If power lines could better account for actual weather conditions, they would be able to transmit more electricity. TalTech researcher Henri Manninen co-founded the technology company Gridraven, which specifically enhances electricity transmission capacity.
The solution helps the power grid operate up to 30% more efficiently on an annual basis without the need to build new lines. As a result of Gridraven’s software solution, electricity prices become more stable, and renewable energy is integrated into the grid more quickly.
Gridraven’s idea originated from a practical need. Henri Manninen worked for years at Estonia’s power grid operator, Elering, where he dealt with power grid management daily. There, he noticed a significant problem: expanding the grid is complex and costly, which hinders the integration of new production units, especially renewable energy sources. “The power grid is so overloaded that adding anything to it quickly is challenging. While it is possible to build new renewable energy plants quickly, connecting them to the grid is either too expensive or takes a long time,” Manninen explained.