Launched in 2019, ACU Abogados' four-member energy practice is regularly mandated to represent clients before Chile’s Electricity Law Experts Panel. The team is led by co-founding partner Nicolás Atkinson (a former director at Aninat Schwencke & Cia), who acts for utilities, investors and project developers on project developments (waste-to-energy, wind, solar and decentralised supply models), energy contract law, regulatory issues, and energy trading; he is also increasingly focused on energy sector-M&A and project financing transactions. Key support is provided by director and project development practice leader Teresita Vial, a 2021 recruit and former legal manager for Czech Republic renewable energy company, Solek; and associate Miguel Angel Contreras, whose practice takes in water law, energy and natural resources.
Electricity and hydrocarbons in Chile
ACU Abogados
Practice head(s):
Nicolás Atkinson
Key clients
Canadian Solar
Yamana Gold
TSGF (Total and Total Eren)
Acciona
Statkraft
Genera 4
Atria Energía
Energía Latina (Enlasa)
Corpeduff
IM2
Solar E
Solarpack
Rockville
Cox Energy
Grenergy
Rising Sun
Solek
Work highlights
- Advised Canadian Solar on several M&A operations, either as seller or buyers of solar PV project pipelines.
- Advises Yamana Gold on energy supply matters and energy regulation.
- Advising Total on several transmission agreements.
Allende Bascuñán & Cía
Allende Bascuñán & Cía‘s four-lawyer group is particularly active in relation to large mining, industrial and agricultural companies that have sizeable electricity requirements. The team’s experience covers tenders, negotiations, and disputes involving power purchase agreements, along with energy transmission contracts and legal reports on energy regulations. The ‘highly knowledgeable‘ department also advises on photovoltaic projects. The natural resources, energy and environment practices are led by name partner Felipe Bascuñán Montaner, who has ‘in-depth knowledge of Chile’s electricity regulations‘. Key support comes from former Environmental Assessment Service lawyer Diego Miranda who joined the team in early 2022. Former director Pablo Tejada left to co-found TM Abogados in July the same year.
Practice head(s):
Felipe Bascuñán Montaner
Testimonials
‘The energy and natural resources team stands out for being highly knowledgeable about the sector’s most important legal issues, and it is constantly up to date on regulatory developments, both at national and international levels.‘
‘In administrative aspects, such as billing, the team’s work is very orderly.‘
‘Felipe Bascuñán Montaner has in-depth knowledge of Chile’s electricity regulations.‘
‘Felipe Bascuñán Montaner’s responses to clients’ requirements is agile, and he has a good team of lawyers at the firm who support him.’
‘Felipe Bascuñán Montaner stands out for his commitment and participation in the different stages of projects, defending the interests of clients with great intelligence and ability.‘
‘Felipe Bascuñán Montaner demonstrates great mastery of various energy and natural resources topics.‘
‘Felipe Bascuñán Montaner has exceptional personal skills, which generates trust and respect, not only with his client, but also with the counterparty.‘
Key clients
Freeport-McMoRan (Minera El Abra)
Lundin Mining Corporation (Minera Candelaria)
Electroconsultores.com
Soquimich
Viña Ventisquero
Mantos Copper
Viña Concha y Toro
Bulbo de Los Andes
Associated Universities Inc-AUI
SCM Minera Lumina Copper Chile
Mantoverde
Grow South West
Exportadora Geofrut
Agrícola Geoagro
Agrícola Hacienda Huentelauquén
Work highlights
- Advising AUI (Associated Universities) on the bidding process of CORFO (Chilean Economic Development Agency) to establish and build a Clean Technologies Institute.
- Advising Exportadora Anakena on water rights.
- Assisting Agrícola Hacienda Huentelauquén with designing an efficient strategy for the use of ground and surface water rights.
Arteaga Gorziglia & Cia Abogados
The ‘very attentive' team at Arteaga Gorziglia & Cia Abogados is well known for its expertise in greenfield energy project developments. The 11-strong energy practice routinely negotiates power plant-related engineering, procurement, and construction agreements, as well as operation and maintenance contracts for solar and wind power plants. The firm is additionally active in regulatory and administrative proceedings before Chile’s energy authorities, and fields a go-to team for advice on electricity law regulations. The practice is jointly led by commercial, corporate and business law expert Ignacio Arteaga, who (in addition to arbitration) focuses on energy projects and related contractual matters, energy M&A, and project development and finance; and renewable energy project development and finance specialist Luciano Cruz. The second line of key advisers includes energy litigator María Fernanda Brahm; and recently-promoted director Cristián Carpentier, who advises on M&A and project finance involving renewable power plants and high-voltage transmission lines. In November 2022, former director and regulatory and environmental practice head Pedro Lagos C departed the firm for an in-house role at ACCIONA Energía.
