Watson Farley & Williams LLP > Madrid, Spain > Firm Profile
Watson Farley & Williams LLP Offices
MARIA DE MOLINA, 4
28006 MADRID
Spain
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Watson Farley & Williams LLP > The Legal 500 Rankings
Spain > Projects and energy Tier 1
Boasting an ‘extraordinary knowledge of energy’ across M&A, financings, and project development, Watson Farley & Williams LLP regularly acts for sponsors and investors active in the renewables space. Practice head María Pilar García Guijarro is a highly sought-after adviser to renewable energy operators on key strategic transactions, particularly regarding major solar and renewable energy portfolio acquisitions. Rodrigo Berasategui, who provides true project and acquisition finance expertise, acts for major global banks and developers on portfolio and construction financing matters in the solar and wind power segments. David Diez is regularly instructed by multinational energy operators to advise on development, transactional, and administrative matters concerning wind, solar, and hydrogen projects.Practice head(s):
María Pilar García Guijarro
Other key lawyers:
Rodrigo Berasategui; David Diez; Javier Ester
Testimonials
‘A multidisciplinary team with extraordinary knowledge of energy, dealing with M&A, project contracts, the regulatory part as well as the procedural part. It stands out for its excellence in the technical part, team cohesion, as well as the commercial perspective, in which finding solutions to complicated issues is paramount.’
‘Partners Maria Pilar Garcia Guijarro and David Diez stand out due to their expertise in energy from all angles.’
Key clients
CIP (Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners)
Northleaf Capital Partners
Northland
General Electric
Foresight Group
Helios Energy Investment
Macquarie Capital
Noy Infrastructure & Energy Investment Fund
Octopus Renewables Infrastructure Trust plc
Ontario Pension Trust
Sonnedix
T-Solar
Q-Energy
Iberdrola
GALP
Saeta Yield
Acciona
FRV
Solaria
Cúbico
Work highlights
Spain > Environment Tier 2
Singled out 'for its in-depth knowledge of the energy sector', Watson Farley & Williams LLP‘s environment team is proficient in environmental impact assessments and in handling the environmental aspects of corporate, finance, and real estate transactions. Practice co-head David Diez is noted for his experience advising clients on the environmental considerations of energy, waste, and public infrastructure projects. Fellow co-head Luis González García specialises in waste, contaminated soil, water, emissions, and renewable energy issues.Practice head(s):
David Díez; Luis González
Other key lawyers:
Lidia Fernández; Alejandro Martínez
Testimonials
‘Knowledge of the sector. They are involved in the day-to-day operations of many companies in the sector and are familiar with common issues that may arise.’
‘Exceptional client service.’
‘As a team, Watson Farley & Williams LLP offers comprehensive, agile and quality advice, providing effective solutions.’
‘Problem-solving ability with a clear focus on the client.’
‘The environment area is an essential area for the development and construction of the projects we work on successfully. Therefore, the experience and analytical capacity of the team is essential. And in this, WFW Environment is a pioneer.’
‘The advantage of the environmental lawyers of the firm is their extensive knowledge of the subject, their analytical capacity and their availability and application to practical cases. They differ from their competitors in that their analysis provides an essential practical element and that they get down to the real fact to be solved, providing that possible solution. Outstanding names include David Diez and Alejandro Martínez.’
‘The team stands out for its in-depth knowledge of the energy sector and its dedication to client service. Additionally, the fact that WFW works with numerous clients and administrations means that they are constantly up to date with the best state-of-the-art, which provides enormous value in a sector as dynamic as energy. Over the last few years, WFW has expanded the size of its team, which allows it to meet the needs of clients in an outstanding way, even during peak periods.’
‘The work of David Diez, regulatory partner, is worth highlighting. He combines in-depth knowledge of the industry with exceptional skills and capacity for work. A 10 as a professional and as a person. Without a doubt, for my company, he is number 1 in administrative law in the regulatory field.’
