Gonçalo Andrade Sousa > Uría Menéndez – Proença Carvalho > Lisbon, Portugal > Lawyer Profile

Described as ‘undoubtedly one of the most technically competent and prepared law firms in the Portuguese market’, Uría Menéndez – Proença Carvalho is home to an energy and natural resources practice, which is a key port of call for domestic and international corporates, as well as financial institutions, on matters pertaining to M&A, project finance and litigation. The team, which showcases extensive experience in the renewables and gas distribution segments, is led by a capable duo: Bernardo Diniz de Ayala, who specialises in public law and projects; and João Louro e Costa, who is praised for his ‘very deep knowledge of the energy sector‘. Gonçalo Andrade e Sousa handles a mix of public procurement, M&A involving regulated assets, project development and finance.

A variety of clients – including financiers, concessionaires, funds, and companies – turn to Uría Menéndez – Proença Carvalho for assistance with the structuring and financing of greenfield projects; M&A involving regulated assets, refinancing transactions, PPPs, and dispute resolution are also part of the firm’s service offering in this space. Co-head Bernardo Diniz de Ayala excels in guiding grantors, sponsors, and lenders in project finance deals, which is also a key area of expertise for fellow co-leader Antonio Villacampa. Other noteworthy individuals include João Louro e Costa, who oversees cross-border transactions within the transport and energy sectors, and Gonçalo Andrade Sousa, who offers expertise in project development, PPPs, and M&A in regulated sectors. Former head of the practice Pedro Ferreira Malaquias is no longer at the firm.