Baltic states sync with EU's power grid after severing ties with Russia network

The three Baltic states were set yesterday to connect to the European Union's power grid after they seamlessly severed Soviet-era ties with Russia's network, a shift motivated by security concerns.

Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania - former Soviet states that are now EU and NATO members - have been keen to make the change since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022.

The war struck fear into the small Baltic countries that they too would be targeted. The staunch Ukraine supporters also worried that Russia would blackmail them via the electricity system.

"This is about security," EU energy commissioner Dan Jorgensen said while visiting Tallinn for the "historic" grid change.

Ukrainian Energy Minister German Galushchenko also hailed the move as a "significant event for the whole of Europe."

The Baltic states have been operating as a so-called "energy island" after decoupling from the Moscow-controlled electricity network early Saturday.

They have since tested their frequency, or power levels, to assure Europe their system is stable, according to Lithuania's state-run grid operator Litgrid.

They were set yesterday to integrate into it via Poland.

A total of EUR1.6 billion (HK$12.9 billion) - mostly EU funds - have been invested in the synchronisation project across the Baltic states and Poland.

Agence France-Presse