With an expanding client base across the energy industry, Sainz Abogados has reinforced its capabilities in project development, transactional work, and regulatory compliance, with experience spanning oil-and-gas, electric power and renewables. The group is well-versed in navigating complex regulatory frameworks to secure project authorisations and is also adept in dispute resolution, having represented key clients such as CFEnergía in both litigation and arbitration procedures. Francisco Valdés López, a recognised figure with two decades’ experience in the energy space, co-leads the practice alongside Diana Pineda, a highly regarded specialist, active in multijurisdictional project structuring and administrative litigation involving energy regulation. Counsel Pedro Lladó is another notable figure who advises on large infrastructure projects. Among the team’s associate support, Carolina Gonzalez Vazquez assists with administrative procedures, while Mario Rodríguez Salas handles regulatory transactions and arbitration matters.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘This practice is distinguished by its practical approach, its commitment to quality of service, and its closeness to the client. The team combines technical strength with personalised attention that allows them to precisely understand and attend to the needs of in-house clients. In-house lawyers should know that the team stands out for its responsiveness, its knowledge of the sector, and its collaborative approach.’
- ‘The Sainz team has very capable and experienced lawyers in the energy sector, covering both electricity and hydrocarbons. Their experience dates back to the application of energy regulations prior to the 2013 reform, and they have very good knowledge of market-related aspects.’
- ‘Diana Pineda is an excellent litigator and corporate adviser; she has a very good vision of the market. Pedro Lladó has great analytical skills and is extremely careful with detail. Carolina González is a very good and helpful lawyer.’
- ‘They possess great knowledge and experience in the sector.’
- ‘Their key strengths are their response times and their understanding of the political and regulatory context.’
- ‘We also value their commitment to staff training and their orderly administration.’
Key clients
- Tesoro Mexico Supply & Marketing
- Gas Industrial Monterrey
- CFEnergía
- Cemex
- Baywa r.e. Solar Projects
- Ternium Group (Ternium, Techgen and Tecpetrol)
- Hotelera Palace
- Manufacturas Kaltex
- Shell
- Grupo Lodemo and Hidrocarburos del Sureste
Work highlights
Advised GIMSA on regulatory matters related to natural gas transportation permit and self-supply scheme, including interactions with CRE, CENAGAS and ASEA.
Represented CFEnergía in the litigation procedures against Esentia (formerly known as Fermaca), in connection with a natural gas transportation agreement in México.
Lawyers
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Francisco Valdes; Diana Pineda
Other key lawyers
Pedro Lladó; Carolina Gónzalez Vazquez; Mario Rodríguez Salas