Eight major European transmission system operators (TSOs) have launched the TSO Innovation Alliance, a collaborative effort aimed at accelerating the development of technologies that enhance the continent’s electricity grid.
The alliance includes Terna (Italy), RTE (France), Swissgrid (Switzerland), Elia (Belgium), 50Hertz (Germany), TenneT (Netherlands and Germany), Red Eléctrica (Spain), and Amprion (Germany). According to a joint statement, the group will share resources, exchange data and conduct joint research and development to improve grid efficiency, resilience and the integration of renewable energy sources.
A memorandum of understanding has been signed to formalise the partnership.
The group’s first initiative, an annual innovation challenge, will focus on “Weather and Grid Resilience”. The aim is to identify start-ups with solutions that address the risks posed by extreme weather events and the growing dependence on weather-sensitive power generation.
Technologies of interest include EU-wide meteorological data-sharing platforms and probabilistic models for predictive maintenance and real-time grid analysis across borders.
Selected projects will be tested through joint proof-of-concept initiatives.
Speaking on behalf of the alliance, Manon van Beek said the initiative is designed to “deliver a cost-effective, resilient and future-proof electricity system”. She added, “We need innovation to use grids more efficiently, accelerate renewables and secure Europe’s position as a green-tech frontrunner.
The alliance comes as Europe faces growing challenges from rising electricity demand, increasing weather volatility, and the push to meet climate targets through renewable expansion.
