Firms To Watch: Projects

The projects practice at X100 Legal has positioned itself as a future contender in this area with the arrival of a team of lawyers from Palacios Lleras. In April 2021, public services specialist Ángel Castañeda joined the regulatory boutique, quickly followed by associates Luis Vicuña and Felipe Forero in May and June respectively.

Projects in Colombia

Arrieta Mantilla & Asociados

The projects team at Arrieta Mantilla & Asociados provides ‘complete and focused advice that generates confidence in the client‘, according to sources. The boutique’s firm-wide focus on infrastructure, public law and public procurement translates into a projects offering that specialises in advising public entities, concessionaires and other key stakeholders on the full range of project structuring, procurement and operational matters. Primarily recognised for its impressive track record in toll-road concession contracts, the team has also recently advised on other flagship economic and social infrastructure projects. Senior partner Álvaro Mantilla is sought after for his extensive experience in the projects space; he is advising Aerocali on the concession contract for the Alfonso Bonilla Aragón airport. Mantilla co-heads the team together with Yady Villaquirán Castro, who combines strength in projects and administrative law, and Álvaro Mantilla Sánchez. Senior associate Ramón Enrique Ramírez directs the infrastructure area and is also noted for his ‘ability to resolve legal challenges‘.

Practice head(s):

Álvaro Mantilla; Yady Villaquirán Castro; Álvaro Mantilla Sánchez; Ramón Enrique Ramírez

Testimonials

‘Ramón Enrique Ramírez is highly available to attend to the day-to-day issues of the project and has the ability to resolve legal challenges that arise from the ordinary course of business.’

‘We value the firm for the good level of participation from senior partners.’

‘The team stands out for its knowledge of specific sectors (infrastructure, energy, etc.).’

Key clients

Corficolombiana’s subsidiaries

Concesionaria Vial de los Andes (Coviandes)

Concesionaria Vial Andina Coviandina)

Concesionaria Vial de Oriente  (Covioriente) and its EPC contractor Proyectos de Inversión Vial del Oriente

Concesionaria Vial del Pacífico (Covipacífico) and its EPC contractor Proyectos de Inversión Vial del Pacífico

Concesionaria Nueva Via al Mar (Covimar)

Concesionaria Panamericana

Proindesa

Aerocali

Estructura Plural Aeropuertos del Suroccidente

Baggerwerken DeCloedt en Zoon

Patrimonio Autónomo Lagos de Torca

Concesiones CCFC

KPMG Advisory Services

Financiera de Desarrollo Nacional (FDN)

Work highlights

  • Advised the members of the Estructura Plural Aeropuertos del Suroccidente joint venture (Corficolombiana and AENA Desarrollo Internacional) on a private initiative PPP for the expansion, renovation, operation and maintenance of the Alfonso Bonilla Aragón and Benito Salas airports.
  • Acted for Concesionaria Vial Andina (Coviandina) on the legal structuring of a potential solution to the geological instabilities that exist in several sectors along a key road corridor.
  • Acted for Concesionaria Vial del Oriente (Covioriente) on negotiations held by involved parties to reformulate the scope of a concession contract concerning the construction of a road project.

Brigard Urrutia

Brigard Urrutia's multidisciplinary practice draws on partners from across the full-service firm to provide comprehensive coverage of projects law in Colombia. A particularly strong performer in project finance, the group routinely represents lenders and sponsors on major deals in the energy, social infrastructure and economic infrastructure spheres. Among the names to note, managing partner Carlos Umaña is recognised for his broad expertise in public procurement, infrastructure and energy law. Carlos Fradique-Méndez's corporate finance prowess positions him as a key contact for project finance transactions, particularly cross-border mandates. Claudia Navarro has a distinct regulatory angle to her practice and is noted for energy projects. Other key names include banking and finance partners César Felipe Rodríguez, María Fernanda Diago and Felipe Alarcón. The team also benefits from a strong second line of associates, including Julián Parra and Juan Pablo Canaval (who both focus on public law and infrastructure), and Juan Carlos Padilla, who joined the team in August 2021 from Transportadora de Gas Internacional.

Practice head(s):

Carlos Umaña; Carlos Fradique-Méndez; César Felipe Rodríguez; Claudia Navarro; Maria Fernanda Diago; Felipe Alarcón

Key clients

Bosques Solares de Los Llanos 1 and Matrix Renewables

Energía de Colombia STR

Elecnorte

Canadian Solar

Fondo de Deuda Senior para Infraestructura en Colombia CAF-AM Ashmore I

Bancolombia

Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria Colombia

Metro Línea 1

Concesión Santa Marta Paraguachón

Concesión Túnel de Aburrá Oriente

Green Móvil P6 and Green Móvil P17 (companies owned in equal parts by Fanalca and Transdev)

ZMO Fontibón III and ZMO Fontibón V (companies owned in equal parts by Fanalca and Transdev)

BMO Sur (owned equally by Fanalca and Transdev)

BMP Sur (owned equally by Fanalca and Transdev)

Consorcio Cable Móvil

Concesionaria Férrea de Occidente

Concesión Costera Cartagena Barranquilla

BNP Paribas, CDPQ Revenu Fixe, Itaú Corpbanca (New York branch), and Sumitomo Mitsui Banking and Financial Services Corporation

Work highlights

  • Advised Canadian Solar on the successful award of the auction to install an electric energy battery storage system of 45MW in Barranquilla, and on the award of the third renewable energy auction in Colombia.
  • Advised Matrix Renewables on the financing granted by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and Bancolombia for the operation and maintenance of three photovoltaic solar plants in Meta.
  • Acted for BBVA and Bancolombia on the financing to Metro Línea 1 for the construction of the first line of the Bogotá Metro (Primera Línea del Metro de Bogotá).

