Best Project Finance Lawyers in Preveza

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ΡΑΠΤΗ ΠΟΛΥΝΙΚΗ
Preveza, Greece

Founded in 2014
1 person in their team
English
The law office of Polyniki Rapti is based in Preveza, Epirus, Greece, offering specialized legal services in both litigation and advisory matters. The practice concentrates on business and employment law, with additional experience in family law, real estate, and debt regulation, reflecting a broad...
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1. About Project Finance Law in Preveza, Greece

Project finance is a method of funding large infrastructure or energy projects where the new entity created to own the project (an SPV) is primarily responsible for the debt and its cash flow, rather than the sponsors’ balance sheets. In Preveza, as in the rest of Greece, project finance transactions combine corporate law, contract law, procurement rules, and sector-specific regulations. Lenders typically require robust off-take agreements, a strong governance framework, and clear security over project assets and equity.

Common project structures in Preveza include renewable energy developments, port and marina improvements, and tourism infrastructure financed through SPVs with EPC contracts, PPAs or off-take arrangements, and long-term loan facilities. The deal often hinges on a combination of public procurement rules, environmental licensing, and sector-specific licensing regimes. Local regulatory nuance matters, including licensing timelines at the regional level in Epirus and local permitting in Preveza municipality.

Greece has prioritized public-private partnerships and concessions within its procurement framework, aligning with EU Directives to support infrastructure investment.

Source: World Bank Project Finance overview

Source: IFC Project Finance overview

Source: OECD Greece investment and project finance overview

2. Why You May Need a Lawyer

Forming an SPV for a Preveza project - You need counsel to set up the Special Purpose Vehicle, define equity structures, and prepare share purchase and governance documents for Greek and international investors. A lawyer also reviews the SPV's Articles of Association to ensure enforceable rights and protections.

Negotiating EPC, O&M and off-take contracts - A project in Epirus will rely on engineering, procurement and construction contracts, power purchase agreements, or other off-take deals. An attorney helps negotiate terms, allocate risk, and draft performance and payment milestones with local contractors.

Compliance with Greek public procurement rules - If the project involves a concession or PPP, you must satisfy Law 4412/2016 as amended. Counsel will map tender requirements, bid security, and compliance timelines to reduce bid risk and avoid disqualification.

Environmental licensing and permitting - Renewable energy or tourism-related developments require environmental impact assessments and permits. A lawyer guides you through EIA procedures, regional approvals, and any required amendments to satisfy authorities.

Cross-border financing and tax structuring - International lenders may participate, with currency risk, tax planning, and transfer pricing considerations. Legal counsel can structure the financing to optimize tax efficiency and ensure lenders’ security packages are enforceable in Greece.

Dispute prevention and loan covenant enforcement - In case of default or performance issues, counsel drafts bespoke loan covenants, security arrangements, and cross-default provisions. They also advise on dispute resolution clauses and collateral enforcement in Greece.

3. Local Laws Overview

  • Law 4412/2016 on Public Procurement and Concessions; effective 8 July 2016. This is the core framework for how public works and concessions are tendered and awarded in Greece, including concessions that may involve project financing.
  • Law 3389/2005 on Public-Private Partnerships and Concessions; effective 28 December 2005. This law historically structured PPP projects and concessions across sectors, including energy, transport, and port projects.
  • Law 1650/1980 on Environmental Protection and Sustainable Development; initial enactment 1980 with subsequent amendments. This environmental regime governs licensing, EIA requirements, and related approvals for projects in Preveza and the Epirus region.

These laws sit within a broader European and regional framework, where EU procurement directives influence Greek practice and local authorities administer licensing at the regional and municipal level in Epirus. In practice, project finance in Preveza requires navigating tenders or concessions, securing environmental approvals, and implementing robust contractual structures with lenders.

4. Frequently Asked Questions

What is project finance and how does it work in Preveza, Greece?

Project finance in Greece uses a dedicated SPV to own the project and repay debt from project cash flows. Lenders focus on the project’s viability, contracts, and security rather than sponsor balance sheets. This approach requires detailed risk allocation and robust off-take and construction arrangements.

How do I start a project finance deal in Preveza?

Begin with a clear project scope, identify potential SPV structures, and assemble core contracts such as EPC, PPA, and shareholder agreements. Engage a local project finance lawyer early to map regulatory requirements and lender expectations.

When is Law 4412/2016 applicable to concessions in Epirus?

The law applies to public procurement and concessions across Greece, including projects in Preveza that involve public tenders or concessions. A lawyer helps determine whether a project triggers procurement rules and how to structure bids compliantly.

Where can I obtain permits for a renewable energy project in Preveza?

You must obtain environmental permits and licensing from regional authorities in Epirus, plus any national permits required by law. A lawyer coordinates EIA submissions and tracks regulatory milestones.

Why might I need a Greek project finance lawyer for cross-border funding?

Cross-border funding adds complexities in currency, tax, and security enforcement. A lawyer ensures the structure complies with Greek law and lender requirements. They also coordinate between Greek and international counsel.

How long does a typical project finance transaction take in Greece?

Timeline depends on project type and permits, but a renewable energy deal often requires 6 to 18 months from due diligence to closing. Delays commonly arise from licensing or tender processes.

Do I need a local lawyer in Preveza or can I hire Athens counsel?

Local knowledge helps with regional permitting and municipality interactions, but many projects use national firms with local desks. A hybrid approach often works best for Preveza projects.

What are typical security packages in Greek project finance deals?

Security packages usually include pledges over SPV assets, assignments of project contracts, and mortgages on project real estate. Lenders may also require corporate guarantees or parent company guarantees.

How much does it cost to hire a project finance attorney in Greece?

Costs vary by project size and complexity, typically ranging from a fixed retainer for due diligence to success fees at closing. Early scoping helps estimate fees and manage expectations.

What is SPV ownership and governance structure in a project?

An SPV is a separate legal entity owned by project sponsors or investors. Governance usually requires a board with observer rights for lenders and a detailed shareholder agreement governing decisions.

Is change of law risk a concern for Greek project finance?

Yes, changes in procurement, licensing, or tax rules can impact timing and costs. Counsel monitors regulatory developments and drafts protective clauses in contracts.

What are common disputes in project finance and how are they resolved?

Common disputes involve construction delays, payment disputes, and force majeure events. Resolution typically uses arbitration or court proceedings, with enforceable security arrangements in place.

5. Additional Resources

  • World Bank Project Finance overview - general frameworks and international best practices: worldbank.org
  • IFC Project Finance overview - private sector financing and project structures: ifc.org
  • OECD - investment and public procurement guidance relevant to Greece: oecd.org

6. Next Steps

  1. Define your project type, location in Preveza, and financing goals. Create a high-level timeline and budget for legal fees.
  2. Identify candidate project finance lawyers or firms with Greece experience, particularly in Epirus and renewable energy or port projects.
  3. Schedule initial consultations to discuss structure options, regulatory hurdles, and potential SPV configurations.
  4. Collect project documents for due diligence, including contracts, permits, and lender term sheets. Prepare a clear list of negotiation priorities.
  5. Request proposal letters and engagement terms from shortlisted lawyers. Compare scope, fees, and estimated regulatory timelines.
  6. Engage the chosen counsel with a signed engagement letter. Establish a communication plan and milestone-based billing.
  7. Proceed with due diligence, contract drafting, and regulatory filings in coordination with lenders and the SPV. Target closing within the project’s critical financing window.

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The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

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