Electricity transmission has its backbone, and without it energy from nuclear or hydro power plants would not reach consumers. Slovenská elektrizačná prenosová sústava explains how it approaches innovation: from digitalization and artificial intelligence through big data to international cooperation. The goal is to manage the transition to a low-carbon energy sector while maintaining grid stability.
Three clusters of innovation: grid, digitalization, European interoperability
In the European association of transmission system operators, innovation priorities were divided into three clusters. The first is the transmission grid itself and its modernization, the second is the digitalization of all energy systems connected to the grid, and the third is building a unified European grid. Operators do not compete with each other, which enables close cooperation and common standards. Initiatives arise both top-down and bottom-up: from the association to national operators and vice versa.
Digitalization brings the deployment of artificial intelligence, digital twins, the Internet of Things, advanced monitoring, and big data analytics. The goal is to optimize system control, increase security, and contribute to decarbonization. It is crucial to think about the entire ecosystem, not just the transmission grid itself. Therefore, solutions also concern the devices and systems that control the grid or are connected to it.
Ecosystem of transformation: renewables, flexibility, and new services
Connecting renewable sources is essential, but also demanding, because their generation is variable and less predictable. The system needs balancing through ancillary services and new forms of flexibility. Various types of energy storage help, from pumped-storage power plants and thermal solutions to battery storage, which increase stability. Cross-cutting innovations are also important, such as electromobility and charging infrastructure, which change grid load and end-customer requirements.
The innovation program stands on two pillars: the development of energy systems and the stability of the transmission system. This involves areas of infrastructure, market flexibility, and market design, with information and communication technologies playing a decisive role. At the European level, a methodology and technical vision have been created that divide priorities into three groups: technical assets, digital technologies, and flexibility technologies. These frameworks are being translated into specific goals and projects that are already being implemented.
