Derek M Woodhouse Saavedra

Energy & Natural Resources, Climate Change, Public Law, Project Finance and Infrastructure

With over three decades of experience, Derek Woodhouse is recognized as a leading advisor in Mexico’s energy sector, he has experience advising on complex energy and infrastructure matters. Early in his career, he played a central role in Mexico’s regulatory transformation of the 1990s, helping design and implement the legal framework that opened the natural gas and electricity sectors to private participation. Building on this foundation, Derek joined CMS in London, where he advised governments, banks, and leading companies on the financing and development of large-scale energy and infrastructure projects across Europe, Asia, and the Americas.

Since returning to Mexico, he has led high-profile practices, co-founded Woodhouse Lorente Ludlow (now part of CMS), and counseled both public and private clients on major reforms and transactions. Notably, he supported the Energy Ministry and the System Operator in the design of Mexico’s Wholesale Electricity Market, the restructuring of CFE, and the drafting of key legislation such as the Geothermal Law.

Derek combines unparalleled regulatory expertise with extensive international project finance experience. His unique background—spanning both public service and global private practice—makes him a trusted partner for clients looking for innovative and practical solutions in energy and infrastructure sectors.

Derek has been advising private sector banks, investors, developers and other companies on matters pertaining to the Mexican power sector, including Vitol, Mitsui, EDF, Saavi, GE, Pepsico, Walmart, Vesta, CDPQ, CKD IM, Thermion, BP, Shell, Total, Nafin, Mota Engil and Interacciones.