During a meeting on Thursday with Climate and Energy Minister Kaspars Melnis, President of Latvia Edgars Rinkevics emphasised the importance of being prepared to respond swiftly to potential risks as the Baltic States work to synchronise with the European power grid, according to the Latvian news agency LETA.
Martins Dregeris, the President’s adviser, relayed that the discussions centred on synchronising the Baltic power transmission system with the European power grid and developing a national long-term energy strategy. President Rinkevics acknowledged the progress made in disconnecting from the Russian-Belarusian power grids. However, he stressed the necessity for all parties involved to be ready to respond quickly to any possible challenges.
The President noted that Latvia and its Baltic neighbours had made significant efforts in preparation for synchronising with the European electricity grids, which he believes will enhance Latvia’s energy security.
“A lot of work has been invested by both Latvia and the other Baltic states to prepare for synchronisation with the European power grids. This will be a significant step in strengthening our energy security. At the same time, we must be clearly aware of the potential risks both before and after the disconnection. I call on the Ministry of Climate and Energy, as the responsible institution, as well as all parties involved, to be prepared for various scenarios so that in any situation we can provide the necessary support to our residents as quickly as possible,” the President of Latvia emphasised.
Additionally, the officials discussed the progress of Latvia’s energy strategy for 2050. The Climate and Energy Ministry presented an initial draft at Riga Castle on October 23, 2024, and the plan is set to be reviewed again in March. Rinkevics reiterated that the strategy’s primary goal should be to ensure competitive energy prices in the region.
As reported, since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the risks to the Baltic energy system have increased. To mitigate these risks, the Baltic energy system will disconnect from the Russian combined energy system known as the BRELL ring and will connect to the European system almost a year earlier than initially planned, specifically on 8-9 February. The Climate and Energy Ministry has indicated that February is the optimal month for this transition, as energy production in the region tends to be higher, and the likelihood of severe weather conditions is lower.
