Firms To Watch: Energy and natural resources

Rapidly growing energy boutique Lotero Zuluaga Abogados gained a raft of major new clients over the past year, including Canadian Solar and Atlas Renewable Energy; key partner Felipe Zuluaga Isaza is highlighted for his ‘excellent performance’.

Energy and natural resources in Colombia

Brigard Urrutia

A destination practice for energy and natural resources law, Brigard Urrutia’s key attributes include its ‘strong ability to work under pressure’ as well as its ‘rapid co-ordination with other teams within the firm’. The full-service group is equipped to handle the gamut of industry matters, from regulatory and environmental issues, through to project structuring and transactional work. It also stands out for its involvement in both the conventional and renewable energy segments. Claudia Navarro is widely recognised for her renewable energy expertise; she advised Promigas on self-sufficient power generation solutions to be provided to its clients. Very experienced associate director of the oil-and-gas and mining practices, Marianna Boza recently acted alongside senior partner Carlos Urrutia and the M&A department to advise Cordoba Minerals on a strategic agreement with JCHX Mining Management to jointly develop its Alacran copper-gold-silver project. Transactional specialist Jaime Robledo and seasoned energy and infrastructure expert Carlos Umaña are also noted at senior level. The group additionally includes talented senior associate Juan Carlos Padilla, and fellow senior Andrés Felipe Parra who rejoined the team from Ecopetrol in May 2022.

Practice head(s):

Carlos Umaña; Carlos Urrutia; Claudia Navarro; Jaime Robledo; Marianna Boza; Juan Carlos Padilla; Andrés Felipe Parra; Carlos Andrés Cerón


Testimonials

As a team, its availability and strong ability to work under pressure without making mistakes was the key to our success, especially when compared to the counterpart firm, which made many unforced errors, due to pressure from its own client.

Also, very important, was the rapid coordination with other teams within the firm, which were always available with 24 hours notice, which allowed us to resolve additional issues related to the energy practice in extraordinary times.

We value lawyers for their respect, commitment and professionalism, to name just a few key attributes that added significant value to their work, and to the transaction itself.

Associates Andres Felipe Parra and María Alejandra Salamanca, guided by partner Claudia Navarro, comprised the main energy team that supported us during the transaction. As to these three lawyers, the word exceptional falls short, as they were an immeasurable contribution to the success of the transaction.

Key clients

Oleoducto de Los Llanos Orientales – Oleoducto Bicentenario de Colombia


Geopark


Ecopetrol


Cordoba Minerals


Mineros


Barrick Gold Corporation


Elecnorte


Financiera de Desarrollo Nacional


Promigas


Total Eren Colombia


Vestas Mexicanas del Viento


Solarpack


Work highlights


  • Advised Cordoba Minerals on a strategic agreement with China’s JCHX Mining Management to jointly develop its flagship Alacran copper-gold-silver project in Colombia.
  • Advised Total Eren on the construction of a photovoltaic solar park that will be built in the Rubiales field.
  • Advised Financiera de Desarrollo Nacional on the structuring of a public procurement process to be initiated by the Ministry of Mines and Energy.

Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría

At the forefront of all trends’, Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría’s team is valued by sources for its ‘knowledge and experience in the energy sector’. The comprehensive practice handles the full scope of transactional, regulatory and contentious work, with the ability to lean on other specialists from across the full-service firm to resource large-scale and cross-practice matters. Department head Sandra Manriquepossesses great judgment and has very good negotiation skills’ and is particularly well versed in oil-and-gas, and mining-related issues. In terms of the former, Manrique has been advising Shell Exploration & Production Colombia on various regulatory and commercial matters, while on the mining side she is providing regulatory advice to Gramalote Colombia on the planning and development of its projects. The team also fields an impressive group of experienced associates, including principal of the energy, mining and natural resources department, Juan Pablo Gutiérrez (who attracts praise for being ‘very transparent in his advice about what can or cannot be done'), and Mateo Sinisterra, who oversee the power and mining teams, respectively. Former associate director of the hydrocarbons unit, Johanna Cajigas, left the firm in May 2023.

Practice head(s):

Sandra Manrique


Testimonials

The team supports us on the day-to-day issues of a marketer. It understands that our relationship is more of a marathon than a sprint. In this sense, the fee proposals are designed to preserve the relationship and to be able to work together. It is a very good team that knows the energy industry in depth.

Associate Juan Pablo Gutiérrez is an excellent professional. Very transparent in his advice about what can or cannot be done. Also, very timely in his responses.

We value the team for its knowledge and experience in the energy sector, quick responses, appropriate and accurate criteria and understanding of client needs.

Sandra Manrique has a lot of experience in the energy sector. She is assertive, fast, possesses great judgment and has very good negotiation skills.

