Overview of Energy Charter Treaty Cases

Abstract

Abstract This chapter analyzes rendered awards and pending Energy Charter Treaty (ECT) cases using detailed statistical data on the disputes overall (including the number of cases brought and their outcomes), the parties involved (including the types of investors making use of the ECT, and most frequent respondent states), the underlying investment (including the different energy sectors concerned), and the arbitration rules used. It also discusses a number of issues that often arise in ECT cases. First, the chapter looks at jurisdictional objections regularly raised by respondents, including the provisional application of the ECT under Article 45; the ‘denial of benefits’ clause of Article 17(1); and the definition of an ‘investment’ under Article 1(6). The chapter then analyzes selected merits issues that have been addressed in the ECT awards rendered to date. Finally, this chapter considers the future of the ECT.