Combining significant financial and regulatory expertise, BLP frequently plays a leading role in the financing of major energy projects, as well as assisting with national and regional energy acquisitions and the negotiation of power purchase agreements (PPAs). In particular, the team stands out for its strength in the renewable energy space, including solar and wind energy. Julio Castellanos is the key figure in the practice, with notable expertise in project finance, while Luis M. Castro, Luis Ortiz and Pablo Umaña are also recommended.
Energy and natural resources in Costa Rica
BLP
Alta
Alta‘s multidisciplinary energy practice brings together strengths in environmental, energy, corporate, tax and public law to advise clients across the solar, wind, hydro, biofuels and waste-to-energy sectors. The team covers a wide scope of matters, from energy regulatory issues to bidding procedures and the development and financing of energy projects. Raúl Guevara is a standout name for energy-related transactions and disputes, while public law specialist Marvin Carvajal and Rodrigo Zelaya are other key contacts.
Principaux dossiers
Arias
With experience of acting for a diverse range of energy distribution companies, public entities, private power generators and large energy consumers, Arias is adept at advising on bidding procedures, regulatory compliance issues, and contracts for the sale and supply of power. The team also assists with the development and operation of energy projects. Carlos Ubico, whose broad skill set covers project finance, public bids and public works concessions, oversees the practice. Vicente Lines and senior counsel Luis Diego Obando, an expert in public law and regulatory matters, also lend their expertise.
Responsables de la pratique:
Carlos Ubico
Principaux clients
Enfragen
Principaux dossiers
Ecija
Highlighted for its ‘understanding of the specifics of the energy business’, the ECIJA team acts for a range of domestic and international energy and construction companies and utility cooperatives. The firm demonstrates particular strength in the renewable energy space, where it has been notably active in advising on the acquisition and divestment of hydroelectric, photovoltaic and wind power assets, including related regulatory issues. In addition, the team assists with the design, construction and operation of renewable energy projects. Guillermo Zúñiga, who has extensive recent experience of advising clients in the energy distribution market, and the ‘knowledgeable’ Mariela Hernández, an expert in public law issues in the energy sector, lead the practice.
Responsables de la pratique:
Guillermo Zúñiga; Mariela Hernández
Les références
‘The ECIJA team includes professionals with an understanding of the specifics of the energy business, as well as practical experience in some of the most significant transactions in this sector in recent years.’
‘Mariela Hernández is a knowledgeable professional with a proactive attitude and a focus on problem-solving, which is key to closing successful transactions.’
‘Broad, comprehensive knowledge of corporate legislation, public-private partnerships and tax matters.’
Principaux clients
Hunt Costa Rica
Swissol
Ghella
Union Fenosa Generadora La Joya (subsidiary of Global Power Generation)
Toro Energia
Poas Energia
Principaux dossiers
- Advised Hunt Energy Horizons, a wholly owned subsidiary of Hunt, one of the largest privately owned oil companies in the US, on the completion of the divestment of its renewable energy assets in Costa Rica.
- Advised Coneléctricas, a consortium of energy cooperatives, on the acquisition of a hydro energy plant in the area of influence of the Caribbean Sea, with the purpose of expanding its generation matrix with assets in different parts of the country.
- Acted for long-term client Unión Fenosa in a claim filed against the Costa Rican government, in order to receive a refund of taxes collected against the rule of law, obtaining a favourable final judgment for the reimbursement of such taxes.