Among the comprehensive array of energy and natural resources services at Baker McKenzie Abogados, S.C., clients appreciate its ‘deep knowledge of environmental matters’ and commend the team for being ‘ahead of regulatory developments in the carbon credit space’. Its recent workload has been indicative of the breadth of the department’s expertise, acting in amparo trials, financings, regulatory compliance and M&A, among other areas. At the head of the practice, Benjamín Torres-Barrón handles all legal matters relating to the development and construction of real estate, mining, infrastructure and other major projects spanning energy and natural resources, either in Mexico or involving Mexican entities. Daniel Sánchez Morales is an experienced advisor to both developers and lenders; while Marco Nieto-Vazquez has a strong public sector practice, focusing on nuclear matters, and power trading and pricing. At associate level, key support is provided by Carlos Maass-Porras and Pamela Lemus. Former senior asociate Carlos Muskus Guardia left to establish his own practice in October 2022.
Energy and natural resources in Mexico
Baker McKenzie Abogados, S.C.
Practice head(s):
Benjamín Torres-Barrón
Testimonials
‘The service we have received from Baker & McKenzie has been thorough and has covered our broad needs; ranging from commercial aspects, energy law, amparo law, regulatory, and litigation.’
‘We received excellent service that is specific to our needs. I have worked with senior partners, such as Benjamin Torres-Barrón and Alfonso Cortes, who have always taken time to meet with me, understand the situation, and provide advice suitable for our requirements. Javier Jaime has provided excellent service with respect to amparo and agrarian claim litigations. I have worked with Javier Navarro and Pamela Lemus at the Associate level, and both have been excellent to work with.’
‘Deep knowledge of environmental matters; ahead of regulatory developments in the carbon credit space.’
‘Federico Ruanova and Benjamin Torres-Barrón are both deserving of many superlatives. They are substantively impeccable, very practical, and super responsive.’
Key clients
Shell México Gas Natural
Valero Services
Gas del Litoral
Work highlights
- Advising Shell México Gas Natura on an ICC arbitration that it has brought against Energía Costa Azul.
- Advised Pachama on the preparation of a market entry memo covering a general carbon related overview in Mexico.
- Assisting Valero Services with daily regulatory advice to maintain and operate its permits and operations in Mexico.
CMS Woodhouse Lorente Ludlow
Having historically played a major role in advising the Mexican government on an overhaul of the electricity market and restructuring the Federal Electricity Commission (CFE), CMS Woodhouse Lorente Ludlow is an established powerhouse of the Mexican energy and natural resources space, advising international and national private clients on the full range of matters. Under the López Obrador administration, a focus on energy sovereignty and a protectionist outlook has resulted in an increased contentious workload. Other regular instructions include handling business agreements of all types across electricity generation (both traditional and renewables), and up-, mid- and downstream oil and gas. Practice co-heads Derek Woodhouse and Luis Fernandez Lagunas have extensive experience advising government bodies, as well as companies dealing with such; Woodhouse has notable expertise regarding power generation and PPPs, and Fernandez Lagunas across a range of energy project types. Giancarlo Schievenini is a key contact in transactional and regulatory matters, and senior associate Gabriel Salinas provides additional expert support on electricity matters. Fellow senior associate Manuel Ferrara - formerly at energy regulatory body, CRE - is a litigator with experience in energy-related controversies.
Practice head(s):
Derek Woodhouse; Luis Fernández Lagunas
Testimonials
‘What makes the CMS team stand out, particularly Manuel Ferrara, is the exhaustive analysis he performs of client documentation, which allows him to fully understand the regulatory status of clients, including technical documentation. Which is extremely important in the regulatory part because the permits that must be requested depend on it. This analysis has helped us to conclude that certain permissions that we considered necessary are not really necessary.’
Key clients
Walmart
Suburbia
Troy Energía
Thermion
EDF
CDPQ
CKD IM
Corporación Inmobiliaria Vesta
Thermion
Brillo Desarrollos SPV 7
Promotora Ibe
Vitol Electricidad de México
Banverde Solar I
Liberty GTS
Work highlights
- Advising Walmart, Suburbia, Troy Energía, Thermion, EDF, CDPQ, and CKD IM, on combatting a CRE (Energy Regulatory Commission) and CFE (Federal Electricity Commission) resolution resulting in transmission fees for legacy projects increasing by 500% – 800%.
- Advising Vesta on the implementation of an electricity resale scheme according to the electricity industry law within its industrial parks.
- Assisting Banverde with a credit agreement and in regard to a guaranteed trust agreement.
Galicia Abogados S.C.
2022 saw Galicia Abogados S.C. bring to bear the full range of its energy and natural resources’ capabilities, particularly when it came to matters born of the government’s move to bring the sectors back under state control. A broad range of mandates, lobbying and contentious administrative work saw the team active across regulatory matters, antitrust, environmental law, international treaty matters and public law. More generally, the firm has a long history at the forefront of legal matters in the oil and gas sector, and has over time established strong long-term client base. It is also well-versed in power matters and acts for the full range of industry stakeholders in electricity provision, while on the renewables side, the team advises banks and financial institutions on their investments, as well as companies purchasing International Renewable Energy Certificates (IRECs). Carlos de María y Campos is an elder statesman of the energy and natural resources market in Mexico, particularly as regards project financing, which is also the forte of Antonio Borja and Ernesto Partida. Francisco Fernández Cueto’s practice has an emphasis on renewable and conventional electricity and natural gas related activities, and Eduardo García-Travesi is strong in the power sector. The mining practice is led by Héctor Kuri. All six above named lawyers jointly coordinate the energy and natural resources group, with senior associates Luis Manuel Rosendo and Florent Patoret providing robust support. Since publication, Patoret has been raised to the parntership - effective as of December 2023.
Practice head(s):
Carlos de Maria y Campos; Francisco Fernández Cueto; Antonio Borja; Eduardo García-Travesi; Ernesto Partida; Héctor Kuri
Key clients
Shell
Grupo Mexico
Consorcio Industrial
Avant
Carso Gasoducto Norte
Fermaca
Grupo Avanzia
Grupo Gemma (Manuel Espinosa)
Jaguar Exploración y Producción de Hidrocarburos
Hokchi Energy
Tokyo Gas
BHP Billiton
Saavi Energía
Ternium
Vitro
Repsol
Bimbo
Femsa
KUO (Energy Team)
ContourGlobal
Engie
Canadian Solar
Mitsui
Invenesa
X-Elio
NEOEN
Balam
Saavi Energia
AES Corporation
Sun Power
First Solar
BayWa
174 Global Power
Mitsubishi
New Fortress Energy
Tokyo Gas
EDP Renováveis
Total EREN
BHP Billiton
INSA / Dynasol
Comisión Federal de Electricidad (CFE)
Nacional Financiera, SNC, Institución de Banca de Desarrollo (NAFIN)
BNP Paribas
Citibank
Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation
Banco Nacional de Comercio Exterior, S.N.C., Institución de Banca de Desarrollo (BANCOMEXT)
Banco Nacional de Obras y Servicios Públicos, S.N.C., Institución de Banca de Desarrollo (BANOBRAS)
Banco Sabadell, S.A. Institución de Banca Múltiple.
