"DTEK Networks" unveiled its strategic plan for modernizing power grids at the Rebuild Ukraine Construction & Energy conference held last week in Warsaw.
"The 'Future Network' project aims at the long-term development and integration of SmartGrid technologies, which will enhance the reliability, flexibility, and efficiency of the energy system. It is this advanced network that will enable the growth of the country's economy and energy sector," the energy holding's press release stated on Tuesday.
It was noted that modern power grids will be a key factor in the post-war renewal of Ukraine and in ensuring energy security across Europe. As part of the project, such technological energy infrastructure will be established in Kyiv, Kyiv, Odesa, and Dnipropetrovsk regions. This will improve the reliability of energy supply, reduce electricity losses, increase network capacities, and connect new renewable energy sources.
"The vulnerability of centralized energy infrastructure has highlighted the need for a transformation towards a more decentralized system right now. The 'Future Networks' project is our response to military challenges, aimed at building a new, resilient, and Europe-integrated energy system. The first steps of our 10-year development plan have already been implemented," noted Sergey Zuev, the financial director of "DTEK Networks," as quoted in the press release.
In particular, at the company's exhibition booth, conference participants in Warsaw were able to learn about the results of the 'digital twin' project for the 110-35 kV network in the Kyiv region.
"This is a virtual replica of the real network that helps identify and eliminate problem areas to optimize power supply. It has demonstrated the potential to reduce SAIDI (System Average Interruption Duration Index) by seven times following the implementation of all measures," the company informed.
As reported, in November 2023, the Board of Directors of the European Distribution System Operators Association (E.DSO) officially approved the concept for the development of power grids, developed by "DTEK Networks" in collaboration with European colleagues, as a comprehensive project aimed at creating the Ukrainian power grids of the future.
The concept envisions a gradual upgrade of the distribution network infrastructure in Kyiv, Kyiv, Odesa, and Dnipropetrovsk regions using the latest technologies based on the best practices of European Distribution System Operators (DSOs). The project is designed for 10 years.
In October 2023, JSC "DTEK Kyiv Regional Power Grids" announced the implementation of a pilot project for a digital twin of the networks at the Irpin energy hub.
"DTEK Networks" is developing its business in electricity distribution and power grid operation in Kyiv, Kyiv, Dnipropetrovsk, Donetsk, and Odesa regions. The company's DSOs serve 5.5 million households and 158,000 enterprises.