Information about the project
The synchronisation project allows Lithuania to achieve energy independence, therefore it is especially important in terms of national security. But there are other benefits to syncing:
- The infrastructure installed within the scope of the synchronisation project helps integrate more electricity generation from renewable sources into the Lithuanian system. The new lines and equipment contributes to Lithuania's target to become a country which generates 100 percent of electricity from wind, solar and other renewable sources.
- Synchronisation with Continental Europe separated the three Baltic States from the Astravets nuclear power plant and the energy it produces not only commercially and legally, but also physically.
- Electricity trade with mainland Europe, our strategic economic partners, will increase with construction of the new Harmony Link interconnection.
- Complete separation from the IPS / UPS zone was necessary not only for technical reasons. It is also be beneficial in economic terms, as it creates a level playing field for producers and encourages investment in the market.
Thus, in addition to becoming full players in Europe's electricity infrastructure, we will be able to self-manage the frequency of the electricity system through interconnections of electrical system networks, and there open more opportunities for the development of renewable energy sources and greater participation in the EU's single electricity market.
The synchronisation of the Baltic countries with the Continental European Synchronous Areatakes place using the expanded existing connection between Lithuania and Poland LitPol Link. In preparation for synchronisation, the internal electricity transmission networks of the Baltic countries and Poland were strengthened, synchronous condensers were installed, and systems were prepared for disconnection from the IPS/UPS system and independent frequency control.
The newly constructed sea link Harmony Link will be operational in the 1st quarter of 2028. It will provide market integration – electricity trade with Poland.
The cost of the Baltic and Continental European electricity system integration project is about 1.6 billion euros. The project is partially funded by the European Union. More than 1 billion euro funding has already been allocated to Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia and Poland from the EU Connecting Europe Facility (CEF). Infrastructure projects are funded up to 75% intensity, funding intensity of studies – 50%. The rest of the project is funded by the three Baltic and Polish transmission system operators.
More information about the project: www.litgrid.eu
PROJECT GOALS AND SIGNIFICANCE
Synchronisation of the national electricity with the Continental Europe is the last step towards Lithuania’s energy independence. The electricity systems of the Baltic states from 9th February 2025 operate in one synchronous area together with the systems of other European countries.