International Finance Corporation
Interamerican Development Bank
North American Development Bank
KfW IPEX-Bank
Credit Agricole
Natixis
MUFG
BBVA Bancomer
Banco Santander
Banorte
Citibanamex
Mizuho
ING
Equinox Gold
Silver Wheaton
EMX Royalty
Minera Cuscatlán
Fortuna Silver Mines
Argonaut Gold
EMX Royalty
Global Infrastructure Projects (GIP)
Sabcapital
Nacional Financiera (NAFIN)
Industrias Negromex / Dynasol
Sunmex Renovables
Valeo Automotive
Work highlights
- Advised Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP) on its acquisition of Atlas Renewable Energy.
- Acted for Sabcapital, an affiliate of Banco Sabadell, as lender in connection with a $28.6m refinancg provided to Trigen Altamira I.
- Advised INSA and Dynasol on the process to interconnect their industrial facilities to the electric grid after their supplier, Enertek, was disconnected.
González Calvillo
The energy practice is a key pillar of Gonzalez Calvillo’s broad service offering and the team places particular emphasis on projects work, from structuring and development, to financing and operation. Clients are supported through the full life-cycle of their projects, from inception, through fundraising and development, to operation, with the team also well equipped to handle potential disputes - it is particularly capable in alternative dispute resolution (ADR). Five lawyers share leadership of the broad practice group: founding partner Enrique González Calvillo is a regular lead partner on transactions and financing in the sector; Jorge Cervantes Trejo is a go-to figure for power project finance, but also has a strong practice in ADR in the sector; Rodrigo Rojas Robleda is another seasoned financing expert; Oscar Moreno Silva handles infrastructure projects and regulatory matters; and Diana Pineda Esteban is an expert on the development side of energy projects work. At counsel level, Antonio de Lisi has assisted sponsors, investors, financial institutions and governments with cross-border and domestic financings, as well as project development; while Julia González focuses on infrastructure projects and designs strategies spanning regulatory, dispute resolution and risk prevention matters. Associate Jeronimo Ramos assists with infrastructure and energy project finance, structured finance, real estate transactions and M&A. Since publication, Pineda Esteban has left the firm (effective April 2024), subsequent to which the firm has announced an agreement to merge into Spain's Pérez-Llorca.
Practice head(s):
Enrique Gonzalez Calvillo; Jorge Cervantes; Rodrigo Rojas; Oscar Moreno
Key clients
Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA)
Gas & Petroquimica de Occidente (GPO)
Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP)
Grupo Lodemo, Hidrocarburos del Sureste (Hidrosur) and affiliates
JP Morgan Securities
Mizuho Securities USA
Scotia Capital USA
Marathon Petroleum
Mizuho Bank
Nordex SE
Pattern Energy
Total Atlantic Trading México
Thermion Energy
TPG Capital
Vopak
Work highlights
- Advised ADIA on its acquisition of a non-controlling 10% interest in Sempra Infrastructure Partners from Sempra Energy for $1.73bn.
- Assisting JP Morgan Securities, Mizuho Securities USA, and Scotia Capital USA with Electricidad Firme de México Holdings’ $350m 4.9% 144A/Reg S senior secured note issuance for the repayment of the financing for the acquisition by Global Infrastructure Partners of Saavi Energía.
- Advised GPO on strategy for the construction, operation, and maintenance of a petrochemical complex in Sinaloa.
Holland & Knight
Holland & Knight further bolstered its stellar energy department with the hire of former Sánchez Devanny practice co-head Gerardo Prado Hernández to its Monterrey office in April 2023. The move was part of a wider incorporation of 13 lawyers to the firm’s Monterrey office, which it inherited from a 2021 merger with Thompson & Knight, consolidating itself as a destination office for the automotive, retail, pharmaceutical and maquila industries. Prado Hernández is an experienced advisor to local and international clients on renewable energy matters and general regulatory compliance, as well as corporate and M&A for companies in the energy sector. He joins a department headed by the trio of Carlos Ochoa, who is well-versed in public bids and contracts, regulatory matters, and project financing across the energy sphere;Claudio Rodríguez Galán, an advisor to international energy, construction, and infrastructure companies doing business in Mexico and Latin America; and Monterrey-based Gabriel Ruiz who is especially experienced in the oil and gas sector. Rodolfo Rueda is a key contact for regulatory issues, while Alejandro Sánchez Mújica is frequently involved in teams of counsel on the M&A and financing side of the practice. Senior counsel Regina Legorreta stands out among the department’s pool of non-partner lawyers and has strong experience assisting clients with the energy reforms of the López Obrador administration. Since publication, Rodríguez has left the firm for DWF - effective as of February 2024.
Practice head(s):
Carlos Ochoa; Gabriel Ruiz
Key clients
Artha Capital (Prana Power)
Talos Energy/Wintershall Dea/Harbour Energy (Premier Oil)
Quarternorth Energy
China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC)
Technip Energies
Veolia
Pattern Energy “Helios” “Tuli” (Cemex-Exi-Pattern Energy)
Acciona
Engie
Grupo Mexico
Greenberg Traurig, S.C.
Greenberg Traurig, S.C.’s energy and natural resources practice has broad regulatory, transactional and litigation experience across many segments of the energy industry, including crude oil, natural gas, oil products, LNG and electricity -both conventional and renewables. Of counsel Pedro Reséndez co-leads the practice and is appreciated by his clients for his ‘deep knowledge of the industry’; he has complementary experience in energy and government relations, and is counsel of choice for a number of multinationals operating in the Mexican market. His fellow practice co-head is Erick Hernández Gallego, a key figure in transactional and financing matters in both the hydrocarbons and generation sectors. On financing matters, senior partner Juan Manuel González brings his considerable experience to bear. The practice has a strong pool of associates to draw on, including seniors Rodrigo Vázquez del Mercado-Rivera and Luis Jorge Akle.
Practice head(s):
Erick Hernández Gallego; Pedro Reséndez
Testimonials
‘Pedro Resendez is an excellent lawyer with extensive experience. In particular, he has a great ability to analyze complex issues and communicate them effectively. He has deep knowledge of the industry and is an extremely objective person, so he always clearly sees the advantages and disadvantages of each strategy. Additionally, he has a great ability to listen to his clients and economic experts.’
‘The team responds to issues quickly and on time.’
‘Direct attention from the partner, who is involved in the project and has extensive experience in the field of energy and the environment.’
‘The multidisciplinary team to attend to the entrusted matter and the high speed in the response to attend to the matter. If it compares favorably with other firms.’
‘Its high response capacity with a multidisciplinary team adapted to the required need.’
Key clients
3Bear Energy
Alveg Distribución Química
BNPP
BP
CEMEX
Engie
Envision Energy International
Excellence Sea and Land Logistics
Gobierno del Estado de Yucatán
Grupo Cobra
Grupo IDESA
Kepco Corporation
Kiewit
Kino Facilities Manager
KST Electric Power Company
New Fortress Energy
Regulus
Saavi Energia
Samsung C&T
Sujio
Work highlights
- Acting for New Fortress Energy on the design of the contractual arrangement for a deepwater natural gas project.
- Advised Envision y Vive Energia on the implementation of a green ammonia project through the generation of renewable energy.
- Advised Kiewit on the award -in association with Siemens Energy- of a contract by CFE for the construction of the 1029MW Tuxpan power plant.