Durán & Osorio Abogados Asociados

Highlighted by sources as ‘the best in terms of PPP project structuring’, Durán & Osorio Abogados Asociados also finds favour for its ability to ‘provide the client with comprehensive project advice from all points of view’. The deep and broad team is equally adept at advising private and public sector participants in major projects, with a strong record in the rail, road, public utilities and port sectors. Álvaro Durán is widely revered as a leading light for projects; he recently acted alongside Carlos Andrés Sánchez to advise BID Invest on the structuring of the Magdalena River Waterway Project. Jorge Gabriel Taboada is also a senior name; he paired up with Álvaro Gasca to represent the consortium (formed by Patria Investments and Mercantil Colpatria) responsible for the development of the Malla Vial del Valle road project. The team also draws upon a talented pool of associates, including Felipe HerreraGigliana Rivero Ramirez and Edgardo Maya.

Practice head(s):

Álvaro Durán; Jorge Gabriel Taboada; Carlos Andrés Sánchez; Álvaro Gasca

Testimonials

‘The Durán & Osorio team goes far beyond purely legal advice or structuring to analyse all the issues, including financial and technical aspects, in order to provide the client with comprehensive project advice from all points of view.’

‘The team is comprised of lawyers with extensive experience and trajectory. They never put a junior lawyer to deal directly with the client. Lawyers also have knowledge of topics other than legal; they understand financing issues and how to make bankable projects, as well as environmental, social and property issues.’

‘Without a doubt, Álvaro Durán and his team of lawyers (Carlos Andrés Sánchez, Felipe Herrera and Gigliana Rivero Ramirez) are the best in terms of PPP project structuring.’

Key clients

Patria Investments

Mercantil Colpatria

Departmento Nacional de Planeación

Agencia Nacional de Infraestructura

Financiera de Desarrollo Nacional

Empresa Férrea Regional

Empresa de Acueducto y Alcantarillado de Bogotá

Odinsa

International Finance Corporation

Promotora Ferrocarril de Antioquia

Banco Interamericano de Desarrollo (BID)

Ministerio de Obras Públicas de Panamá

Empresa de Renovación y Desarrollo Urbano de Bogotá

Financiera de Desarrollo Territorial (FINDETER) & Prosperity Fund

Work highlights

  • Acted for Financiera de Desarrollo Nacional (FDN) and Empresa Metro de Medellín (EMM) on the structuring of the Light Railway Project in Avenue 80 in Medellín.
  • Advised the consortium (formed by Patria Investments and Mercantil Colpatria) on its successful public tender for the Malla Vial del Valle project; plus ongoing advice on the development phase.
  • Assisted BID Invest with the procurement process and concession contracts for the Magdalena River Waterway Project.

Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría

Unquestionably within the top two firms in this space in Colombia', Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría's projects practice attracts praise from sources for its ‘strong market share and deep bench'. The team covers the waterfront on projects matters, with enviable offerings in public procurement, public law, infrastructure and project finance. A popular choice to represent leading banks and funds, the group also acts for domestic and multinational sponsors, government entities and multilateral credit agencies on the full range of transport, social, public utilities and real estate infrastructure projects. Jorge Di Terlizzi is highly regarded for his infrastructure and public law expertise, while banking specialist Juan Fernando Gaviria is recognised for his strength in project finance; they are highlighted together as ‘outstanding practitioners‘. Corporate finance partner Hernando Padilla and up-and-coming partner Carlos Padilla co-head the department alongside Di Terlizzi and Gaviria. Associate Camilo Forero is noted for his focus on state contracting and litigation.

Practice head(s):

Jorge Di Terlizzi; Juan Fernando Gaviria; Hernando Padilla; Carlos Padilla

Testimonials

‘An excellent team. Lawyers are experts in the development of projects, and they know the interests of their clients.’

‘Juan Fernando Gaviria has a lot of knowledge and experience; he looks for solutions and not problems.’

‘The team compares favourably to to other firms; it is efficient and dynamic.’

‘Lawyers stand out for their efficiency, their knowledge of the contracted matter, their leadership in the search for alternatives to proposed solutions.’

‘A very strong team technically. The team is extremely knowledgeable in this area, unquestionably within the top two firms in this space in Colombia. Strong market share and deep bench. Excellent client service.’

‘I have worked extensively with Juan Fernando Gaviria and Jorge Di Terlizzi and they are outstanding practitioners.’

‘We value the team for its dedication and interest in the projects under its management. Strong monitoring and control in each activity that it develops.’

‘Lawyers are attentive to all the needs of the project, contributing ideas and participating very actively. They are always ready.’

