Vinson & Elkins LLP

Vinson & Elkins LLP has been a major force in energy and infrastructure projects over the years, most notably in upstream oil and gas. It has successfully diversified its practice across industries and geographies. Historically more focused on Mexico, it has successfully targeted other key jurisdictions such as Brazil, Colombia and Chile. It has also made significant inroads into the digital infrastructure field, including data centres and fibre optic cables. In transport infrastructure, the firm has made a further impact in toll roads, and has gained prominence in energy transition projects such as green hydrogen and ammonia production. Moreover, it has a significant presence in private equity investments into energy and infrastructure assets. Houston partner Alan Alexander has a significant focus on Latin America, especially energy transition, and oil and gas projects in Mexico. New York partner Eamon Nolan is also a key name. Since publication, the October 2023 departure of Gabriel Silva  has seen the firm hire energy-transition tax specialist Jorge Medina to its Los Angeles office (effective January 2024); formerly a partner in the project finance and development practices at Shearman & Sterling LLP, Medina has a particular focus on renewable energy in the Americas.