Hogan Lovells
National oil companies from across the Latin America region are among the clients of Hogan Lovells in Mexico; the firm provides day-to-day advice on their operations in Mexico following the deep water exploration and extraction contracts awarded by the Mexican government in the mid-to-late 2010s. The practice has a diverse oil and gas offering that encompasses upstream, midstream and downstream projects, but is also active in the renewable energy market and electricity matters. Three lawyers share leadership of the department: Miguel Ángel Mateo Simón, an experienced name in general energy regulatory, dispute resolution and transactional matters for clients across energy sectors; Carlos Ramos, whose practice is focused on oil and gas; and Juan Francisco Torres Landa, a corporate and M&A expert well-versed in energy sector work. Counsel Mauricio Fuchs Tarlovsky’s practice covers corporate, transactional and operational issues, and his clients include Repsol and ExxonMobil. Further support to the practice heads comes from senior associates Perla Díaz Taracena, a transactional and regulatory lawyer; and Víctor Barrientos, who has broad cross-border commercial law experience.
Practice head(s):
Carlos Ramos; Juan Francisco Torres Landa; Miguel Ángel Mateo Simón
Testimonials
‘The team they have in this area is an expert in the field of energy, they are always up to date with what is happening in the markets in this area. They carry out an expeditious “due diligence” to give a timely and urgent response, they quickly understand what is the problem of a long-term energy contract, a memorandum of understanding or some other document that we require signature or review for an analysis complete in each situation that we have experienced regarding energy with private providers and CFE.’
‘The team is an expert in the field, they are quick and accurate in analyzing energy contracts and any document required for the transaction, as well as support in work meetings for energy projects, their legal opinions always add value meeting and decision making. Miguel Angel Mateos Simon and Perla Díaz Taracena are experts in this matter and know the law and its modifications, always in force and with an attitude of professional service.’
‘Technical knowledge is essential to provide adequate advice; as well as a grasp of the current regulatory understanding. Being updated is essential in order to receive good legal advice. In these regards, it seems to me that the quality of the partners is excellent.’
Key clients
Equinor Upstream Mexico
QatarEnergy
TC Energy
EnerAB
Enel
Repsol Exploración México
Petrobal
Wintershall DEA
ExxonMobil Mexico
Finsa Energéticos
Mexico Pacific
Kinich Energy
Transición Energética
Work highlights
- Advising Wintershall Dea on its acquisition of a material stake in the offshore Hokchi oil and gas field, Mexico.
- Assists Mexico Pacific with regulatory and contractual advice regarding its proposed LNG terminal in Puerto Peñasco Mexico, and regarding natural gas transport pipelines.
- Advising Enel on execution, compliance and interpretation of power purchase agreements (PPA) it entered into as a result of the electric bidding rounds organised by the Centre of Energy Control (CENACE).
Jones Day
The prized ‘experience and availability’ of Jones Day’s energy and natural resources practice is employed on acquisition and financing matters across the spectrum of projects in the Mexican market. The department is highly regarded for cross-border work in the electricity, renewables, and oil and gas sectors, and is counsel of choice to multinational stakeholders in various guises. Alberto de la Parra, ‘a sophisticated lawyer who provides sophisticated solutions’, is a leading name across infrastructure in Mexico and therefore a key figure in the energy team. He co-leads the broader department with M&A and project finance expert José Estandía; and Alejandro Fleming, who has particularly strong knowledge of the electricity market. For lending transactions in the renewable energy space, Arturo de la Parra is the name to note. At associate level, Fernando Verdín assists the partners with the full spectrum of the department’s caseload, while Andrés Barón is involved in matters for a number of international private sector companies involved in the Mexican energy sector.
Practice head(s):
José Estandía; Alberto de la Parra; Alejandro Fleming
Testimonials
‘Their experience and availability have accompanied us throughout the process and we have felt very comfortable with them.’
‘We appreciate their experience and availability.’
‘What internal company lawyers should know about the firm and its staff is the background of each lawyer, this to understand the origin of each assessment made and through this make a better joint business decision.’
‘What makes them different is the great knowledge they have and the ethics with which they carry out their work.’
‘Global office with high capacities in the local team and with the flexibility to provide efficiencies in cross-border transactions; or, support projects in other jurisdictions from the focal point in Mexico.’
‘Alberto de la Parra is a sophisticated lawyer who provides sophisticated solutions to infrastructure and energy projects, including strategy to defend and extract value from assets.’
Key clients
Iberdrola
Banco Santander
Procter and Gamble Manufacturing México
Ainda Energia & Infraestructura
Toyota Motor Manufacturing de Guanajuato
Bio Pappel
Banco Nacional de Obras y Servicios Públicos
Banco Nacional de Comercio Exterior
Industrias Ragasa
Work highlights
- Advised Ainda Energia & Infraestructura on its acquisition of 19.47% of the capital stock of Jaguar Solar Holdings through two trusts.
- Advised Toyota Motor Manufacturing de Guanajuato as off-taker, on the drafting and negotiation of a qualified supply agreement (PPA) with CFE Calificados, as the supplier.
- Advised Bio Pappel on the impact of several amendments to the electricity industry law and other regulatory issues.
MCM Abogados
A ‘high level of specialisation in the oil and gas sector’ is the hallmark of MCM Abogados, a boutique firm with a 10-year history in the market and a broad array of clients representing the major players in Mexico’s oil and gas landscape. The firm is a strong choice for companies needing advice on the design, development and financing of projects, with the team also advising on day-to-day matters, from corporate and regulatory issues to antitrust and dispute resolution matters, among other areas. Manuel Cervantes is one of three practice heads and ‘is particularly distinguished by his extensive experience’. His fellow practice heads are Mariana Hernandez, whose work during the course of 2022 significantly developed the firm's midstream and downstream hydrocarbon portfolios; and Jorge Cabeza, who is appreciated by clients for his ‘very deep and up-to-date knowledge of the regulatory and transactional aspects of the sector’. Associate Francisco Valencia provides key support - particularly as regards the upstream and downstream market segments.
Practice head(s):
Manuel Cervantes; Mariana Hernandez; Jorge Cabeza
Testimonials
‘As for the team, the highlight is its high level of specialisation in the oil & gas sector. The firm’s team has provided consistent support for several years now, showing an important understanding of the business and its objectives; their responses are quick and accurate, meeting the dynamic and urgent needs of the operation. His advice is regularly accompanied not only by theoretical aspects, but also by concrete precedents.’
‘Regarding people, Jorge Cabeza stands out for his very deep and up-to-date knowledge of the regulatory and transactional aspects of the sector. Manuel Cervantes is particularly distinguished by his extensive experience and sensitivity regarding the relevant legal issues of the industry.’
‘Firm with partners who complement each other in knowledge of the various regulations/regulators in the sector that allow clarity to make more effective analyzes and make better decisions.’
‘They have no qualms about attending outside of regular hours, they are committed to taking care of the matter as their own and they anticipate noticing relevant issues that are not easy to identify.’
‘The firm is distinguished by its deep knowledge of the industry and the sector; not only legal knowledge but also deep understanding of the business.’
‘Manuel Cervantes has helped us navigate the complexities and obstacles to obtaining key permits and authorizations for the operation of the company; also to reach positive solutions and agreements with third parties.’
‘High reaction capacity; competitive rates; great sense of empathy and alignment with the objectives of the company; and willingness to be an asset in managing the challenges they face instead of seeking leadership.’
‘Manuel Cervantes; Mariana Hernandez and Francisco Valencia. Depth of industry knowledge; and seek to provide pragmatic solutions, avoiding negotiations and excessive deadlines for solving problems.’
Key clients
Capricorn Energy
Perenco México
Petrolera Cardenas Mora – Cheiron Holdings
Lukoil Upstream Mexico
Pico Mexico
Saavi Energía
Schlumberger de México
ExxonMobil Mexico
Eni Trading & Shipping
Grupo México
Marlin Drilling
Halliburton
Vitol México
Huasteca Oil Energy
Armamex
Citla Energy
Renaissance Oil
TotalEnergies México
Fieldwood Energy Mexico
Vista Energy
Litasco
Versalis
Work highlights
- Advised Lukoil on its acquisition of the Fieldwood portfolio in Mexico.
