A reliable supply of electricity largely depends on the reliable operation and condition of the transmission network equipment. The equipment must be subject to regular maintenance and upgrades to ensure consumers safe and reliable access to electricity.
Every year, Litgrid‘s staff or contractors carry out inspections of the high-voltage overhead power transmission lines. An inspection involves verifying that the line and its equipment (supports, insulators etc.) are intact, not outdated, and not overgrown with trees and bushes. Repair works are planned for the elimination of any problems.
More than half of the Lithuanian transmission grid was built 46 years ago, thus the consistent reconstruction is planned on an annual basis. Five or six grid reconstruction projects are usually launched, and approximately the same number of projects are completed annually. As many as 26 transformer substations and switch-yards are currently under reconstruction, as well as works on the overhead line spans are ongoing.
The specific timing of the reconstruction projects is estimated by Litgrid using a special methodology that accounts for the actual state of equipment. An investment is then allocated to the areas that need the most attention, as well as those that are needed to maintain the reliability of the grid.
All reconstruction and maintenance work on the electricity transmission grid is performed by Litgrid subcontractors – companies that have won public procurement bids. 11 companies are currently engaged in various grid reconstruction works under such contracts, while 12 companies are in charge of the service and maintenance of the grid.