Brussels, 15 June 2023
On 14 June 2023, the 12th edition of InnoGrid, jointly organised by E.DSO and ENTSO-E, took place in Brussels. Participants discussed the technology and innovation developments needed to implement the energy transition towards a decarbonised power system in a context marked by emergency situations.
In order to meet the decarbonisation targets, transmission and distribution grids operators will need investments that often rely on long-term frameworks. This year's InnoGrid conference focused on short and long-term options for technology solutions and market perspectives to foster such investments.
High-level representatives from key policy and technology stakeholders in Europe exchanged policy, regulatory and technology aspects related to renewable integration and electrification, the potential of digital technologies for the energy transition, and the innovation potential for technology developments.
Opening the Conference, Energy Commissioner, Kadri Simson underlined that: “The biggest energy crisis in a generation triggered a profound shift in the EU’s energy system. We responded swiftly and with determination, and accelerated the European Green Deal by stepping up our ambition on renewables to 42,5%. Electricity networks will play a key role in in the green transition. We have to ensure that European electricity infrastructure is ready for rapid uptake of renewables and electrification of demand to enable a more electrified, digitalised and integrated energy system. I am convening a high-level event dedicated to grids in Brussels in September discuss this further” (recording available here).
Christian Buchel, Chair E.DSO, stated that: “There is no doubt in my mind that we are at a pivotal moment for us to change our future for the better. And we have no choice, but to urgently deliver on our common promises."
Hervé Laffaye, President ENTSO-E, highlighted that “Transmission system operators are anticipating a steep electrification of end uses driven by transport, heating/cooling for residential and to a certain extent industrial sectors by 2030 to reach faster and more ambitious climate objectives driven by Fit for 55 and geopolitical framework. They are investing in innovation to develop the best solutions for the future. In that context, the cooperation with the distribution grid operators is and will remain key in a system that becomes always more integrated.”
This conference follows the online session that took place on 9 June, where 12 research and innovation initiatives were presented. They focused on solutions to advance on long-term energy transition technology development to meet the EU long-term climate objectives when coping at the same time with energy emergency measures.
You can find the presentations of the conference here and the recording here.
