Power disruption not expected due to disconnection from Russian grids - ministry

RIGA - No power disruption is expected in connection with the planned disconnection of the Baltic states from the Russian power grids on February 8-9 and their connection to the European power grid, the Climate and Energy Ministry informed LETA.

The synchronization with the European grid is the most ambitious energy independence and regional security project jointly implemented by the Baltic electricity transmission system operators.

The process of connecting to the European grid will start on February 8, 2025 and last until February 9.

The ministry explained that February is a good time for the switchover because of the higher electricity production in the region. February is also less prone to particularly adverse weather conditions. The current BRELL contract will expire on February 7.

No blackout is expected to connect to the European grid, ministry stressed. The Baltic transmission system operators have made significant investments in their transmission systems to maximize the reliability of electricity supply.

At the same time, ministry pointed out that it is not possible to completely rule out disruptions, as synchronization involves a technically complex process and disruptions are possible under any circumstances. They can be caused by external influences, such as storms, as well as by technological failures in the transmission systems of Latvia or neighboring countries.

The likelihood of power supply disruptions due to synchronization is not significantly higher than for everyday disruptions, for example due to damage caused by adverse weather conditions, explained the ministry.

Climate and Energy Minister Kaspars Melnis (Greens/Farmers) pointed out that synchronization is aimed at ensuring that we are able to maintain and control the electricity supply network ourselves, ensure stability and are not dependent on the actions of our neighbors.

The ministry noted that the impact of synchronization on electricity prices is expected to be relatively small, as the main price drivers in the Baltic states are domestic generation, fuel prices, weather conditions and the availability of network infrastructure.

As reported, since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, risks to the Baltic energy system have also increased. To address them, the Baltic energy system will be disconnected from the Russian combined energy system, the so-called BRELL ring, and connected to the European system almost a year earlier than originally planned, on February 7-9 this year.