- Advised Capricorn Energy on Mexican law matters resulting from a potential merger of its publicly traded parent company Capricorn with Tullow Oil.
- Advised Saavi Energia on a project involving power generation mobile units with a value of $22.7m.
Nader, Hayaux y Goebel, SC
Nader, Hayaux y Goebel, SC fields an energy and natural resources team of broad scope in terms of both sector coverage and work types. Its recent slate of matters has included renewable energy project bidding processes, restructuring in the electricity segment, and the financing of renewable energy plants. The practice also stands out in the water sector where it has a track record acting for local authorities in potable water matters and desalination plant projects. Javier Arreola co-leads the practice and is an expert in the electricity sector, particular in renewables; as a projects lawyer he has experience on both the financing and development aspects. Fellow practice head Vanesa Franyutti is well-versed in project finance and public-private partnerships, including in the energy and water sectors. Another experienced contact of note for energy and natural resources PPP projects and financings is Alejandro Rojas; and Santiago Medina, an up-and-coming partner who is especially active on the structuring and financing of renewable energy and water projects, and also has expertise in energy regulatory matters.
Key clients
Macquarie Asset Management
Ad hoc group of Frontera Generation Creditors
CEA Guaymas-Empalme, Sonora (Water Commission of the State of Sonora)
Organismo Operador Municipal del Sistema de Agua Potable, Alcantarillado y Saneamiento de Los Cabos (Water Operator of Los Cabos)
National Infrastructure Fund (FONADIN)
Barclays
Gyrodata
Nacional Financiera
Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation
Government of the State of Yucatán
Work highlights
- Advising Macquarie Asset Management on the bidding process to acquire Reden Holding and Reden Holding 2020, shareholders of entities that own three solar power generation plants in Mexico.
- Advising the ad hoc group of Frontera Generation creditors on the Mexican aspects of the Chapter 11 restructuring of the Frontera Generation project, a 526-MW gas-fired combined cycle power generation plant in Mission, Texas.
- Representing the Water Operator of Los Cabos Municipality (OOMSAPASLC) on the legal terms of a PPP international bidding process to improve and operate the potable water system of Los Cabos, operation valued at MXN$1.2bn.
Norton Rose Fulbright
Norton Rose Fulbright leverages its position as a heavyweight firm worldwide to provide counsel on transactions and project development in the hydrocarbons, renewables and power industries in Mexico. The team in Mexico City has broad project finance, regulatory and M&A expertise in the Mexican energy sector and the firm has a particularly well interconnected offering across the Americas, benefitting its multinational clients with operations all over the region. In co-leading the department, César Fernández Gomez draws on experience working at Pemex during the period of comprehensive energy reforms in the early 2010s. He coordinates the practice alongside Hernán González Estrada, whose broad expertise spans energy, project finance, public procurement, and regulatory and antitrust matters; and Raquel Bierzwinsky, a highly regarded project development and finance expert; admitted to practice in the US and Mexico; she divides her time between the firm's New York and Mexico City offices. Senior counsel Liliana Anzaldúa is another key contact with prior experience at Pemex; while at the senior associate level, Itzell Méndez focuses on transactional, commercial and regulatory matters, and José Luis Romo supports on oil and gas projects. Since publication, Méndez has been raised to counsel - effective as of March 2024.
Practice head(s):
Raquel Bierzwinsky; Hernán González Estrada; César Fernández Gomez
Key clients
US International Development Finance Corporation (DFC)
International Finance Corporation (IFC)
Inter-American Development Bank (IDB Invest)
Nederlandse Financierings-Maatschappij voor Ontwikkelingslanden (FMO)
MUFG Bank
Banco Santander
BCI
Bancomext
ENGIE México
Talos Energy
Total
Zuma Energy
Newpek
Work highlights
- Represented International Finance Corporation in relation to its $35m investment to support ODATA Brasil, a multi-tenant data centre operator.
- Acting for an international offshore energy company on the first unitisation procedure under Mexican law.
- Acted for Banco Santander on an ECA-backed credit facility extended to steel producer Talleres y Aceros (TYASA) in Mexico.
Ritch, Mueller y Nicolau, S.C.
There is a strong projects focus to Ritch, Mueller y Nicolau, S.C.’s energy sector offering and the team is a highly respected name when it comes to financing and development mandates. Clients include the sponsors of major energy projects in Mexico, as well as senior and mezzanine lenders in financings and the guarantors, credit support entities and other investors in energy sector M&A. Federico Santacruz González and Jorge Oria y Anaya jointly lead the practice group, both drawing on considerable experience in domestic projects work, particularly on the transactional and financing sides. For project finance transactions in the electricity space, Asaf Jiménez Adorno is a key contact; while at associate level, Marco Portillo supports the partners and is developing a strong regulatory and compliance practice in the sector.
Practice head(s):
Federico Santacruz González; Jorge Oria y Anaya
Key clients
Ainda, Energía & Infraestructura
MPC Energy Solutions Latin America Holdings
Fisterra Energy
MUFG Bank
Mizuho Bank
Sumitomo Mitsui
Japan Bank
Pemcorp
Work highlights
- Advised Fisterra Energy on the sale to SAAVI Energía of its 874MW combined cycle power plant located in the state of Jalisco.
- Advised lenders MUFG Bank, Mizuho Bank, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation, Japan Bank, and MUFG Union Bank, on the prepayment of an existing facility for the borrower, thereby facilitating the sale of the latter’s five operational electricity generation assets.
- Advised Ainda on the acquisition of 3.6% of the participating interest in the offshore oil Block 1.2 (contract area 2), owned by Hokchi Energy and E&P Hidrocarburos y Servicios.
White & Case S.C.
White & Case S.C. fields ‘a very solid team with extensive knowledge and sensitivity to critical aspects of the market’ in the energy and natural resources space. The department has necessarily adapted to current market circumstances, strengthening its regulatory offering in the face of López Obrador’s policy of opposition to public investment and ownership in the sector. Practice head Francisco de Rosenzweig is highly respected in the market for both energy regulatory matters and energy transactions, and according to one client, is ‘undoubtedly the benchmark in matters of public law and energy’. Juan Ruenes, who was promoted to international partner in January 2023, is the name to note for financings and refinancings in the energy space; while Juan Carlos Llorens -in turn raised to the local partnership in January 2023- has recently been involved in energy sector M&As, financings and refinancing. Associate José Daniel Franco is noted as ‘very reliable in his help, particularly in the technical aspects related to the natural gas industry’. Since publication, Mariana Montemayor has left the firm, effective as of October 2023.
Practice head(s):
Francisco de Rosenzweig
Testimonials
‘They are a technically solid team. The partners are permanently involved in the affairs, several partners have the vision of public service. They have a great capacity for collaboration with other internal and external work teams and adaptability to the different matters involved in infrastructure financing.’
‘For us as a public entity, it is important that service providers have in-depth knowledge not only of the specialized knowledge areas, but also of the regime of administrative responsibilities to which public servants are subject. In this sense, having partners like Francisco de Rosenzweig makes a notable difference with firms in which the partners have experience only in private practice.’
‘They are people with values, who inspire confidence, open, transparent. They have a spectacular attitude and disposition.’
‘A very solid team with extensive knowledge and sensitivity to critical aspects of the market and the environment. They have the ability to anticipate customer needs and offer tailored solutions.’