Associate Juan Pablo Gutiérrez knows the sector, provides quick responses and demonstrates good judgment. He understands the client’s needs very well.

Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría is a firm with the highest standards and is at the forefront of all trends.

They are the best advisors in oil and gas in the country. They are remarkably skilled, particularly Sandra Manrique and associate Johanna Cajigas, who are the best.

Key clients

Shell Exploration & Production Colombia


Ingredion


Oleoducto Bicentenario


Oleoducto de los Llanos Orientales


Entoria Energy Colombia


Trina Solar Colombia


Vitol Energía


Corporación Soluciones Energéticas Integrales


Surtidora de Gas del Caribe Empresa de Servicios Públicos


Cenit Transporte y Logística de Hidrocarburos


CerroMatoso – South32 Energy


Gramalote Colombia


Mineros Aluvial


Ultracem


Minera de Cobre Quebradona


Conexpe


AngloGold Ashanti


Juan Manuel Ruiseco & Cía


Frontier Next


Mineros


Work highlights


  • Provided ongoing advice to Shell on natural gas market regulatory issues.
  • Advised Oleoducto de los Llanos Orientales on the assignment of the Firm Energy Obligations (OEFs) of several power generation plants, including connection contracts with the grid operator.
  • Advised Entoria on the construction of several power generation and self-generation plants with non-conventional renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind energy.

Posse Herrera Ruiz

Posse Herrera Ruiz frequently represents key industry stakeholders on the full life cycle of energy and natural resources matters, from tender applications, through to planning and financing issues and corporate transactions. With a strong track-record in both the conventional and alternative energy spheres, the practice is particularly noted for its a growing focus on projects involving renewable sources for clients such as Grenergy, among others. High-profile specialist Alvaro José Rodríguez possesses extensive experience in energy and environmental law and is particularly sought after for his expertise in the oil-and-gas arena; he recently advised Oxy (through its subsidiary Anadarko Colombia Company) in a farm-out agreement with Ecopetrol for the transfer of a 40% stake in four offshore blocks. Up-and-coming partner Mariana Sánchez’s practice spans a mix of mining, energy, and infrastructure-related work; she advised Hidrocarburos del Casanare on the structuring of a 2MW self-generation energy facility. The group also draws on deeply experienced practice director Diana Salazar, who splits her practice between insurance, and energy and natural resources; and Erika Serrano Rojas, who was promoted to director of the firm's environmental and sustainability practice in March 2023.

Practice head(s):

Alvaro José Rodríguez; Mariana Sánchez


Testimonials

An excellent firm: knowledge, professionalism, availability… one of the best firms we have worked with in Latin America. Very detailed, they see things from all points of view, they don’t overlook any detail.

The treatment is really extraordinary from all the members of the team. They are very professional and know exactly what they are doing.

Their quality of work is unmatched; the promptness of the response – they are always timely.

I’d recommend the entire team of Mariana Sánchez.

Our operation is in the oil-&-gas sector. We operate a ‘tea pot’ refinery in Yopal Casanare. The hydrocarbons sector in Colombia is highly regulated, which is why one needs to be up-to-date with current regulations, not only regarding O&G but equally in environmental matters. The Posse team is highly specialised in these issues, in addition to having a constellation of technicians with whom a complete in-depth study of each topic is achieved. We are also building a solar park to self-consume and export energy, for which PHR are well-known stars.

What is outstanding about the PHR team in O&G, environmental and additionally in renewable energy – photovoltaic in our case – is the unconditional accompaniment and support. Their availability for us, 24/7. The team is mainly led and coordinated by partner Mariana Sánchez, with the additional and important support of Erica Serrano and Pablo Mejía. Great team. They are unconditional and attentive to detail, whether in contracting, regulation, etc.

Key clients

Oxy


Grenergy


Arrow Exploration


Hidrocarburos del Casanare


Puerto Bahia Colombia De Uraba


Grenergy Renovables


Work highlights


  • Advised Oxy (through its subsidiary Anadarko Colombia Company) in a farm-out agreement with Ecopetrol for the transfer of a 40% stake in four offshore blocks.
  • Advised Grenergy on the negotiation of an EPC contract for a solar plant that will be used as a template for the development of its Bayunca project and five additional projects.
  • Acted for Hidrocarburos del Casanare on the structuring of a 2MW self-generation energy facility, including advising on the preparation of EPC contracts, grid connection rights, and environmental permitting.

Sanclemente Fernández Abogados S.A.

