Energy Networks and the Law

Networks like cables and pipelines are essential for a functioning energy market. This book provides a clear and insightful overview of the legal challenges this poses in the modern world. The construction and use of these networks depends on developments in technology, policies, and legal regulation. Recently, the energy sector has been faced with considerable challenges and changes. Energy liberalisation and deregulation, and the fact that traditional energy supplies like fossil fuels and large hydro plants are increasingly located far from the area of demand has drastically changed the energy landscape. The need for new sources of energy supply can therefore be found all over the world. This book investigates the challenges that face governments engaged in this renewal, particularly since in many cases these networks are, by necessity, international. The construction of new networks always involves the application of planning and environmental laws, and the complications these pose only increase as networks pass through the territory of several different countries. This book analyzes the evolution of this area from several angles, both geographical and legal. The authors combine knowledge and expertise from a variety of sources and backgrounds to present an invaluable overview of the regulatory developments and perspectives that shape the legal frameworks in which governments develop these networks, and the way in which account must be taken of new sources of energy by law-makers.