Head of the "High Voltage Network": Russia and Belarus currently cannot directly influence Latvia's energy system
The head of Latvia's high voltage network stated that while Russia and Belarus cannot directly affect Latvia's energy system, risks from hybrid threats persist, prompting investments in cybersecurity and physical infrastructure protection.
The head of Latvia's high voltage network, Irklis, emphasized that although Russia and Belarus do not have a direct influence on Latvia's energy system at this time, the country faces various hybrid threats common across Europe. These include both cyberattacks and attempts to physically disrupt critical infrastructure, which necessitates continued vigilance and improvement in security measures. He noted that the recent efforts to enhance the security of electricity supply have been significant over the past few years, focusing particularly on physical security alongside cybersecurity enhancements.
Irklis also mentioned recent support received from European Union (EU) funds, with more than 100 million euros allocated for additional security solutions across the three Baltic states and Poland. This funding is intended to bolster capabilities in detecting and addressing various threats, thereby improving the ability to protect critical infrastructure against potential breaches. The inclusion of EU support highlights the international cooperation in strengthening security measures in response to shared risks faced by the region.
Moreover, Irklis pointed out that in February 2025, the Baltic states will completely disconnect from the Russian-controlled electricity system, known as the BRELL ring, and synchronize their networks with continental Europe. This transition marks a significant step towards energy independence and necessitates the establishment of independent balancing capacities within the region. Overall, the developments reflect Latvia's proactive stance in securing its energy infrastructure amidst rising geopolitical tensions.