Key clients
BP España
Verdalia
Q-Energy Europe
Eni Plenitude Renewables
RWE
Matrix Renewables
Alfanar
Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP)
Opdenergy
Plenium Partners
Verbund
Econergy International
Premier Energy Engineering
Akuo renovables
Benbros
Statkfraft
Greenalia Biomass Power
Villar Mir Energía, S.A.
Work highlights
- Advising Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP) through its CI Advanced Bioenergy Fund I (CI ABF I) on the framework of which a transaction has been carried out for the purchase and sale of two large industrial-scale biogas plants currently in Spain.
- Advising BP España on environmental matters such as Greenhouse Gas Emissions and energy efficiency certificates.
- Advising Verdalia on environmental matters related to the processing of biogas and Biomethane Plants.
Spain > Private equity Tier 3
Watson Farley & Williams LLP has carved out a strong niche in private equity transactions within the energy sector, advising energy funds and corporates on asset and project-related deals. Team head Maria Pilar Garcia Guijarro is highly regarded for her expertise in energy and infrastructure work, particularly wind and solar, and her involvement in prominent M&A transactions. Ana Lorenzo, Javier Ester, and Gonzalo Aranzabal bring extensive experience in M&A and investment transactions across the energy and infrastructure sectors.Practice head(s):
María Pilar García Guijarro
Other key lawyers:
Ana Lorenzo; Javier Ester; Gonzalo Aranzábal
Testimonials
‘This is a rigorous team, technically very good with a lot of knowledge and dedication. They are respectful, and collaborative.’
Key clients
GE Vernova
Arjun Infrastructure Partners
Helios
RIVE Private Investment
Patrizia
Foresight Group
Amber
Encavis
OX2
Yanolja Cloud
Work highlights
- Advised Arjun Infrastructure Partners on the acquisition of a minority stake in Amarenco Solar.
Spain > Transport: Other transport Tier 3
The team at Watson Farley & Williams LLP handles financing and regulatory mandates for commercial aircraft, helicopters and private jets. It is also well placed to advise rail operators on financings. The practice is jointly led by Alfredo Cabellos and Laura Cadenas, both of whom specialise in transport financings and registrations, as well as insolvency and regulatory issues.Practice head(s):
Alfredo Cabellos; Laura Cadenas
Testimonials
‘Great understanding of our needs, asking the right questions, availability.’
‘The department stands out for its welcoming and professional atmosphere, thanks to its senior partner, whose friendliness and empathy are truly exceptional. His patience and hands-on approach not only facilitate excellent communication with clients but have also set an admirable standard for the rest of the team. The associates, inspired by their example, have cultivated a collaborative and supportive work style, reflecting those same values.’
Key clients
Banco Santander, S.A.
EBN Banco de Negocios, S.A.
Instituto de Crédito Oficial
Griffin Global Asset Management
Alpha Trains
Investec
Avolon
Macquarie Rotorcraft Leasing Holdings Limited
CaixaBank
Lilium GmbH
LCI
Milestone
Work highlights
- Advised EBN, Banco Santander and ICO acting as lenders on a €31.2m syndicated loan backed by Spanish ECA CESCE granted to aerospace company PLD Space.
- Advised Griffin Global Asset Management in relation to the sale and leaseback transaction of 4 Airbus A320 & 321NEO aircraft to be leased to Iberia and Iberia Express.
- Advised Alpha Trains on its €1.3bn debt raise through a combination of rated private placement debt and bank debt, for the refinancing of its existing debt as well as raising additional debt for CapEx and growth to be used for financing various green assets.
