28 October 2021
Law professor appointed to EU energy agency Board of Appeal
Professor Andrea Biondi, Professor of European Union Law and Director of the Centre of European Law, has been appointed to the Board of Appeal of ACER, the European Union Agency for the Cooperation of Energy Regulators.
The Board hears appeals against decisions made by ACER. Cases might include complaints related to the integrity of the EU internal market in energy, claims that an EU Member State has been unfairly excluded from regional electricity networks, or alleged market abuse in the European wholesale energy markets.
ACER will also play a role in the green energy transition, putting into action policies set, at a political level, by the European Union.
Professor Biondi, who will serve as one of two Vice-Chairpersons, said: “I am delighted to be appointed to the ACER Board of Appeal at a fascinating time in the global energy markets.
“It the duty of the ACER Board of Appeal to ensure that the specific EU provisions regulating the EU energy market are properly applied and that the rights and remedies available under EU law are protected and ensured. It is highly likely that we will be dealing with cases relating to crucial issues such as the green transition, price control and security of supply.”
Individuals can appeal ACER decisions, but disputes are normally brought by energy companies. Provisions within the Northern Ireland Protocol mean the Board may hear UK cases. The decisions of the Board of Appeal are subject to appeal before the EU Courts.
The Board of Appeal comprises six members and six alternates, with all members drawn from existing EU institutions or national bodies. Members, who initially serve a five year team, are proposed by the European Commission and agreed by ACER’s Administrative Board.
Professor Biondi’s research interests are in European Union law, with particular emphasis on state aid law, trade law and regulation, and the judicial protection of EU rights.