Bringing 'in-depth knowledge of the local industries and the highest levels of thoroughness and rigour', Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría (PPU)’s infrastructure, energy and natural resources practice advises on a wide spectrum of high-profile projects in the Chilean market, frequently working on joint ventures between domestic and international companies and advising on acquisitions and financings for complex, large-scale developments. The firm’s client roster includes international construction firms, engineering companies, financial institutions and government bodies. Frequently advising on transportation projects (including roads, ports and railways), alongside social infrastructure projects (such as hospitals and schools), the practice group is also particularly active in the mining and energy sectors, handling renewable energy projects such as BESS, green hydrogen, green ammonia, and oil & gas developments. Notable clients of the firm include Anglo American and Minera Salar Blanco, two of the most significant companies in the Chilean mining sector. Carlos Alberto Reyes is a senior figure in projects and M&A, with over 25 years' experience of major transactions in the energy, oil & gas, and natural resources sectors. Known for his deep legal and commercial insight, Andrés Sanfuentes is co-head of the infrastructure practice and has strong expertise in banking, capital markets and infrastructure development, from tender structuring to project operation and finance. Marcela Silva focuses on banking, capital markets, and project finance, advising lenders and borrowers on financings in mining, energy, and the desalination-plants' segment. Guillermo Vial has been a partner at the firm since 2024, and specialises in banking regulatory advice, and counselliing on major public tenders and large-scale private energy and mining projects. Also raised to the partnership in 2024, Mario Fava is praised for his 'work ethic, thoroughness and precision' as a specialist in engineering, construction and strategic project contracting. Principal associate Pedro Pablo Valenzuela has significant expertise in finance, insolvency and capital markets, and frequently advises on cross-border and domestic financings, particularly in the energy and infrastructure sectors.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The team has in-depth knowledge of the local industry and works with the highest levels of thoroughness and rigour. The lawyers are always available and willing to help in any way possible and their commitment is second to none.’
‘Mario Fava has an outstanding delivery. His work ethic, thoroughness and precision make him a valuable asset for all clients. ’
‘We are dedicated to developing renewable energy and energy storage projects. PPU assists us with the various stages of development, from land leasing, where the team advises us on securing lease agreements compatible with bank financing, to the project sales process. Most importantly, the firm's support is provided throughout the entire process and on all aspects. The lawyers have extensive experience, which makes their collaboration effective and efficient throughout the various processes.’
‘We work with partner Carlos Alberto Reyes, who leads a highly professional team. I would single out Mario Fava among others. Overall, in addition to their professionalism, I can say that they work tirelessly to achieve our goals, delivering ideas beyond the purely legal, commercial ideas that allow us to reach better agreements with our counterparties.’
‘It is a team that handles matters of great technical complexity, both in relation to complex legal documents and negotiations, as well as in complex businesses and projects.’
‘Partners Guillermo Vial and Mario Fava are both excellent professionals.’
Key clients
- Minera Salar Blanco
- Anglo American
- DEG - Deutsche Investitions- und Entwicklungsgesellschaft
- Hatch Engineering
- Acciona
- Qualitas Energy
- Nordex Chile
- Korkia
- Sacyr
Work highlights
Advising Hatch on all engineering and service contract matters for its Chilean Projects (mining, energy, etc.), including consultation on different engineering, design, EPCM and related services' matters, interpretation of certain provisions, analysis of potential claims, and work on amendments to agreements.
Advising Minera Salar Blanco on navigating the complexities involved in developing the Maricunga lithium project.
Advising Anglo American on negotiations with Codelco for the potential integration of the Los Bronces (Anglo American) and División Andina (Codelco) mining operations.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
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.
Practice head
Carlos Alberto Reyes; Andrés Sanfuentes; Marcela Silva; Guillermo Vial; Mario Fava