Practice head(s):
Ignacio Arteaga; Luciano Cruz
Testimonials
‘Arteaga is a fundamental part in the development of clients’ projects and prospecting for new technologies – the team helps with everything that has to do with regulatory, territorial and environmental issues!‘
‘The lawyers always give their point of view on clients’ enquiries, and deliver accurate comments that help with decision making.‘
‘A multidisciplinary team that supports clients with different areas of law, from electricity, environmental, territorial and administrative to accounting and labour law.‘
‘The most important thing about the firm’s lawyers is their availability to clients – always very attentive and quick in their responses.‘
‘Luciano Cruz always shows a willingness to solve problems and is honest in his comments even if they go against the opinion of the client.‘
Key clients
Grupo Saesa
China Southern Power Grid
Engie
Andes Mining and Energy
GPG
SunCo
Acciona Energía
Novasources Power Services (Northstar Energy)
Mainstream
Work highlights
- Advised electricity distribution company Sociedad Austral de Electricidad (SAESA) on the acquisition of public Chilean company Enel Transmisión Chile from Enel Chile
- Advised Engie Energía Chile on the acquisition of three wind farms in Chiloe, Los Lagos Region.
- Advising Andes Mining and Energy on certain aspects of the development and construction phases of a methanol-to-gasoline pilot project in southern Chile using green hydrogen.
Barros & Errázuriz
With significant experience in a range of energy matters in Chile, Barros & Errázuriz's large’ 13-member practice covers energy contracts, regulatory issues, energy M&A, joint ventures, project finance, and associated disputes and arbitration. Recent highlights include advising various power generators and banks on complex power purchase agreements, tenders, and large-scale transmission and green hydrogen project developments. The key practitioners are dispute resolution leader José Tomás Errázuriz, whose track record covers both major energy projects and energy litigation; Fernando Garrido, an expert in energy and natural resources-related project developments, financings, litigation, M&A and general corporate matters; and Cristóbal Pellegrini (a partner since January 2022), who advises on energy projects, finance, M&A and litigation. Former senior associates Pedro Pablo Ballivian and Verónica Vergara left the firm for drinking water company Esval and utility company Colbún in August and November 2022, respectively.
Practice head(s):
José Tomás Errázuriz; Fernando Garrido; Cristóbal Pellegrini
Key clients
Consorcio Kimal Lo Aguirre (Transelec/ISA/CSGI JV)
Austria Energy/CIP JV
ISA
Microsoft
Coordinador Eléctrico Nacional
UKA Group
WEG Administradora General de Fondos
Grenergy
Grupo SAESA
Austral Power
Pacific Hydro
Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation
Banco Security
Mitsui & Co
Toesca Administradora General de Fondos
Work highlights
- Advising Conexión Kimal Lo Aguirre, Transelec and China Southern Power Grid International on the incorporation of a consortium to jointly submit a tender for the award of the Kimal-Lo Aguirre HVDC transmission line project.
- Advised a consortium (AE, OK and CIP), as local counsel, on the negotiation of an association for the joint development of a project for the production of 100% renewable green hydrogen and green ammonia.
- Advised Interconexión Eléctrica and Interchile on the competitive sale process for Enel’s energy transmission assets.
Carey
The 13-member department at legal giant Carey has enviable experience in energy projects. The team’s track record covers advice to developers and financial entities on some of Chile’s most significant projects, including coal, natural gas, hydroelectric power, liquified natural gas, solar, wind and geothermal developments, along with floating storage and regasification-unit projects. Clients also turn to the group for its credentials in regulatory work, energy supply agreements, energy M&A, and joint ventures. It additionally acts for bidders and tenderers on electricity, oil and gas-related public and private bidding processes, as well as in relation to the construction of electric transmission lines. The team is co-led by energy regulatory and projects specialists Juan Francisco Mackenna
and José Miguel Bustamante, along with José Tomás Hurley, who focuses on the development of energy projects and associated infrastructure. Within the associate ranks, Pablo Morales maintains a vibrant energy projects practice; and Carmenmaría Poblete is an expert in renewable energy projects and natural resources-related deals.
Practice head(s):
Juan Francisco Mackenna; José Miguel Bustamante; José Tomás Hurley
Testimonials
‘Carey’s Energia team satisfactorily delivers the services expected from a top-notch firm, asserting its prestige in the market.‘
‘Experience and knowledge of the energy market which allows them adequate support in complex M&A negotiations, financing, etc.‘
‘José Miguel Bustamante is a very good leader of Carey’s energy practice.‘
‘José Miguel Bustamante is a lawyer who is very knowledgeable about the industry and the challenges associated with regulation and the practical reality in Chile. He generates a lot of confidence, and is very reasonable and practical.‘
‘The team with a lot of experience in the development, financing and transactions of energy projects. The key figures are partners Juan Francisco Mackenna, José Miguel Bustamante and Julio Recordon, along with associate Pablo Morales.‘
Key clients
Corporación Nacional del Cobre de Chile (CODELCO)
Atlas Renewable Energy
Fotones
Interconexión Eléctrica
Celeo Redes
Enel Chile
Sonnedix
BlackRock
Brookfield Renewables
Tikuna
Teck Resources
Barrick Gold Corporation
Minera Valle Central
Minsur – Minera Andes del Sur
Kinross
Arauco
Aftermath Silver
Hudbay Minerals
Sichuan Tianqi Lithium Industries
Melón
Marimaca Copper Corp
New Century Resources
Quiborax
Antofagasta Minerals
Work highlights
- Advised Codelco on the negotiation of a large power purchase agreement with Colbún.