Capable boutique Sanclemente Fernández Abogados S.A. has a strong firm-wide focus on energy and natural resources law, particularly oil and gas-related matters. The interdisciplinary department routinely advises a wide scope of clients — including exploration companies, pipeline transporters, operators, and others — on regulatory and transactional matters; it also has significant contentious expertise. Widely recognised as a market leader, Diana Sanclemente brings to bear thirty years of experience in energy-related issues, with a marked emphasis on the hydrocarbons sector. The deep bench additionally includes seasoned energy veteran Antonio Sanclemente, who also has a strong profile for his record in the oil-and-gas sector for both downstream and upstream-related work. Other experienced names include: José Gabriel Fernández, who has a focus on energy transactions; Donaldo Ariza, who has a significant public law dimension to his work; and Ignacio Giraldo, who maintains a broad corporate practice. Associate Marcela Mosquera, who has an emphasis on energy, mining, and environmental law, is also noted.

Practice head(s):

Antonio Sanclemente; Jose Gabriel Fernandez; Diana Sanclemente; Ignacio Giraldo; Donaldo Ariza


Baker McKenzie S.A.S.

The energy and natural resources team at Baker McKenzie S.A.S. strikes the right note with sources due to its ‘very good technical knowledge’ which it applies ‘in a practical way to help the business’. The group, which houses distinct offerings in each of the power, mining, and hydrocarbon areas, also stands out for its extensive cross-border firepower. Managing partner Alejandro Mesa steers the overarching energy, mining and infrastructure department and has been advising Engie on local regulatory and contractual matters. Other key contacts include intermediate associate Laura Torres who has a focus on energy and public law. However, former senior associate Nicolás Arboleda left to establish his own practice in March 2023; while fellow senior (and leader of the power sub-practice), Mariana Villegas, moved to energy transition think-tank Polen Transiciones Justas the following month.

Practice head(s):

Nicolás Arboleda; Alejandro Mesa


Testimonials

Baker has a very complete team with a great leader in Alejandro Mesa, who cares about providing a high-quality service while maintaining an excellent relationship with customers.

The team has a very good technical knowledge and they use it in a practical way to help the business, always providing the customer with the highest quality service but with great warmth and friendliness.

The energy and natural resources team has extensive knowledge of the issues that we face as a company, including regulations, and possible risks that are identified in conjunction with the area. Its disposition and good attitude, in addition to its knowledge, makes us maintain constant communication.

Key clients

Ecopetrol


Frontera Energy Corporation


Saint Aubain E&P


Empresas Públicas de Medellín


Canadian Solar


Ralos & Blaud Energy Colombia


Refoenergy Villanueva


Reforestadora de la Costa (Refocosta)


Schlumberger Surenco


Impala Terminals Colombia


ONGC Videsh


Houston American Energy


Work highlights


  • Acted as Engie’s legal advisors in Colombia for all general regulatory, contractual and tax matters.
  • Advised Refoenergy Villanueva on the construction of a 25MW biomass power generation project to be connected to the grid.
  • Acted for the National Mining Agency on structuring and launching tenders to offer selected strategic mining areas to potential investors worldwide.

CMS Rodríguez-Azuero

The interdisciplinary practice at CMS Rodríguez-Azuero stands out for its ‘extensive and specialised experience in the energy, environmental and land sectors, among others’. The group continues to gain traction in the market following a string of recent hires, which included the absorption of specialist power boutique, Yáñez & Asociados in July 2021 and the addition of mining and environmental boutique, Vergel Riascos Abogados in September 2022. The energy and climate change department is now led jointly by four partners, namely: Álvaro Yáñez Peñaranda, who acts for an impressive roster of multinational energy and mining companies; Álvaro Josué Yáñez, whose practice spans energy and infrastructure projects; Daniel Rodríguez, who specialises in regulatory and project-related matters; and mining expert Daniela Vergel, who focuses on dispute resolution. The group also includes dedicated energy and climate change counsel, Mónica Torres.

Practice head(s):

Alvaro Josué Yáñez; Alvaro Yáñez Peñaranda; Daniel Rodríguez; Daniela Vergel


Testimonials

Lawyers in the oil and gas area in Colombia must understand the engineering and geology aspects to effectively and correctly advise the client. In the case of CMS, Alvaro Josué Yáñez and Alvaro Yáñez Peñaranda have this particular competitive advantage over other lawyers in the sector.

100% success has been achieved with this team in each matter we have undertaken.

Given the complexity of the Colombian legal context in the oil and gas sector, billing has been in line with the peculiarities of the industry, being in my opinion fair both to the firm and to the client, unlike other offices that, due to lack of knowledge, charge more — or the charge is not adequate for the work.

My interactions have been with Alvaro Josué Yáñez and Alvaro Yáñez Peñaranda. We appreciate their in-depth knowledge of the sector, including their technical knowledge in refining, production, exploration, and transportation. In particular, I would like to highlight the professional ethics of both of them.

The team is knowledgeable and quick in their responses, which enables it to address clients’ needs in a very effective manner.

