The electricity distribution system operator in a world of active customers. A legal laboratory analysis under EU, Belgian and Dutch law

This PhD analyzes the new and emerging role of the distribution system operator (DSO) in the energy transition. The concept of "neutral market facilitator" is introduced to characterize this role. In a world of active customers at the distribution level, the DSO will be a central actor, responsible for facilitating these transactions and entities such as energy sharing, peer-to-peer, flexibility.... In addition, the DSO will also increasingly rely on market transactions to purchase technical products and services. The second major contribution of this PhD is to advance the concept of private energy law. It thus proposes a different analytical lens than is usually used. From a private law perspective, this approach focuses on the nature of these new transactions and entities. Starting from an analysis of EU energy law, this PhD examines national implementation in Belgium and the Netherlands. The research describes and compares the solutions adopted by each of the Belgian regions (Flanders, Wallonia, Brussels-Capital) and the Netherlands.