The projects and energy team at Hughes & Hughes has extensive expertise in the energy sector, particularly in matters related to oil & gas and wind renewables. Recent highlights include advising UPM on the landmark merger of its Uruguayan subsidiaries, Forestal Oriental and Uruwood, managing all corporate approvals and complex regulatory requirements. Department co-leader Haroldo Espalter is highly skilled in commercial and corporate law, international transactions, project finance, financing, foreign investment, M&A, and real estate, among other areas. Co-leader Mariana Estradé is well-versed in energy and infrastructure project development – including wind and solar projects, transmission lines, educational centres, roads, and ports. Héctor Ferreira is adept in international transactions, corporate and M&A, foreign investment, US law, and energy, with a focus on corporate and project finance. Clara Villaamil is knowledgeable in renewable energy and infrastructure transactions, including acquiring and financing projects, setting up businesses in Uruguay, negotiating contracts, and conducting legal due diligence.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- What makes the practice particularly strong is its ability to truly engage in project operations and not be limited to a traditional legal role. The team has a deep understanding of the technical, contractual, and commercial aspects of the assets, allowing them to anticipate problems, prioritize tasks, and support decisions with a real impact on the business. In energy projects, this combination of legal expertise and operational understanding sets them apart from other teams. Mariana Estradé is a central figure in this approach.
- Their key differentiator is their ability to combine legal expertise with a strong business acumen, something not always common among legal advisors. They are very agile, respond quickly, and tend to seek solutions that allow progress without sacrificing rigor or overestimating risks. Mariana Estradé particularly embodies this approach. She stands out for her sound judgment, availability, and ability to quickly grasp both the legal issue and the commercial and operational context behind each decision. Her direct involvement and decisive attitude inspire significant trust and value.
Key clients
- UPM
- Akuo Energy
- BTD Capital 12
- Invenergy LLC
- Petrel
- Dutch Infrastructure Fund (DIF)
- Centros Educativos Primera Infancia S.A.
- British Petroleum
- QatarEnergy
Work highlights
Advised EXAT Consulting in the legal structuring and financing of a project through an emission of bonds and a senior financing.
Advised UPM during the whole process of construction of the pulp mill and related investments.
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.
Practice head
Haroldo Espalter; Mariana Estradé
Other key lawyers
Héctor Ferreira; Clara Villaamil