Vilnius counts down the time until the Baltic States connect to the European electricity grid
On October 31, a countdown timer was unveiled in Vilnius in front of the Energy and Technology Museum, marking 100 days until February 8, 2025. On this date, the Baltic states’ electricity systems will, for the first time, be capable of operating independently and autonomously, synchronizing with the continental European electricity system after an isolated operation test.
“Today’s launch of the symbolic timer marks 100 days until Lithuania’s electricity grids synchronise with Western Europe. However, it is measured not in days or months, but in years, that the foundations of our energy independence have been laid — from the LNG terminal with its aptly named storage ship, the complete abandonment of Russian resources, the intensive development of renewable energy, to the soon-to-be disconnection from the BRELL ring. What remains immeasurable is the persistent effort and dedicated work of so many. Not losing direction, not fearing difficult decisions—even those that may be unpopular or seem too costly—as if anything could be more valuable than independence and the dignity of standing firm against those who view energy merely as a tool for power, blackmail, and coercion. In a hundred days’ time, we will have completed one of the most important tasks set by this Government. However, energy independence—like national independence—is an achievement that must continue to be protected and strengthened. Thank you to all those who have contributed so far, those who work toward it today, and those who will do so in the future,” said Prime Minister Ingrida Šimonytė.
Lithuania has come a long and challenging way to achieve energy independence, and synchronisation with the continental European electricity grids marks the final step toward Lithuania’s energy freedom.
“This is undoubtedly one of the most important, if not the most important event in the history of independent Lithuanian energy. Disconnecting from BRELL and connecting to the European electricity grids is not just a political act. It is an extremely important step in terms of national security.
We will also be able to independently manage the electricity system’s frequency, participate more actively in the EU’s common electricity market, and use the installed infrastructure to integrate more renewable energy generation into Lithuania’s system,” said Dainius Kreivys, Minister of Energy.
Historically, Lithuania’s electricity system has been synchronous with the IPS/UPS system connecting Belarus, Russia, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and other countries, while the frequency of the electricity system of the Baltic states is centrally managed and coordinated by the dispatching centre in Moscow. The Baltic states will permanently leave the BRELL ring early next year and connect to the continental European electricity grid.
“This is an important moment marking the end of a significant period of international cooperation. In 100 days, 15 years of planning and major infrastructure improvements will come to an end. We are saying goodbye forever to the last living artefact of the Soviet era – the BRELL electricity grid. We are doing this not because it is easy, but because it is necessary for our common energy security,” said Kaspars Melnis, Latvia’s Minister for Climate and Energy.
The synchronisation of the Baltic states with the continental European grid will take place through the extension of the existing link between Lithuania and Poland, LitPol Link. In preparation for the synchronisation, the internal transmission grids of the Baltic states and Poland are being reinforced, synchronous compensators are being installed, and the systems are being prepared for disconnection from the IPS/UPS system and autonomous frequency control.
“Today we reaffirm our unity and celebrate the final milestones on the path to a more secure future for the regional energy system. The solidarity shown by our neighbours in regional relations is invaluable. We appreciate the work of our transmission system operators Litgrid, Elering and AST. Excellent cooperation in finding solutions and moving towards a reliable electricity system that will allow faster synchronisation with the Continental European Synchronous Area, ensuring energy security and independence for our region,” said Jaanus Uiga, Deputy Secretary General for Energy and Mineral Resources at the Ministry of Climate.
A specially produced video featuring an integrated timer will be displayed to Vilnius residents and visitors throughout the 100 days leading up to the BRELL disconnection and synchronization with the continental European grid.
Last updated: 28-11-2024
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