A Historic Step Towards Energy Independence
On 9 February, Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia achieved a significant milestone in their pursuit of energy independence by successfully synchronising their electricity grids with the continental European network. This transition marks the end of their reliance on the Russian electricity system, a dependency that has lasted for 65 years.
Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda celebrated the achievement, calling it “a historic moment” that concludes the Baltic States’ long journey towards energy sovereignty. “The times of political pressure, blackmail, and sabotage are finally over,” he stated.
Seamless Transition to the European Grid
The synchronisation process was carefully executed. On Saturday morning, the three nations disconnected from the Soviet-era Russian electricity system (IPS/UPS) without any disruptions. They operated in isolation until Sunday afternoon, when they were successfully integrated into the continental European synchronous zone through LitPol Link, the electricity interconnection between Lithuania and Poland.
This move allows the Baltic States to independently manage their electricity systems while coordinating with other countries in the synchronous zone. The region is now also connected to Northern Europe via the NordBalt submarine link between Lithuania and Sweden and the EstLink 1 and EstLink 2 connections between Estonia and Finland.
Future Infrastructure Developments
The Baltic States are planning further enhancements to their electricity infrastructure. By 2030, a new Lithuania-Poland interconnection, Harmony Link, will be completed, facilitating electricity trade and ensuring stable synchronisation operations.
“Harmony Link will help stabilise our operations and provide competitive electricity prices for households and industries,” President Nausėda explained.
Concerns Over Infrastructure Security
Recent incidents in the Baltic Sea have raised security concerns regarding energy infrastructure. The EstLink 2 cable remains out of service following suspected damage caused by a tanker linked to Moscow’s “shadow fleet” during Christmas. In total, at least 11 seabed cables have been damaged since October 2023.
While underwater cable damage is not uncommon, the frequency and pattern of these incidents have led to speculation about possible sabotage. President Nausėda has urged the European Union to take decisive action to protect critical infrastructure, calling for a coordinated response at the EU level to strengthen resilience against hybrid threats.
Geopolitical Implications
At a joint press conference, Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs stated that by synchronising with Western Europe, the Baltic States are closing “another chapter” in their energy history. He also urged NATO and EU countries to increase defence spending in response to Russian threats.
Estonian President Alar Karis emphasised the need for continued sanctions against Russia. “Sanctions should remain in place not only until the war ends but until Russia fully compensates Ukraine for the damage caused,” he asserted. He also highlighted the dangers of Europe’s continued purchase of Russian liquefied natural gas and the activities of Russia’s shadow fleet in the Baltic Sea.
Major Investments in Energy Independence
The synchronisation project has required significant financial investment. Over €1.6 billion has been allocated to infrastructure development in the Baltic States and Poland, with €1.2 billion provided by the EU’s Energy Infrastructure Networks programme.
Lithuania alone has constructed 420 km of new electricity transmission lines, reconstructed 230 km of existing lines, and built or modernised 13 substations and transformer stations. The Alytus electricity hub now hosts the most powerful autotransformers in the Baltic region, enhancing energy stability.
A New Era for the Baltic States
By joining the European power grid, Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia have taken a decisive step towards securing their energy future. The successful synchronisation reduces their exposure to geopolitical risks and ensures greater energy security for millions of people.
With continued investments in infrastructure and security, the Baltic States are reinforcing their independence, strengthening their ties with Europe, and reducing reliance on Russian energy sources—a transformation that will shape the region’s future for decades to come.
