PhD student: Mrs S. Garsia

Promotors: J. de Bruyne, A.M. Corra Harcus

Duration: 16/10/2024 - 15/10/2028

Abstract:

In line with the European Green Deal, EU energy policies couple the shift towards clean energy systems with the goal of a socially just transition, where no one is left behind. Meanwhile, the availability of energy-related data is identified by the same policies as a key enabler of clean energy systems (e.g. in terms of access, sharing and use). However, while a growing body of studies argues that data should be governed in line with social justice objectives, the socially just transition is not mentioned in the EU regulatory framework applicable to energy-related data and, more specifically, to AI (Artificial Intelligence) and data-driven electricity systems. Nonetheless, the socially just transition is often referred to as the fair transition in policy documents, given that social justice and fairness stand as conceptually close notions. In contrast to the concept of social justice, fairness is a very recurrent legal notion both in the EU digital and energy regulation, although with multiple meanings. Therefore, the question arises to what extent and how the concept of a socially just transition is reflected in the relevant legal framework through the concepts of fairness. By combining a law-in-context approach with interdisciplinary doctrinal research, I will assess the contribution of the EU regulatory framework applicable to data-driven electricity systems to a clean energy transition, that is also socially just and I will provide policy and normative suggestions in this regard. The research will draw on a case study on the provision of flexibility solutions for household customers, developed in the context of the C2 FlexIQ project.

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