Sandra Metsis
Students from Université de Lorraine and Taltech got some real world insights in Brussels and Paris. Several discussions on European Energy policy and the Green Deal were held with European Commission representatives and EURELECTRIC introduced their activities, which shape the future of the industry.
After wrapping up with Brussels, EDF Power Networks Lab, near Paris, opened its doors for the SMARGRINET Roadshow. EDF Power Networks Lab consists of 75 experts, research test engineers and technicians operating the R&D testing facilities of the first European electric utility.
The activities of several laboratories and the company's testing capabilities were examined. The visit took us to learn about battery testing capabilities and a high power testing station dedicated to high voltage & high current electrical equipment.
On top of that we were introduced to a Concept Grid - a unique testing facility dedicated to smart equipment and solutions. This real "smart" distribution represents a real electric system from the primary substations to residential appliances. It offers the possibility to create and conduct complex testing campaigns, in full safety, which would be impossible to perform on a real network.
The visit sparked a number of discussions on both the future of the energy sector and students’ opportunities in it.
