RT reported that electricity prices in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania have nearly doubled in just one week after the three Baltic states officially left the Russian-controlled grid, according to data from the Nord Pool energy exchange.
After years of vowing to reduce their dependence on Russia, the three Baltic states disconnected from the BRELL power system (which connects Belarus, Russia, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania) on February 11, synchronizing with the European grid. However, just days later, the average electricity price in the region jumped from €92/MWh in January to €230/MWh on February 12 – a more than doubling.
Baltic officials say leaving BRELL is a strategic move to ensure energy security. However, many experts say the move is largely symbolic, as the three countries have long since stopped buying electricity from Russia and Belarus. However, the Russian system still plays a role in regulating frequency and stabilizing the grid, avoiding widespread blackouts.
Estonian grid operators have attributed the sharp price increases to a combination of factors including low wind and solar production, increased demand due to cold weather, and rising gas prices over the past week. At the same time, two key connections to Finland and Sweden remain disrupted since late last year, further tightening supplies.
Russia says its split from BRELL will not affect its power system, but warns the move will exacerbate the EU's energy crisis.
“This disconnection will push up electricity prices, reduce grid stability, and make the EU increasingly lose its competitive edge,” the Russian delegation to the EU said.
Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova even criticized this as “the next step in the self-destruction of the Baltic states - countries that once had all the conditions for prosperity and independence”.
Is this the price the three Baltic states will have to pay to “escape Russia”? With power lines not fully restored to Europe and the weather still harsh, residents and businesses in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania are expected to continue to face high electricity bills in the coming months.