Key clients

BTG Pactual

Grupo Aeroportuario del Caribe (Barranquilla Airport Concessionaire)

Sociedad Aeroportuaria del Caribe

Cintra Infraestructuras

Royal Boskalis Westminster Group and Mercantil Colpatria

Concesionaria Vial Ruta del Cacao (sponsors Cintra, Mercantil Colpatria, Ashmore, John Laing)

Banco Santander

Credit Agricole – Ca CiB

JP Morgan

Aeropuertos de Oriente (North East Airports Concessionaire)

Royal Boskalis Westminster Group

Goldman Sachs

Inter-American Investment Corporation – IDB Invest

Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG)

John Laing

P5 Infrastructure

China Harbor Engineering Corporation

Mexican Infrastructure Partners (MIP)

China Construction America (CCA)

Corporación Andina de Fomento

Ashmore (CAF)

BlackRock

Sociéte de Promotion Et de Participation Pour la Coopération Economique and Financiera de Desarrollo Nacional

Work highlights

  • Acted for the structuring banks, international and local lenders and hedge providers in a COP$2.7bn financing comprised of bonds issued in the international capital markets, USD loans and COP loans granted to Autopista Río Magdalena.
  • Advised the lenders and the initial purchasers on the $1.7bn refinancing granted to EnfraGen Spain, Prime Energía, and EnfraGen Energía Sur; the proceeds will be used to refinance the existing debt of the EnfraGen group and invest in new projects in the short term.
  • Acted for BTG Pactual and Banco Santander as bookrunners on the COP$760bn offering of senior secured Rule 144A/Reg. S social bonds issued by Patrimonio Autónomo Montes de María; the first social bond linked to an infrastructure project in Latin America.

Castro Leiva Rendón Abogados

According to clients of Castro Leiva Rendón Abogados' projects team, ‘the personal attention from the partners is a distinguishing characteristic'. The practice punches above its weight in this sphere, routinely advising on road and airport concessions, public transportation projects, project finance and infrastructure-related disputes. Marcela Castro is well versed across the full life-cycle of projects matters, but is particularly recognised for representing concessionaires and sponsors on financing transactions. José Ignacio Leiva co-heads the group alongside Castro and advises on transactional and contentious work. Natalia Uribe (promoted to partner in May 2021) handles public law, state contracting and dispute resolution.

Practice head(s):

Marcela Castro; José Ignacio Leiva; Natalia Uribe

Testimonials

‘We appreciate the implementation of the necessary technology to maintain constant communication with clients, thus guaranteeing timely attention to queries.’

‘The personal attention of the firm, and in particular of its partners Marcela Castro and José Ignacio Leiva, guarantees that its clients receive tailor-made advice, which also generates an important relationship of trust.’

‘The performance of the firm is far superior to that of other firms that advise in the sector.’

‘The personal attention from the partners is a distinguishing characteristic of the firm. However, it also has the support of a good and well-prepared work team in the corporate and financing law areas.’

Key clients

Concesión Briceño – Tunja – Sogamoso

Concesión Girardot – Cajamarca

Concesión Chía Mosquera Girardot

Concesión Pacifico 2

Concesión Unión Vial Río Pamplonita

Concesión Pacífico Tres

Concesión Alto Magdalena

Concesión Costera Cartagena Barranquilla

Shikun – Binui

Mota – Engil

Grupo Grodco

Consorcio Constructor POB

Fondo de Capital Privado Inverlink Estructuras Inmobiliarias

Concesionaria del Desarrollo Vial de la Sabana

Concesionaria Alternativas Viales

Concesión Santa Marta Paraguachón

Concesión San Rafael

Concesión Devisab

Concesión Cambao Manizales

Concesión Perimetral de Occidente de Bogotá

Concesión Autopistas de Urabá

Concesión Aliadas por el Progreso

Concesión Mar 2

Concesión Conexión Norte

Concesión Autopistas del Nordeste

Mar 1

Interconexión Eléctrica (ISA)

BTS

Constructora Colpatria (Construcciones verticales)

VISUM

Conconcreto

EFAES

Ethus

Ismocol

La Concesionaria Desarrollo Vial al Mar (Devimar)

Sacyr

ST construcciones

KMA Construcciones

Termotecnica

Work highlights

  • Advising Concesión Costera Cartagena Barranquilla, the second most advanced project of the 4G programme in Colombia, on its acquisition by Grupo ISA through its Chilean subsidiary.
  • Advising OCENSA–Central Pipeline on the planning and execution of the infrastructure contract for the implementation of a new device to pump crude oil for tanking ships.
  • Acting for WSP on the negotiation of the contract for the design, implementation and execution of the Bogotá Subway mega project.

Cuatrecasas

New entrant to the table for 2023, Cuatrecasas' projects team has hit the ground running following its high-profile hire of new office head and project finance heavyweight Manuel Quinche from Brigard Urrutia in November 2020. He is supported by Juan Carlos Puentes , an April-2022 promotion to the partnership who has a focus on structured finance and project finance work. The group stands out for its enviable balance between lender and borrower-side mandates and its ability to turn its hand to projects in any sphere, including recent deals in the road, rail, healthcare, port and energy segments. However, the group recently endured the departure of infrastructure and renewable energy specialist Alessia Abello (a January 2021 arrival from Financiera de Desarrollo Nacional, where she was Vice President of Legal Affairs), who left to establish her own firm – Abello Galvis Abogados – in August 2022.