Spain > Transport: Shipping Tier 3
Lauded for its ‘extensive experience in everything related to shipbuilding financing’, the team at Watson Farley & Williams LLP is highly specialised in tax leasing, aquaculture matters and purchase and sale agreements. Leadership is shared between Alfredo Cabellos and Laura Cadenas, noted as ‘pro-deal lawyers who always try to find solutions to problems’. Cabellos advises shipowners and banks on tax and structured finance transactions, while Cadenas focuses on the financing of ships and aircraft and advises on shipbuilding contracts. Jose María Pery and Daniel Refoyo provide across-the-board support.Practice head(s):
Alfredo Cabellos; Laura Cadenas
Other key lawyers:
José María Pery;Daniel Refoyo
Testimonials
‘There are few firms as specialised in this area as WFW and they have extensive experience in everything related to shipbuilding financing, particularly in tax lease structures and long-term financing with ECA coverage.’
‘They are lawyers who stand out not only for their technical knowledge but also for their commercial profile. Both Alfredo Cabellos and Laura Cadenas are pro-deal lawyers who always try to find solutions to problems to ensure the successful completion of transactions.’
‘The team is very professional and has good and in-depth knowledge of the market. Their legal advice is always to the point.’
‘Alfredo Cabellos and Daniel Refoyo are excellent lawyers who always give good legal advice. They are pragmatic and service-minded. Their response time is also excellent.’
Key clients
Banca March
Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC)
Northvest GmbH
USV, AS, a joint venture SPV between Østensjø, Solstad Offshore and DeepOcean
Edda Wind
Caixabank
Spain > Banking and finance Tier 4
Demonstrating particular proficiency in financings in the energy and infrastructure sectors, Watson Farley & Williams LLP is a popular choice for banks, investors and corporates seeking advice on sophisticated project finance transactions in Spain. Practice head Rodrigo Berasategui - a name to note for financial institutions, utilities, multilateral and funds - shines in project and export finance deals. Jose María Anarte brings additional expertise in project finance in the energy, infrastructure and transport segments, while Juan Vicente Barquilla enhances the team’s capabilities with his focus on structured finance.Practice head(s):
Rodrigo Berasategui
Other key lawyers:
José María Anarte; Juan Vicente Barquilla; Antonio Cáneva
Testimonials
‘Its knowledge of the sector but also extensive knowledge of all the areas that border the department.’
‘WFW is a reputable law firm with whom we actively seek to work. Technical knowledge is undoubtedly key, but what makes the difference from our point of view is when the partner proactively assists in the negotiations, offering their expertise for the benefit of the transaction (in a timely manner).’
Key clients
Santander
Sonnedix
Grenergy
Global Ports Holding
CESCE
Forestalia
Sabadell
Galp
Elawan
OPDE
COFIDES
Iberdrola
ADIF Alta Velocidad
IKAV
HSBC
Greening
Work highlights
Spain > Commercial, corporate and M&A Tier 4
Watson Farley & Williams LLP has a strong focus on energy-related M&A and private equity transactions, frequently advising corporations, financial institutions, industrial clients, and investment funds on deals involving renewable energy assets. This area is a core strength for Maria Pilar Garcia Guijarro, who leads the corporate and M&A department and also provides expertise in energy project contracts. Ana Lorenzo is another key figure in the team, with significant experience in mergers, acquisitions, PE investments, and corporate restructurings. Javier Ester focuses on transactions involving renewable energy assets.Practice head(s):
María Pilar García Guijarro
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘A team made up of great professionals, it is one of the best in the Spanish market, especially in energy deals.’
‘They are excellent lawyers, technically and commercially, very client-oriented and with the ability to integrate the client’s needs with the advice that is needed at any given time, seeking solutions. It is a united and very dedicated team with a rapid response capacity.’
Key clients
Alfanar Group
Photosol
Helios
Foresight
Rive
Work highlights
- Advised General Electric – Energy Financial Services (GE EFS) on its acquisition of a 50% stake in a circa 364 MWp renewables portfolio in Spain.
- Advised Helios (UK) Spain Ltd. on the sale of a renewable portfolio with a total capacity of circa 97 MWp in Spain to ENI Plenitude S.P.A. Società Benefit.
