How do you approach managing legal aspects during periods of instability or crises, and how does your legal strategy align with the broader business strategy to ensure the organisation’s resilience?  

The energy sector is inherently dynamic, constantly evolving alongside technological advancements. In this context, Coordinador Eléctrico Nacional (CEN) faces a unique challenge: ensuring grid stability amidst continuous transformation. The in-house legal team plays a crucial role in navigating the complex legal landscape and fostering organisational resilience.

Our legal strategy hinges on anticipation and prioritisation, adopting a proactive approach. We are not passive observers waiting for the next technological disruption. Instead, we actively monitor regulatory trends and technological advancements, particularly those surrounding Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). BESS integration, while promising a clean energy future, presents a regulatory grey area. By anticipating potential legal issues, we develop proactive measures.

This involves collaborating with technical teams to analyse the legal implications of BESS and advocating for necessary regulatory adjustments within the existing framework. By actively participating in policy discussions, we contribute to legal frameworks that not only support grid stability but also promote the seamless integration of new technologies like BESS. This ensures that the legal landscape adapts and evolves alongside the changing energy landscape.

A robust legal strategy aligns with the organisation’s broader goals. The CEN is committed to transitioning to a zero-emissions energy system, and BESS technology plays a vital role in achieving this objective. Our legal approach ensures that all regulatory and compliance measures support this goal. By integrating legal considerations into strategic decisions, we empower the CEN to navigate complex scenarios like BESS integration effectively.

What emerging technologies do you see as having the most significant impact on the legal profession in the near future, and how do you stay updated on these developments?  

The legal profession is on the cusp of significant transformation driven by emerging technologies. Among these, artificial intelligence (AI) stands out as having the most profound impact.

AI is revolutionising the legal field by automating routine tasks, such as document review and legal research, thereby increasing efficiency and reducing costs. Advanced AI tools can analyse vast amounts of data to identify patterns and provide insights, which can be crucial for case strategy and decision-making. However, it is essential to cultivate what makes humans unique rather than merely trying to replicate AI capabilities.

While AI handles repetitive and data-intensive tasks, the human elements of curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking remain irreplaceable. These qualities are essential for devising innovative legal strategies, understanding nuanced client needs, and navigating complex ethical considerations. Therefore, legal professionals must focus on enhancing these human attributes to complement AI’s capabilities.

To prepare future lawyers for this technological shift, law schools must update their curricula. This includes incorporating courses on AI, data analytics, and technology’s legal implications while emphasising the development of critical thinking, problem-solving, and ethical judgment. These updates ensure that lawyers can effectively integrate technology into their practice while maintaining the profession’s core values.

By staying informed about technological advancements and fostering the unique strengths of what makes us human, we can ensure that the legal profession remains relevant and capable of meeting future challenges. At the CEN, we embrace these changes, continuously updating our practices and skills to lead in this evolving legal landscape.