International and EU Energy Law
Mgr. Martin Švec, Ph.D.
International and EU Energy Law

From an individual’s perspective, we all depend on energy in our daily lives. From a state perspective, the economic and societal development of a state depends on its ability to control, regulate and use natural resources efficiently to meet its populations demands. Given the important economic, political and social dimension of energy, it is no surprise that the energy sector is highly regulated. 

This course aims to provide students with an in-depth and comprehensive study of international energy law and EU energy law. The course addresses traditional sources of energy, such as oil and gas as well as issues around the renewable and low carbon sector. Special attention is to be given to the role of international and EU law in ensuring that that energy resources are lawfully protected, exploited and traded.

This session provided an overview of fundamental Principles of Public International Law, focusing on the Sources of International Law, including treaties, customary law, and general principles. It also discussed key Actors in International Law, such as states, international organizations, and non-state entities, and their roles in shaping legal norms. The session is concluded by examining the intersection of Energy Law within both International and Domestic Law, emphasizing the growing importance of energy-related legal frameworks in a globalized context.

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Teacher recommends to study from 4/10/2024 to 10/10/2024.

This session explored the principle of Permanent Sovereignty over Natural Resources (PSNR), tracing its historical development and significance in international law. Key topics included landmark cases like the Anglo-Persian Oil Company case and pivotal UN General Assembly resolutions, particularly Resolution 1803 (XVII) of 1962, which formalized the right of states to control their resources. The session also examined how PSNR was invoked in the context of Libyan nationalizations and discussed the limits of PSNR, especially in relation to foreign investment and international economic relations.

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Teacher recommends to study from 11/10/2024 to 17/10/2024.

This session will explore the legal and regulatory challenges surrounding the extraction and management of energy resources in Antarctica, marine environments, and areas beyond national jurisdictions. Topics will include the governance frameworks, international agreements, and emerging legal issues related to the sustainable development and protection of these critical resources in areas where traditional national sovereignty does not apply.

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Teacher recommends to study from 18/10/2024 to 24/10/2024.

Protection of International Investments in the Energy Sector" focuses on the legal frameworks and mechanisms designed to safeguard foreign investments in energy projects. It explores issues related to investor rights, dispute resolution mechanisms, and the balance between protecting investor interests and addressing regulatory measures for environmental and social goals. Key topics may include treaty-based protections, expropriation risks, and the impact of energy transition policies on investment stability in the energy sector. This session is essential for understanding how international law supports sustainable and secure energy investments amidst evolving global challenges.

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Teacher recommends to study from 25/10/2024 to 31/10/2024.

This session will explore the legal frameworks governing international trade in energy resources, including oil and gas, and the regulations related to energy transit across borders. Topics will include key international agreements such as the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), World Trade Organization (WTO) rules, and the Energy Charter Treaty (ECT), along with the legal challenges surrounding transit rights and energy infrastructure.

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Teacher recommends to study from 1/11/2024 to 7/11/2024.

This session is divided into two parts. The first part focuses on the Energy Charter Treaty (ECT), exploring its foundational provisions on investment protection and dispute resolution in the energy sector, as well as its influence on energy governance and state policies. The second part shifts to international climate law, examining key principles and obligations under frameworks such as the Paris Agreement and their implications for energy law and policy. The session concludes with an analysis of how these two legal regimes intersect and the challenges they pose for global energy and climate governance.

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Teacher recommends to study from 8/11/2024 to 14/11/2024.

This session is divided into two parts. The first part focuses on energy security, examining its dimensions, challenges, and relevance in global and regional contexts. Particular emphasis is placed on the legal aspects of energy security, including state obligations under international law, energy transit agreements, and mechanisms to address supply disruptions. Students will explore how legal frameworks and policies contribute to ensuring secure and reliable energy supplies, balancing national interests with international cooperation. The second part introduces the fundamentals of EU Energy Law, including its legal framework, key principles, and policy objectives.

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Teacher recommends to study from 15/11/2024 to 21/11/2024.
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Teacher recommends to study from 22/11/2024 to 28/11/2024.
Teacher recommends to study from 29/11/2024 to 5/12/2024.
Teacher recommends to study from 6/12/2024 to 12/12/2024.
Teacher recommends to study from 13/12/2024 to 19/12/2024.
Teacher recommends to study from 20/12/2024 to 26/12/2024.
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