Latham & Watkins: A Powerhouse in Project Finance

Latham & Watkins stands out as a global leader in project finance, consistently ranking among the top law firms in the field. Their expertise spans a wide range of sectors, including energy (renewable and traditional), infrastructure (transportation, social infrastructure), and natural resources. They advise governments, sponsors, lenders, and contractors on complex, large-scale projects worldwide. Latham’s strength lies in its deep bench of experienced lawyers located across key financial centers globally. This international network allows them to navigate the unique regulatory and commercial landscapes of various jurisdictions, providing seamless and integrated advice on cross-border transactions. Their team is adept at handling intricate project structures, negotiating complex financing agreements, and mitigating risks associated with large infrastructure developments. A core area of their practice is advising on the development and financing of renewable energy projects. They represent clients involved in solar, wind, hydro, geothermal, and biomass energy projects. Their expertise includes advising on power purchase agreements (PPAs), construction contracts, and project finance structures tailored to the specific requirements of renewable energy projects. They understand the intricacies of government incentives, tax credits, and environmental regulations that are critical to the success of these projects. Beyond renewable energy, Latham also possesses significant experience in advising on oil and gas, mining, and other natural resource projects. They assist clients in securing financing for exploration, development, and production activities, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and navigating political risks associated with these investments. Their expertise extends to advising on LNG projects, pipelines, and other energy infrastructure. Infrastructure projects also constitute a substantial part of Latham’s project finance practice. They advise on the development and financing of transportation infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, tunnels, and airports, as well as social infrastructure projects, including hospitals, schools, and prisons. They have a strong track record of advising on Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), where the private sector partners with the government to develop and operate public infrastructure. Latham’s ability to handle sophisticated financing structures is a key differentiator. They are experienced in advising on a variety of financing instruments, including project bonds, bank loans, export credit agency (ECA) financing, and multilateral development bank (MDB) financing. They are skilled at structuring financing packages that optimize the allocation of risk and return among the various stakeholders involved in a project. Furthermore, Latham understands the importance of regulatory compliance and environmental sustainability in project finance. They advise clients on environmental impact assessments, permitting requirements, and other regulatory matters, ensuring that projects are developed and operated in a responsible and sustainable manner. Their expertise in environmental law is crucial for navigating the increasingly complex regulatory landscape surrounding large infrastructure projects. In conclusion, Latham & Watkins is a global powerhouse in project finance, offering comprehensive legal services to a diverse range of clients across various sectors. Their global reach, deep industry knowledge, and expertise in complex financing structures make them a trusted advisor for large-scale projects worldwide. Their commitment to regulatory compliance and environmental sustainability further solidifies their position as a leader in the field.