‘Francisco de Rosenzweig is undoubtedly the benchmark in matters of public law and energy. Francisco pays great attention to detail but with a vision of 10,000 feet, always keeping the ultimate goal clear.‘
‘José Daniel Franco is the associate to watch. Very reliable in his help, particularly in the technical aspects related to the natural gas industry.’
Key clients
Iberdrola
Kansas City Southern de Mexico
Braskem Idesa
X-Elio
Howard Energy
Steel Partners Holding
Invenergy
Neoen
Acciona
Caisse de Dépôt et Placement du Québec (CDPQ)
Diamond Generating Corporation Mexico (Energía Eólica del Sur, Electricidad Águila de Tuxpan y Electricidad Sol de Tuxpan)
Morgan Stanley
Work highlights
- Assisting Iberdrola Group with an amparo trial against a $466m fine imposed by the Mexican Energy Regulatory Commission (CRE).
- Advised Braskem on a joint venture with Dutch logistics services provider Advario to build an ethane import terminal in Mexico.
- Advised Steel Partners Holdings on the $144.5m sale of its subsidiary, SL Power Electronics Corporation, to Advanced Energy Industries.
Basham, Ringe y Correa, S.C.
Basham, Ringe y Correa, S.C. has a very active natural resources practice, encompassing mining and water law, as well as being a regular presence in Mexico’s energy sector. The practice is notably active in the mining sector, handling a broad range of mandates from project finance and obtaining permits, to the incorporation of new mining entities. More generally, electricity supply agreement negotiations, and oil and gas sector M&A have been recent areas of activity for the practice group. A specialist in corporate law and international business transactions, Juan Carlos Serra leads the department, with associates Fernando Morayta, Carolina Nogal Gómez and Pablo Nosti providing close support.
Practice head(s):
Juan Carlos Serra
Creel, García-Cuéllar, Aiza y Enríquez, S.C.
As -arguably- the leading full-service firm in Mexico, Creel, García-Cuéllar, Aiza y Enríquez, S.C. inevitably has a robust offering across the country’s key energy and natural resources space. Since the opening of the market to private investment two decades ago, the firm has acted for clients on both transactional and regulatory matters within the oil and gas, petrochemicals, power, mining and water industries. Its familiarity with the market and regulatory landscape, combined with broader corporate and M&A strength, means the practice continues to be a destination for companies conducting transactions in these sectors. Project development and financing expert Santiago Sepúlveda leads the team in conjunction with José Ignacio Segura, who has a wealth of experience advising clients in the electricity generation and natural gas industries, especially on project finance matters. Experienced associate Juan Carlos Luna -a former Deputy General Director of the National Hydrocarbons Commission (CNH)- has experience across oil and gas, power generation, infrastructure, project finance and public private partnerships.
Practice head(s):
Santiago Sepúlveda; José Ignacio Segura
Testimonials
‘The quality of advice, availability and knowledge of the industry and the market. It compares very favorably with other offices.’
‘Knowledge and experience.’
Key clients
Mitsui
CFEnergía
China Three Gorges
Comisión Federal de Electricidad
InfraRed Capital Partners
Work highlights
- Represented CFEnergía, the fuel marketing subsidiary of Comisión Federal de Electricidad, in its joint venture with TC Energy.
- Acted for Mitsui, as Mexican lead counsel, on the sale of a 100% equity interest in the independent power producer portfolio comprised of several power plants and a natural gas pipeline.
- Advised Comisión Federal de Electricidad on the renewal of a $1.5bn revolving syndicated loan.
Dentons López Velarde
Dentons López Velarde provides a multi-faceted offering to its energy sector clients: a strong energy-regulatory capability is the cornerstone of the practice, which is supplemented with expertise regarding government procurement, real estate matters, environmental and social impact related issues, along with more typical transactional and disputes work. The team has experienced figures that have worked in the hydrocarbons market since beginnings of their liberalisation in the mid 1990s; Jorge Jimenez; Rogelio López-Velarde; and Amanda Valdez are the key contacts.
Goodrich, Riquelme y Asociados
Goodrich, Riquelme y Asociados has one of the most experienced practices when it comes to structuring projects in the Mexican oil and gas market. The team is also well-versed in the electricity and renewable energy sectors, with the practice active of late, as regards power purchase agreements and power plant sales. The department is co-led by senior partner David Enriquez, a reference in the hydrocarbons market in Mexico; and Jorge Sandoval, a finance expert with experience across various types of energy projects. Senior associate Erika Roldán is dedicated to the energy and projects area, and has a niche specialism in energy sector arbitration.
Practice head(s):
David Enriquez; Jorge Sandoval
Key clients
Noble Petróleo de México
Sempra (Ienova)
CAF México
Granjas Carroll de México
Covestro
Rotork Servo Controles de Mexico
Duff & Phelps
ENEL Green Power
Notus Energía
Prosolia Internacional de México
Glencore International
Independece Drilling de México
Work highlights
- Advising Enel Green Power in the development of its generation and electromobility portfolio in Mexico.
- Advising Noble Petróleo de México on its participation in bidding processes of CFEnergía.
- Assisted Sempra (Ienova) with an agreement with the Mexican authorities to bring gas to Mexico with a gas export permit.
Mijares, Angoitia, Cortés y Fuentes S.C.
Financings in the hydrocarbons and power sectors are standout strengths of the energy practice at Mijares, Angoitia, Cortés y Fuentes S.C. The department also has experience in advising on the construction and operation of oil rigs, conventional and renewable power plants, gas pipelines and LNG facilities. As a full-service firm, the offering also includes multi-disciplinary work in the sector, handling issues ranging from labour matters to corporate governance. Horacio de Uriarte regularly acts as project counsel, as well as on behalf of sponsors, lenders and borrowers. He co-leads the department with Patricio Trad, a corporate finance all-rounder with extensive experience acting for energy-sector stakeholders. Key associate Aisha Calderón has a focus on energy and environmental matters.
Practice head(s):
Horacio de Uriarte; Patricio Trad
Key clients
Sempra Infrastructure Partners
Actis
Fotowatio Renewable Ventures (FRV)
Mexico Pacific
Eurus Energy America
Woodside Petroleum
Pan American Energy
174 Power Global Corporation
Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners
Aligned Data Centers International
Hokchi Energy
Work highlights
- Advised Sempra Infrastructure Partners on its $400m 3.250% senior notes offering due 2032.
- Acted for Woodside Petroleum on the Mexican aspects of its $20bn acquisition of Australian company BHP’s oil and gas business, whose operations in Mexico include the Trion Project.
- Acted as Mexican counsel to data centre operator Aligned Data Centers International on its acquisition of the Mexican subsidiaries of ODATA from Brazil’s Patria Investimentos and US IT company CyrusOne.
Ramos, Ripoll & Schuster
Working from the firm's offices in Mexico City and Guadalajara, respectively, practice heads Guadalupe Esparza Sanchez and Alejandro Ripoll González provide clients of Ramos, Ripoll & Schuster with financial, transactional and regulatory advice across the energy sector. Clients appreciate the ‘excellent attention’ and ‘extensive experience of the team’, which is especially strong when it comes to electricity market transactions. Generation projects are also an area of strength, while the department stands out from the crowd with an experienced disputes team when it comes to power and energy sector contentious matters. Senior associate Diego Álvarez Ampudia assists the practice heads on the full suite of energy matters, while experienced partner Edmundo Elías Fernández works closely with the department as part of his broad practice in customs and international trade, tax, commercial and corporate law, and government affairs.
