Ireland – Legal advisory services – The provision of Legal Services to SEMC [618]

The CRU and UR (collectively the Regulatory Authorities (“RAs")) jointly regulate the SEM through the SEMC. The SEMC was established by virtue of Section 8A Electricity Regulation Act 1999 as inserted by section 4 of the Electricity Regulation (Amendment) Act 2007, and Article 6 (1) of the Electricity (Single Wholesale Market) (Northern Ireland) Order 2007 to conduct trading in the wholesale electricity market in both Ireland and Northern Ireland on an All-Island basis. The forgoing legislation sets out the duties and powers of the SEMC. Both sets of legislation endeavour to achieve similar objectives for the SEM. The SEMC is representative of the RAs and makes decision on relevant functions on behalf of the RAs in relation to a SEM matters. As these decisions are fundamental to the development, effectiveness and operation of the SEM, it is of the utmost importance that expert legal advice is available to the SEMC at all times. It is essential that SEMC decisions are made with full adherence to its statutory duties and the principles of good regulation in both jurisdictions in which it operates. The CRU is undertaking this procurement jointly with Northern Ireland Authority for Energy Regulation.