- Advised Interconexión Eléctrica on the public tender carried out by the Chilean Electricity Regulator for the construction and exploitation of national transmission facilities.
- Advised Enel Chile on the sale of all its interests in Enel Transmisión Chile to SAESA.
Cariola Díez Pérez-Cotapos
The longstanding track record at full-service firm Cariola Díez Pérez-Cotapos covers gas pipeline and coal-fired power plant developments, along with the development and financing of marine natural gas regasification terminal projects. The nine-member practice’s experience also encompasses negotiating power purchase agreements and arbitrations involving breach of energy supply contracts. The experience of regulatory law department head Gonzalo Jiménez, who ‘provides great support during energy transactions', includes advising electricity-consuming companies on tenders; Sergio Díez assists with greenfield wind farm projects; and Martín Astorga advises on the environmental issues surrounding energy projects. Within the firm’s associate pool, senior Verónica Cuadra maintains an active regulatory, environmental and energy law practice.
Practice head(s):
Gonzalo Jiménez
Testimonials
‘Solid knowledge of the marketplace and access to decision makers.‘
‘Quality of the service and availability to the client.‘
‘Gonzalo Jiménez provides great support during energy transactions.‘
Key clients
Enel Green Power
China Three Gorges
Metro de Santiago
Soprole (Fonterra)
ATCO
Celulosa Arauco y Constitución
Kelar
Vidrios Lirquén
GNL Chile
Brookfield
Work highlights
- Ongoing advice to Canadian utility company ATCO on the development of energy projects in Chile.
- Advising Enel Green Power on the development of a large portfolio of renewable energy projects.
- Advising Enel Green Power on developing a greenfield wind farm called Rihue (with a capacity of 138.6MW).
Claro & Cia.
Full-service market stalwart Claro & Cia. is consistently mandated on high-stakes energy projects, with the firm’s sizeable team covering development, construction, acquisition, sale and financing aspects. Its track record incorporates hydro, wind and solar power plants, liquified gas terminals, gas plants, and transmission lines and sub-stations. Other areas of strength include regulatory work and energy sector-related litigation and arbitration. The practice’s principal figures are Rodrigo Ochagavía, who acts for generators, and transmission and distribution companies; and corporate finance, capital markets, international finance and M&A expert, José Luis Ambrosy. Also integral to the firm’s offering are experienced partners Luisa Núñez and José María Eyzaguirre F. Former partner Ariel Mihovilovic left the firm in February 2023 to become a candidate for Chile’s Constitutional Council-Region of Magallanes and Chilean Antartic.
CMS Carey & Allende
Providing ‘high-quality advice‘, CMS Carey & Allende‘s eight-member practice acts for major sector players on energy projects’ earliest stages, as well as during post-operation phases. The team’s expertise covers the structuring, development, acquisition, sale and financing of energy projects, as well as due diligence processes, the incorporation of special purpose vehicles and credit agreement negotiations. The group also houses specialists in power purchase and build-operate-transfer agreements. Other areas of activity include feasibility studies, pre-contract management issues and public concession bids, as well as growth areas such as green hydrogen. Among the firm’s several experienced advisers, Luis Felipe Arze focuses on non-conventional renewable energy projects; co-head of the firm’s energy and climate change group, Jorge Allende Z, advises on transmission line and electrical generation projects; and Fernando De Cárcer ‘always proposes solutions that work for all parties‘. At senior associate level, the energy experience of ‘extraordinary lawyer‘ Sebastián Barros covers transactions, financing and project development work.
Practice head(s):
Fernando de Cárcer
Testimonials
‘100% availability from the energy transactions team.‘
‘The team prepares properly for meetings through rigorous study of the relevant documents.‘
‘Provides high-quality advice.‘
‘The team has a strategic vision of business – the lawyers are more than legal advisors, they are also business advisors. They understand the technical and commercial aspects, and have the willingness and agility to attend at all times, especially during emergencies.‘
‘Great availability from Luis Felipe Arze at crucial moments of transactions. The accompaniment provided to the client is rigorous and of high quality.’
‘Fernando De Cárcer has a commercial mentality that makes him a great and integral advisor to businesses – he knows how to deal with counterparties very well and always proposes solutions that work for all parties. A master of both corporate affairs and M&A.‘
‘Senior associate Sebastián Barros is an extraordinary lawyer – very analytical and masters all facets of work to deliver first-rate legal solutions. He stands out for construction and infrastructure work, as well as commercial issues in general.’
