DELIVERABLE 2.1 | FEBRUARY 2023
Introduction of the report
Overview of HVDC Legal Framework
In the realm of High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) technology, a comprehensive legal framework is imperative to address various aspects of coordination, governance, standards, and intellectual property (IP) protection. This section delves into the critical components of the legal landscape surrounding multi-vendor, multi-terminal HVDC systems.
Governance and Cooperation
The coordination between different entities in the HVDC landscape is essential, touching upon aspects of governance and cooperation between undertakings. This involves navigating the intricacies of competition law to ensure a harmonious and competitive environment within the industry.
Standardisation, Patents, and Licenses
Examining the legal framework related to standardisation, patents, and licenses is crucial for fostering interoperability in HVDC networks. This section explores the interdependence between these elements, emphasizing the significance of industry standards that often rely on a web of licenses and patents.
Risks and Liability Allocation
Efficient risk management and liability allocation play a pivotal role in shaping the investment landscape for HVDC technology. This section scrutinizes the division of risks and liabilities among different companies, recognizing that an imbalance can deter potential investments.
EU Network Codes and Adaptation Challenges
The legal framework is incomplete without addressing the challenges posed by the current state of EU Network Codes, particularly their lack of adaptation to multi-terminal HVDC systems. This section highlights the need for alignment and updates within the regulatory landscape.
Legislative Status and Identified Gaps
Each topic within the legal framework is examined with a brief overview of the legislative status quo and the identification of existing gaps or unanswered questions. While this deliverable doesn’t aim to resolve all identified issues, it serves as a foundational document for ongoing work within READY4DC WG2.
Future Roadmap: Recommendations and Stakeholder Consultation
Looking ahead, the next deliverable (Q2 2023) will take the form of a whitepaper, presenting recommendations on how to address the identified gaps. Following stakeholder consultation, this whitepaper will be refined and finalized in Q3 2023, providing a comprehensive guide for navigating the legal complexities of the HVDC landscape.