Team size: About 20 

First, can you please give us an idea of the sort of work your team has done recently?  

APG is Austria’s Transmission System Operator for electricity of Austria’s extra-high voltage transmission grid. As the control area manager, APG is responsible for controlling load frequency in the APG control area. In its role as the transmission system operator, it is obliged to operate and maintain the power grid safely, reliably and efficiently, taking into account environmental considerations, and to expand line capacities based on demand. APG is responsible for the secure and sustainable supply of electricity in Austria, both now and for future generations.  

This responsibility involves doing everything in its power to adapt the transmission grid to meet the rising demands of industry and society. The biggest challenge of the coming years will be to integrate renewable energy into the grid and, in doing so, bring Austria closer to meeting its climate targets. A strong transmission grid is essential to ensuring the sustainable integration of wind power, hydropower and solar power into Austria’s energy supply system. APG’s job is to provide the platform for the optimum use of renewables. It is a vital part of APG’s mission to comply with our legal mandates and obligations in the context of our role as control area manager and independent transmission system operator (ITO) as defined in the ElWOG (Austrian Electricity Industry and Organisation Act).  

Based on this mission, the legal department’s focus of work is public procurement law, environmental and infrastructure law, corporate law, and Austrian and European Electricity law. Particularly, we advise our colleagues in all relevant legal topics and questions (such as drafting agreements and other legal documents and writs, or legal proceedings); collaborate within project teams (internally and international); implement relevant processes; and steer the risk management of legally relevant facts. In a nutshell, we see our role as service providers, counsel and legal “gatekeepers”. That is our contribution to APG’s mission to enable energy transition in Austria.  

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How does your legal strategy change during periods of instability or uncertainty?   

We anticipate future developments, both concerning legal framework and economic obstacles or challenges, so that we are prepared for sudden events and ready to take chances at the best. This strategic approach implies the ongoing gain of experience and knowledge in different, new branches of law. Furthermore, we continuously monitor and assess collaborations with our external law firms in order to facilitate the handling of legal issues and challenges in the different fields of law, so that we can ensure adequate and quick solutions.  

Do you make use of any ‘legal tech’ products, and if so, for which areas of your job do you find it most useful?   

We are assessing the possible application of such products, especially to facilitate contract management and monitor legislative changes.