Information about the project
The synchronisation of the Baltic States’ electricity systems with the Continental European Networks was a strategic energy project that ensured Lithuania’s energy independence and strengthened national security. By becoming a fully integrated part of the Continental European electricity system, Lithuania, together with Latvia and Estonia, disconnected from the IPS/UPS system and gained the ability to independently control the frequency of its electricity system.
As part of the synchronisation project, Lithuania’s and the other Baltic States’ electricity transmission infrastructure was strengthened, creating more favourable conditions for integrating increasing amounts of electricity generated from renewable sources into the system. New power lines and equipment contribute to Lithuania’s long-term goal of transitioning to climate-neutral energy and increasing domestic electricity generation from wind, solar and other renewable sources.
The synchronisation not only commercially and legally, but also physically separated the Baltic States from the IPS/UPS system operated by Russia and Belarus. At the same time, technological dependence on this system was eliminated, creating more level competitive conditions for electricity producers and a more favourable environment for investment.
The synchronisation of the Baltic States’ electricity systems with the Continental European Networks was implemented using the upgraded LitPol Link electricity interconnection between Lithuania and Poland. In preparation for synchronisation, the internal electricity transmission networks of the Baltic States and Poland were strengthened, synchronous condensers were installed, and the electricity systems were prepared for independent frequency control.
Further integration of the Baltic States’ electricity market with Continental Europe will be strengthened by the new Harmony Link interconnection between Lithuania and Poland. It will serve the function of market integration and create additional opportunities for electricity trading with Poland and other Continental European countries.
Funding
The value of the project to integrate the electricity systems of the Baltic States and Continental Europe is approximately EUR 1.6 billion. Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia and Poland have received more than EUR 1.2 billion in funding from the European Union’s Connecting Europe Facility. Projects are financed up to 75%, studies up to 50%, with the remaining costs financed by the electricity transmission system operators of the Baltic States and Poland. The project implementer in Lithuania is Litgrid.
Project goals and significance
The synchronisation with the Continental European electricity networks on 9 February 2025 marked the final step towards Lithuania’s energy independence. The electricity systems of the Baltic States now operate within the same synchronous area as the systems of other European countries.