We distinguish the team’s lawyers for their dedication, professionalism and commitment.

It is an interdisciplinary team, with extensive and specialised experience in the energy, environmental, and land sectors, among others. The team is competitive, collaborative, and provides solutions with positive impacts. Lawyers seek to eliminate or minimise negative impacts.

The professionals in the team listen and understand the client’s needs, they help to make the execution of projects viable, and they are specialised people who constantly provide updates on the process. They are also available and provide exceptional service.

Key clients

Canacol Energy


Lewis Energy


Repsol Colombia


Électricité de France (EDF)


SOWITEC Energías Renovables de Colombia


Electryon Power


Chevron Petroleum


Work highlights


  • Advised Promigas on the design and implementation of the legal and regulatory mechanism that will allow the behaviour of GNV’s price to move consistently with the fluctuation of its substitutes.
  • Acted as local counsel to Electryon Power on various matters, including recently advising on the incorporation of a local subsidiary in Colombia.
  • Successfully obtained a $2m award on behalf of Chevron Petroleum in a commercial arbitration under Bogotá Chamber of Commerce (CCB) rules.

Dentons Cardenas & Cardenas

Dentons Cardenas & Cardenas’ energy offering is primarily oriented towards energy transactions, with robust recent experience in M&A, project development and energy financings, among other deals. That being said, the group also handles a significant volume of regulatory work, where it frequently leverages its international platform to shine in advising multinational energy and natural resources companies on their local day-to-day local matters. Among the names to note, Venezuela-qualified Jorge Neher brings to bear significant multi-jurisdictional firepower; he notably leads the energy practice in Latin America and the Caribbean. Neher co-heads the department alongside transactional energy and infrastructure specialist Hernán Rodríguez, finance expert Bernardo Cárdenas, and next generation partner Santiago González. The team also draws on María Margarita Lorduy, who is the associate director of the environmental law practice.

Practice head(s):

Jorge Neher; Santiago González; Bernardo Cárdenas; James Valdiri; Hernán Rodriguez


Key clients

New Stratus Energy


Petroquimica Comodoro Rivadavia (PCR) Investments (now Dutmy)


ONGC Videsh, sucursal Colombiana


Perenco Colombia


Gran Tierra Energy


Enerland


Puerto bahía de Colombia


Cannacord Genuity


Aris Mining Corporation


Brazil Resources


Drummond Colombia


Colombian Natural Resources II


Touchstone


Newmont Mining Corporation


GCM Mining Corp


Anglo Gold Ashanti


Gramalote Colombia


Minera de Cobre Quebradona


Auxico Resources Canada


Anglo American


Iamgold


Novum Energy


Mr. Kenneth Starr


Greenstone Mining Corp


Caribbean Resources


Work highlights


  • Advised ONGC Videsh on day-to-day legal issues in Colombia, including regulatory and environmental law matters.
  • Advised Perenco Colombia on the acquisition of Ecopetrol’s participation in five association agreements for the exploration and exploitation of hydrocarbons.
  • Acted as local counsel to Gran Tierra Energy LLC and Gran Tierra Colombia Inc, as borrowers, on a $150m credit facility granted by Trafigura.

Gómez-Pinzón Abogados (GPA)

Striking a balance between regulatory and transactional work, Gómez-Pinzón Abogados (GPA) has a marked focus on energy-related matters, with robust experience in both the power and hydrocarbons arenas. The team is also distinguished by its ability to draw on complementary practices from across the full-service firm for support in multi-faceted matters, including corporate, tax, environmental, and public law. Patricia Arrázola fronts the group and is widely recognised for her strong skill sets in both commercial and regulatory issues. The team also includes Germán Villamil, who is noted for his record in oil-and-gas transactions, and up-and-coming energy specialist José Luís Palacios. The team additionally includes senior associate Lina Correa , who has an emphasis on environmental law. Senior associates Daniel Fajardo and Juan Felipe Pulecio moved in house at Engie (in July 2022) and Geopark (April 2023), respectively.

Practice head(s):

Patricia Arrázola


Key clients

EDP Renováveis


CTG Colombia Holding (China Three Gorges Corporation)


Canadian Solar Energy Colombia


Greenyellow Energia De Colombia


CBN Energy Colombia


Pluspetrol


EDF Renewables Colombia


Black Orchid Solar Management


Ministerio de Hacienda y Crédito Público


Weatherford Colombia


Termobarranquilla


Sierracol Energy Arauca


Plus +


Sucden


Grupo Luz y Fuerza


Next


Asociación Colombiana De Petróleo


Kalpataru Power Transmission


Idom Consulting, Engineering, Architecture


Empresa Colombiana de Clavos (Emcoclavos)


Work highlights


  • Provided regulatory advice to EDP Renováveis in relation to an M&A transaction in the energy sector.
  • Advised CTG Colombia Holding on regulatory matters concerning an investment in the renewable energy sphere.
  • Provided regulatory advice to EDF Renewables Colombia in relation to a power purchase agreement.