‘Fernando De Cárcer and Sebastián Barros make up an excellent duo.‘
Key clients
Eléctricas de Medellín Ingeniería y Servicios (EDEMSA)
Pacific Hydro Chile
Celeo Redes Chile
Hidroeléctrica Lumen
Enagás
Verano Energy
Porsche Aktiengesellschaft
China Three Gorges
Promigás
Elecnor
Suez Chile
Solarpack
Work highlights
- Advised Verano on the acquisition and subsequent development of a portfolio of 15 solar projects.
- Advised Porsche on the execution of option agreements for the acquisition of green hydrogen production.
- Advised Solarpack on its power purchase agreements with energy distribution companies in Chile.
Cuatrecasas
Cuatrecasas' Santiago office advises on a range of energy projects, including renewables, oil, gas, nuclear plants, and electric roads. The 12-strong team also assists with tenders for energy transmission infrastructure developments, along with power purchase agreements. It additionally acts in energy disputes, as well as before Expert Panels. The team is led by energy M&A and projects specialist, Josefina Yávar with support provided by her fellow former Guerrero Olivos colleagues Roberto Guerrero (who has considerable experience in energy transactions) and M&A expert Macarena Ravinet, along with energy arbitration partners Cristián Conejero and Gianfranco Lotito. January 2023 saw the team further strengthened with the arrival of Sebastián Leyton (as partner) from the Superintendency of Electricity and Fuels.
Practice head(s):
Josefina Yávar
Key clients
Vinci
Banco Santander Chile
Interconexión Eléctrica (ISA)
Compañía General de Electricidad (CGE)
Banco Itaú Corpbanca
Enel Green Power
Genau
Lorentzen Investment Group
EdgeConneX Chile
Work highlights
- Advised Santander Group on the public tender offer of shares of ENEL Transmision Chile.
- Advised Interconexión Eléctrica on its bond issue on the international capital markets.
- Advised ACCIONA Energía on a cooperation agreement with Blue Lines to acquire and develop offshore wind farms in Chile.
Dentons Larrain Rencoret
The five-member energy team at Dentons Larrain Rencoret routinely acts for energy companies on their day-to-day regulatory matters. The practice also advises major non-energy companies (such as mining businesses) on compliance with energy regulations. Other key areas include power purchase agreements, toll contracts, easements and environmental issues. The firm’s Latin America energy group co-head, Enrique Benítez, assists energy companies (particularly generators) on a range of energy-related matters; while Marisol Ceballos' track-record includes advising major European companies on the purchase, sale and construction of renewable energy projects. Further partner-level expertise is provided by the experienced Pauline Chiffelle, whose practice focuses on electricity sector regulations and litigation.
Practice head(s):
Enrique Benitez
Key clients
Engie
Atlantica Sustainable Infrastructure
Banco de Crédito e Inversiones
Achiga
Atlantica Yield
Energía de la Patagonia (INVERCAP)
Atacama Minerals Chile
CJR Renewables
TSK Electronica y Electricidad
Work highlights
- Advising Engie on the construction of the new La Negra sectioning substation and the sectioning structure of a transmission line.
- Assisted Banco de Credito e Inversiones (Miami Branch) with the preparation, negotiation and execution of an unsecured senior credit agreement with Ultranav Denmark.
- Advising Energía de la Patagonia on a hydroelectric project in Chilean Patagonia.
DLA Piper Chile
DLA Piper Chile‘s Santiago office houses experts in oil and gas, renewable and hydrogen projects, including associated regulatory issues. The seven-lawyer team advises at all stages of energy generation projects, including related works, such as transmission lines, substations, and gas pipelines; and (with Chile included) it is able to facilitate access to over 450 lawyers in Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, Peru, and Puerto Rico. The Chilean energy and natural resources practice group is co-led by energy, natural gas and liquified natural gas project expert, Felipe Bahamondez; and Diego Peña (a partner since 2022), whose track record encompasses natural gas, hydro, wind, biomass and solar energy plant projects. Former counsel Paulina Farias left the firm in August 2023.
Practice head(s):
Felipe Bahamondez; Diego Peña
Testimonials
‘The team is nimble and flexible to accommodate our times and needs.‘
‘Diego Peña and Roberta Andreani generate a sense of reassurance for us, the feeling that we are in good hands and accompanied in the challenges we face.The clarity and level of detail of their work is exceptional!‘
‘DLA Piper Chile stands out in the Chilean market as a full-service law firm that is still small enough to keep a close touch with its clients. It has the best of both worlds, full-service quality with a blend of boutique availability and dedication to its customers.‘
‘I worked with Diego Peña, who handled a very complex negotiation with AES Andes–an extremely sophisticated counterpart–for nearly a year. In the end, we signed a rental lease of a major piece of land to develop a 400MW energy project, which demanded our legal counsel have not only a vast knowledge of real property law, but also of project development and energy market regulations. In every aspect, Diego Peña’s responsiveness, reliability, and professionalism, coupled with his was unwavering commitment, proved that he is a shining example of a new generation of partners for the 21st century. His unparalleled negotiation skills, enhanced with a cutting-edge business solutions, enabled a collaborative conversation with our counterpart and, as a result, a mutually beneficial agreement. In summary, he’s a key player who deserves admiration.‘
Key clients
CarbonFree Technology Inc
SUSI Partners
Work highlights
- Advising CarbonFree Technology on the development of photovoltaic power plants.