Practice head(s):

Manuel Quinche

Key clients

Bancolombia

KMA Construcciones

Fondo de Deuda Senior para Infraestructura en Colombia CAF-AM Ashmore

Itaú Corpbanca Colombia

Concesionaria Férrea de Occidente

Vía 40 Express, VINCI Highways and Constructora Conconcreto

Inter-American Investment Corporation, Financiera de Desarrollo Nacional, Banco Davivienda and Banco de Comercio Exterior de Colombia

MUFG Bank

Yinson

Termocandelaria Power

Metro Línea 1

Unión para la Infraestructura

Davivienda

Banco de Bogotá

Banco de Occidente

Banco Popular

Doble Calzada Oriente

Ruta al Sur

Elecnorte

Opain

Corredores Davivienda

Inter-American Development Bank

Work highlights

  • Advised a group of bond holders, led by Bancolombia, on the structuring of bonds to be issued through a trust vehicle formed by Concesión Túnel Aburra Oriente.
  • Advised KMA Construcciones on bidding procedures concerning the operation, maintenance, management and toll collection of several tolls managed by INVIAS (the National Roads Institute).
  • Advised the lenders (Bancolombia and Fondo de Deuda Senior para Infraestructura en Colombia CAF-AM Ashmore) on the financing of a 4G toll road concession project.

Dentons Cardenas & Cardenas

Projects lawyers at Dentons Cardenas & Cardenas are commended for their ‘ability to generate consensus at the negotiating table'. The team stands out for its activity in the port sector, where it is representing Puerto Bahía Colombia de Urabá and Puertos Inversiones y Obras on development projects; it also frequently handles energy and other transport infrastructure work. Pablo Jaramillo heads the transactional side of the practice, with support from associate Laura Streubel; together they are highlighted as ‘high-performance professionals'. Other key contacts include project finance specialist Bernardo Cárdenas and Catalina Pinilla, who has strong experience in representing multilateral entities.

Practice head(s):

Pablo Jaramillo

Testimonials

It is a very committed team, knowledgeable about transactions, with a commercial vocation and fully capable of quickly identifying the pros and cons of situations for its clients.

Lawyers are always available and their performance is comparable to the best lawyers from top international firms.’

The team dedicated to infrastructure is excellent, I highlight Pablo Jaramillo and associate Laura Streubel: they are both high-performance professionals, their advice provides confidence, they perform with leadership and the ability to generate consensus at the negotiating table. They are always kind, attentive and very quick to respond.

Key clients

Puerto Bahía Colombia de Urabá

Puertos Inversiones y Obras

United Nations Industrial Development Organization Headquarters (UNIDO)

Work highlights

  • Advising Puerto Bahía Colombia de Urabá on the regulatory framework for port concessions and contractual matters related to the design, construction, operation and maintenance of a greenfield multipurpose port facility located in the Gulf of Urabá, Antioquia.
  • Acting for Puertos Inversiones y Obras, the developer of a multipurpose port terminal located in Bahía, on all aspects related to the structuring of the port concession, the terms of the investment agreement and negotiation with other equity investors of the project.
  • Advising United Nations Industrial Development Organization Headquarters (UNIDO) on the ‘Energy Districts in Colombia – Phase II’ project, which aims to foster energy-efficient and sustainable urban development by promoting the development of Energy Districts.

Garrigues

Garrigues is lauded by sources for its ‘highly proactive' lawyers, who ‘look for solutions that protect and safeguard the interests of all parties'. The interdisciplinary team combines strength in project finance and corporate transactions with experience in public law, procurement and regulatory matters; it is also noted for its broad industry expertise that spans public transport, toll roads, healthcare, airports, ports and energy. The department is led jointly by Adriana Espinosa, who spearheads the infrastructure practice, and project finance specialist Francisco Noguera, who was promoted to partner in January 2022. Principal associate Iván Fierro is also noted for his ‘effectiveness in obtaining the results expected'.

Practice head(s):

Adriana Espinosa; Francisco Noguera

Testimonials

‘The Garrigues team, compared to other firms, is exceptional. All members play a fundamental role and, as a client, working hand-in-hand with such capable people is a real pleasure.’

‘We value the availability of all team members to resolve concerns.’

‘We worked with Francisco Noguera, Adriana Espinosa and associates Nicolás Angulo, María Parga Cruz and Iván Fierro. Definitely the ‘plus’ to highlight is the availability of the team to work together. They are all highly proactive, purposeful, and look for solutions that protect and safeguard the interests of all parties.’

‘The team demonstrates excellent business management of affairs.’

‘Highly recommend Iván Fierro, an associate who is fully aware of his clients and projects, demonstrates knowledge in matters and effectiveness in obtaining the results expected by the client. He provides 24/7 attention.’

‘We recommend the firm for its knowledge and accompaniment at each stage of the project.’

Key clients

Financiera de Desarrollo Nacional

Promotora Hospital de Bosa

Ortiz Construcciones y Proyectos

Incot

Patria Infrastructure Fund IV

OHL Sucursal Colombia

Grupo Ethuss

Conconreto

Instituto de Desarrollo Urbano (IDU)

Terminal de Transporte

Promotora y Desarrolladora Mexicana

BlackRock

Concesionaria Alternativas Viales

Grupo Icein

Mota Engil

Bonus Banca de Inversión

Natixis Securities

Work highlights

  • Advised Financiera de Desarrollo Nacional (FDN) on the public tender for Metro de Bogotá’s second line.
  • Acted for Promotora Hospital de Bosa, as borrower, and Grupo Ortiz, as sponsor, on a $68m financing from Bancolombia and Itaú to fund the development of a new hospital.
  • Advised Patria Infrastructure on negotiations with the National Infrastructure Agency (ANI) for the assignment of the Santana-Mocoa-Neiva road concession agreement from Aliadas para el Progreso (former owner) to Concesionaria Ruta al Sur, a subsidiary of Patria.

