In Vilaka, Latvia, on February 8th, the three Baltic states disconnected their electricity systems from Russia's power grid, marking a significant step towards closer integration with the European Union and enhanced security.
Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania successfully disconnected from the IPS/UPS joint network and are set to synchronize with the EU grid at 1200 GMT on Sunday after conducting final tests.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is scheduled to address a ceremony on Sunday commemorating the switch to the EU system.
Lithuanian Energy Minister Zygimantas Vaiciunas expressed satisfaction, stating, "We've reached the goal we strived for, for so long. We are now in control."
Operators conducted frequency management trials on Saturday, ensuring the stability of the Baltic grid during interruptions, as confirmed by Lithuanian grid operator Litgrid.
Following the disconnection, Latvian workers dismantled high-voltage wires near the Russian border in Vilaka, symbolizing a definitive move away from Russian energy dependence.
Latvia's Energy Minister Kaspars Melnis affirmed the transition, stating, "We will never use it again. We are moving on."
The decision to separate from Russia's grid gained momentum in light of geopolitical events, such as Moscow's annexation of Crimea in 2014.
As staunch supporters of Kyiv, the Baltic states ceased energy purchases from Russia after the invasion of Ukraine in 2022, gradually reducing Russian influence in their energy systems.
Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna highlighted the strategic importance of the decoupling, stating, "By ending the energy dependence of the Baltic states on Russia, we are leaving the aggressor without the option of using energy as a weapon against us."
The Baltic countries invested substantially in upgrading their grids, while Russia redirected resources to maintain power supply in Kaliningrad, now disconnected from its main grid.
The successful transition marks a significant milestone for the Baltic states, ensuring energy security and independence from Russian influence.