With the proliferation of renewable energy sources, including solar panel systems, the energy sector is facing unprecedented challenges. As renewable technologies become more widespread, customers can become energy producers themselves. However, to facilitate this process, the required technical conditions must be put in place for connecting increasingly more solar systems to the grid.
The Danube InGrid project, cross-border cooperation subsidised by the Connecting Europe Facility of the European Union and, since December 2021, classified as a high-priority investment of public interest and a Project of Common Interest of the European Union, represents a major step towards finding the correct answer to this challenge in the North Transdanubian region.
Under the project, the E.ON Hungária Group will strengthen and expand the existing electricity grid infrastructure with a view to integrating the dynamically growing renewable-based residential and plant-size electricity generation into the grid, using smart technologies. In addition to traditional grid construction, the use of smart grid devices, smart metering and the engagement of customers will lead to more commercially efficient operations, flexible grid integration and improved supply security.
“E.ON is building the energy grid of the future,” saidJózsef Béres, Deputy CEO of E.ON Hungária Group. “The cornerstone of this work is to integrate renewable energy sources into the existing electricity grid. The Danube InGrid program is a true reflection of our commitment to creating a modern and efficient grid focused on green production and active consumers, through consistent efforts. However, this goal can only be realised through large-scale, ongoing grid development, where we apply the latest technologies and processes.”
Under the programme, in 2021 new transformer stations were built in Öttevény and Gyermely, together with the connected distribution networks; and in February this year, the extension of the southern substation of Székesfehérvár was completed with a total budget of approximately 7.64 million euros. The stations were built using high-end equipment from Siemens, among others.
The development of the electricity network in the North Transdanubian region will continue this year by way of high-priority investments. In Kisbér, construction work will start on a new facility, including a greenfield substation. In Zalaszentgrót, the development of the transformer station currently in operation is expected to start by the end of the year.
In addition, E.ON will also build two new high-voltage transmission lines under the project: a 63 kilometres section through the Bakony hills and a 49kilometres stretch along the Csorna-Répcelak-Csepreg axis, to be able to offer locals the most uninterrupted electricity supply possible.
Under the programme, the installation of more than 6,000 remotely controlled switching devices and fault detectors has also started. The key impact of the developments on customers will be that it will become easier to monitor and remotely manage the network via more points, thus contributing to the faster resolution of any potential technical issues.
Upon the drafting of construction plans, additional greenfield substation constructions and extensions will be launched in the settlements of Répcelak, Szombathely, Veszprémvarsány, Várpalota, Zirc and Lepsény. These investments will be commissioned in 2024 and 2025 respectively.
