EDAC was proud to take part in GAR Live Energy Disputes 2025, where our Secretary General Berceste Elif Duranay joined a high-level panel to discuss the future of international arbitration in the renewable energy sector.
Key messages from her intervention included:
⚡ Grid instability is real – as seen in Spain’s nationwide blackout last April. With growing reliance on wind and solar, the need for smart grids and grid-scale storage has never been more urgent. Yet legal frameworks must catch up with the pace of technological change.
???? Hydropower’s paradox – while still the largest source of renewable electricity worldwide, it’s increasingly vulnerable to climate-induced droughts, putting long-term agreements, project revenues, and even transboundary water cooperation at risk. Even beyond that, hydropower will keep playing a key role in cutting emissions and making our energy systems more flexible.
???? Disputes are evolving – today’s cases are less about construction defects and more about whether new technologies deliver what they promise. From fitness for purpose clashes to complex liability chains between contractors, consultants, and suppliers — the legal terrain is shifting.
Thank you to our moderator Leilah Bruton (Three Crowns LLP) and fellow panelists:
???? Mark Beeley (Orrick)
???? Geir Arnar Marelsson (Landsvirkjun)
???? Stefan Stockinger (OMV)
???? Dr Gregory Travaini Travaini (ENGIE)
Thank you to Global Arbitration Review for organising such an excellent event!
