DTEK plans to invest up to 24 billion hryvnia in the development of power grids

DTEK Networks has developed five-year plans for the development of power grids in Kyiv, the Kyiv, Odesa, and Dnipropetrovsk regions. To do this, the company used digital twins of the grids—virtual models that allow for testing in advance how the power system will operate under various conditions. Up to 24 billion hryvnias in investments have been allocated for the implementation of these plans.

 

Using digital twins, DTEK Networks simulated the operation of power grids for the next five years. Based on these models, the company prepared grid development plans for Kyiv, the Kyiv, Odesa, and Dnipropetrovsk regions. A digital twin is a virtual copy of a real power grid. It allows one to test how equipment will operate in the future and what might happen if the load on the grid changes.

This approach helps identify vulnerabilities in advance. Experts can also compare different grid development scenarios and test future solutions before work begins. Several factors are taken into account during modeling. In particular, these include projected growth in electricity consumption, the connection of new customers, the development of renewable and distributed generation, and the technical condition of power facilities.

Sharunas Kirlys, Chief Operating Officer of DTEK Networks, explained that digital modeling allows for testing future changes in advance. “Digital grid modeling allows us to test the effectiveness of future decisions even before they are implemented. We can assess how the grid will operate after reconstruction or a change in the power supply scheme, compare several scenarios, and select the most effective one,” he noted.

According to DTEK’s plans, up to 24 billion hryvnias may be allocated to power grid development. The funds are planned to be spent on the construction of new substations and power lines. There are also plans to reconstruct and modernize existing power facilities. Separate investments are earmarked for the automation of power grids and the installation of smart meters. The company notes that the use of digital models should help evaluate various options for grid development before funds are spent on them. This makes it possible to identify potential problems in advance and account for future changes in the power system’s operation. DTEK reports this.

The Ukrainian power grid is entering its fifth winter since the start of the full-scale war in better condition than it was a year ago. At the same time, protection against potential Russian attacks remains the key factor in its stability.