‘Highly specialised in energy regulatory issues’, Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría’s energy, mining and natural resources group ’contributes to the design of commercial strategies’, according to satisfied clients. During 2023/24, the full-spectrum practice had a strong showing in the power space, where it kept busy advising domestic and multinational stakeholders on the structuring, financing and development of renewable power generation projects, among other matters. The team’s recent experience also spans regulatory and commercial work connected to the oil-and-gas and mining industries. Department head Sandra Manrique is a ‘practical and assertive problem-solver’ and is widely regarded as one of the market’s leading experts in energy and natural resources regulation. Among her recent mandates, Manrique advised Oleoducto de los Llanos Orientales on the assignment of the Firm Energy Obligations (OEFs) of several power generation plants. The group also draws on a strong second line of associates, including principal Juan Pablo Gutiérrez, who ’possesses in-depth knowledge’ and oversees the electrical energy team; and senior Alejandro Zapata, who is a ‘truly well-prepared lawyer’ and specialises in regulatory matters. Former associate director of the hydrocarbons unit, Johanna Cajigas, left the firm in May 2023, while principal associate Mateo Sinisterra left in July 2023 for an in-house position at Proyecto Soto Norte.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘For the purposes of the Colombian electricity and natural gas market, knowledge of the regulation is essential. The team, in addition to having deep knowledge, is very diligent and creative when it comes to solving problems that arise.’
‘We highlight the team’s in-depth knowledge of the industry and the market; quick response times; easy communication; alignment with the client's business interests; and ability to propose propose practical solutions.’
‘Sandra Manrique brings extensive knowledge of the industry and the market, and she is a practical and assertive problem-solver. Juan Pablo Gutiérrez responds quickly, possesses in-depth knowledge of the applicable regulatory legal framework and is very practical and responsive to client needs.’
‘PPU’s very prepared team goes the extra mile in all legal advice. Every time we reach out with a request or question, it comes back with the right answers, explaining everything we should know and understand, and also pointing out other legal aspects to be taken into account that may have gone unnoticed.’
‘Sandra Manrique is one of the most professional lawyers in the industry. She is well prepared and up to date with every regulation and legal framework in the industry. Her excellent communication skills help her clients to understand the issues, and also ensures that she excel during negations.’
- ‘Alejandro Zapata is a truly well-prepared lawyer that prioritises his clients understanding of every legal issue and is always willing to help. He is also a really efficient lawyer which makes working with him an excellent experience.’
‘It is a team highly specialised in energy regulatory issues. It is a purposeful team that contributes to the design of commercial strategies with active participation from a legal and regulatory perspective.’
‘Sandra Manrique is highly specialised in regulatory affairs; a lawyer with strong credibility and her opinions are decisive for decision making. Juan Pablo Gutiérrez is an energy expert, who is always available and very timely in his responses.’
Key clients
- World Fuel Services Company (Colombia branch)
- Oleoducto de los Llanos Orientales
- Entoria Energy Colombia
- Uriel Renovables
- Atlas Renewable Energy Colombia
- Corporación Soluciones Energéticas Integrales
- Surtidora de Gas del Caribe Empresa de Servicios Públicos
- Cenit Transporte y Logística de Hidrocarburos
- Oleum
- NG Energy International Corp
Work highlights
- Representing World Fuel Services Company (Colombia branch) before the Department of Energy in obtaining authorisation to act as a liquid fuels retailer.
- Advising Oleoducto de los Llanos Orientales on the assignment of the Firm Energy Obligations (OEFs) of several power generation plants, among other matters.
- Advising Entoria on the construction of several power generation and self-generation plants with non-conventional renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind energy.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Juan Pablo Gutiérrez
Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & UríaPractice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Sandra Manrique