Practice head(s):
Guadalupe Esparza Sanchez; Alejandro Ripoll-Gonzalez
Testimonials
‘The availability and extensive experience of the team.’
‘Their kind treatment, the availability of time and the excellent attention to the issues.’
‘I’d highlight their personal attention. The interest they put in the client and the details in the operations in which they are involved. The partners have great knowledge and it is reflected in their proposals. This is essential for a sector like the energy sector.’
‘In my opinion, the partners form a group of specialists who work very well as a team, giving the firm a lot of strength. As a customer, I really appreciate that. I know that I am well taken care of and that their recommendations and definitions have team support. In my opinion Guadalupe Esparza and Diego Alvarez do an outstanding job.’
‘RRS have remained very up to date with regulatory changes in the electricity sector in Mexico. They are very efficient. Every time a client requires legal services, my company recommends RRS. We have worked on a large number of consulting projects with them.’
‘They are very ingenious in finding unconventional solutions. They very quickly detect aspects that represent a legal risk for projects. We have worked together with RRS in due diligence processes (red flag reports).’
Key clients
Harbin Electric International
EDF Renewables
Energía Real
Rengen Energy Solutions
Time Ceramics
BayWa
Atlas Renewable Energy
BorgWarner
Junta Central de Agua y Saneamiento de Chihuahua
Certe Energy
Saverglass
Kualion
IGSA
Tremond Energy
Wardenclyffe Energy
Work highlights
- Advising Harbin Electric International on all legal matters required for the award and construction of a 350MW combined cycle power generation plant for the Federal Commission of Electricity (CFE).
- Assisting CERTE Energy with securing power supply for the new stage of an industrial park, including the construction of a 10MW solar power plant and related infrastructure.
- Advising Time Ceramics on all matters regarding the construction and connection of the power supply of its new industrial plant in Mexico, as well as with the construction of a 15MW power plant.
Von Wobeser y Sierra, SC
Energy generators, service providers, developers, financial institutions, suppliers and off-takers are all among the companies that look to Von Wobeser y Sierra, SC for advice on transactions, financings and disputes, among other matters. As part a full-service firm, the practice can offer clients support through the life-cycle of a project or business operation in Mexico; indeed, the team has advised on a sizeable share of the renewable energy projects in the country over recent years. Leading the practice, Edmond Frederic Grieger is an experienced name in the Mexican energy market and works across energy and environmental matters, public bidding process, and administrative litigation. Ariel Garfio has a broad focus on the power, mining, and oil and gas sectors; while Luis Burgueño has advised on major transactions as well as guiding multinationals through their compliance with Mexico’s energy sector regulations. Raymundo Soberanis is a key contact for contentious issues in the sector; and from a deep pool of associates, Victor Delgado has been especially active since joining from Mayer Brown Mexico, S.C. in June 2022.
Practice head(s):
Edmond Grieger
Key clients
Abeinsa Juárez N-III
Allied Mineral Products de México
Ahumada Solar
Ammper Energía
BayWa R.e.
Beel Infraestructure
Benteler
BHP Billiton
Blanmin
BMO
Borr Drilling
Chester Mining Company
Compañía de Electricidad Los Ramones
Cooperation Manufacturing Plant Aguascalientes
Électricité de France
Elsewedy Electric
Emerald Power
ENEL Green Power
Enerflex
Enerpyme
Energía Eléctrica de Chihuahua
Energy Development Partners
Equinor
ErgoSolar Mexico
Fermaca
Framatome Inc.
Fotovoltaica de Ahumada
FV de Zacatecas
Guadalupe Cogen Center
GE Renewables
GE Power
Grupak
Golar
HWD Holdings
IENova
InfraRed Capital Partners
Internovum Solar
Invenergy
Invenergy Clean Power Mexico
Invenergy Llave en Mano
Invenergy Wind Development Mexico
Invenesa
Invex Infraestructura Energía
Merck
Metallica Resources
Minería Aurea
Minera Metalúrgica Tapalpa
Minería San Xavier
Mitsubishi Corporation
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries
Mitsubishi Hitachi Power Systems
Mitsubishi Power Aero
Mitsui
MG HR
New Gold, Inc.
Nissan
North Pole Star
Opex Perforadora
Orca Mining Explorations
Paratus Energy Services
Parque Eolico de Fenicias
Palladium Equity Partners
Perforaciones Estratégicas e Integrales Mexicana
Perforadora Profesional Akal I
Polaris
Portafolio Jaguar Solar
Qmax
Rancho Solar El Trece
RED-E Charge
RH Simulations
Riverstone
Saipem (subsidiary of ENI International)
Scatec Solar
Schlumberger Offshore Services (México)
Seadrill
Siemens
Soluz Energía Solar
Sterling & Wilson
Thyssen Krupp
Trico Componentes
Trigen Altamira
Vestas
Vitechmex Nonwovens
Vitol
Yingli Green Energy México
3M
Work highlights
- Advised Invenergy Llave en Mano on all regulatory, corporate, and land aspects for the construction of a 168MW wind project and a 60km interstate transmission line.
- Assisting Anheuser Busch InBev with the drafting and negotiation for the migration to multiple new power purchase agreements under the wholesale electricity market structure.
- Advised GE Renewables on its participation in several public bidding processes called by the CFE to revamp and provide maintenance to 10 strategic hydroelectric power plants in Mexico.
DLA Piper Mexico
The energy practice at DLA Piper Mexico acts for international clients on power generation project development and is also a strong choice for corporate matters relating to the oil and gas industry. The latter is a noted area of strength for the team and it has assisted clients with crude oil and extra-heavy oil projects; incorporating new joint ventures; upstream onshore and offshore natural gas licensing; and the financing of significant oil projects. Renewable energy is also an area in which the team has been active recently, assisting various multinationals with investments therein. Roberto Ríos is one of three department heads and has been involved in a number of energy project financings recently. He leads the team alongside Marcelo Páramo, a dedicated oil, gas and electricity lawyer who started his career in-house at Pemex; and Edgar Romo, whose focus is on project financing and the corporate elements of energy sector matters.
Practice head(s):
Roberto Ríos; Marcelo Páramo; Edgar Romo
Key clients
Gas Natural del Puerto de Altamira (GNPIA)
Murphy Oil
Starmex
Fisterra Energy
Tesla Solar
Coeur Mining
General Electric
Banco Sabadell
Banco Nacional de Obras y Servicios Públicos
Banco Nacional de Comercio Exterior
Work highlights
- Represented TMF as Mexico-based security agent to a syndicate of global lenders to Fieldwood Energy E&P Mexico, regarding a circa $125m development reserve-based lending facility for an offshore project.
LHO
The highly specialised energy practice at LHO is admired by clients for its ‘depth of analysis, business focus and agile solutions’ and has rapidly established itself as a solid advisor on all types of energy projects in Mexico and on soft-landing in the country for international companies. In the last few years the practice has supported its clients through a challenging period for private investment in the Mexican energy sector, primarily finding itself active on matters including permitting, litigation, and arbitration with private counterparties and authorities. Managing partner Luis Miguel Ramírez Ruggeberg has a dedicated energy and environmental law practice and is particularly noted in the oil and gas sector as an advisor to multinational companies and international law firms. Erik del Rio is a key contact for energy project structuring and financing, especially those with cross-border aspects; and Luis Enrique Rangel de la Peza primarily assists on natural resources projects, investments, acquisitions, joint ventures and restructuring. Associate Jimena Zubiaga is active in the sector and has experience on the corporate and project development aspects of projects in the sector, particularly in establishing structures for private equity-sponsored natural resource ventures.