- Advising SUSI Partners on the execution of a framework agreement with Biwo Renovables and Latsolar Energy Investment for the purchase, development, construction, operation and maintenance of a portfolio of power plants.
Garrigues Chile
Garrigues Chile‘s 10-strong multidisciplinary energy department routinely advises on the financing, development and regulatory aspects of large energy projects. The practice also advises energy, oil-and-gas and natural resources companies and private funds on M&A deals. Team leader and corporate, M&A and regulatory expert, Luis Felipe Merino advises on electricity generation project developments; Cristobal Fainé is experienced in both energy and corporate work; Pedro García is an energy finance specialist; and Rodrigo Fernández's experience covers renewable energy asset-related deals. In a boost to the team, Diego Perales, who advises energy sector companies on day-to-day issues and disputes, joined as of counsel in November 2022 from the CNE (the Chilean Energy Regulatory Agency), where he served as legal department head for three years.
Practice head(s):
Luis Felipe Merino
Key clients
Arroyo Investors
Gasmar
Guacolda
Nala Renewables
Parque Eólico El Arrayán
Gasco
Empresa Eléctrica Puente Alto
Work highlights
- Advised Arroyo Investors on the sale of its stake in ARCO Energy.
- Advised Parque Eólico El Arrayán on the negotiation of a long-term O&M contract with Siemens Gamesa for the operation of a wind farm.
- Advising Guacolda on the corporate and contractual aspects of the coal energy generation industry.
Grupo Evans
Emerging out of Cubillos Evans Abogados’ dissolution in late 2021, the ‘very good' Grupo Evans' sizeable energy and green hydrogen department is highly focused on power generation infrastructure projects, energy transmission lines, water desalination plants, aqueducts, and ports. The group is also increasingly active in matters involving hydrogen and green ammonia plants, as well as the M&A and financing aspects of energy and large-scale projects. Jointly leading the team, Eugenio Evans
is a specialist in high-stakes projects, regulatory issues, and litigation before Chile’s regulators; José Miguel Hernández acts along the entire power value chain, his practice covering generation and transmission work, renewables, communities and indigenous law; while younger partner Cristóbal Illanes is an expert in wind and solar developments, as well as hydro projects, conventional power and utilities-related regulatory work. The second line of key advisers features of counsel and regulatory specialist Andrés Peñaloza; and at senior associate level, Gustavo Benítez is experienced in land and regulatory issues; and Rafael Fernández‘s practice covers water rights, electrical concessions, easements, and negotiations with landowners. Other active associates are Macarena Cox, who focuses on energy permits and project development; projects and energy lawyer Andrea Duarte; and litigation department head Elías Soto.
Practice head(s):
José Miguel Hernández; Eugenio Evans; Cristóbal Illanes
Testimonials
‘The Evans team is very good – very agile, committed, and with solid legal and industry knowledge.‘
‘Analysis of matters with a global vision, and without losing sight of the details.’
‘Eugenio Evans and of counsel Andrés Peñaloza form an extraordinary team and provide high-quality support, as well as being very available and friendly.‘
Key clients
Engie
Cobún
Conexión Energía (Consortium Transelec + ISA)
Aes Andes
Besalco
Innergex
RTB
Sonnedix
Transmisora Eléctrica del Norte
GasValpo
Transelec
GTD Ingenieros
Empresas Gasco
Work highlights
- Advised Innergex Renewables on the due diligences on assets tied to an issuance of green bonds (to refinance debt through a US private placement).
- Assisted Transmisora Eléctrica del Norte (Engie+Redinter) with a legal report on a cost study produced by the authorities to determine the annual income to be received by one of Chile’s large transmission lines.
- Advised AES Andes on the land studies required for the final energy permits for a large set of wind and solar farms.
Guerrero Olivos
With ‘solid knowledge of the energy business‘, the 18-member energy and natural resources practice at full-service firm Guerrero Olivos acts for owners, developers and operators of renewable energy projects (such as wind and solar), as well as thermal power plants and regasification terminals. Comprising energy, electricity, environment and water law specialists, the department’s workload encompasses energy generation, transmission and distribution project developments; and the group has particular expertise in the negotiation of power purchase agreements. It is also routinely mandated on regulatory issues, such as energy and transmission planning, rulemaking processes, public bids, and disputes; it is also increasingly sought out for green hydrogen projects. The practice is jointly led by Clemente Pérez, who has longstanding experience in transactional and regulatory energy matters; Sebastián Abogabir, a regulatory expert who is ‘great for his analysis‘; and recently-raised partner Felipe Frühling, who advises on energy project developments. At associate level, senior Francisca Pellegrini primarily acts for energy developers, but Andrea Olea departed for the National Energy Commission in April 2022.
