The DSO-Entity originates from the Clean Energy Package, proposed back in 2016. Its purpose is to create a platform for distribution system operators (DSO) across Europe and facilitate technical expertise and dialogue with the European Commission. And this is crucial: DSOs are pivotal for an effective green transition of the distribution grids across Europe. Also important is that DSOs are now brought on equal footing with the 42 transmission system operators (TSOs), who are represented in ENTSO-E. Close dialogue is needed to meet the EU Green Deal objectives, notably to effectively integrate much higher amounts of renewable energy into the national grids.

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The new DSO-entity, comprising more than 900 DSOs, was officially brought to life on the 8th of June 2021 when the first General Assembly and Board meetings took place – both on the same day. The new Board was voted in – consisting of 27 representatives split over three different categories, according to the customer-base of the DSO, with 9 seats in each. The Nordic countries achieved a strong representation, securing 6 out of the possible 27 seats. Members include Jämtkraft Elnät (SWE), Herrfors Nät-Verkko (FIN) and Thy-Mors Energi (DK), who are all eager to start working.

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– The DSO-entity has an important agenda ahead, as the distribution system operators play an essential part in the green transition, says Kristian Tilsted, Chief Technical Director of Thy-Mors Energi

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And the Entity comes at an opportune time. First, DSOs are key to offering flexibility services to customers which is needed for efficient electrification across Europe. Second, it allows for more efficient network planning and cooperation between DSOs and TSOs. As such, the entity will be populated with expert groups working on European network codes. Here close dialogue is needed with defining rules and guidelines for key topics like ‘flexibility’, ‘cybersecurity’, ‘data interoperability’ etc.

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The EU DSO Entity is just getting started. We are excited for the forthcoming election of the Entity’s President and the Secretary General. More important still, is the work in the aforementioned expert groups. Here, the Nordic countries strive for an open and transparent nomination process, to ensure the Entity gets off to the best start possible. Our members will certainly do their best to make it a success and pave the way for Europe’s green transition.

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Lars Koch, Head of Brussels Office, Danish Energy