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Solar Energy

Baltics join the European grid — tailwind for energy transition

February 10, 2025 ryansheehanrts

“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).

Also see: Large-scale battery storage for a stable Latvian power grid

“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.

Also see: Latvia – New 115 MW solar park

“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.

Also see: New report shows ways to facilitate renewable integration into grids

“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.

Also see: Double investments in power distribution or lose race to net-zero

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)

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Solar Energy

As we rebuild the grid, we must rethink its management

January 20, 2025 ryansheehanrts

The solar energy sector stands at the forefront of the energy transition, tasked with ensuring a stable, reliable power supply while driving progress toward ambitious sustainability goals. As demand for clean energy surges, the industry must navigate challenges like grid integration, storage solutions, and fluctuating weather conditions—all while maintaining efficiency and adaptability. The question is clear: how can solar energy providers meet these demands while setting new standards for operational resilience?

A global shift is underway toward renewable energy grids, advanced storage solutions, and cutting-edge technologies. Tools such as the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and cloud technologies enable real-time monitoring, predictive analytics, and seamless integration with traditional systems. These innovations allow energy companies to optimize load balancing, protect equipment, and enhance reliability by analyzing electricity demand, consumption trends, and weather patterns.

The untapped potential of data

Data is pivotal in this transformation. Energy companies managing vast, distributed power grids rely heavily on structured, reliable information. Digital twins—virtual replicas of physical assets or systems—are gaining traction in the sector. These twins combine data on geometry, physical properties, and environmental factors from multiple sources, enabling real-time monitoring and predictive analysis.

Also see: Artificial intelligence – The key to transforming renewable energy systems?

A hybrid or cloud-based digital twin fosters collaboration by providing all stakeholders with a unified, accurate data source. This enhances transparency and coordination across teams and partners in the value chain. For energy providers, this level of insight enables precise, data-driven adjustments, boosting operational flexibility and decision-making.

The need for real-time insights

Despite the availability of advanced tools, a gap remains in accessing real-time data. According to AVEVA’s Industrial Intelligence Index Report, 55% of energy executives report rarely or never having real-time data when making critical decisions.

Aveva

Real-time data management plays a crucial role for intelligent grid management.

In order to leverage these benefits, all energy providers need to look for pioneer projects in their field so they can learn from each other—no matter the energy source.
For example, Swedish energy giant Vattenfall addressed this challenge by modernizing its hydropower plants. With 11,475 megawatts of capacity and an annual production of 40 terawatt-hours, Vattenfall’s outdated maintenance systems relied on static data, necessitating reactive measures. To transition to a proactive approach, Vattenfall adopted the AVEVA PI (Plant Information) system, integrating historical and real-time data for advanced monitoring and analysis.

An example in modernization

Vattenfall’s AVEVA PI implementation allowed the company to perform condition-based monitoring using real-time data and automated alerts. This shift minimized unplanned maintenance, reduced downtime, and improved efficiency. Within a year, maintenance costs dropped by 1.5%, operational reliability improved, and the groundwork was laid for a future hydro information portal providing real-time KPIs and analytics.

Also see: Ioannis Chatzichristofis – “a key prerequisite is the modernization of the Polish electricity grid”

Magnus Holmbom, Development Engineer for Maintenance at Vattenfall, highlighted the platform’s scalability and its role in ensuring planned, rather than reactive, maintenance. The pilot project showcased how digital transformation can reduce costs, enhance sustainability, and boost operational efficiency.

The role of AI in maintenance

Building on systems like Vattenfall’s, artificial intelligence is taking predictive maintenance further. Generative AI and machine learning models are now used to estimate the remaining useful life of equipment. Unlike traditional monitoring systems, which rely on static intervals, AI-driven approaches analyze sensor and operational data for subtle performance changes, enabling earlier fault detection and process stabilization.

Also see: Expert analysis – How to approach battery energy storage systems in Europe

Condition-based maintenance, supported by AI, offers a proactive way to enhance plant reliability and efficiency. By identifying anomalies early, energy providers can prevent costly disruptions and maximize the lifespan of their assets.

Technology as the catalyst for change

The energy sector is navigating complex challenges, including stringent climate targets, operational efficiency, and volatile markets. Data-driven technologies are becoming indispensable tools for addressing these issues. By leveraging real-time insights, predictive analytics, and AI, energy companies can achieve greater sustainability, resilience, and adaptability.

Also see: Expert analysis – Key challenges and opportunities for the European renewable energy market

As these advancements reshape the industry, energy providers are not just managing change—they are leading the way toward a sustainable, efficient, and reliable energy future. (Sue Quense/hcn)

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Solar Energy

Clear regulation required for grid digitalisation

October 25, 2024 ryansheehanrts

Europe’s electricity grid is undergoing a massive transformation driven by ambitious decarbonisation. A new power system is emerging from the traditional transmission-heavy model where small-scale renewables, electric vehicles and heat pumps connect directly to the distribution level.