Practice head(s):
Clemente Pérez; Sebastián Abogabir; Felipe Frühling
Testimonials
‘Guerrero Olivos’ lawyers have excellent intellectual and professional capacity.‘
‘Great vision and solid knowledge of the energy business.‘
‘Innovation, creativity and quality service.‘
‘Sebastián Abogabir stands out for being an available and precise legal adviser, who is very accurate in his legal opinions, and with a very high level of knowledge of all the relevant issues.‘
‘Excellence in its provision of legal services – particularly from Sebastián Abogabir, who is great for his analysis, 360-degree vision of the different aspects of projects, and strategic vision.‘
Key clients
IDB Invest
EIG Global Energy Partners
Grenergy
Engie
Solek
Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP)
Cap Vert Energie
Trans Antarctic Energía (TAE)
Nextenergy
Acciona
Vientos de Renaico
Sonnedix
Akuo Energy
Maire Tecnimont Group
Hydrogéne de France
Cancura
Solarpack
FIP Los Andes
Work highlights
- Advised IDB Invest on the implementation of a $1.85bn stabilisation fund for regulated energy clients.
- Advised EIG Global Energy Partners and Fluxys on the acquisition of an 80% equity stake in GNL Quintero, a large liquefied natural gas regasification terminal in Chile.
- Advised TAE, Jealsa Group (as controller) and minority shareholder Grupo Baztán on the sale of three wind parks to Engie.
HD Legal
Known as Honorato | Delaveau until a recent reorganisation, HD Legal‘s seven-member energy practice advises on both energy sector investments, and the development and operation of projects. It also assists with the acquisition and financing of hydroelectric, wind, and solar projects; liquefied natural gas plants; and transmission and distribution projects. The ‘extremely practical‘ team is co-led by energy, water, and natural resources specialist, Gonzalo Delaveau, in conjunction with Juan Ignacio Peña, who heads the firm’s engineering and construction practice. An experienced and capable second line of key advisers comprises energy, mining and natural resources practice director Mauricio Riesco (a September-2022 recruit and former senior legal counsel at Antofagasta Minerals); and senior associate Paulina Castro, a corporate law specialist and recent hire from PAGBAM Schwencke Chile.
Practice head(s):
Gonzalo Delaveau
Testimonials
‘Extremely practical – the lawyers know what is important from a client’s perspective and keep their focus on the prize.’
Key clients
BlackRock PMGD Holdings
Aediles Talinay
EDF Renewable Energy
Tritec Intervento
Consorcio Constructor BOV
Innergex Renewable Energy
Ebi Environment
Viña MontGras
Almarwater
Tralca
BlackRock Global Renewable Power III
Work highlights
- Assisted Blackrock with the transaction documents for the acquisition of several PMGD portfolios.
- Assisting Aediles Talinay in relation to the operation of a photovoltaic plant.
- Assisting Viña MontGras with the development of a photovoltaic power project.
Larrain y Asociados Abogados
‘Distinguished by a very thorough knowledge of energy issues‘, Larrain y Asociados Abogados advises a range of companies on the gamut of energy projects, including wind, diesel, gas, carbon and hydro; moreover, its broad gas industry expertise covers liquefied natural gas sale and purchase agreements, regasification services, transport agreements and gas concessions. The seven-member group is also routinely mandated on energy and gas-related administrative and regulatory matters, along with regulatory and contractual energy and gas supply litigation, particularly claims before the Energy Panel of Experts, and ordinary, arbitral and antitrust courts. The practice is co-led by Jorge Granic, who has enviable experience in electricity regulation, power purchase agreements, power transmission projects and renewable power; and natural resources, energy law and project finance expert Cristóbal Morandé. Also highly regarded, of counsel Ricardo Peña’s energy expertise covers pipelines, power generation, and upstream, transmission and refining issues; and Joaquín Larrain is an experienced gas regulatory practitioner. At associate level, Javiera Méndez advises on the regulatory side to energy and gas work, while Francisco Cerda assists with the development and regulatory aspects of energy projects.
Practice head(s):
Jorge Granic; Cristóbal Morandé
Testimonials
‘The teams are constantly updated on new trends and regulations – one of the firm’s strongest points.‘
‘Always shown to be aware of all legal changes and their implications for business. In relation to other firms, it has always been at the forefront in this regard.‘
‘Provides comprehensive advice, always delivering fast and accurate answers of great quality.’
‘Distinguished by a very thorough knowledge of energy issues and the provision of quick and accurate responses, as well as the commitment shown to achieving business objectives.‘
‘Great firm and lawyers.’
