Pipeline Law represents a narrow but strategically vital area of energy law and infrastructure regulation in Georgia. This field governs the design, construction, operation, and decommissioning of pipelines intended for the transportation of oil, gas, water, and other resources. Given Georgia's geopolitical location as a transit corridor for energy resources (such as the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan or South Caucasus pipelines), this sector requires specialized legal knowledge. Legal services in pipeline law cover both legal support for international transit projects and the development and regulation of local distribution networks. This service is vital for energy companies, investors, construction firms, and landowners whose interests intersect with pipeline infrastructure.
Within the scope of pipeline law, specialists provide assistance to clients in complex matters requiring thorough knowledge of technical, environmental, and legal norms. Services include:
- Obtaining licenses and permits: Preparing administrative acts necessary for pipeline construction and operation, including undergoing Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) procedures.
- Regulation of land rights: Obtaining servitude rights, land acquisition, or legal representation in expropriation processes to protect the interests of both companies and landowners.
- Compliance with safety and technical regulations: Ensuring adherence to Georgia's technical supervision and safety standards.
- Tariff policy: Handling issues related to setting gas transportation and distribution tariffs in dealings with the regulatory commission (GNERC).
- Contract law: Drafting and auditing transportation, maintenance, construction, and operation agreements.
- Dispute resolution: Representation in court or arbitration related to pipeline damage, unauthorized interference, or breach of contractual obligations.
In practice, the need for pipeline law expertise often arises during specific business scenarios. For example, an investor plans to lay a new gas pipeline in a region and requires full legal support to obtain rights of way over land plots. Another common situation occurs when a main pipeline is damaged during construction works, causing environmental pollution and resulting in significant fines for the company — in such cases, lawyer involvement is needed to determine the extent of damage and liability distribution. Disputes with landowners demanding compensation for pipelines crossing their property, or disputes between energy companies and the regulator (GNERC) regarding tariff adjustments, are also frequent. Specialist assistance is also essential for international consortia operating cross-border pipelines.
In Georgia, pipeline law is regulated by several key legislative acts. First and foremost, the "Law of Georgia on Oil and Gas" defines the basic principles of the sector, licensing rules, and operator obligations. Additionally, the "Civil Code of Georgia" regulates servitude and contractual relationships. The "Law of Georgia on Licenses and Permits" is significant as it establishes procedures for issuing construction permits. regarding environmental aspects, the "Environmental Assessment Code" strictly defines the ecological expertise required for pipeline projects. Also relevant is the "Law of Georgia on Energy and Water Supply," which regulates relationships between market participants and the powers of the regulatory commission.
The process of working with a pipeline law specialist involves several stages. The first stage is legal due diligence of the project and risk assessment, particularly regarding land ownership and environmental obligations. The next stage involves managing the permitting process — preparing applications, participating in public hearings, and communicating with state agencies. During construction, the lawyer oversees contract performance and compliance with safety norms. In the operation phase, legal support continues regarding relations with the regulator and resolving ongoing operational issues, protecting the client from unforeseen legal problems.
Legal.ge is the ideal platform for finding qualified specialists in pipeline law. Our platform brings together lawyers with proven experience in the energy sector. On Legal.ge, you can find experts who understand both local regulations and international standards. Selecting a lawyer through the platform is transparent and efficient, allowing you to receive timely professional assistance in such a complex and responsible field as pipeline law.
Updated: ...