The use of energy for sustainable development : a legal perspective

Abstract

It is proposed to consider some of the various legal implications associated with the use of renewable sources of energy, specifically electricity. A proper understanding of these implications requires a wide ranging discussion which finds its roots in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Kyoto Protocol. These international instruments harbour the various factors as discussed in the study. The European Union's policies are also considered. The EU is a central player in this emerging industry due both to its economic strength, but more importantly due to its willingness to be at the policy forefront in adopting measures which have a bearing on the renewable energy sector. The study in this respect focuses primarily on the EU directive which created a carbon market within the EU and the directive requiring Member States to undertake projects involving renewable sources of energy. Owing to the transboundary nature of energy, the study attempts to analyse the finer international law implications of the subject. Hence, chapter five of this thesis deals largely with issues relating to offshore use ofrenewable energy sources. Notwithstanding the various policy efforts undertaken so as to adopt renewable sources of energy, the industry may be still experiencing difficulties in expressing its real potential for growth. This is largely due to two issues which are associated with each other, the investment required for such projects and policy predictability issues. These various issues are given a local dimension by associating, where possible, the various arguments explored throughout the thesis, with the Maltese scenario.