Practice head(s):
Luis Miguel Ramírez Ruggeberg; Erik del Río Gonzalez; Jimena Aranza Zubiaga Garza; Luis Enrique Rangel de la Peza; Eloisa Alejandre Castillo
Testimonials
‘LHO stands out for its active participation in business work teams, among which the energy and sustainability sectors stand out. Within them, the firm plays a key role in the creation and dissemination of training and analysis spaces through which company employees can prepare and learn about ESG.’
‘Independent of their professional excellence, it is the human quality of the collaborators that gives the firm a differentiator. Specifically, the positive participation of Luis Miguel Ramírez Ruggeberg, Luis Enrique Rangel de la Peza and Eloísa Alejandre Castillo stands out; who work from the search for a collective well-being, where their actions respond to the objectives of sustainable development in a specific and general way.’
‘The firm stands out for its immediate response, depth of analysis, business focus and agile solutions. Its energy and natural resources practice provides legal services to both the private and public sectors. The team is always up to date on current issues and present in the main forums.’
‘LHO’s managing partner is very well positioned in the middle, with a presence and leadership in forums such as the Spanish and British chambers of commerce. The team has a command of the subject matter and sophisticated legal opinions on complex issues. Always available and always accurate.’
‘The communication. In our case, our reference lawyer is Luis Miguel Ramírez, who is always willing to provide detailed information on the situation of any lawsuit and the next steps to take along with possible scenarios. He is a lawyer who has a very realistic vision of the situation and who knows how to take the necessary steps to meet the objectives.’
‘Attention. Luis Miguel Ramírez: leadership, knowledge and service; Luis Enrique Rangel: empathy and attitude, service; Jimena Zubiaga: service and professionalism.’
‘They are promoting various initiatives for the transition towards a low carbon economy such as the Ecozone project in the state of Morelos, Mexico. They seek to promote an area where citizen participation is rewarded, where sustainable mobility initiatives and the use of renewable energy are promoted. The team is committed to caring for the environment by participating in climate action issues and seeking alliances to promote the projects of its clients that are aligned with a socio-environmental impact.’
‘They are committed and capable people who provide excellent support to improve corporate governance as well as promote possible collaborations between related projects.’
Key clients
Prodiel
Pachamama Solar
Potrero Solar
Novamper
Power China International
Sinohydro
Grupo Avanzia (Grupo Cobra)
Tozzi
Enel Green Power
Goldbeck Solar
Longi
Grupo Dragón
Naturgy
Acciona
Camescom
Britcham
Ecozona
Centursa
Airsa
Secretaria de Desarrollo Sustentable del Estado de Morelos
Iberdrola
Veolia
DG Impianti
Dygasol
Work highlights
- Advised Prodiel on the engineering procurement and construction of more than 3,000MW in renewable energy plants in Mexico, as well as the operation and maintenance of several photovoltaic plants.
- Assisted Power China International with conflict resolution concerning the development of its photovoltaic projects in the states of Aguascalientes and Jalisco.
- Assisting the Spanish renewable energy major Iberdrola, in multiple dispute resolution cases alongside its projects in Mexico, particularly in the area of criminal law.
ONTIER México
‘Strong expertise in energy’ and ‘extensive knowledge of the Latam market’ are hallmarks of the practice at ONTIER México, which stands out for its expertise in government relations. Its recent slate of work has included development and M&A counsel regarding green energy projects, litigation against the government, and real estate site scouting for prospective renewable projects. Practice head Lorenzo Hernández Allones is dual-qualified in Mexico and Spain, and is frequently engaged in cross-border transactions in the energy sector. Senior associate Regina Noriega Morales is an experienced support to Hernández and well-versed in assisting clients with soft-landings in Mexico; fellow senior Mariana Reyes handles various matters in the sector, including contract negotiation and dispute resolution. Citlali Perez Renteria and Alejandro Segall, who joined as partner and of counsel, respectively, from Ishii Abogados in September 2022, will further strengthen the office's contentious offering.
Practice head(s):
Lorenzo Hernández Allones
Testimonials
‘My experience with Ontier is in Mexico, where they operate as a boutique law firm focused on client needs and providing pro-business solutions.’
‘They have specialized in Mexico in the governmental sphere, which is very useful at this time. The partner Lorenzo Hernandez Allones is a very capable and close person, who stands out from other firms in humane treatment.’
‘I love the availability and closeness of the entire team, led by Lorenzo Hernández and above all the ability they have to put themselves in their client’s position and accompany them throughout the process.’
‘They are practical and executive, beyond purely image or marketing issues. In relation to the Mexico office, I believe that Lorenzo has been able to create a team in which he has transmitted his principles and values.’
‘It is a law firm with strong expertise in energy, with extensive knowledge of the Latam market. The team is very diverse, proactive and always with a menu of solutions tailored to the client.’
‘We admire their proactivity, in addition to their willingness to reach an agreement between the parties.’
Key clients
Falck Renewables México
Pollux Energy Project
Photoemeris
Grenergy
Seguidores Solares Soltec
Aldebaran Energy Project
Hive Solar Tres Manantiales
Powertis
Energias Ambientales Oaxaca
Spanish Chamber of Commerce in Mexico
Work highlights
- Advising Grenergy on its potential renewable energy projects in Mexico.
- Advised Estel on a joint venture with a Spanish company.
- Advising Eolica Cerritos on litigation and regulatory matters against certain regulations issued by the current Mexican federal administration.
Sánchez Devanny
Sánchez Devanny’s energy practice is now solely led by Jose Antonio Postigo-Uribe, following the departure of Gerardo Prado Hernández in April 2023. The strength of the department is lies foremost in regulatory advice and assistance with power purchase agreements; the firm’s client base in this segment includes generators, suppliers, traders, and final users in the electricity sector, as well as companies in the generation, transmission and distribution areas. Postigo-Uribe is a corporate and M&A expert with two decades’ experience acting for energy sector clients and has deep familiarity with the country’s regulatory landscape for energy matters. Associate José Antonio Téllez is valued by clients for his ‘extensive experience in the energy sector’, while senior associate Max Ernesto Hernández-Ernult regularly acts for domestic and international clients in transactional and regulatory energy sector matters.
Practice head(s):
José Antonio Postigo-Uribe
Testimonials
‘It is very close to the business. The senior associate is a permanent ally, as if he were on my team.’
‘Associate José Antonio Téllez has extensive experience in the energy sector and has a well-developed ability to serve customers as if he were a long-standing member of the team.’
Key clients
Grupo Rotoplas
Bendix
Linamar
Porcelanite Lamosa
Essity Higiene y Salud México
Franke Foodservices Mexico
Autoneum México Operations
Cloud HQ
Skyjack México
SC Johnson and Son
Work highlights
- Advised Rotoplas on the negotiation of its exit from a power self-supply scheme and the negotiation of a power supply agreement with a qualified supplier.
- Advised Bendix on the negotiation of its exit from a power-qualified supply agreement with Iberdrola, and the negotiation of a 3-year power supply agreement with Engie.
- Advised Linamar Corporation on the negotiation of a power supply agreement with CFE Calificados and the migration thereof to the wholesale market regime.