- Advised RIVE Private Investment on the sale of two operating onshore wind farms in southern Spain with a total installed capacity of 29 MW to Helia Renovables III, a renewable private equity fund structured and raised by Bankinter Investment and managed by Plenium Partners.
Spain > Dispute resolution Tier 4
Watson Farley & Williams LLP is predominantly instructed by banks, private equity funds, and family offices on civil and commercial matters such as joint venture, financing, and contractual disputes. The group’s expertise alongside its cross-border capabilities continue to attract new clients from a range of sectors such as banking and finance, aviation, and renewables. Heading up the dispute resolution practice is Victor Mercedes who is noted as ‘an exceptional professional with deep procedural knowledge and regulatory understanding.’ Mercedes has a breadth of experience including handling litigation, domestic and international arbitration, and compliance. Adrián Prados, who joined in October 2024 from Assempbcm, is another key practitioner in the group.Practice head(s):
Victor Mercedes
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team stands out for its comprehensive knowledge of the subject.’
‘Victor Mercedes is an exceptional professional with deep procedural knowledge and regulatory understanding.’
Key clients
Nauta Capital
Caixabank
Veolia
Velto Renewables
Damm
Enel
Malaysia Airlines
Applus
Albastar
Work highlights
- Advised Damm on disputes related to a joint venture transaction in its subsidiary Cacaolat with the food production group Idilia Foods
Spain > Tax Tier 6
The tax team at Watson Farley & Williams LLP is highly active in advising on the tax aspects of M&A, asset finance, and project finance transactions, with a strong focus on the energy, shipping and aviation sectors. Tax disputes also feature on the team's diverse workload. Practice head Luis Soto plays a key role in strategic transactions - notably M&A and debt restructuring - and tax litigation.Practice head(s):
Luis Soto
Other key lawyers:
Javier Gabiña; Blanca López
Testimonials
‘Good knowledge of specialised sectors.’
‘Proven experience over many years. Continuous support and agility in response. Search for alternatives when needed, relying on other quality firms to find the best solutions for our company, which has allowed a very favourable result in the case of, for example, inspections by the Spanish Tax Agency.’
‘The team is always on the lookout and responds quickly to queries and concerns. They analyse problems from different angles and always come up with a creative solution. They are involved in finding solutions.’
‘Their in-depth knowledge of the problems of the electricity sector sets them apart. Luis Soto is a great professional, who is always available to solve a problem.’
Key clients
Elawan Energy
Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners and Arjun Infrastructure Partners
Sonnedix
Noy Fund, Nofar Energy and Eranovum
Union Española de Empresas Fotovoltaicas
Infranity SAS
IKAV
DZ Bank AG
Work highlights
- Advised Sonnedix on the tax planning and cross-border structuring aspects of the signing of an innovative loan facility.
- Advised Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners and Arjun Infrastructure Partners on the tax aspects of a green loan.
- Advised Infranity on the cross-border tax structure advice in connection with lender´s Luxembourg alternative fund vehicle.
Watson Farley & Williams LLP > Firm Profile
Watson Farley & Williams is a leading international law firm advising clients operating in the energy, infrastructure and transport sectors. With a network of offices spanning Asia, Europe and the USA, we bring together technical excellence and deep industry knowledge to deliver unparalleled advice on complex transactions and disputes.
In all our core sectors, we provide integrated and commercially focussed advice across a broad range of capital markets, corporate, finance, dispute resolution, employment, real estate, regulatory and tax matters.
- Senior Partner: George Paleokrassas
- Managing Partner: Lindsey Keeble
- Energy (Mining; Oil and Gas; Power and Renewables; and Commodities and International Trade) – key contacts: Henry Stewart; María Pilar García Guijarro; and Clarinda Tjia-Dharmadi
- Infrastructure (Airports; Digital and E-Infrastructure; Ports and Terminals; Roads, Bridges and Tunnels; and Social Infrastructure) – key contacts: Florian Kutzbach and José María Anarte
- Transport (Aviation and Aerospace; Maritime; and Rail) – key contacts: Jim Bell and George Macheras
We leverage the wealth of experience across our global network to support industry players across the whole mining life cycle, including in the emerging sectors of seabed and space mining, as well as investor-state dispute settlement.