Holland & Knight

According to satisfied clients, Holland & Knightapplies innovative criteria to address the situations to be resolved’. The Tampa-headquartered firm acts for a mix of local and multinational clients, with the local Bogotá office having the ability to plug into a network of 220 energy lawyers across its global platform to resource cross-border matters. Experienced group head José Vicente Zapata maintains a broad energy and natural resources practice, which spans corporate, commercial and regulatory matters — for clients operating in the electricity, oil and gas, mining, agrochemical, and industrial sectors. Other senior names include Ines Elvira Vesga, who has a focus on oil and gas, of counsel Milton Fernando Montoya, who specialises in mining work, and newly promoted (January 2023) public law partner Juan Casallas. Margarita Solorza (energy and environmental) and Estefanny Pardo (dispute resolution and natural resources) were both promoted to senior counsel in January 2023.

Practice head(s):

José Vicente Zapata


Testimonials

It is a highly specialised and technical subject. The Holland & Knight team has solid knowledge and applies innovative criteria to address the situations to be resolved.

The people who work at H&K are very up-to-date and have very solid knowledge.

H&K has a robust practice in energy and natural resources due to the great track record of José Vicente Zapata. Zapata articulates business needs very well with regulatory requirements and legislative developments, allowing investors to anticipate the needs of their projects and make conscious and timely decisions.

Jose Vicente Zapata is an active participant in the evaluation and preparation of standards, he is active in litigation and arbitration cases, and knows the environmental aspects of the business, which implies an integrity that differentiates him from his competitors.

Key clients

Lewis Energy Colombia


Equion Energía


Emerald Energy


Geopark Colombia


Isagen


Aes Chivor & CIA


SierraCol Energy Arauca


Promigas


Exxon Mobil Exploration and Production and Exxon Mobil Corporation


Repsol Servicios Colombia


Gran Tierra Energy


Cerromatoso


Drummond


Anglogold Ashanti


Carbones del Cerrejón


Consorcio Minero de Cucuta


GIA Capital


Coscuez (Fura Gems)


Eco Oro Minerals Corp


A nonprofit Company engaged in the exploitation of construction materials/ Fundación San Antonio


Grupo Energía


Bancolombia


Banco Davivienda


Minera Quebradona


AngloGold Ashanti


Work highlights


  • Advised ExxonMobil Exploration & Production and ExxonMobil Corporation on regulatory matters related to the development of E&P contracts under research projects for unconventional reservoirs.
  • Represented Isagen on a series of regulatory and environmental matters before the National Environmental Agency regarding environmental sanctioning proceedings against it.
  • Advised Bancolombia on a COP$126bn project finance facility granted to Sol de las Ciénagas (the SPV) for the construction of a 50MW solar power plant in Barranquilla.

Angulo Martínez & Abogados

With a focus on the electricity market in Colombia, Angulo Martínez & Abogados has strong experience in renewable energy matters in particular. The boutique firm counts several multinational companies among its clients, including Trina Solar and Solarcentury, and it also routinely acts for local players. Founding partner Juan José Angulo specialises in power-related work and has advised on projects aggregating more than 4GW of generation capacity. The team also includes of counsel Francisco Rivera, who is well versed in environmental law matters, and administrative law-focused associate Laurent Cuervo Escobar. Counsel Juan Fernando Giraldo left the firm in January 2023.

Practice head(s):

Juan José Angulo


Key clients

Trina Solar Colombia


Vatia


Sungrow Colombia


Univergy Colombia


Continua Energias Positiva


Prodiel / DVP Solar


MINESA


EDP Renováveis


Oleoducto Central (OCENSA)


Oak Creek Energy


Neoen


Acciona Energía Colombia


Begonia Power


Promisol


Technoelite Green Energy


CENIT


Asociación de Energías Renovables Colombia – Ser Colombia


Ganados Monterrey


Manuelita


Aceites Manuelita


Palmar de Altamira


Eco Energy World


Work highlights


  • Advised Trina Solar on various projects and environmental matters.
  • Advised Solargeen on issues connected to the Bosques Solares de los Llanos solar farm project.
  • Represented private, not-for-profit guild, Ser Colombia, before the Constitutional Court of Colombia, on the issuance of an amicus curiae legal opinion defending the constitutionality of the clean energy 10% quota instated in Article 296 of Law 1955/19.

