Providing ‘practical and efficient solutions to the client’s specific needs’, CMS Rodríguez-Azuero stands out for its extensive expertise in structuring projects for international stakeholders looking to enter the Colombian market. Striking a balance between regulatory and commercial matters, the group provides comprehensive coverage of the hydrocarbons (both oil and gas) and power industries. Energy and climate change specialist Álvaro Josué Yáñez demonstrates ’deep knowledge of the sector’ and recently teamed up with seasoned industry veteran Álvaro Yáñez Peñaranda to represent Drummond Energy on the structuring of a renewable energy generation project to produce green hydrogen. Other key contacts at partner level include Daniela Vergel, who leads the environmental law and sustainability practice and is noted for mining work; Leopoldo Olavarría, who handles transactions related to energy and hydrocarbons; and Daniel Rodríguez, who specialises in project finance. The department additionally draws on talented counsel Mónica Torres, who provides multidisciplinary support on energy and climate change matters.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘CMS provides practical and efficient solutions to the client’s specific needs. Due to the complexity of the sector in Colombia, where in-depth knowledge of regulation, sector-specific standards, environmental and commercial standards must be articulated, the team provides us with comprehensive advice.’

  • ‘Also notable is that we have found a solution for countries where we have activities, such as Mexico and the USA, through CMS' international platform.’ 

  • ‘Its professional ethics and specific understanding of the needs of its clients are what truly differentiates it from other firms.’

  • ‘The work and the degree of superior support that Alvaro Josué Yáñez provides has been fundamental to the development of our company. His deep knowledge of the sector, his strategic thinking, prudence and his understanding of our specific needs have been key to our success.’

Key clients

  • Equinor
  • Parex Resources
  • Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ)
  • Hydrothermia
  • TW Solar Colombia
  • Verano Energy
  • Drummond Energy
  • Acerías Paz del Río
  • ESPROD
  • Chevron Petroleum Company
  • Invepetrol Colombia
  • SOWITEC Energías Renovables de Colombia
  • Electryon Power
  • Canacol Energy Colombia
  • Lewis Energy Colombia
  • Repsol Colombia
  • Franca Energía
  • MC2
  • Carrao Energy (Colombia branch)

Work highlights

  • Advised Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit in relation to potential gaps and opportunities in the certification of the origin guarantee of hydrogen produced in Colombia in application of Decree 1476/2022, which promoted hydrogen projects in Colombia
  • Acted as local counsel to Parex in relation to due diligence required for an M&A transaction.
  • Advised Drummond Energy on the structuring of a renewable energy generation project to produce green hydrogen.

Lawyers

Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Alvaro Josué Yáñez, Alvaro Yáñez Peñaranda, Daniel Rodríguez, Daniela Vergel, Leopoldo Olavarría