Francesco Prisco (Eni Group): “Legal professionals need to stay agile and anticipate regulatory changes"

Leaders League: How can legal departments of companies in the energy sector better support innovation and the development of sustainable infrastructure?

Francesco Prisco: In the energy sector, legal departments play a crucial role in fostering innovation and sustainable infrastructure development. Regulatory compliance and legal advocacy represent a fundamental pillar, ensuring that innovative projects comply with complex regulatory frameworks while promoting policies that support sustainable energy practices.

Risk management plays a critical role in mitigating the challenges associated with new technology and projects, thereby encouraging innovation. Furthermore, facilitating partnerships between energy companies, technology providers and regulatory bodies can accelerate the adoption of sustainable practices and innovative solutions. Legal innovation, by embracing technology such as AI and blockchain, helps optimize processes and enhance efficiency, even though these types of technology are support tools, not substitutes for professional expertise.

Finally, legal departments can educate stakeholders on the legal implications of innovative practices, fostering a culture of compliance and sustainability. Lawyers must increase their mental flexibility to be a true, rapid and constantly adaptable aid. Unfortunately, lawyers are often seen as blockers of ideas and figures who slow down procedures. This paradigm isn’t always true, and we corporate lawyers must be the first to dismantle it.

How do you see the Italian energy sector evolving in the coming years?
In my opinion the Italian energy sector is poised for significant evolution, driven by several key factors. First of all, the expansion of renewable energy. Italy’s commitment to renewable energy sources will continue to grow, supported by government incentives and EU directives. This shift will require legal frameworks that facilitate investment in renewable projects and guarantee grid-integration. This is to an ensure effective and sustainable energy transition, not only for the environment, but also for the economy.

In today’s energy industry, what makes a great legal professional is not just technical expertise, but the ability to connect law, technology and business

As Italy strives to become carbon neutral, regulatory frameworks will evolve to promote energy efficiency, emissions reduction and sustainable practices. Legal departments will play a critical role in navigating these regulations, which are also being shaken by geopolitical and economic factors. Legal professionals need to stay agile and anticipate regulatory changes to mitigate risks and seize opportunities.

What have been the defining moments of your career to date? What advice would you give to legal professionals aspiring to build an in-house career in the energy sector?
I began my career at a law firm, where I built a solid legal foundation and developed a rigorous approach to analysis. However, I soon felt the need to move to a more dynamic environment, where the law I practiced could directly interact with business. Transitioning in-house was the true turning point. It took a lot of dedication, a genuine love for what I do and an endless curiosity about how things work. I also owe a lot to a healthy dose of madness and the constant urge to step out of my comfort zone – even when it meant diving into areas that weren’t exactly “mine” at first glance.

The defining moments weren’t always headline-worthy. Sometimes, they were simply about saying “yes” to the unexpected. My advice is to stay curious, embrace the unknown and don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty. The energy world is moving fast, and what makes a great legal professional today is not just technical expertise, but the ability to connect law, technology and business.