Connecting European Grids – Supporting Energy Security

“Energy security is not only a matter of ensuring a steady supply of resources but also a cornerstone of European integration, where the pursuit of collective energy independence strengthens both economic cooperation and geopolitical stability, fostering deeper unity among Member States.”
Zbyněk Boldiš

“This achievement exemplifies the strength of European collaboration and technical excellence. ENTSO-E and its member TSOs remain committed to advancing the integration of Europe’s electricity networks, reinforcing security of supply, and supporting the transition”
Sonya Twohig

A Historic Milestone for the European Energy Union

On 9 February 2025, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania successfully synchronised their electricity grids with the European power system. This marks a major step towards energy independence for the Baltic States, permanently severing their reliance on the Russian power system.

With this synchronisation, the Baltic states now have full control over their electricity systems, ensuring stable and reliable frequency management. This transition significantly strengthens regional energy security, reinforcing Europe’s commitment to a more interconnected and resilient power grid. By joining one of the world’s largest synchronous electricity areas, serving nearly over 500 million consumers, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania have taken a decisive step towards long-term energy stability.

This achievement follows the emergency synchronisation of Ukraine and Moldova with the electricity system of Continental Europe in 2022. The determination and expertise of Ukrainian professionals, who have managed to keep the grid operational despite relentless attacks on energy infrastructure, remain a testament to the resilience and skill within the European electricity sector.

The synchronisation of Ukraine and Moldova with the European power system marked a significant milestone in enhancing their energy security and facilitating their integration into the European electricity market. This emergency synchronisation, made possible by the remarkable resilience of Ukrainian professionals, ensured grid stability amidst continuous attacks on infrastructure. Their ability to maintain operations under such conditions highlighted the strength of the Ukrainian energy sector.

Furthermore, the synchronisation led to increased transmission capacities, playing a critical role in the deeper integration of Ukraine and Moldova into the European energy network. This expanded capacity not only bolstered their energy security but also contributed to the overall stability and resilience of the European electricity grid, promoting greater interconnection and cooperation across borders.

A European Success Story

Achieving full synchronisation of the Baltics, on the other hand, was the result of years of preparation and close cooperation between the Baltic Transmission System Operators (TSOs) with the support of the TSOs from Poland and Germany who played a key role in enabling the connection to the European grid. Extensive grid upgrades and technical enhancements were essential for the successful completion of this transition.

The European Union and ENTSO-E were instrumental throughout the process, providing financial support, regulatory guidance, and operational expertise. Their contributions ensured that the synchronisation was carried out efficiently and in line with European energy objectives.

The synchronisation of the Baltic states with the European system  is a transformative milestone that strengthens energy security and independence while demonstrating the power of European cooperation.

Strengthening Grid Stability and Energy Security

By integrating with the Continental European Power System, the Baltic states now have full control over their electricity grids, no longer relying on Russian or Belarusian systems for frequency management. This transition removes a key vulnerability and significantly reduces external risks, further enhancing the stability of the European electricity network.

As part of the European power system, the Baltic TSOs are able to balance electricity generation and consumption across a much larger and more stable synchronous area. This not only increases the reliability of their own power systems but also contributes to the overall security and efficiency of the European electricity market. The move strengthens regional energy resilience, ensuring that future challenges can be met with greater flexibility and coordination.

A Testament to European Solidarity

The synchronisation of the Baltic states, alongside the emergency synchronisation of Ukraine and Moldova in 2022, stands as a powerful demonstration of European solidarity. Both efforts reflect Europe’s collective commitment to enhancing energy security, grid resilience, and strategic autonomy in times of uncertainty. These achievements highlight the EU’s ability to come together efficiently in addressing evolving energy challenges.

ENTSO-E and its member TSOs have been at the forefront of these initiatives, providing crucial technical and operational support to ensure seamless transitions.

Their combined expertise and coordination have been essential in making these synchronisations successful, reinforcing Europe’s capacity to adapt and innovate for a more secure and interconnected energy future.

Looking to the future of transmission grid security and reliability, the focus on critical infrastructure protection will be a high priority in the Baltic Sea region and within the EU. For this reason, the TSOs are keen to work together with the European Commission and energy market participants to cooperate on the prevention and protection of critical infrastructure.

As Europe continues its journey towards a sustainable and resilient energy landscape, these synchronisations exemplify the positive impact of cooperation, innovation, and strategic investments in achieving shared energy goals.

Zbyněk Boldiš, President ENTSO-E

Sonya Twohig, ENTSO-E Secretary-General