The energy and natural resources team at PLMJ advises clients on big-ticket transactions across all segments, from natural gas and electricity to self-consumption schemes. Led by João Marques Mendes, who has notable expertise in regulatory frameworks and renewable project implementation, the team offers comprehensive support in M&A, PPAs, financing, regulatory, licensing and contentious matters. Nuno Serrão Faria advises on project implementation and investment structuring in the energy space, while Joana Campelo specialises in public and regulatory law with a focus on the energy sector. Telmo Coutinho Rodrigues is also noted for assisting with the implementation and acquisition of renewable energy assets.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘The combination of technical excellence, industry expertise, and close client relationships. The team is made up of highly qualified professionals with extensive experience who work collaboratively and in a multidisciplinary manner to offer effective, personalised legal solutions aligned with clients' strategic objectives.'
  • ‘João Marques Mendes and his team stand out for their vast knowledge of the sector, their consistently cooperative attitude, their availability, and their pursuit of solutions that meet the needs of their clients.’
  • ‘PLMJ's energy and natural resources practice stands out for its combination of deep regulatory knowledge with a truly strategic vision of the energy, environment, and climate transition sectors. Led by João Marques Mendes, the team provides highly specialised services, capable of advising clients throughout the project lifecycle—from development, licensing, and financing to implementation, operation, and subsequent transactions.’
  • ‘Leading the practice is João Marques Mendes, who stands out for his consistent experience in monitoring energy projects and his solid understanding of the regulatory issues affecting the sector. His approach is centred on clear and pragmatic advice, which facilitates decision-making for clients during critical project phases.'
  • ‘Extensive experience in the sector, particularly with key entities. Many creative and practical solutions based on experience from other markets (e.g., Spain).’

Key clients

  • START Campus
  • Incus Capital Advisors
  • RegaEnergy
  • Endesa
  • Galp
  • REN
  • Engie
  • Verdane
  • KOMMUNALKREDIT AUSTRIA AG
  • WAM Horizon
  • SOMINCOR
  • Ardian

Work highlights

Advised InfraVia Capital Partners on the acquisition of a majority stake in Prosolia International, the parent company of Prosolia Energy, which owns and operates a significant clean energy portfolio in Portugal.
Assisted Ardian on reaching an agreement to acquire Akuo, a leading independent power producer specialising in renewable energy with several projects under development, construction and already in operation in Portugal.
Advised Lightsource bp on the sale of the Cibele photovoltaic solar project to Exus Renewables.

Lawyers

Leading partners

The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Practice head

João Marques Mendes

Other key lawyers

Nuno Serrão Faria; Joana Campelo; Telmo Coutinho Rodrigues; Maria Gorjão Henriques