“Eurelectric welcomes the Baltics synchronisation to the European electricity grid. It represents another milestone for energy solidarity and will strengthen the region’s energy security and support the implementation of the Green Deal by ensuring secure, clean and affordable power across borders. We have already seen from Ukraine, the security benefits of being integrated in European energy systems and we look forward to enlarging those benefits to the Baltic region“, said Eurelectric’Policy Director Cillian O’Donoghue.
Second largest synchronous electrical grid worldwide
Also known as Continental Synchronous area, UCTE is the second largest synchronous electrical grid in the world. It supplies over 400 million customers in 24 countries including most EU countries – and as of March 2022 – Ukraine and Moldova. Managing this grid is the European Network of Transmission System Operators for Electricity (ENTSO-E).
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“We should be proud that we have the world’s largest interconnected electricity market that prioritises the most efficient power source. We coordinate hundreds of kilometres of interconnected networks delivering power across borders in times of need, and especially during crises. Diversity is a strength, let’s put it to use», added O’Donoghue.
The Baltics’ integration into the EU electricity grid has been a priority for the European Commission (EC) for many years, receiving substantial EU funding. This successful integration story is even more remarkable if we consider the complexities synchronising to the power grid entails.
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“When the work first began, some questioned the necessity of such a massive undertaking, but today we can all see it was the right decision. More than €1.6 billion has been invested to ensure our transmission grids are up to the task. New 330 kilowatt (kV) powerlines have been built together with batteries and synchronous condensers to make sure the Baltic grids can maintain system balance even during challenging times. In addition to the new infrastructure, we also have frequency markets that are generating new sources of revenue and driving innovation in the energy sector – largely thanks to this synchronisation project», explained Mihkel Härm, CEO at Elektrilevi, Estonia’s largest distribution system operator (DSO).
Stabilise prices – integration of more renewables
Beyond ensuring security of supply, joining the European grid will also provide more competitive energy prices to consumers. “Local energy production, combined with imports from Nordic and Central European markets, will maintain stability. Integration with Europe’s energy market will stabilise prices, as the Baltic States will gain access to more competitive and diverse electricity sources, including renewables», confirmed Darius Maikštėnas CEO of Lithuanian utility Ignitis Group.
Looking at the big picture, synchronising grids represents a crucial step in the EU integration process at times when external actors are threatening the block’s security.
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“The leading companies of the Baltic energy sector have systematically demonstrated professionalism, perseverance and determination to renew and modernise their generation fleet, attract EU funding to strengthen the transmission system and implement this ambitious project. This is the moment when we become part of a united Europe again, taking responsibility for our own systems», concluded Mārtiņš Čakste, CEO at Latvian utility Latvenergo AS.
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With energy security topping the agenda of the Polish Presidency of the EU Council, member states should strive to stay united even in their power transmission and distribution systems. The Baltics case showcases how grid synchronisation can offer a way out from depending on unreliable trade partners. (hcn)