Gómez-Pinzón Abogados (GPA)

Gómez-Pinzón Abogados (GPA) houses a broad projects practice, which brings together strong skill sets in finance, public law, energy and corporate matters. The group regularly advises multinational banks, funds and corporations on projects, and also acts for leading domestic and regional players. Paola Larrahondo, who was promoted to partner in January 2022, co-heads the department; she recently led the firm’s advice to road concessionaire, Concesión Santa Marta Paraguachón, on negotiations with the National Agency of Infrastructure regarding compensation claims resulting from the impact of Covid-19 and the measures taken by the National Government to contain the pandemic. José Luis Suárez, noted for his finance expertise, co-heads the team. Other experienced contacts include Ricardo Fandiño and Felipe Mariño, who specialise in banking and finance, and real estate transactions respectively. Senior associate Juan Antonio Ucrós is also recommended for his emphasis on administrative law and infrastructure matters.

Practice head(s):

José Luis Suárez; Paola Larrahondo

Key clients

Concesión Santa Marta Paraguachón

Macquarie Capital

Itaú Corpbanca Colombia

Deetken Asset Management

Ashmore Group

Vitol

Cal y Mayor and Jajomar

Empresa Urra

Corporación Andina de Fomento (CAF)

Cenit

VIP Green Mobility

Work highlights

  • Advised VIP Green Mobility on its incursion into the Latin American sustainable transport market, by means of the awarding of a concession in Bogotá for the provision of 196 electric buses.
  • Acted for Deetken Asset Management on the financing of the Bayunca I solar photovoltaic plant located in Bayunca, Cartagena.
  • Advised Fondo Ashmore Andino II on the sale of 100% of the shareholding of the concessionaire in charge of the main toll roads of the north of Colombia.

Posse Herrera Ruiz

Posse Herrera Ruiz‘s projects team is valued by sources for its ‘good experience in the sector‘. Indeed, the multidisciplinary department brings to bear experience across the key pillars of projects work, including financing, development and construction — it also handles litigation. José Alejandro Torres steers the practice and has a strong record in transactional matters, particularly in the energy, infrastructure and hospitality sectors. Other senior names include finance specialist Mariana Posse; energy and natural resources partner Alvaro José Rodríguez; and infrastructure-focused Cristina Vásquez, who was promoted to partner in January 2022. Director Jesús Albarrán and associate Catalina Posada provide support on project finance matters.

Practice head(s):

José Alejandro Torres

Testimonials

‘We recommend the team for its good experience in the sector, knowledge of the company and customer service, particularly Jesús Albarrán and Cristina Vásquez.’

‘Lawyers are very attentive and are always available. Likewise, they care about knowing the doubts and concerns of their clients, and they attend to them as quickly as possible.’

‘I highlight associate Catalina Posada and director Jesús Albarrán; they work constantly to solve problems and close deals in favour of the interests of the client.’

‘The team is experienced in Colombia.’

‘Alvaro José Rodríguez is well-spoken and provides good service and detailed analysis.’

‘We value the team for its good customer service and openness in contractual positions.’

Key clients

Sacyr

Puerto Antioquia

CAF Ferrocarriles

Grupo Costanera

John Laing

Odinsa

SeaOne Holdings

Akuo Energy Colombia

Sociedad Concesionaria Vial Montes de María

Financiera de Desarrollo Nacional

Northland Power

Atlas Renewable Energy

Terpel

Puerto Antioquia

Bancolombia

Work highlights

  • Advised Odinsa on establishing a fund to provide a platform for the promotion of projects in the region.
  • Acted for SeaOne Holdings and Sociedad Portuaria Energética Multipropósito y Contenedores Puerto Solo Buenaventura on the negotiation and structuring of the port concession contract with ANI concerning a port concession in the municipality of Buenaventura.
  • Advised Akuo Energy Colombia on the financing, negotiation and development of a 26MW photovoltaic power generation plant in Planeta Rica, Córdoba.

Baker McKenzie S.A.S.

Baker McKenzie S.A.S.‘ ‘good specific knowledge of the sector’ finds favour with sources. The team has recently handled a significant volume of projects — both greenfield and brownfield — in the road and power spheres. Best known for advising private sector participants (mainly project sponsors, constructors and operators), the firm also represents governmental authorities, albeit less frequently. Transactional energy specialist Alejandro Mesa co-leads the team alongside project finance-focused partner Carolina Duque. Key support is provided by senior associate María Montejo. Since publication, Montejo has been raised to the partnership and been names head of practice - effective as of April 2023.

Practice head(s):

Alejandro Mesa; Carolina Duque

Testimonials

‘A flexible team that integrates very well with other relevant areas, such as tax, etc. Very good response times and agility. Also demonstrates good specific knowledge of the sector.’

‘Alejandro Mesa has very good availability and is always attentive to the needs of the transaction; you can always count on him to find solutions as required. He also demonstrates very good knowledge of the relevant sectors and legal aspects and provides good commercial input in negotiations.’