Key clients
Flux Solar Energías Renovables
Metka EGN
Reden Solar
Empresa Eléctrica El Pinar
Emoac
BHP
Generadora Metropolitana
Guacolda Energía
CHL Capital
Sociedad Punta del Cobre
Minera Goldfields
Work highlights
- Advised BHP on the negotiation of substation interconnection agreements.
- Advised Generadora Metropolitana on the negotiation of power purchase agreements.
- Advised Emoac on several agreements, including a power purchase agreement with Cerro Dominador.
Lavin Abogados & Consultores
Adopting ‘a highly developed client-service approach', mid-sized law firm Lavín Abogados & Consultores acts for domestic and international companies on the development side of energy projects; its expertise covers both contractual matters and permitting processes. The three-member team is headed by energy-sector expert Roberto Sepúlveda, who is experienced in processing electricity concessions; the acquisition of renewable energy project portfolios; and the drafting and negotiation of engineering, procurement and construction agreements, as well as power purchase and toll contracts. Routinely assisting clients from the energy and port sectors, the expertise of corporate law head Pedro Pablo Gutierrez Barros includes advice on commercial contracts and construction industry-related disputes; while associate Daniel Parra's practice covers both electricity concessions and the obtaining of key project permits.
Practice head(s):
Roberto Sepúlveda
Testimonials
‘Among many of the positive aspects of Lavín Abogados is that it incorporates the technical aspects of clients’ activities with an unusual depth.‘
‘Highly trained and experienced people, and with a highly developed client-service approach.‘
‘Always available and acts diligently in response to clients’ requests.‘
Key clients
Hanwha Q Cells
Aguas Pacífico
OPD Energy
Empresas CMPC (Bioenergías Forestales)
Odata Colocation
Empresa Eléctrica Puente Alto
Engie Energía Chile
Fotowatio Renewable Ventures
Consorcio Eólico
Notus Energy
Atria Energía
Pacific Hydro
Work highlights
- Advising Hanwha Q Cells, a manufacturer of photovoltaic cells, on its daily operations.
- Advising Odata Colocation on electricity concessions and land planning for its data centre project.
- Assisting Pacific Hydro with the processing of three electricity concessions.
Morales & Besa
Morales & Besa's energy practice covers both transactional work (alongside the firm’s projects, banking and finance, and M&A departments), and the regulatory aspects of energy projects. The ‘great team' particularly stands out for complex energy projects and transactions with cross-border elements. The group is jointly led by former Primer Energía general counsel Juan Carlos Valdivieso, who was raised to the partnership in January 2022 and whose recent track-record includes advising developers and lenders on the regulatory implications of insolvency cases in Chile’s power market; and projects and infrastructure practice head Carlos Silva. Experienced associate Constanza Araya has particular expertise advising on power sector-related regulatory issues.
Practice head(s):
Juan Carlos Valdivieso; Carlos Silva
Testimonials
‘Great technical knowledge, quality resources, and a real willingness to work.‘
‘A great team that works for good results.’
‘Appreciated for its human qualities and availability, even in moments of great tension and demand.’
‘Great approach and commercial orientation from the team.’
Key clients
Global Infrastructure Partners
Sonnedix Solar International
DNB Bank
WPD Chile
Coordinador Eléctrico Nacional
Enel Green Power
Grupo Cerro
Enerside
EOSOL
Sungrow Chile
Caixabank
Olivos del Sur
Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation
Banco Security
Work highlights
- Advised Global Infrastructure Partners on its acquisition of several energy assets.
- Provides continuous regulatory and commercial advice to WPD Chile, a developer and owner of wind power assets.
- Advised DNB Bank on the refinancing granted to Santiago Solar (owned by AME and EDF) for the operation of a photovoltaic power plant.
Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría
The energy and projects practice at full-service international firm Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría houses specialists in both electricity law-related regulatory matters and energy transactions. The team’s representative experience covers major M&A deals and energy project financings, along with power purchase and off-take agreements. It also advises on complex engineering, procurement and construction contracts, and operation and maintenance agreements. The team’s principal advisers are projects, energy and M&A expert Carlos Alberto Reyes, whose practice covers natural resources and oil and gas-related transactions and developments, as well as electricity work; and Eduardo Escalona, a specialist in project development, international tenders, and economic litigation before the Panel of Electricity Experts.
Prieto Abogados
Recent highlights for Prieto Abogados' ‘very responsive' and 23-strong energy and natural resources team include regulatory work, major M&A transactions, the construction of a large energy generation portfolio, and desalinisation projects. Its current caseload also includes the sale of a sizeable distributed generation portfolio and the acquisition, development and construction of non-conventional renewable energy projects (including the associated due diligence processes). The practice is co-led by M&A leader and energy and natural resources specialist, Juan Tagle; and corporate team head Fernando Bravo, who routinely acts for major energy sector clients. The second line of active advisers features Nicolás Yuraszeck K, who has longstanding experience in construction projects, tender processes, project finance, regulatory advice, and energy M&A; and Agustín Martorell, who acts on energy and natural resources-related projects and regulatory matters. At counsel level, Andrea Von Chrismar brings antitrust expertise to energy-related regulatory issues; and Federico Rodríguez‘s wide-ranging practice covers negotiations with developers, corporate matters, financing, and renewable generation projects.
