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Agreement reached for environmental evaluation of upcoming 330 kV power line from Ventspils to Lithuania under environmental impact assessment by AST.

International company consents to collaborate with Latvia's electricity grid operator, Augstsprieguma tīkls (AST), on a project.

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International corporation, identified as AS "Augstsprieguma tīkls" (AST), from Latvia, finalizes a...
International corporation, identified as AS "Augstsprieguma tīkls" (AST), from Latvia, finalizes a deal concerning electricity transmission systems with a global consortium.

Agreement reached for environmental evaluation of upcoming 330 kV power line from Ventspils to Lithuania under environmental impact assessment by AST.

Let's Dive into Latvia's New 330 kV Transmission Line Project

The power players are shaking things up in Latvia with a bold move - constructing a new 330 kV transmission line from Ventspils to the Latvian-Lithuanian border. This project, spearheaded by AS "Augstsprieguma tīkls" (AST), is a crucial step forward in enhancing the country's electricity infrastructure.

The initiative is backed by the European Union's Recovery and Resilience Facility REPowerEU plan, footing the bill for a total of EUR 798,750. Following a rigorous public procurement process, the "Estonian, Latvian & Lithuanian Environment" SIA (ELLE) was crowned the winner, recognized for their expertise in handling such ventures.

But why the upgrade? Well, let's talk numbers. The current 110 kV lines, 'Ventspils-Kuldīga-Brocēni' and 'Brocēni-Priekule', are showing their age. With an eye on future demand, this project aims to replace these lines with a more robust, 330 kV solution. The goal here is to strengthen Latvia's electricity system, enhance energy independence for the Baltic states, and pave the way for integrating more renewable energy sources.

Speaking of Transmission Line Details

The planned construction involves a combined 110/330 kV transmission line solution from Ventspils to Baltaiskrogs, followed by a new 330 kV line from Baltaiskrogs to the Latvian-Lithuanian border. Notably, the existing 330 kV substations in Ventspils and Brocēni will either be extended or replaced with new ones as part of this project.

Environmental Assessments and Public Discussions

In the spirit of transparency, AST organized public discussions in Ventspils, Kuldīga, and Saldus counties at the end of 2024 and beginning of 2025. The selected consultant, ELLE, is tasked with preparing the right-of-way and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) studies for the Ventspils-Brocēni-Varduva/Telsiai route within Latvia's territory. Post-completion of the EIA report, public discussions will be held across the affected municipalities.

The EIA process involves a multidisciplinary approach, enlisting the help of hydrogeologists, ornithologists, and landscape specialists to ensure all environmental factors are considered. The consultants will also scrutinize the proposed line route, evaluate alternative routes, and factor in municipality territorial planning, protected environmental areas, and other relevant factors during the pre-design phase.

Project Timeline and Key Milestones

The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is slated for completion by May 2026. Once the EIA is out of the way, technical design work is tentatively scheduled for 2027-2028, with construction expected to commence between 2028 and 2032.

About AS Augstsprieguma tīkls

AST, Latvia's power transmission system operator, is on a mission to become the region's leading transmission system operator, driving change efficiently and successfully. The organization, with a vision of sustainability and innovation, currently owns 68.46% of shares in the natural gas transmission and storage system operator AS Conexus Baltic Grid.

  1. This new 330 kV transmission line project from Ventspils to the Latvian-Lithuanian border, situated in Latvia, is a significant boost for the country's renewable energy industry and environmental science.
  2. The European Union's Recovery and Resilience Facility REPowerEU plan is financing the project, contributing a total of EUR 798,750.
  3. The public procurement process led to the selection of the "Estonian, Latvian & Lithuanian Environment" SIA (ELLE) for their expertise in handling such projects.
  4. The project aims to strengthen Latvia's electricity system and energy independence, allowing for the integration of more renewable energy sources.
  5. In 2028, the technical design work for the transmission line project is expected to begin, and construction is planned to commence between 2028 and 2032.
  6. The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is crucial for the project, with consultants like ELLE reviewing factors such as hydrogeology, ornithology, and landscape to ensure minimal impact on the environment.
  7. The project targets a more robust, 330 kV solution, replacing the current 110 kV lines, aiming to enhance electricity infrastructure in Latvia and the broader Baltic region.

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