Well-regarded for its ‘in-depth knowledge’ and ’strategic vision’, the energy and natural resoruces team at VdA boasts a strong track record in joint ventures, project finance, M&A, bond issuances and refinancings. The group’s expertise extends to advising on concession issues, bidding procedures, and a broad spectrum of regulatory matters. Counting oil and energy companies and financial institutions, among its key client roster, the team earns further praise for its cross-border expertise. Manuel Protásio specialises in project, acquisition, and other structured financings particularly in the energy, mining and water sectors. Practice head Ana Luís de Sousa focuses on the development and implementation of projects within the energy sector, while João Afonso Fialho, who heads up the firm’s oil and gas team, is noted for his cross-border capabilities. Vanda Cascão is particularly active in the financing, structuring and implementation of projects in the energy sector. Assunção Cristas, who has held several positions in public office, joined in 2022 to head the firm's ESG Integrated Services Platform.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Comprehensive and in-depth knowledge of the complex legislation surrounding these matters. The counseling has always been very good and well supported.'
'Professional attitude and the ability to quickly grasp the main points to focus on. I would particularly highlight partner Ana Luís de Sousa.’
‘Technical knowledge, organisation and team management.’
‘Manuel Protásio stands out for his professionalism, technical knowledge, organisation and team management skills.'
‘In-depth knowledge of the matters in question and the sector. Strategic vision. Close monitoring of the client, anticipating needs and always protecting the company's interests.'
Key clients
- Macquerie Asset Management
- Timor-Leste National Petroleum and Minerals Authority (ANPM)
- Greenvolt – Energias Renováveis, S.A.
- Government of Cabo Verde (Ministry of Finance - Unidade de Gestão de Projetos Especiais)
- TrustEnergy Group
- Finerge Group
- KT – Kinetics Technology, SPA (member of Maire Tecnimont Group)
- Companhia das Energias Oceânicas |Wave Energy Center (WAVEC) and INESC TEC - Institute for Systems and Computer Engineering, Technology and Science
- Banco Comercial Português, S.A. and Caixa Central – Caixa Central de Crédito Agrícola Mútuo, Crl.
- Bpifrance, La Banque Postale and La Banque Postale Asset Management
- Voltalia Portugal, S.A.
- APL Europe | Newcon40, Unipessoal, Lda.
- Finerge Europe H Sarl
- Regaenergy, S.A.
Work highlights
- Acted for Greenvolt in the issuance of 17,792,576 new ordinary, book-entry and nominative shares, without nominal value, representing approximately 12.785% of the share capital of GreenVolt.
- Advised a consortium led by Macquerie Asset Management and composed of British Columbia Investment Management Corporation and MEAG Germany on the purchase of a portfolio of solar projects in Europe and Latin America.
- Assisting the Government of East Timor/ANPM in the negotiation with the Government of Australia and Greater Sunrise Joint Venture (Operator) of the whole legal and contractual framework for the development of greater Sunrise fields.
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.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Ana Luís De Sousa
VdAPractice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Manuel Protásio, Ana Luís de Sousa, João Afonso Fialho, Assunção Cristas