Practice head(s):
Juan Tagle; Nicolás Yuraszeck; Fernando Bravo; Agustín Martorell
Testimonials
‘The team is very responsive and clients can see that there is real teamwork, which results in better service for the client.’
‘Solid knowledge of the matters being dealt with – responsible and responsive.’
‘The team is positively highlighted, particularly for its good communication levels and willingness to understand and reach agreements on different matters.‘
Key clients
Engie Energía
Transelec
YPF Chile
Electrogas
Transmisora Eléctrica del Norte
Sigdo Koppers Ingeniería y Construcción
Rockville Energy
GasValpo
STE Energy
5B International Holdings
Aguas Andinas
Solar E
Pacific Hydro Chile
Light E Holding
Tikuna
EDP Renewables
Work highlights
- Advised Engie Energía Chile on the development and construction of several renewable projects.
- Advised Rockville Energy Holdings on the negotiations for the acquisition, construction and operation of 20 solar generation plants.
- Advised Engie Energía Chile on two different controversies before the Electricity Law Experts Panel.
Pruzzo Ruscica Brotfeld Abogados
Specialised in environmental, water rights and energy matters, ‘unique and excellent firm' Pruzzo Ruscica Brotfeld Abogados fields experts in the mining and electricity generation and transmission sectors. The practice also encompasses specialisms in agribusiness, utilities, and construction and infrastructure projects, and it is increasingly active in decarbonisation issues. The energy and natural resources team is led by power-sector expert Francisco Brotfeld ('stands out'), who routinely advises on transactions and regulations involving open access, filings before the Experts Panel, and bidding and tariff processes. Brotfeld is supported by associate Iván Díaz Molina, who is experienced in electricity regulatory issues, electricity distribution issues, and solar, wind and hydro projects.
Practice head(s):
Francisco Brotfeld
Testimonials
‘An excellent, timely and high-level service.‘
‘Always available to meet clients’ needs – a unique and excellent firm.‘
‘Solid technical-legal knowledge and great support of clients.‘
Key clients
Highly Innovative Fuels (HIF)
Minera Los Pelambres
Red Eléctrica Internacional
Transelec
Aguas Antofagasta
Generadora Metropolitana
Sociedad Teleférico Bicentenario
Cooperativa Eléctrica Charrúa
Quantum Energy
SAESA Innova Soluciones
Empresas CMPC
Forestal Comaco
Innergex
Engie
Acciona Energía
Work highlights
- Advised Highly Innovative Fuels on the negotiation of power supply and transmission line construction contracts.
- Advised Minera Los Pelambres on the review of a package of contracts with Transelec.
- Advised Red Eléctrica Internacional on new transmission toll contracts for the use of third-party lines and substations.
Urenda, Rencoret, Orrego y Dörr
Urenda, Rencoret, Orrego y Dörr's six-member practice covers all aspects of energy projects, including risk analysis, asset acquisition-related due diligence, strategic alliances, and projects’ environmental impact assessments. The team also advises on easements, permits, tax issues, project financing, and energy-related disputes and administrative procedures. Heading the firm’s energy and natural resources practice, ‘great negotiator' Sergio Orrego has longstanding experience in energy project development, including power plants and transmission lines; and he is particularly focused on non-conventional renewable energies, such as wind farms and run-of-the-river power plants. Key support is provided by energy and environmental law expert Ignacio Urrutia, whose career includes several years at CONAMA (the predecessor agency to the Government’s Environmental Assessment Service); and associate Javiera Vicuña, who advises on energy, water, mining and corporate law.
Practice head(s):
Sergio Orrego
Testimonials
‘Clients are very satisfied with the results achieved.‘
‘Very competitive partners and lawyers in this area.’
‘Deep working friendships with clients.‘
‘Sergio Orrego is a great negotiator – very trustworthy and surrounded by lawyers who support him on a range of issues.‘
Key clients
Consorcio Kospo Samsung
Enel Generación Chile
Invercap
Cintac
Aceros Aza
Energía de la Patagonia y Aysén
SQM
Empresa Eléctrica Perquilauquén
Empresa Eléctrica San Víctor
Work highlights
- Advising Energía de la Patagonia y Aysén and Empresa Eléctrica San Víctor on the development of a run-of-the-river power plant in the Aysén region.
- Providing Kelar with ongoing advice on its gas-based thermoelectric power plant in northern Chile.
- Advised Cintac on the negotiation and execution of several EPC and BOS agreements for the construction of photovoltaic electric-power generation plants.