Arrieta Mantilla & Asociados

Public law and projects powerhouse, Arrieta Mantilla & Asociados scores highly for its lawyers’ ability to ‘analyse the issues from various perspectives’. The team handles a range of energy and natural resources-related work, but it is primarily focused on the mining sector, where it has extensive experience in advising national and foreign companies on regulatory, judicial and administrative proceedings. A former Attorney Inspector General of Colombia, Carlos Gustavo Arrieta is widely recognised as a force in contentious public law matters. Yady Villaquirán, who is recommended for her ‘personal touch, disposition and professionalism’ co-heads the practice alongside Arrieta.

Practice head(s):

Carlos Gustavo Arrieta; Yady Villaquirán


Testimonials

Arrieta Mantilla has a good team of litigation lawyers which, together with the in-depth analysis that partner Carlos Gustavo Arrieta brings to the cases, is an excellent formula.

Carlos Gustavo Arrieta has experience in handling large cases, which are important for the company.

A team that is always analysing the most current and relevant legal and thematic developments. They are not focused on what has already been done, but on case-by-case innovation.

They put themselves in the “shoes” of the client and analyse the issues from various perspectives to create an argument with multiple criteria, not only legal.

The firm provides a high-quality and personalised service. Its lawyers are always willing to meet and resolve concerns and their mastery of the issues is of the highest excellence.

Yady Villaquirán has extensive experience and her personal touch, disposition and professionalism are all exceptional.

Key clients

Carbones del Cerrejón and Cerrejón Zona Norte


Drummond


Cerro Matoso


Continental Gold


Celsia


Anglogold Ashanti


Sociedad Minera de Santander – Minesa


Orica Colombia and Orica Norway


Financiera de Desarrollo Nacional


Conocophillips


Asociación Colombiana del GLP (GasNova)


Work highlights


  • Advised Carbones del Cerrejón and Cerrejón Zona Norte on various mining and public law issues, including representation in administrative proceedings before mining sector agencies and certain jurisdictional authorities.
  • Represented Cerro Matoso in a judicial process related to a nullity action held by the client against Contraloría General de la República as a result of a fiscal liability judgment issued by that authority.
  • Advised Anglogold Ashanti on public, mining and energy law matters, including leading the company’s legal strategies in relation to local measures that may affect the company’s interests.

Cuatrecasas

Cuatrecasas’ energy team has been on an upward trajectory since the hire of department head and project finance specialist, dual-qualified (Colombia/New York) Ana María Sánchez, who joined in February 2022 from Peruvian firm, Rebaza, Alcázar & De Las Casas. The group was further reinforced in May 2022 with the addition of senior associate Manuel Gómez from Brigard Urrutia, who brings experience in energy, infrastructure, and public law. Project finance is a notable sweet spot for the team and it has also demonstrated strong recent showings in project development, joint ventures, and M&A-related work. Finance specialist Manuel Quinche and energy and infrastructure-focused senior associate Fabio Ardila are also noted.

Practice head(s):

Ana María Sánchez


Key clients

Total Eren


Enerfin


EDF Colombia


Davivienda


Bancolombia


Patria


Abo Wind


CTG Latam


Mainstream


Yinson Renewables


Bluefloat


Atitlan Helios


Atlántica Yield


Blackrock


Transmisora Colombiana de Energía


Work highlights


  • Advised Banca de Inversión Bancolombia on its alliance with Celsia, through a joint venture agreement.
  • Advised Mainstream, as the sponsors, on financing the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of the Andromeda project, a photovoltaic plant with an installed capacity of 100MW.
  • Advised Bancolombia, Inter-American Investment Corporation, and Inter-American Development Bank on financing a portfolio of three solar photovoltaic plants in Puerto Gaitán, Meta.

DLA Piper Martinez Beltrán

An increasingly prominent player in the energy market, DLA Piper Martinez Beltrán’s practice secured 13 new clients during 2022/23, including PowerChina International Group, CarbonFree Technology and Intercolombia. The group ‘strives to truly meet customer needs’, according to sources, and possesses experience along the full energy chain, including regulatory, transactional and contentious matters. A former legal director of the Ministry of Mines and Energy, Lucas Arboleda was promoted to partner in January 2023; he is valued for his ‘great knowledge on energy regulatory issues’. José Miguel Mendoza specialises in corporate conflicts and energy and natural resources work and co-heads the department alongside Arboleda. In February 2023, energy and infrastructure partner Paola Aldana left to become an independent advisor, but the firm has since hired Johanna Cajigas -formerly associate director of the hydrocarbons unit at Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría- as director of the firm's energy practice (effective as of May 2023). Since publication, Cajigas has been promoted to the partnership (effective February 2024).

Practice head(s):

Lucas Arboleda; José Miguel Mendoza


Testimonials

We value the firm for its immediate and permanent availability. The team strives to truly meet customer needs.

DLA fields lawyers who have worked in private practice and in the public sector, providing a good mix of backgrounds. Client service is excellent, superior to other firms in response times and in the close relationship established with the client. It is interested in the processes beyond the required request.