Cuatrecasas
Since opening its Mexico office in 2016, Cuatrecasas has steadily grown its presence in the country’s energy and natural resources sector. An expert in energy, infrastructure and associated regulatory compliance Marco Antonio de la Peña heads the practice which handles relevant corporate and M&A, regulatory matters and disputes in the sector. Associate Elías Gallardo Palma assists with infrastructure projects and corporate matters in the hydrocarbons segment. Fellow associate Rafael Rodríguez supports on the full range of energy and infrastructure work.
Practice head(s):
Marco Antonio de la Peña
Key clients
Cotemar
Lifting
Repsol
Hokchi Energy
Macquarie Infrastructure and Real Assets (MIRA)
Work highlights
- Advised Macquarie on the purchase of Mexican companies Gasoducto de Morelos and Morelos from Elecnor and Enagás.
- Advised Vinci on acquiring Cobra Servicios.
- Advised Lifting (Cotemar) on the authorisation procedure before the national hydrocarbons commission for the change of corporate control relating to contracts for hydrocarbon extraction.
Garrigues
Led by well-known projects advisor David Jiménez Romero, the energy and natural resources department at Garrigues’s Mexico City office is part of the firm’s wider offering across Latin America, assisting international and local clients with project development, finance, cross-border transactions, government procurement, regulatory issues, and M&A. Regulatory and environmental law partner Roberto Torres Velasco departed the firm in May 2023.
Garza Tello-Clyde & Co Mexico
Drilling companies looking to enter the Mexican market are a rich source of work for the energy practice at Garza Tello-Clyde & Co Mexico's Mexico office, which enjoys a healthy client roster in the sector. Regular advice includes offshore international public tenders and contracts with private and state-owned companies, while the team also assists with day-to-day operational issues. Enrique Garza Ruiz Esparza heads the department and is an expert in offshore operations, including advising on CNH contracts and offshore operations for production facilities. Associate Enrique Garza Tello Jr. has experience assisting with day-to-day compliance and contract administration matters for oil and gas operators.
Practice head(s):
Enrique Garza Ruiz Esparza
Work highlights
- Advised BWL Offshore on the sale of its FPSO to Pemex.
- Assisted Valaris with securing all energy, environmental, safety and navigation permits for the operation of drill ships to perform drilling operations in Mexico.
- Advised Modec on obtaining permits and procedures to operate an FPSO in Mexico.
Jáuregui y Del Valle, S.C.
Power, oil-and-gas, and renewable energy projects are all areas of strength for a team at Jáuregui y Del Valle, S.C. that assists with the full range of financing, transactional, procurement-and-bidding related, and regulatory/permitting matters across the breadth of the energy sector. The team is also active in the mining area, particularly as regards supply contracts and financing. Managing partner and tax expert Luis Gerardo del Valle, and securities and finance law partner Alberto Balderas Fernández oversee the department.
Practice head(s):
Alberto Balderas Fernández; Luis Gerardo del Valle Torres
Key clients
Isthmus Energía Verde
Mexican Government
Grupo Cobra
Work highlights
- Advised the Mexican Government on the acquisition of the issued and outstanding capital stock of entities that own 13 combined cycle power plants.
- Assisted Grupo Cobra with the administration, operation and execution in the construction of a combined cycle power plant for the Mexican Government, valued at $425m.
- Advised Grupo Cobra on the construction, administration and operation of a combined cycle power plant in Tula, for the Mexican Government (valued at $323m).
Rodríguez Dávalos Abogados
Rodríguez Dávalos Abogados is a specialist boutique that focuses on the development of energy and infrastructure projects, assisting clients from project inception through to full operation. The office has 20 years' market experience and a track record in first-of-their-kind projects in Mexico. Founding partner Jesús Rodríguez Dávalos is a renowned figure in the sector, drawing on over two decades’ experience advising local and international companies, and federal and local administrations, on energy project development and implementation. Energy regulatory specialist Raúl Romero is also a key figure in the senior team which includes a further three partners who orient their financial, corporate/commercial and real estate/litigation practices towards energy sector project requirements. The full 16-strong practice group also handles associated specialities including rights of way and land acquisition, environmental issues and social impact studies.
Sainz Abogados
Sainz Abogados regularly counsels clients on matters concerning contracting with state-entities Petróleos Mexicanos in the oil-and-gas sector, and Comisión Federal de Electricidad (CFE) in the power sector. The department is a robust choice for companies needing advice on navigating the respective power and hydrocarbons regulatory landscapes, and is also a regular counsel on conflicts related to the operation and administration of energy contracts. The practice is led by Francisco Valdés, who assists clients in the hydrocarbons and power industries with regulatory, administrative and public procurement law; and Daniel Díaz, an experienced litigator. Adrián Villagómez is a further name to note for contentious matters, and Ricardo Pinto is the associate to note for energy sector expertise. Since publication, the team has been boosted by the arrival of Diana Pineda Esteban, a specialist in the developmental side of energy projects, one member of a larger group that arrived from Gonzalez Calvillo in April 2024.
Practice head(s):
Francisco Valdes; Daniel Díaz
Testimonials
‘Commitment to service and customer service.’
‘High preparation in subjects of its competence.’
‘Great firm, Francisco Valdez is extraordinary both in treatment, knowledge and relationships. We are very satisfied with the office.’
‘I’d highlight their knowledge, experience, relationships and treatment.’
‘Francisco Valdes has very good knowledge of the regulatory framework of the Mexican energy sector. His knowledge of the regulatory framework and the requirements for the start-up and operation of power plants in private energy generation projects has been of great support in the matters entrusted to him.’
‘Francisco Valdes is a lawyer with great experience and knowledge in the energy area and an honest and dedicated person to his clients. Other offices may have people with knowledge in energy but hardly as experienced as Mr. Valdes.’
‘Francisco Valdes: honour, preparation, experience, mastery of the area and relationships.’
Key clients
Gas Industrial Monterrey (GIMSA)
CFEnergía
Cemex
Baywa Solar Projects
Techgen
Ternium México
New Fortress Energy
Grupo Industrial Saltillo
Mexican Business Council (Consejo Coordinador Empresarial- CCE)
Corporativo Copamex
Crisa Libbey México
Manufacturas Kaltex
Productos Arpapel
Hartree Consultores
Work highlights
- Assisted Gas Industrial Monterrey (GIMSA) and ALFA with an agreement for the supply of natural gas to GIMSA that ran from July 2022 to June 2023.
- Advising Cemex on power sector regulatory matters.
- Advising Baywa r.e. Solar Projects on the development of solar power plants in Guanajuato (Parque Solar Los Cuervos) and Yucatan (K’iin).
Santamarina y Steta
The energy department at Santamarina y Steta has become increasingly collaborative as a cross-practice offering from the firm in recent years, adapting to changes in the market that have necessitated a broadening of services to include foreign trade, dispute resolution, environmental, and restructuring expertise. Juan Carlos Machorro is a corporate, M&A and finance lawyer with 25 years of experience acting for energy sector clients in Mexico. He heads the department with primary support provided by associate Norma Álvarez.
Practice head(s):
Juan Carlos Machorro
Key clients
Arm Energy
Clisa Energy Development
Atlantica Yield
Kimberly Clark de México
Kroll
Lorean Energy Group
PA Energy Specialists
Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC)
Verdad Exploration Mexico/Magna Operating
Work highlights
- Finalised a legal due diligence on behalf of Atlantica Yield, regarding the proposed acquisition by Pemcorp of a cogeneration power plant located in the State of Nuevo León.
- Advising Arm Energy on a Mexico-United States business venture encompassing wholesale marketing and trading activities and transactions associated with a natural gas pipeline running on both sides of the border.
- Advised Kimberly Clark on its existing contracts with Grupo Iberdrola.