A stellar track record in transactions and project development sees Machado Meyer Sendacz e Opice Advogados as first recourse for investors and corporations engaged in complex deals in the power industry. Harnessing extensive experience in corporate and administrative law, as well as project finance and development, the team is frequently retained to advise on joint ventures facilitating the construction and operation of power projects, the structuring and financing of self-production by equivalence projects with PPAs indexed to US dollars, and M&A transactions. Leadership of the São Paulo practice is shared between infrastructure and energy projects specialist Ana Karina Souza, who ‘stands out for her wealth of experience and substantial knowledge of the energy industry’, Paulo Machado, whose ’ability to quickly understand the nuances of specific project challenges and present tailored solutions’ shines in regulation, project financing, and the structuring of transactions, and Laura Souza, who, in addition to clients in the generation, distribution, transmission, and trading segments, supports large size consumers in the energy-intensive industrial area. At the senior associate level, constitutional and administrative law experts Heloisa Zerbinatti Sato and Luisa Andrade Costa e Silva Rodrigues assist with M&A, project structuring, and international entities intending to engage in activities in Brazil.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘The firm has very technically competent professionals in several areas, which is a differentiator when we need to hire a legal adviser for a topic that requires a multidisciplinary assessment. In addition to technical training, the lawyers we have worked with are very available and focused on meeting the client's needs. We felt very welcomed and well supported.’

  • ‘What makes the Machado Meyer team unique is the exceptional combination of quality, creativity and efficiency that characterises its services.’

  • ‘Paulo Machado’s ability to quickly understand the nuances of specific project challenges and present tailored solutions was essential to the success of the transaction. The trust we place in the team is undeniable.’

  • ‘Having the support of associate Luisa Andrade Costa e Silva Rodrigues throughout the transaction was essential. She demonstrated in-depth technical expertise over all aspects of the project and provided us with clarifications quickly and efficiently.’

  • ‘The technical knowledge and experience of the Machado Meyer team in the energy area are great facilitators at any negotiation table. They always work for the good of the business, with zeal and competence. When it comes to innovations, Machado Meyer has stood out for leading inclusion and sustainability actions, which we can easily see from its team.’

  • ‘Ana Karina Souza stands out for her wealth of experience and substantial knowledge of the energy industry. She also stands out for her friendliness, diplomacy, and knowing how to overcome moments of crisis.'

  • ‘Ana Karina Souza is an experienced partner in the energy area, always available and very insightful.’

  • ‘The team involved in the project demonstrated extensive technical knowledge, knew how to debate the issues raised with different areas involved and demonstrated comfort in talking about the topic.’

Key clients

  • Colbún
  • Origo Energia
  • Acciona Energia
  • State Power Investment Corporation
  • China Three Gorges Brasil
  • ISA CTEEP
  • TAESA
  • State Grid
  • Engie
  • Vinci Partners
  • Vale
  • Siemens
  • TotalEnergies
  • Mitsui & Co.
  • Santander
  • Equinor
  • Atiaia Energia
  • Comerc
  • Rio Tinto
  • Arcelor Mital

Work highlights

  • Advised TotalEnergies on the regulatory and transactional aspects of the negotiation of a transaction involving the creation of a joint venture to develop, build, and operate the renewable portfolio of Casa dos Ventos.
  • Acted for Global Infrastructure Partners in the acquisition of 100% of Actis’ energy stake in Atlas Renewable Energy, a company that develops, builds, and operates solar and wind projects in Brazil, Chile, Mexico, and Uruguay.
  • Advised Green Investment Group on all regulatory aspects and stages of the formation of a joint venture with Norsk Hydro for the construction and operation of power projects.

Lawyers

Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Ana Karina Souza, Paulo Machado, Laura Souza

Other key lawyers

Heloisa Zerbinatti Sato, Luisa Andrade Costa e Silva Rodrigues, Lair Loureiro