ECIJA is noted for having ‘a recognised track record in the hydrocarbon industry’ and has been involved in some of the country’s biggest hydrocarbon projects over the last decade. Beyond hydrocarbons, the group displays a ’broad knowledge of energy and natural resources laws‘, with clients including large state-owned and private companies both in Ecuador and overseas. Gonzalo González, Bayardo Poveda, hydrocarbon sector expert and senior associate Gustavo Arrobo, and Álvaro Ordoñez are key figures in the team, the latter of whom ’has extensive experience in the energy, electricity and mining sectors’ and leads the mining group at the firm. González has acted in significant work such as electric sectors throughout the region, and has advised on the execution of contracts, and experienced energy sector lawyer Poveda is an M&A expert, often working on public-private partnerships and cross-border acquisitions in the energy sector.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'The department has several efficient specialists.'
- 'They are excellent people. Alvaro Ordoñez has extensive experience in the energy, electricity, and mining sectors. He is a reliable professional who provides personalised attention.'
- 'They have very in-depth knowledge of the industry.'
- 'I find their practice ethical and they have a broad knowledge of energy and natural resources laws.'
- 'I think a very notable point is their knowledge of the relevant laws. I always heard them as very accurate in their knowledge and interpretation. I was also impressed by their cordial and ethical attitude. I especially mention attorneys Gonzalo González, Alvaro Ordóñez, and Gustavo Arrobo.'
- 'The ECIJA GPA team has experience and specific knowledge of the industry and project structuring in Ecuador and the region. Additionally, they provide ongoing support in the day-to-day operations of companies, providing impeccable, efficient, and effective legal support, notable not only for its assertiveness but also for its promptness. They differentiate themselves from other law firms because they understand the business and the industry from within the company, providing advice and counsel beyond the external regulatory framework, allowing the company to make appropriate decisions and opportunities.'
Key clients
- Franco Nevada Corporation
- Pampa Energia
- Enap Sipec
- Cóndor Servicios Petroleros
- Ecuadorian Drilling Services
- Sipetrol
- Gasgreen
- Plus Petrol
- Institu Nowak Idnq
Work highlights
Advised Franco Nevada Corporation and TORYS on one of the largest mining transactions in Ecuador in recent years.
Advising Gas Green on the expansion of a biogas plant in the city of Quito.
Assisted Pampa Energia with the corporate restructuring of a complex operation involving local and foreign companies.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Gustavo Arrobo
Practice head
Gonzalo González; Bayardo Poveda; Gustavo Arrobo; Alvaro Ordóñez