We are the go-to advisors for all mining participants from owners/licensees, developers and sponsors to financiers, contractors and governments. Operating globally and in areas beyond national jurisdiction enables us to advise on complex, multi-jurisdictional matters in all the major mineral-producing areas of the world, from Africa and Australasia to Asia and the Americas.
We have over 30 years’ direct industry experience advising clients across the whole of the oil and gas value chain, covering upstream, midstream and downstream. We also have in-depth knowledge of new fuels and gases such as LNG, hydrogen, ammonia and SAF to help support the industry’s energy transition.
Clients include exploration, development and production companies, traders, offshore services, storage and distribution companies, refinery developers and operators, funds and investors, banks and governments.
With an international offering of sector specialist lawyers, we are the natural choice for clients across the power and renewables space. We have long been at the forefront of new technology and developments in the industry and have a successful track record advising on all aspects of the value chain and life cycle of projects from conventional power to renewables such as onshore and offshore wind, solar, biomass, and waste to energy.
By leveraging our regulatory, transactional, ESG and dispute resolution experience, we offer an unrivalled full service in sector to clients including developers, investors, sponsors, financiers, contractors and both governments and government entities.
We offer a comprehensive sector offering covering disputes, structured trade finance, sanctions and regulatory, ESG, project development & finance, and corporate matters.
Our historical focus on the energy, infrastructure and maritime sectors, which each have strong synergies with commodities and international trade, give us a unique 360-degree perspective, allowing us to support our clients operating in these sectors across all key service lines.
Clients include major corporates, trading houses, mining majors, energy traders, banks, independent trade financiers, investment funds and agricultural and food companies.
With the global demand for infrastructure rapidly increasing, we support our clients on major projects around the world.
We act for a broad range of participants across transport-relevant infrastructures ranging from airports, ports and terminals, rail and roads, bridges and tunnels. We also work on energy-relevant projects ranging from transmission and storage, water and waste management and renewable energy assets, as well as social infrastructure to emerging sub-sectors such as smart and digital infrastructure.
Our multi-disciplinary team, based across our global network of offices, provides first-rate advice and guidance to all participants in the infrastructure sector.
Always abreast of trends within the aviation and aerospace sectors, we have over 40 years’ experience advising key industry stakeholders. These include aircraft and engine leasing companies, banks and financial institutions, funds and investors, export credit agencies, airlines, tour operators and manufacturers.
What propels our service beyond that of our competitors is our active involvement in making impactful changes to the industry at a global level. This includes being the principal advisors to the Aviation Working Group (AWG) and the prime choice for legal advice focussing on the decarbonisation of the industry, alternative fuels and emissions reduction.
With the largest dedicated maritime legal practice worldwide, we have been helping clients address the industry’s ups and downs for over 40 years.
Our unrivalled shipping experience attracts clients including shipowners, charterers, ship managers, P&I and FD&D insurers, investors, banks and financiers with substantial shipping portfolios. Areas of special expertise include maritime infrastructure, commercial shipping, container shipping and logistics, offshore oil & gas, cruise, commercial contracts, sanctions, disputes and regulatory, loan portfolios and restructuring.
We are at the forefront of the industry move towards decarbonisation, including having advised on the development of the Poseidon Principles to support the IMO’s goal to reduce shipping’s annual greenhouse gas emissions by at least 50% by 2050.
Lawyer Profiles
| Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Maria Pilar Garcia Guijarro | María has more than 20 years of experience in the energy and infrastructure… | View Profile |
Staff Figures
Partners : 200+ Lawyers : 700+ Offices : 19Languages
25+ languages- Projects and energy
Top Tier Firm Rankings
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