Job Summary:
The Legal Counsel for Power and its related services will be responsible for overseeing all legal aspects related to electricity trading, scheduling & Forecasting, ensuring compliance with the applicable regulatory framework, advising the business on legal issues, and handling contract negotiations. The role requires a deep understanding of the energy sector, electricity laws, trading regulations, and power market dynamics, with a focus on mitigating legal risks associated with power trading activities.
Key Responsibilities:
- Regulatory Compliance & Licensing:
- Ensure compliance with the Electricity Act, 2003, CERC Regulations, and any other relevant laws or regulations governing power trading in India.
- Assist in obtaining and renewing the CERC trading license for the company and ensure adherence to all licensing conditions.
- Monitor changes in regulations and advise the business on potential impacts to the trading operations.
2. Contract Management:
- Draft, review, and negotiate a variety of contracts including Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), Trading Agreements, Bilateral Contracts, and Energy Sale/Purchase Agreements along with contracts in Scheduling & Forecasting.
- Ensure that all contracts comply with regulatory standards and protect the organization’s interests.
- Manage contract disputes, provide legal support in negotiations, and address any legal issues arising in day-to-day trading operations.
3. Risk Management and Legal Advice:
- Provide legal guidance to senior management on various legal issues related to power trading, including market risk, regulatory changes, and dispute resolution.
- Advise on the legal implications of market trading strategies, including day-ahead market, real-time market, and term-ahead market transactions.
- Analyze and assess potential risks and legal implications of trading positions and activities in the power market.
4. Litigation and Dispute Resolution:
- Represent the company in regulatory hearings and proceedings before the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC), State Electricity Regulatory Commissions (SERCs), or any other relevant bodies.
- Handle disputes related to electricity trading, including contractual disagreements, regulatory violations, and settlement issues.
- Work with external law firms, when necessary, to resolve complex legal disputes.
5. Legal Research and Advisory:
- Stay updated with developments in the Indian power sector, including legal, regulatory, and market changes.
- Conduct legal research related to electricity trading laws, dispute resolution mechanisms, market structure, and pricing regulations.
- Advise the business on the legal implications of new market developments, including policy changes related to renewable energy, trading platforms, or power purchase models.
6. Corporate Governance & Compliance:
- Ensure the company adheres to internal compliance policies, legal requirements, and industry best practices in power trading.
- Assist in implementing corporate governance policies and ensuring all trading activities comply with ethical and legal standards.
7. Transactional Support:
- Provide legal assistance in transactions related to mergers, acquisitions, or other corporate activities in the energy sector.
- Review and assess the legal viability of any strategic partnerships, joint ventures, or acquisitions involving power trading operations.
8. Documentation and Reporting:
- Maintain proper documentation of all legal agreements, filings, licenses, and other important records related to the power trading business.
- Prepare and submit legal reports and updates to senior management regarding ongoing legal matters, regulatory issues, and risk assessments.
9. Training & Awareness:
- Conduct training sessions for internal teams to ensure awareness of legal compliance in trading operations and other regulatory requirements.
- Provide ongoing support to business units to ensure that trading activities remain legally compliant.
Qualifications:
- Education:
i. LLB (Bachelor of Laws) or equivalent degree from a recognized university.
ii. A specialization in energy law, corporate law, or regulatory law is preferred.
- Experience:
i. At least 4-6 years of experience in legal roles within the energy sector, power trading, or related industries.
ii. Experience in contract management, regulatory compliance, and handling legal aspects of power market trading is essential.
- Skills:
i. Strong understanding of Indian electricity laws, CERC regulations, and power market mechanisms (such as IEX, PXIL).
ii. Excellent knowledge of contract law, dispute resolution, and corporate governance.
iii. Strong communication, negotiation, and drafting skills.
iv. Ability to handle multiple tasks and prioritize legal matters in a dynamic environment.
v. Ability to work collaboratively with various departments (such as business development, finance, compliance, etc.) and external stakeholders
Desired Attributes:
- Attention to Detail: Ability to review contracts, agreements, and regulations carefully and ensure compliance with all applicable laws.
- Problem-Solving Skills: Strong analytical skills to identify issues and develop practical solutions.
- Adaptability: Willingness to stay updated with changes in regulations, market conditions, and industry trends.
- Negotiation Skills: Ability to negotiate effectively with regulators, counterparties, and business partners.