TALLINN - Baltic climate and energy ministers and the secretary general of the Polish Ministry of Climate and Environment met in Riga on Friday to discuss the final preparations for synchronizing the Baltic states' power grids with the continental European network.
The meeting also focused on increasing the resilience of critical infrastructure and strengthening regional cooperation.
Estonian Climate Minister Yoko Alender said that the synchronization is a historic step that will make the Baltic states' energy systems secure and independent from Russia.
"This is comparable to joining the Schengen Area -- both ensure freedom and independence, enabling the secure movement of both people and electrons between trusted partners," the climate minister said.
Alender together with Latvian Climate and Energy Minister Kaspars Melnis, and Lithuanian Energy Minister Žygimantas Vaičiūnas said that the synchronization process will be seamless for the three countries' residents.
"Years of preparation ensure that the transition will happen smoothly. Lights won't flicker, equipment will continue to work, and people won't need to change their behavior during the synchronization weekend. The strong cooperation between the Baltic states, Poland, and European partners is the cornerstone of this achievement," Alender added.
During the meeting, the Baltic ministers also signed a joint appeal to the European Commission, requesting additional funding to increase the resilience and protection of critical energy infrastructure against hybrid threats.
"The protection of critical energy infrastructure is not just a regional matter, but a question of the entire European Union's security. Additional funding and closer cooperation at the European level will help us respond more effectively to crises and ensure energy availability for all Europeans," the climate minister said.
The discussion also covered other opportunities for strengthening regional cooperation.
"Our common goal is to optimize the energy system and reduce costs for consumers. This includes planning and procurement of both cross-border connections and new flexible power capacities from 2030 onwards," Alender said.
The Baltic ministers affirmed they will continue regular meetings to ensure a unified approach to regional priorities.
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