Focus Topics
Energy markets of tomorrow
Legal certainty
in a changing world
The energy landscape is evolving at unprecedented speed. Across the globe, political frameworks, market dynamics, regulatory shifts and technological progress are transforming how energy is generated, financed and delivered. This transformation spans all technologies – from renewables and hydrogen to energy storage, grid solutions and emerging models such as small modular nuclear reactors. With these developments come new complexities and significant investment requirements.
Wolf Theiss is actively supporting the energy transition across Central, Eastern and Southeastern Europe. Drawing on deep legal expertise across the region, our teams advise on all key aspects of the energy sector – including regulatory compliance, financing structures, infrastructure development, cross-border transactions and Power Purchase Agreements. We assist energy providers, investors and public institutions in navigating the legal complexities of a sector that is both regionally diverse and globally interconnected.
Regulatory change
and infrastructure
Recent legal developments at EU and national level are reshaping subsidy regimes, permitting procedures and energy efficiency rules. At the same time, infrastructure upgrades – from grid expansion to storage and the transformation of conventional assets – require careful regulatory alignment. Energy transactions increasingly rely on compliance with evolving technical, environmental and legal standards.
Market dynamics
and financing
Shifts in subsidy schemes, pricing models and capacity allocation are reshaping energy markets and influencing investment strategies. Cross-border cooperation and long-term contracts are gaining relevance, while financing structures increasingly reflect ESG criteria and evolving risk profiles. Legal certainty remains key as capital flows into renewable energy sources, rare earth minerals and innovative energy technologies.
Innovation
and transformation
The energy sector is undergoing rapid change, driven by decarbonisation goals, emerging technologies and evolving business models. Key developments include the expansion of solar and wind, new forms of power purchase agreements, e-mobility infrastructure and smart energy systems. As digital tools reshape the market, legal frameworks must adapt to address issues such as data ownership, cybersecurity and regulatory oversight.
Our experts
Wolf Theiss’ dedicated energy experts are ready to assist clients in navigating the complexities of the region’s rapidly evolving energy landscape.
For more information on our experts, please visit our energy expertise page.
Current insights
Stay informed with our latest analyses and updates
BESS project profitability for investors: key legal and regulatory insights from Austria and Romania
Battery energy storage systems are moving rapidly from policy ambition to investment reality. As renewables reshape Europe’s energy mix, storage is becoming essential not only for grid stability but also for project bankability and long-term value creation. Yet the commercial promise of BESS depends heavily on regulatory design, market access and the ability to match each project model with the right investor profile. Austria and Romania illustrate two distinct paths: one shaped by an evolving legal framework and targeted exemptions, the other by hybrid and stand-alone models driven by market opportunity. This article looks at the key legal and regulatory considerations investors should assess before entering the sector.
Guides
Understand the essentials of clean energy and how to implement them
Generating electricity from renewable sources
As renewable energy development continues to accelerate across Central, Eastern and Southeastern Europe, the 2026 edition of the Wolf Theiss guide – Generating electricity from renewable sources in CEE & SEE – provides practical updates for investors, developers, lenders and energy companies operating in the region.
Covering 16 jurisdictions, this edition addresses key legislative changes and market trends, including permitting, support schemes, Power Purchase Agreements, energy storage, hydrogen, energy communities and other developments shaping the future of renewable electricity generation.
Transaction news
Explore recent deals and legal insights from our work in the energy industry
