Baltic States Set to Complete Integration with Europe’s Power Grid
In just one hundred days, the Baltic States will complete their historic integration with the continental European power grid.
Image for illustration purposes. Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons
Lithuania Takes Major Step Toward Energy Independence with First Synchronous Condenser
Lithuania has launched its first synchronous condenser at the Telšiai transformer substation, a pivotal step towards gaining full energy independence. This project, managed by the Lithuanian electricity transmission system operator, Litgrid, is central to Lithuania’s plan to disconnect from the Russian-controlled BRELL energy network and join the Continental European grid.
How Synchronous Condensers Support Energy Independence
Synchronous condensers are essentially large, rotating electric motors that provide essential inertia to the power grid. Unlike conventional power plants, which rely on heavy, rotating generators, many modern renewable sources, such as solar and wind, do not contribute to grid inertia.
The synchronous condenser in Telšiai, weighing over 460 tonnes, was manufactured by Siemens Energy in Germany and will be followed by two additional units in Alytus and Vilnius. This trio of synchronous condensers, combined with similar installations planned in Latvia and Estonia, will enhance the stability of the entire Baltic region. Their installation is also part of the Baltic Synchronisation Programme, supported by EU funding through the Connecting Europe Facility, which aims to integrate the Baltic States into the Continental European grid by February 2025. In total, nearly 2 billion euros have been invested in developing the Baltic States’ energy infrastructure, with 75 per cent funded by European co-financing.
Supporting Renewable Energy Integration
As renewable energy sources continue to expand, synchronous condensers will play a vital role in supporting grid stability. Traditional power plants, such as coal and nuclear, naturally provide inertia through their rotating machinery. However, renewables like solar and wind lack this capability. By adding synchronous condensers, Lithuania’s grid will have the necessary support to balance fluctuations and maintain stability, even as fossil fuel-based generation decreases.
Sources: CEENERGYNEWS and Litgrid
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