At the Spotlight Sweden Forum's Panel on Power Grids: Strengthening Grid Infrastructure and Resilience, energy experts explored how Swedish and wider European approaches could inform the region's efforts to strengthen grid resilience. Sweden's experience with interconnected grids offers a perspective on the challenges and opportunities ahead.
The discussion featured Lee Seng Wai, Chief Operating Officer, Singapore Energy Interconnections; Thomas Ottosson, Managing Director, Unipower AB; and Anthony Smith, Country Managing Director, Hitachi Energy. The session was moderated by Emma Broms, Regional Manager, State Assignments, Business Sweden.
The panellists highlighted key considerations for strengthening grid resilience as ASEAN expands regional power connectivity:
- Continuous grid monitoring builds the data needed for future decisions: Mr Ottosson highlighted the importance of high-resolution, continuous power quality measurements as renewable energy, battery storage and electrification reshape electricity supply and demand. Drawing on Sweden's experience with interconnected grids, he stressed the value of long-term data collection in tracking changes in grid conditions. He suggested that sharing such measurements between Sweden and Singapore could provide a practical starting point for collaboration.
- Regional interconnections and domestic grids must advance together: Mr Smith identified visibility, flexibility and connectivity as three essential capabilities for future grids. He explained that digital substations and automation can help grids manage growing demand. Advanced transmission technologies such as high-voltage direct current (HVDC) can also facilitate cross-border electricity flows.
However, he cautioned that interconnections do not automatically guarantee resilience. Regional transmission development must be coordinated with domestic grid upgrades, supported by appropriate protection and control systems.
- Commercial viability is key to getting interconnection projects off the ground: Beyond grid infrastructure, Mr Lee identified clear regulations, reliable technology and commercial viability as three requirements for advancing interconnection projects. He also cited electricity offtake agreements as important for securing infrastructure investment, alongside clearer regional frameworks for submarine cable access, permitting and repairs.
The discussion pointed to opportunities for Sweden-Singapore cooperation, including sharing grid data and exploring joint technology demonstrations. Mr Lee also suggested applying European interconnection experience to regional projects.
These proposals could provide a starting point for cooperation tailored to Singapore's and ASEAN's grid priorities.
Stay tuned as the conversation evolves throughout the day. Follow @SIEW_sg on Telegram and X (formerly Twitter) for key insights and the latest updates.
