OREANDA-NEWS. December 09, 2008. The Summary of Investigations and Conclusions of the study analysing the feasibility of a possible synchronous coupling of the power systems of the IPS/UPS with the UCTE was presented and endorsed by the study partners during a closing event, reported the press-centre of Lietuvos energija.

Among the study partners, Lietuvos energija AB representing Lithuania as the transmission system operator was also involved in the Project. The final conclusions of the study underline the overall complexity of a synchronous coupling taking into consideration both system security and market aspects. System coupling by HVDC back-to-back links is also considered as an alternative to achieve a coupling of IPS/UPS with the UCTE transmission system in a medium term perspective. The Project was co-financed by the TEN-Energy programme of the European Commission.

The UCTE - IPS/UPS Study has investigated the feasibility of a synchronous coupling of the power systems of the IPS/UPS with the UCTE. Both electricity systems are today operated separately. A synchronous coupling would create a unique transmission system serving more than 700 million customers and spanning ten time zones. 

Launched in April 2004 the scope of work comprised all technical, organisational and legal aspects for a possible synchronous operation of both systems.

“We have together succeeded in a unique project in the history of our association”, UCTE President Jose Penedos said during his closing speech. ”The results of the study bring to evidence that a synchronous coupling of such large systems requires a broader view on system security aspects.” 

„This study is a new step in the endeavours to interconnect the Lithuanian electric power system with the systems in West Europe, - say Darius Masionis, Chief Executive Officer of Lietuvos energija AB. According to him, the study proves that the UCTE synchronous coupling with the IPS/UPS may be implemented in the long-term perspective. Therefore, to ensure energy independency of the region, now is the time to accelerate the preparation of the study for synchronous interconnection of the Baltic Power systems with the UCTE. 

In addition, non-synchronous system coupling possibilities by high voltage direct current (HVDC) technology, e.g. by back-to-back links, were considered in the feasibility study  This worldwide used technique in large transmission systems may result beside its technical and economic advantages in a more cost-effective and thus “easier to realise” perspective for merging the electricity systems. 

Lietuvos energija AB is the subsidiary of the national investor company LEO LT, AB performing the functions of the owner of the transmission grid (110-330 kV), the system operator and market operator.