatory and litigation practice, David devotes considerable time and effort to the Cleveland community and representing pro bono clients. He served as the president of the board of directors of Esperanza, a nonprofit organization that supports Hispanic educational achievement through scholarships and mentoring. Crain’s Cleveland Business recognized David as one of its “Forty Under 40” for his professional accomplishments and community service. David was born in Quito, Ecuador, served in the Peace Corps in the Dominican Republic and is conversant in Spanish.