Key clients

Bonus Banca de Inversión

Grupo ADO

Graña y Montero

China United Engineering

Oak Creek Energy

Brookfield Infrastructure

Coremar Compañía de Servicios Portuarios

Grupo Ethuss

Autopista Río Magdalena

Aleatica

Unión Para la Infraestructura

Work highlights

  • Advised Autopista Río Magdalena (the concessionaire) and Aleatica (the sponsor) on a $746m financing for the construction of the 4G highway, Autopista Río Magdalena 2.
  • Acted for Bonus Banca de Inversión, an investment bank specialised in infrastructure projects, on the structuring of two PPPs for the construction, refurbishment, operation and maintenance of national roads in Colombia.
  • Advised Oak Creek Energy Services on the future development of wind power generation projects in Colombia, including the structuring, drafting and execution of real-estate related agreements and documents.

DLA Piper Martinez Beltrán

DLA Piper Martinez Beltrán had a strong year on the investment side during 2021/2022, evidenced by its advice to major infrastructure funds such as Macquarie and Patria Investments on asset acquisitions. Alongside its corporate work, the group also advised on tender processes, project finance and administrative proceedings. Infrastructure specialist Paola Aldana co-heads the department and has broad sector expertise, honed during in-house roles at Concesión Autopista Bogotá Girardot and Odinsa. Fellow co-head Sebastián Lora is recommended for project finance. Private equity expert Felipe Quintero and managing partner Camilo Martínez are also active in projects-related work.

Practice head(s):

Paola Aldana; Sebastián Lora

Key clients

Macquarie Infrastructure and Real Assets

Macquarie Asset Management

Pátria Investimentos

Acueducto Metropolitano de Bucaramanga

Embraer

Banco de Bogotá

Banco de Occidente

Caribesol de la Costa

Departamento Nacional de Planeación

Sociedad Concesionaria Vial Andina / Corficolombiana

Autopista Mar 2

Valorem

Bancolombia

Grupo Aval

Inter-American Development Bank

QBO

Work highlights

  • Advised Patria Investments on the acquisition of the Santana-Mocoa-Neiva (Ruta al Sur) toll-road project, becoming the fifth toll road managed by Patria’s infrastructure funds.
  • Acted for Acueducto Metropolitano de Bucaramanga on the expansion of its utility services provision in Bucaramanga through the acquisition of several assets and contractual positions from utility companies, Ruitoque and Energía y Aguas.
  • Advised Macquarie Infrastructure and Real Assets / Macquarie Asset Management and Macquarie Infrastructure Partners V on the acquisition of 50% of Odinsa’s road concession business in Colombia.

Infraestructura Legal SAS

A team that helps to resolve problems', boutique firm Infraestructura Legal SAS strikes the right note with its ‘experience and focus in the infrastructure sector'. The group’s emphasis on structuring infrastructure projects ensures that it is routinely engaged by private and public-sector clients looking for support on strategic PPP developments. Francisco Suárez is recognised for his expertise in public works, infrastructure project management and concessions, and co-heads the practice alongside  Francisco Real, who specialises in administrative law, public contracting and PPP-project structuring.

Practice head(s):

Francisco Suárez; Francisco Real

Testimonials

‘Infraestructura Legal stands out from other boutiques for the practicality of the solutions to problems it provides; this is a team that helps to resolve problems, compared to other teams that identify problems but do not propose solutions.’

‘An important component in client-law firm relations is good communication and, with the partners of Infraestructura Legal, the discussions are frank, direct and without egos.’

‘The knowledge of the sector that Infraestructura Legal possesses is exceptional, from projects that are in the process of being structured, through to bidding and first phases of execution, right up to projects in construction and in operation and maintenance.’

Key clients

Bonus Banca de Inversión

Odinsa

MGM Innova Capital

Instituto de Desarrollo Urbano (IDU)

Ernst & Young

HMV Consultoría

Currie & Brown

Work highlights

  • Advising on the legal structuring of the PPP project for the recovery of degraded ecosystems of the Dam Watercourse —Canal del Dique— in the Magdalena River, for ANI, Cormagdalena and the Adaptation Fund.
  • Advising on the development of the feasibility studies of the Multimodal Logistics Platform of Barrancabermeja (PLMB), to involve the private sector in the development of the project, for the Mayor’s Office of Barrancabermeja and CAF.
  • Acting on the legal structuring of the PPP project for the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of university housing at the Universidad Nacional de Colombia Sede Manizales for the National Planning Department (DNP).

ZULETA Abogados Asociados S.A.S

The projects practice at Zuleta Abogados Asociados S.A.S is shaped by the firm’s signature strengths in public law, dispute resolution and projects. Best-known for its capability in public procurement and administrative law matters, the group stands out for its record in bidding processes, commercial work and arbitration. Miguel Castro handles public procurement and administrative law matters and co-heads the department alongside Rafael Rincón, who specialises in international disputes related to construction, oil and gas and infrastructure.

Practice head(s):

Miguel Castro; Rafael Rincón

Key clients

Pavimentos Colombia

Mario Alberto Huertas Cotes

Concay

Coherpa Ingenieros Constructores

ALO Sur

Odinsa

Sacyr Construcciones Colombia

Obras y Servicios (COPASA)

CAS Mobiliario

Conconcreto

KPMG Colombia

AERTEC Ingeniería Sucursal Colombia

Hidalgo e Hidalgo, Matriz de Construcción y Administración

Construcción y Administración (CASA)

Ruta Caribe II

KMA Construcciones

Ortiz Construcciones y Proyectos

Autopista Magdalena Medio

Autovía Magdalena Medio

Soltec Trackers Colombia

Work highlights

  • Advised KMA Construcciones on the public bidding carried out by Colombia’s National Infrastructure Agency (ANI) for two PPPs to design, build, operate and maintain two toll road projects: ‘Puerto Salgar-Barrancabermeja’ and ‘Sabana de Torres-Curumaní’.
  • Advised Obras y Servicios (COPASA) on the public bidding to build, operate and maintain the ‘Hospital Santa Clara’ infrastructure project, one of Bogotá’s landmark hospitals.
  • Advised Ortiz Construcciones y Proyectos on the public bidding carried out by ANI for two toll-road PPPs.

