Locations Affected: Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania
On 09 February, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania switched from Russia’s electricity grid to the European Union system. The switch aims to enhance the region’s energy security and strengthen ties with the EU. Additionally, it reduces the Baltic region’s reliance on Russia, which is seen as crucial for improving security in Europe. The transition also comes amid heightened security concerns following the suspected sabotage of several subsea cables and pipelines over the past 18 months.
The three countries, formerly part of the Soviet Union, were connected to the Integrated Power System (IPS)/ Unified Power System (UPS) network established in the 1950s. Discussions on disconnecting from Russia’s grid began in 2007 and gained momentum after Russia annexed Crimea in 2014 and invaded Ukraine in 2022. Although the Baltic states stopped purchasing power from Russia after the war began, they remained dependent on the Russian network for frequency control and outage prevention.
Reason for the Switch
- The project cost EUR 1.6 billion and was largely funded by the EU. The Baltic states are now linked to the European energy network through Finland, Sweden, and Poland.
- The disconnection leaves Russia’s Kaliningrad region isolated from the main power grid. Several measures have been taken to ensure an uninterrupted power supply, including constructing gas-fired power plants.
Outlook and Implications
The power grid switch is a geopolitically symbolic move, reinforcing the Baltic countries’ alignment with the EU and distancing them from Russia. It also diminishes Russia’s influence over the region, removing potential energy-related threats. However, retaliation from Russia remains possible, including sabotage, cyberattacks, and disinformation campaigns. Heightened security at Baltic naval bases is expected.
