Latvia has joined nearby Baltic states Estonia and Lithuania in adopting simulation software to model its energy system requirements, influenced by factors like energy security and increasing renewables in the energy mix.
Latvian energy transmission system operator AS Augstsprieguma tikls (AST) has signed a three-year agreement with Energy Exemplar to use its PLEXOS simulation modelling software to manage changing energy priorities.
AST will use PLEXOS to simulate different water time series on hydro generation in Baltic States which could affect supply and prices in the region.
This information will allow appropriate investment in infrastructure and managing the timing of switching to alternative energy sources to keep costs low and consistent for end users.
The simulation facility is also “crucial for new interconnector development and the assessment of rapid increase of high capacity renewable energy generation in Baltic States”.
PLEXOS will help AST coordinate strategy with neighbouring countries Estonia and Lithuania, also using PLEXOS.
The three Baltic States will be able to share insights and collaborate in line with the overall plan of Baltic States to synchronise with the rest of the continental European power market by 2025.
Arnis Daugulis, an AST board member responsible for the power system development in Latvia, said: “We are very keen to get started with this technology, knowing the potential it has to refine our understanding of the emerging energy situation and to both plan for the future and respond to challenges as they emerge.
“This tool will aid us in data-led decision making in cooperation with our European colleagues and partners.”