Smart Wires Inc.

Unleashing Europe’s Grid Potential: A Vision for a Sustainable Future

February 5, 2025

As Europe moves toward its ambitious net-zero goals, the focus on electricity grids has never been more critical. Grids are the backbone of the energy transition, connecting renewable energy sources to consumers and enabling the electrification of key sectors. Yet, as highlighted in CurrENT’s recent report, Europe’s grids face unprecedented challenges that require bold, innovative solutions.

At Smart Wires, we see this as a moment of opportunity. By leveraging advanced technologies, we can help Europe not only overcome these challenges but also lead the world in building resilient, efficient, and sustainable energy systems.

CurrENT’s report paints a clear picture: Europe needs to decarbonize its power system well before 2040 to achieve net zero by 2050. This requires a paradigm shift in how we plan, finance, and deploy grid infrastructure. The traditional approach of building new circuits is required but is not sufficient. It’s time to optimize existing and new infrastructure using innovative technologies like those Smart Wires provides.

Our SmartValve™ technology enables grid operators to dynamically control power flows and unlock capacity in existing networks, but it also allows new circuits to be fully utilised. This minimises the need for costly, disruptive and time-consuming new circuits, accelerating the integration of renewable energy sources.

To succeed, Europe must set specific, measurable, and actionable targets for grid performance. This includes:

  • Reducing renewable curtailment: Grid bottlenecks are forcing operators to curtail clean energy, resulting in billions of euros in wasted potential annually.
  • Increasing grid capacity efficiently: Using innovative grid technologies like Advanced Power Flow Control, SmartValve™, Europe can boost network capacity between 20-40% by 2040 without massive new construction projects.
  • Minimizing losses: High-capacity, low-loss conductors and advanced grid technologies can significantly reduce power losses, ensuring more electricity reaches consumers.

 

These targets align with the core benefits of our solutions, which are designed to maximize the efficiency and flexibility of grids while lowering costs for consumers.

One of the barriers to widespread adoption of innovative grid technologies is the traditional financing model, which often favors large-scale, capital-intensive projects. To change this, Europe must implement forward-thinking financial mechanisms, such as:

  • Benefit-sharing incentives: Rewarding grid operators for cost-effective, innovative solutions that save consumers money.
  • Guarantees for performance risks: Providing assurance to grid operators adopting new technologies, reducing perceived risks and encouraging innovation.

 

At Smart Wires, we’ve seen firsthand how these mechanisms can empower utilities to take bold steps toward grid modernization. They allow for faster deployment of technologies like SmartValve™, which have been proven in diverse markets around the globe.

Europe’s energy future demands a comprehensive, integrated grid planning strategy. Incremental, project-by-project decisions won’t deliver the interconnected, efficient, and decarbonized power system we need by 2050.

Our vision aligns with CurrENT’s call for anticipatory investments that prioritize optimization over expansion. By focusing on technologies that enhance grid performance and reduce raw material use, we can ensure Europe’s grids are both sustainable and scalable.

The path to net zero is clear, but it requires urgency, innovation, and collaboration. At Smart Wires, we are proud to work with leading utilities and policymakers to deliver the solutions that will power Europe’s clean energy future.

As we look ahead, we are committed to supporting Europe’s energy transition through cutting-edge technologies and a bold vision for what’s possible. Together, we can unleash the full potential of Europe’s electricity grids, ensuring a sustainable, affordable, and resilient energy system for generations to come.

Let’s talk about how we can help your grid adapt for the future. Contact us today to explore the solutions that will drive Europe’s clean energy transformation.

Contributing expert

Hedd Roberts

Hedd Roberts

General Manager, Europe

Hedd Roberts has been General Manager – Europe at Smart Wires since early 2022, working with customers across Europe to address their challenges with Smart Wires products and capabilities.  Prior to that, he worked for National Grid in the UK in various senior roles covering regulation, customer connections, system development, investment management and the development of access and charging arrangements.

For press related purposes, please contact us at marketing@smartwires.com.

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