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.
Energy and natural resources in Colombia
Brigard Urrutia
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 Manrique ‘possesses 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.’
‘Associate Camila Jimenez is an excellent lawyer, who is always available for consultations and willing to support at all times. She has extensive knowledge on the subject and always stays informed.’
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 & Knight ‘applies 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.
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.
Martínez Quintero Mendoza González Laguado & de la Rosa
An increasingly prominent player in the energy market, Martínez Quintero Mendoza González Laguado & de la Rosa’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 (February 2024); and the firm has left the DLA Piper network to which it previously belonged - effective as of May 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.
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.