Transmission system operator AS “Augstsprieguma tīkls” (AST) has commissioned the third synchronous condenser station in Latvia, located in Līksna, earlier than planned. This marks the completion of the synchronous condenser project in Latvia and across the Baltics. Within the framework of the synchronisation project, and with co-funding from the European Union, a total of nine synchronous condensers have been installed in Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia — the first such equipment deployed in the Baltic region to ensure stable frequency and reliable operation of the transmission system.
“Synchronous condensers provide a stable heartbeat for our power system. With the commissioning of the Līksna station — the third in Latvia — the synchronous condenser project has been concluded, although our work to strengthen the energy system continues. In today’s changing geopolitical and generation landscape, we are constantly working to reinforce Latvia’s energy security, for example by developing new interconnections with neighbouring countries. The successful disconnection from the BRELL network and synchronisation with the continental European system earlier this year — almost unnoticed by consumers — clearly demonstrates Latvia’s capacity to deliver large international infrastructure projects on time and within budget,” noted Minister of Climate and Energy Kaspars Melnis
AST Chairman of the Board Rolands Irklis added: “Latgale plays a special role in the synchronisation process — on 8 February we severed electricity flow from Russia by disconnecting interconnections, and now we have completed the third synchronous condenser here. Within a month, we will also put into operation our largest battery project in Rēzekne. The Līksna synchronous condenser was one of the most complex due to delivery challenges, as the equipment had to be transported over the longest distance from seaports. Through careful planning and coordination, more than 390 tonnes of equipment were successfully delivered from Riga Freeport to Līksna. Commissioning ahead of schedule demonstrates our commitment to projects that are crucial for Latvia’s energy independence and security.”
Each synchronous condenser station in Latvia — in Grobiņa, Ventspils and Līksna — provides 100 MVAr of reactive power and contributes to a total of 2,090 MVA·s of inertia for the Baltic grid. These units ensure sufficient inertia, short-circuit power for relay protection, and reliable grid connection of renewable generation. The total investment amounts to EUR 114 million, of which 75% is co-funded by the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF).
The project was implemented by AST in cooperation with Siemens Energy and Enersense Latvija.
On 8 February 2025, the Baltic states disconnected from the Russian-controlled IPS/UPS system, and on 9 February successfully synchronised with continental Europe. Today, the Baltic power system is part of the European grid, which supplies electricity to more than 400 million consumers in 26 countries.
Synchronisation enables the Baltic countries to operate their systems jointly with continental Europe, ensuring stable frequency control, reinforcing energy security, and facilitating the integration of renewable energy. It also strengthens the European internal energy market and supports the EU Green Deal objectives.
Each synchronous condenser station in Latvia — in Grobiņa, Ventspils and Līksna — provides 100 MVAr of reactive power and contributes to a total of 2,090 MVA·s of inertia for the Baltic grid. These units ensure sufficient inertia, short-circuit power for relay protection, and reliable grid connection of renewable generation. The total investment amounts to EUR 114 million, of which 75% is co-funded by the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF).
The project was implemented by AST in cooperation with Siemens Energy and Enersense Latvija.
On 8 February 2025, the Baltic states disconnected from the Russian-controlled IPS/UPS system, and on 9 February successfully synchronised with continental Europe. Today, the Baltic power system is part of the European grid, which supplies electricity to more than 400 million consumers in26 countries.
Synchronisation enables the Baltic countries to operate their systems jointly with continental Europe, ensuring stable frequency control, reinforcing energy security, and facilitating the integration of renewable energy. It also strengthens the European internal energy market and supports the EU Green Deal objectives.
About AS Augstsprieguma tīkls
AST is Latvia's power transmission system operator, which ensures continuous, secure and sustainably efficient power transmission throughout Latvia. Its vision is to become the region's leading transmission system operator, which implements development-oriented changes efficiently and successfully. AST owns 68.46% of shares in the natural gas transmission and storage system operator AS Conexus Baltic Grid.
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