To enable this evolution, distribution system operators (DSOs) must expand, modernise and digitalise the grid. Eurelectric conducted a study to assess the digital maturity of European DSOs. Digitalisation can largely improve efficiency when building, operating and maintaining the electricity grid, but several bottlenecks hamper its full potential.

„Grid operators must be supported by clear regulation“

Today, DSOs are required to ensure a reliable power supply, accommodate grid connections and secure data flows for customer privacy and cyber security. Yet, Europe’s grid expansion rate is falling behind the demand for new customer connections.

Current infrastructure and technology systems are often decades old and not fully equipped to make use of the countless data points added to the grid system. Flexibility management is also not mature enough to cope with future needs.

Meanwhile, a higher share of renewables entails more grid planning and better forecasting due to their variable and decentralised nature. Considering renewables will constitute 42.5% of Europe’s final energy use by 2030, digital-ready infrastructure is a critical pre-requisite.

“There are many opportunities today to digitalise grid build-out, operations and maintenance, but to fully leverage them, grid operators must be supported by clear regulation to make their business go digital” – says Eurelectric’s Secretary General, Kristian Ruby.

Regulation identified as the largest external challenge

As part of the Wired for Tomorrow study, a survey was conducted with thirty European DSOs. Regulation was identified as the largest external challenge to a digitalised grid, followed by skills shortage. On the contrary, where regulation was clear and supportive of investments, such as in cybersecurity, digital maturity was highest across DSOs.

National regulators should encourage digitalisation investments by ensuring appropriate compensation for DSOs. In parallel, the new legislation introduced under the twin green and digital transitions – from the Electricity Market Design, to the Renewable Energy Directive, the Data and AI Act – must be coherently implemented across sectors, avoiding overlaps and inconsistencies.

Lastly, a digitalised power system can only succeed with a skilled workforce able to operate it. The EU can help bridge the current skill gap by formalising education, developing skills initiatives and introducing certification recognised across the EU, Eurelectric demands. (hcn)

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Solar Energy

Double investments in power distribution or lose race to net-zero

August 7, 2024 ryansheehanrts

Eurelectric’s Grids for Speed study shows that distribution grid investments should increase from an average €33 billion to €67 billion per year from 2025 to 2050, roughly 20% of what the EU spent on fossil fuel imports in 2023. Getting the grid up to speed will significantly reduce fossil fuel imports, create more than 2 million jobs, bring greater energy savings and deliver more reliable power supply while accelerating the decarbonisation of Europe’s economy.

Societal shifts are changing Europe’s energy system at a disruptive speed. By 2050, electricity will make up 60% of final energy use compared to 23% today, renewable capacity will have increased six-fold from 2020 with 70% of renewable generation and storage connecting at distribution level. Connection requests are increasing faster than grid modernisation and will continue to grow as electrification of end-use sectors progresses. These developments put a strain on the grid.

Massive grid investments and grid-friendly flexibility

To relieve the strain, annual investments into new and modernised infrastructure, including digitalisation, should reach €67 billion from 2025 to 2050, around 0.4% of EU GDP., the new Grids for Speed study shows. Forward-looking grid strategies such as anticipatory investments, optimal asset management and grid-friendly flexibility could lower this to €55 billion per year if properly implemented. Failure to invest would jeopardise 74% of prospective connections in key decarbonisation technologies such as electric vehicles (EVs), heat pumps and renewables. Investing, on the contrary, will accelerate electrification and help the EU save €309 billion every year on fossil fuel imports from 2040 to 2050.

“For a successful energy transition the EU needs massive amounts of additional grid capacity. Investment volumes for distribution system operators needs to double. Whilst this will require a significant ramp up, the cost of not investing is even higher. To succeed we need attractive returns for investors to be able to finance it, technology and fast electrification to manage the distribution fees. ”– says Eurelectric’s President and E.ON CEO Leonhard Birnbaum.

Also the supply chain has to scale up

Scaling grid investments requires a dual effort. National authorities should implement the agreed legislation – such as anticipatory investments – while adapting the regulatory regime to support the investment surge. This means eliminating investments caps, fast-tracking grid permitting and procurement procedures and de-risking investments to spur private funding while opening up of public financing through EU budget.

Also interesting: Joint initiative for a competitive decarbonized European industry

Futureproofing the grid also depends on the supply chain’s capability to scale. Even if the necessary investments are met, current shortages of copper, a talent deficit, extended manufacturing lead times and transformers’ costs can hamper infrastructure development. Such bottlenecks must be addressed through strategic planning, enhanced collaboration between policymakers and industries and new training initiatives to ensure a skilled workforce.

Eurelectric calls on policymakers both at national and regional level to secure grid investments, strengthen supply chains and unleash the societal benefits of Grids for Speed. (hcn)

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