LONDON - Transmission system operators (TSOs) from Poland and Lithuania are currently evaluating a potentially more economical solution for the Harmony Link HVDC interconnection, which has faced procurement delays due to rising costs and capacity limitations. The TSOs are considering an onshore cable that could leverage the infrastructure corridor of the Rail Baltica railway route, offering a swift and cost-effective alternative to the initial plans.
The Harmony Link project, initially involving procurements for an offshore interconnection, was paused in April 2023 by Litgrid and PSE due to surging costs and capacity constraints. The pause led to the launch of new tenders and a thorough investigation into cost-reducing alternatives. Today, the attention has shifted towards an onshore solution that might use the existing infrastructure between Poland and Lithuania, potentially expediting the project and reducing expenses.
The TSOs are faced with a critical decision: whether to proceed with the original offshore interconnection plan or to pivot towards the onshore cable proposal. This decision is highly anticipated, as it will significantly impact the future of energy connectivity between the two countries. A conclusion on which direction the project will take is expected in the first half of 2024.
The Harmony Link is a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing energy security and market integration between Poland and Lithuania. By providing a direct electricity connection, it promises to bolster the resilience of the power grid and facilitate energy trade across borders. The outcome of this decision-making process will influence not only the project's timeline but also its overall cost-efficiency, which is crucial given the current economic climate and the pressing need for reliable energy infrastructure in the region.
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