Lucas Arboleda is an excellent partner; he has an incredible disposition, has great knowledge on energy regulatory issues, is up-to-date and knows how the public sector works due to his experience at the Ministry of Mines and Energy.

This office has lawyers who know and understand the Colombian public sector and the ways in which we must interact to achieve the expected results without generating risks related to the state nature of our company. Lawyers build trust and value.

The training of lawyers in the public sector generates knowledge and risk management strategies associated with the management of public resources. I highlight Lucas Arboleda and Camilo Martínez for their performance and advice.

Key clients

Air-e


First Solar


BBI Colombia


Uriel Renovables


CarbonFree Technology


Termoélectrica El Tesorito


Intercolombia


Transelca


PowerChina International Group


XM


Work highlights


  • Advised Air-e on the structuring of the first private tender process for the development of renewable energy projects in Colombia.
  • Advised Proeléctrica on the structuring of a solar photovoltaic energy project with an installed power of 200MW.
  • Advised BBI, owner of the coffee shop chain Tostao, on reviewing and negotiating long-term agreements for the supply of electricity to its operating plants and shops.

Estudio Legal Hernández

The thriving energy practice at Estudio Legal Hernández added 12 new clients during 2022/23, including multinationals Bluefloat Energy, Ongresso Energy and Lilan Energy. An increasingly prominent performer in the renewable energy space, the boutique also handles matters in the conventional power, natural gas, and mining segments. Department head Juanita Hernández is sought after for her expertise in the power and natural gas sectors; notably she has advised on over 10,000MWs of power plant development projects to date. The group also draws on public law veteran Augusto Hernández Becerra; administrative law partner Augusto Hernández Vidal; and Aura Vargas Cendales, who is associate director of the environmental, property, mining, and communities practice

Practice head(s):

Juanita Hernández


Testimonials

A team with good experience and extensive knowledge of renewable energy issues. They have been able to help us with all the issues we have had up to now, and have supported us well during discussions and negotiations with customers and partners.

We work mainly with Juanita Hernández and Jose Ignacio Rueda Posada, who demonstrate very professional behaviour. A fair and efficient solution is sought in contrast to some lawyers, who prefer to run their taximeters. It is a pleasure to work with them since they generate confidence that they really want to help.

Key clients

Ecopetrol


Renergetica Latam Corporation


Solargreen


DVP solar


Enel Colombia


Bluefloat Energy


Atlantica Sustainable Investments


Notus Colombia


Lilan Energy


Sante Fe Energy


Grupotec


Viridi Energías Renovables


Parex Resources


Lader Energy


EDF Renewables


Grupo Empresarial Gasco


Operadora Rayo


Suncolombia


Ongresso Energy


Ciudad Luz


SC Solar


Work highlights


  • Advised Enel Colombia on regulatory and contractual matters regarding the development, construction, and operation of the 150MW La Loma Project, with an estimated investment of $126m.
  • Advised Solaer on the preparation, negotiation, and closing of the sale of the Bosques Solares de los Llanos 6 project.
  • Advised Ecopetrol on the implementation of a green hydrogen generation pilot project at the Cartagena Refinery with an investment of $6m.

Lloreda Camacho & Co.

Lawyers at Lloreda Camacho & Co.provide comprehensive advice, and timely and accurate support’. Distinguished by its focus on the mining sector, the group acts for a mix of multinational and domestic clients on a range of industry matters, including regulatory issues, bid tenders, commercial transactions, and dispute resolution. Department head Ignacio Santamaria is held up by sources for his ‘instinct for solutions’; he brings to bear comprehensive expertise across the full life cycle of mining law. The group also includes next-generation partner Angela María Salazar, who combines strength in mining and environmental matters.

Practice head(s):

Ignacio Santamaría; Ángela María Salazar


Testimonials

The Lloreda Camacho natural resources and energy team is a team with many years of experience in the sector. It has participated in different negotiations and projects, which, added to its knowledge of Colombian legislation, allows it to provide comprehensive advice, and timely and accurate support.

The firm’s regulatory update service is ideal in these times of constant regulatory reform.

The team’s knowledge, experience and participation in countless transactions, in addition to its understanding of the reality of the sector and the country, makes us have full confidence in Lloreda’s advice — we feel supported and safe.

Ángela María Salazar is an integral lawyer, with all-round knowledge of the mining industry. Her service to her clients is impeccable, she always protects our interests and those of the industry.

Ignacio Santamaría is a practical and honest lawyer, with a transversal vision of business and an instinct for solutions.

We value the team’s capacity for strategic relationships to achieve the objectives.

Lawyers stand out for their ability to provide responses in real time. The team assigns specialists by field. We particularly highlight Ángela María Salazar.