Ariza & Marin

The projects team at Ariza & Marin is ‘very proactive and very knowledgeable‘, according to sources. A popular choice to represent domestic and multinational construction companies on project development and dispute resolution, the team is primarily recognised for its strength in road-related matters. Other areas of experience include power projects, water storage, sanitation and social infrastructure. Camilo Marín is noted for his broad contentious and non-contentious expertise in the infrastructure sphere; he co-heads the department alongside Carolina Ariza, who specialises in public law.

Practice head(s):

Camilo Marín; Carolina Ariza

Testimonials

‘Extensive knowledge of administrative law and strong experience in litigation with the state. Compared to the other firms, it has an outstanding reputation.

‘Lawyers are all very proactive and very knowledgeable in their areas of law.

‘At this level, the differentiating characteristic between the different firms is the trust that the team instils in the client.

‘The firm’s best qualities are its lawyers’ dedication and focus on solving problems.

Key clients

Consortium Gaico-Hycsa

Obras Subterráneas (OSSA) – sucursal Colombia

ICPB

Consortium ANSA (Andina de Construcciones and Asociados and Sanear)

Sigma Construcciones

Consortium Acueducto Redes San Nicolás (Andina de Construcciones and Redyco)

Ingeniería y Contratos

Paecia

Ingenierías Aliadas

Construcciones AP

Work highlights

  • Represented Vías de las Américas in the liquidation of the concession for the intervention of Sector 1 of the Corredor de las Américas.
  • Advised Rehabiductos on the closing of the EPC contract for the engineering, procurement and construction of the La Marina power substation in the city of Cartagena.
  • Advised Obras Subterráneas on the tender process for the construction of the tunnels Nariz del Diablo, Divino Niño and Ermitaño as part of the project to expand the third lane of the Bogotá-Girardot dual carriageway.

Coral Delgado & Asociados

Infrastructure is a mainstay at Coral Delgado & Asociados and the firm is well versed in advising public entities and private companies on an array of project-related transactional, commercial and contentious matters. The team finds particular favour for its ‘extensive experience in road concessions', but it also handles rail, port, airport and social infrastructure projects. Department co-heads Javier Delgado and Alfredo Coral are recommended for their expertise in public concessions and administrative law matters. Associate Diana María Bonilla provides capable support.

Practice head(s):

Alfredo Coral; Javier Delgado

Testimonials

We recommend this firm for its extensive experience in road concessions, combined with its knowledge of public works contracting.’

Alfredo Coral handles disciplinary and criminal issues. Javier Delgado is experienced in hiring and administrative law issues.’

Key clients

Consorcio PAA

Consorcio el Sol

Consorcio Etsa Siga

Consorcio GOC

CR Concesiones

Ardanuy Ingeniería

Kairos Pmo

Consorcio Control AFA

Instituto de Desarrollo Urbano (IDU)

Termotécnica

APP CDEC

Instituto de Planificación y Promoción de Soluciones Energéticas para Zonas No Interconectadas (IPSE)

Work highlights

  • Advised APP CDEC on the structuring of a private initiative PPP.
  • Advised Financiera de Desarrollo Territorial (FINDETER) on the structuring of a regional train project, which will run through the departments of Bolívar, Atlántico and Magdalena.
  • Advised Studio 3 and Kairos Pmo on the structuring of a socio-cultural, sports and leisure project in the Republic of Bolivia.

Gamboa Abogados

Over the past year, Gamboa Abogados' projects practice remained busy advising on tender processes, concession renewals, environmental matters and administrative procedures. Particularly noted for its niche strength in seaport infrastructure, the group counts Compañía de Puertos Asociados (Compas) and Sociedad Portuaria Puerto Bahía among its key clients. Ernesto Gamboa heads the team and advises on a range of projects, dispute resolution and corporate matters. Eduardo Gamboa also has a significant projects dimension to his practice.

Practice head(s):

Ernesto Gamboa

Key clients

Aquamar

Compañía de Puertos Asociados (Compas)

Sociedad Portuaria Puerto Bahía

Sociedad Puerto Industrial Aguadulce (SPIA)

Goh

Noted for its ‘expert lawyers in different areas of law‘, Goh is valued by sources for its emphasis on providing ‘comprehensive advice‘. The team advises infrastructure clients on a range of public and private contracting matters, public and private partnerships, project financings and EPC agreements — it also houses significant arbitration expertise. Jaime Moya combines corporate, commercial and regulatory experience and leads the group with support from corporate and infrastructure-focussed associate Steffany Serebrenik. Since publication, the firm has hired former Palacio, Jouve & García partner Claudia Patricia Barrantes as associate director of public law and infrastructure - effective as or March 2023.

