Acting for large utilities, developers, financial institutions and contractors, Morales & Besa's energy practice combines regulatory and project development specialisms with significant expertise in energy sector M&A deals, financings and reorganisations. In addition to its notable participation in cross-border transactions, the five-member group is increasingly involved in the assessment and negotiation of power purchase agreements. With ‘a strong grasp of cutting-edge industry topics’, former Primer Energía general counsel, Juan Carlos Valdivieso is a highly-rated energy sector specialist; while senior associate Constanza Araya, whose regulatory practice covers energy easements, concessions, transmission projects and publicly-tendered PPAs, is a September 2024 returnee to the firm (further to a foreign internship and studying for an LLM).
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Maximum professionalism and industry knowledge.’
- ‘Detailed technical knowledge and thoroughness in the service provided.’
- ‘Commitment to the project for which they are contracted goes beyond the mere scope of the service.’
- ‘Great human qualities and empathy.’
- ‘Juan Carlos Valdivieso is highlighted for his strong expertise in regulatory, administrative and commercial matters.’
- ‘Juan Carlos Valdivieso has a strong grasp of cutting-edge industry topics, such as storage technologies, which sets him apart from the competition.’
Key clients
- Abastible
- Contour Global
- Acciona Energía
- wpd Chile
- Enel Generación
- Enel Green Power
- Global Infrastructure Partners
- Engie
- Q-Energy (Qualitas)
- Atlas Renewables
- Scotiabank
- DNB Bank
Work highlights
Assisted Abastible with reviewing its model power purchase agreement and the negotiation and execution of a 15-year PPA with Domeyko.
Advised Acciona, Enel Chile and wpd on their sale of certain securities, issued by the Chilean Electricity Tariff Stabilization Fund (for up to $2.4bn).
Advised Engie onthe conversion of its 377MW Mejillones (IEM) coal-fuelled complex, so as to allow for the use of cleaner fuels.
Lawyers
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Constanza Araya
Practice head
Juan Carlos Valdivieso