2025: A Pivotal Year for Global Power Systems
I’ve had the privilege of being ELECTRA Editorial Board Chair in addition to my day job for the past couple of years, a role that allows me to quelch my need to continuously learn while meeting amazing people within our industry at the same time. This year, I’m pleased to share that the ELECTRA Editorial Board has appointed a Vice Chair, Koji Kawakita, who will share in board responsibilities and step into the Editorial Board Chair role next year. I am thrilled to work alongside Koji over the course of this year and look forward to supporting him when he takes over!
Editorial Chair, CIGRE's ELECTRA Magazine
Looking to 2025: A Pivotal Year
The year 2025 represents an inflection point in power systems. Mounting pressures on global energy systems—ranging from extreme weather events that threaten grid resilience, to the rapid rise of distributed energy resources (DERs)—continue to shape the sector’s transformation. Over the next year, we are excited to share how industry leaders and innovators around the world are navigating these shifts, offering invaluable perspectives on challenges and breakthroughs alike while keeping you all updated on the latest events and news across CIGRE.
Topics you can count on
1. Integration of Renewables and Decarbonization
With ambitious carbon reduction targets on the horizon, T&D systems must adapt to unprecedented levels of variable renewable energy. Authors will delve into new strategies for grid operators who are evolving their networks to integrate large-scale solar, wind, and other renewable sources. We hope to spotlight leading approaches to balancing intermittent power generation, managing surplus electricity, and maintaining system stability in increasingly complex grids.
2. Energy Storage and Grid Flexibility
Energy storage has emerged as a vital element in stabilizing the grid. Our contributors take a closer look at large-scale demonstration projects and cutting-edge technologies, including flow batteries and hydrogen-based systems. These solutions enhance grid flexibility, enabling power providers to meet peak demand while reducing reliance on fossil-fuel backups.
3. Digitalization and Data Management
The T&D sector is experiencing a digital revolution, driven by advances in control systems, AI-driven predictive maintenance, and powerful data analytics. We hope to showcase expert insights into how “big data” is enabling utilities to operate with greater efficiency, accuracy, and resilience, along with best practices for safeguarding critical infrastructure from cyber threats.
4. Strengthening Communications Across the Grid
Underpinning all modern grid initiatives—from smart substations to automated distribution networks—is a robust communication infrastructure. High-speed, reliable data exchange is the critical “nerve center” of the power system. This magazine will explore advancements in technologies such as 5G, fiber optics, and wireless mesh networks that facilitate real-time grid monitoring, faster fault isolation, and sophisticated command-and-control strategies. Experts discuss how improved communications pave the way for integrated microgrids, peer-to-peer energy transactions, and coordinated DER management.
5. Distribution System Modernization
As utilities face growing pressure to optimize operations at the grid edge, distribution networks are undergoing a rapid modernization process. Articles in this publication will spotlight innovations in advanced distribution management systems (ADMS), fault location, isolation, and service restoration (FLISR), and the integration of multi-directional power flows. Readers will learn about new architectures that make distribution networks more adaptable, efficient, and ready to incorporate EV charging infrastructure and behind-the-meter renewables.
6. E-Mobility and Electrification
With electric vehicle (EV) adoption surging, the T&D landscape is adjusting to new load patterns and the associated challenges. Contributors examine grid infrastructure upgrades, demand response programs, and the development of extensive charging networks. From vehicle-to-grid (V2G) projects to commercial EV fleets, the focus is on creating a flexible, dynamic, and sustainable ecosystem.
7. HVDC, UHV and Cross-Border Interconnections
High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) systems and UHV interconnections across borders enable bulk power transfers over long distances with minimal losses. We hope to explore how these projects can untie regional markets, improve energy security, and maximize the adoption of renewable power. Case studies can reveal the collaborative efforts among nations to establish a more interconnected, robust, and greener grid.
Harnessing the Value of a Global Resource
CIGRE’s greatest strength lies in its international community—one that transcends geographic and technical boundaries to drive innovation in the power sector. By uniting researchers, engineers, academics, and policymakers, CIGRE fosters:
- Knowledge Exchange: Through our working groups and technical committees, new ideas, methodologies, and research findings flow between experts across continents.
- Collaborative Innovation: Joint pilot programs among connected members and live demonstrations push the envelope in areas like renewable integration, distribution system modernization, and grid-wide communications.
- Capacity Building: A comprehensive slate of workshops and training sessions—both virtual and in-person—enables professionals to stay abreast of emerging technologies and best practices.
Looking Ahead
As we stand at the crossroads in 2025, it is clear that the future of our sector hinges on collaborative partnerships that unite us in tackling climate change and ensuring reliable power for everyone.
On behalf of the entire editorial team, I invite you to dive into our rich content, share your own insights, and stay connected with the broader CIGRE community. Together, we can address the challenges of 2025 and beyond—harnessing the collective power of our shared knowledge to build a more sustainable and interconnected energy future.
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