Practice head(s):

Jaime Moya

Testimonials

For our company, the academic strength of the firm’s lawyers is important. In this sense, Goh has expert lawyers in different areas of law, which means that our company receives comprehensive advice. We also value the firm’s knowledge of our company and the core of our business.

The firm’s lawyers remain close to our company, we can count on the support of the firm in a short time and at any time, according to the needs of our business.

Key clients

OHL Colombia

Sacyr Concesiones Colombia

Esenttia

Concesionaria Desarrollo Vial al Mar (Devimar)

Empresas Públicas de Medellín (EPM)

Hyundai Engeneering and Construction

Stoa Infrastructure & Energy

Strabag

Concesionaria Alternativas Viales

Mafer Real Estate de Colombia

Work highlights

  • Advising Concesionaria Desarrollo Vial al Mar (Devimar) on the execution of the concession contract for highway infrastructure project, Autopista al Mar 1.
  • Representing Empresas Públicas de Medellín (EPM) on the development of its project, together with Invenergy, to provide customers with a competitive supply of energy from wind and solar farms.

Holland & Knight

Holland & Knight houses a robust project finance capability, which is recognised for its record in representing local and international banks and sponsors on financing transactions. It also acts for infrastructure companies in environmental, contentious and corporate law matters. Office head Enrique Gomez-Pinzon splits his time between Bogotá and Washington DC and specialises in cross-border investment and financing, project financing and international arbitration.

Muñoz Tamayo & Asociados

The projects team at Muñoz Tamayo & Asociadoscombines a dynamic and comprehensive service with personality', according to sources. The group has a well-established history in the area, originating with its advice on large-scale privatisations in the 1990s, and it handles tender processes, project financings, development work and contentious matters. Diego Muñoz Tamayo specialises in transactional work, including project structuring, and co-heads the department alongside Felipe Trías. Senior associate Antonio Rojas Mayol is also noted for his ‘high dedication and technical capacity'.

Practice head(s):

Diego Muñoz Tamayo; Felipe Trías

Testimonials

‘The office combines a dynamic and comprehensive service with personality. Claims are answered quickly and completely. The certainty that the solutions to the problems presented will arise with speed and commitment generates great peace of mind for the client.’

‘Diego Muñoz Tamayo has high level technical knowledge, strong ability to solve complex problems and unmatched dedication. Associate Antonio Rojas Mayol has high dedication and technical capacity.’

‘It is worth highlighting the co-ordination of the different teams and the high degree of professionalism and knowledge shown by each of its members. We also highlight the high degree of involvement and closeness to the client shown in general by all members of the firm.’

‘We value the professionalism, great knowledge of the subject, involvement and closeness shown by each of the people who are part of the Muñoz Tamayo team.’

Key clients

Trina Solar Colombia

SK Engineering & Projects

IDC Construcciones

Work highlights

  • Advised AMP Capital on its investment in a joint venture with the Enel Group, which was awarded two concession agreements for the provision and operation of 860 electric buses for the Transmilenio mass transportation system.
  • Advised Trina Solar Colombia on its participation in the second auction of long-term energy contracts from renewable sources.
  • Advised EDF on the legal framework and risk allocation matters concerning its potential investment in a project for the development of a biomass plant in Colombia.

Palacio, Jouve & García

In January 2022, Palacio, Jouve & García's projects practice was boosted by the hire of constitutional and public law specialist María Lucía Posada, who formerly spent two decades at Posse Herrera Ruiz. The team remains under the leadership of Luis Felipe Arrieta Palacio, who specialises in administrative law with an emphasis on state contracting, infrastructure and public services. The group also benefits from the senior experience of María Teresa Palacio and Antonio Jouve García, who both have extensive experience in administrative law and government contracting.

Practice head(s):

Luis Felipe Arrieta Palacio

Palacios Lleras

Lawyers at Palacios Lleras are highlighted by sources for their ‘very good capacity to react and provide an efficient service'. The group is primarily recognised for its experience in public procurement, infrastructure regulation and the ports sector, where it is active across a range of advisory and contentious matters. Key contacts include public law specialist and practice head Hugo Palacios Mejía and Óscar Gutiérrez, who also specialises in administrative law matters. In April 2021, Ángel Castañeda left to join X100 Legal, with associates Luis Vicuña and Felipe Forero following in May and June respectively.

Practice head(s):

Hugo Palacios Mejía

Testimonials

Palacios Lleras is an office that, due to its size, provides a close, fast and effective service.’

The treatment provided by the partners, and the wider team, is extraordinary. Lawyers have a very good capacity to react and provide an efficient service.

I have worked with the team on matters related to energy projects, construction and concessions, and it dominates both the regulatory part and the negotiation of contracts. It has also supported us in procedural matters in the past, in complex international and domestic arbitrations.’

Key clients

Cámara Colombiana de Infraestructura

Banacol (Now Greenland)

Aldesa

Concesionaria Panamericana

Alternativas Viales

Asociación Nacional de Empresarios de Colombia (ANDI)

Drummond

Sociedad Portuaria Regional de Buenaventura (SPRBUN)

Work highlights

  • Represented Concesionaria Panamericana in two nullity and restoration of rights claims against the Department of Cundinamarca – Secretary of Finance.
  • Advised Cámara Colombiana de Infraestructura on potential legal strategies for the country’s ports in relation to a new stage of port concessions or renovations.
  • Advised Sociedad Portuaria Regional de Buenaventura (SPRBUN) on extending the term of a port concession.