Key clients

Anglo American


Outcrop Silver & Gold Corp


Collective Mining


Minera Monte Águila


Minera Monteoro


Mineros Aluvial BIC


Zijin-Continental Gold


Incimmet


Antioquia Gold


Libero Copper


Minera Vetas


Volador Holdings


International Materials


Work highlights


  • Advised Minera Monte Águila on phase two of the exploration agreement, with venture option, executed with Minera Anzá sucursal Colombia, Minera Anzá BVI, and Orosur Mining.
  • Advised Minera Monte Águila on its qualification to participate in the bid processes initiated by the National Mining Agency.
  • Provided ongoing advice to Minera Monte Águila in connection with mining regulations applicable to its operations.

Chalela | Abogados

Energy has traditionally been a mainstay at Chalela | Abogados, with the boutique firm primarily recognised for its close relationships with companies operating in the hydrocarbons, mining and renewable-energy sectors. Managing partner Federico Chalela maintains a broad practice, with a focus on heavily regulated industries; he frequently advises energy and infrastructure companies on projects, corporate transactions, and dispute resolution. Key names at associate level include litigator María Isabel Paz; commercial law-focused Andrea Gutierrez; and associate director María Jose Romero, who specialises in environmental and administrative law.

Practice head(s):

Federico Chalela; Maria Jose Romero; María Isabel Paz; Andrea Gutierrez


Goh

Goh’s energy and natural resources team has a focus on the mining, and oil-and-gas industries, where it provides a varied mix of regulatory, contractual, environmental, and tax advice. Managing partner Juan Pablo Godoy steers the department and combines his experience in natural resources with strength in tax and foreign trade law. The group also draws on associate director Álvaro Sabbagh, whose practice takes in transactional natural resources matters. Litigator Juan Sebastián Lombana  left to establish an independent practice in January 2023.

Practice head(s):

Juan Pablo Godoy


Testimonials

They are a multidisciplinary group with excellent knowledge in the various areas where they practice. In oil and tax matters they are the best. Excellent professionals and better people.

The empowerment of their lawyers and rapport with clients make a remarkable difference.

Key clients

Maurel & Prom


Cenit Transporte y Logística de Hidrocarburos


Occidental de Colombia


CPVEN E&P / CPVEN Servicios Petroleros


Vitol Colombia


Gran Colombia Gold


Oleoducto Central (OCENSA)


Empresas Públicas de Medellín


Superior Energy Services


Renew Capital Partners


Ecopetrol


Work highlights


  • Advising CPVEN E&P as non-operating partner in a joint venture with Ecopetrol for the VMM-32 block.
  • Acting for Cenit Transporte y Logística de Hidrocarburos regarding a possible settlement in respect of ship-or-pay transportation contracts with Frontera Group.
  • Advising Superior Energy Services on day-to-day operational matters in Colombia, including contract preparation, revisions and negotiations.

OGE Legal Services

OGE Legal Services’ dedication to energy-related matters pays dividends and the boutique firm is widely recognised for its strength in the electric power and natural gas arenas. The group is primarily focused on regulatory work, with extensive experience across the full range of distribution, transmission and commercialisation-related issues, but it is also well versed in commercial and contentious matters. Founding partner Hemberth Suarez spearheads the team and is noted for his comprehensive coverage of the power and natural gas industries.

Practice head(s):

Hemberth Suarez


Palacios Lleras

Palacios Lleras’ ‘friendly, direct and responsive’ team specialises in representing mining and natural gas clients in administrative proceedings, reflecting the boutique’s wider focus on public law and dispute resolution. The group also brings to bear significant supplementary expertise in environmental law. Department head Hugo Palacios Mejía is noted for his ‘extensive knowledge in various branches of law’ and enjoys close relationships with several multinationals operating in the natural resources sphere, including Drummond. The team also benefits from the senior experience of litigator Óscar Gutiérrez and public law specialist Pedro Pacheco.

Practice head(s):

Hugo Palacios Mejía


Testimonials

Apart from the firm’s in-depth knowledge of the matters in which it deals, the firm stands out for its friendly, direct and responsive relationships with its clients. The team clarifies all concerns to formulate the best strategy tailored to the client’s needs.

Without a doubt, the figure of Hugo Palacios Mejía stands out. He is an excellent lawyer with extensive knowledge in various branches of law.

Key clients

Naturgas


CNR III.


Drummond


Drummond Coal Mining


Drummond Energy


Norgas


Airplan


Grupo Energía Bogotá


American Port Company


Work highlights


  • Represented Drummond in a proceeding concerning the potential ban on the use of hydraulic fracturing in Colombia.
  • Represented Drummond in several contractual disputes against the National Mining Agency related to royalties’ liquidation and payment.