CGES is participating in the HYNET project: Pan-European interoperable AC-DC hybrid power grid
The Montenegrin transmission system (CGES) has been participating in the ambitious European HYNET project (Pan-European interoperable AC-DC hybrid electricity networks) since October 2024. This project, involving a consortium of 16 participants, is financed through the Horizon Europe program and aims at the innovative development and demonstration of hybrid power systems that combine alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) technologies. The HYNET project represents a step forward toward a more sustainable and energy-independent Europe.
HYNET is a key initiative that addresses the challenges set out in the European Commission’s REPowerEU plan. The goal of the plan is to increase renewable energy production to 1,236 GW by 2030 and to accelerate the integration of DC technologies into the energy sector. Direct current (DC) technology is essential for connecting large offshore wind farms and reducing Europe’s energy dependence.
The HYNET project encompasses five main objectives:
1. Innovative development of transnational AC/DC hybrid power systems.
2. Establishing a methodology for the development of multi-terminal and multi-vendor MVDC and LVDC systems.
3. Defining and validating functional requirements for the formation of AC and DC networks.
4. Designing, implementing, and demonstrating innovative solutions that promote the use of DC systems at all voltage levels, while considering the techno-economic advantages of DC compared to AC.
5. Demonstrating HYNET innovations in four European countries within existing and planned AC/DC hybrid networks.
CGES will play a key role in the demonstration phase of the HYNET project in Montenegro, thereby reaffirming its commitment to innovation, the energy transition, and the integration of renewable energy sources. Through this project, we will further enhance technological capacities and strengthen our position as a key partner in the development of regional and European power grids.
CGES activities will include testing and validation of the existing AC/DC submarine cable between Montenegro and Italy, as well as planning and activating the second cable core for demonstration purposes.
The demonstrations are planned for the period from April 2026 to the end of June 2027, allowing the testing of the technical and economic advantages of DC technologies under real conditions.