Editorial

Strengthening Global Expertise: CIGRE’s Knowledge-Sharing Initiative

CIGRE’s core mission has always been the sharing of knowledge. In line with this, a new approach has been introduced to highlight the value CIGRE brings to its stakeholders — particularly power companies. This approach was put into practice during my first visit to a National Committee, that of my home country, Greece.

During this visit, I had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Manos Manousakis, Chairman and CEO of IPTO, the Greek Transmission System Operator (TSO). IPTO has long been a strong supporter of CIGRE, and in our discussions, two key areas of interest emerged:

1. Maintenance strategy and best practices
2. Modern approval procedures for network infrastructure, particularly high-voltage (HV) overhead lines

Recognizing that these topics are also of critical importance to other CIGRE utility members, we reached out to two well-established TSOs with proven expertise in these areas: Austrian Power Grid (APG) and Swissgrid (Switzerland’s TSO). Both organizations responded positively and delegated two talented engineers — Klemens Reich (APG) and Joshu Jullier (Swissgrid) — both active CIGRE members, to lead a dedicated workshop.

A Tailored Workshop for IPTO

In collaboration with IPTO, Klemens and Joshu developed an engaging two-day program:

Day 1: Managing Assets – Asset Condition, Refurbishment, and Grid Optimization

• Condition assessment and defining necessary measures to maintain asset integrity;
• Innovative approaches to condition assessment and monitoring;
• Maintenance processes and departmental responsibilities;
• Grid optimization — linking maintenance projects with grid extension needs.

Day 2: Managing Grid Extension Projects

• Project management — strategies for anticipating and resolving challenges, ensuring efficiency, and engaging stakeholders;
• Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) — use of tools like Pathfinder to identify optimal corridors using spatial data and weighted criteria;
• Stakeholder management — methods for engaging authorities, environmental organizations, and local communities to build consensus and acceptance;
• Effective communication — strategies for fostering trust, reducing resistance, and ensuring transparency in decision-making.

A Successful Knowledge-Transfer Event

The workshop took place in Athens, under the shadow of the Acropolis, on March 27–28. CIGRE NGN’s Florentina Klemens played an active role in organizing and facilitating the sessions.

The lively discussions and positive feedback from participants underscored the value of this type of knowledge exchange. This initiative demonstrates how CIGRE can provide direct benefits to its members by facilitating access to international best practices and fostering collaboration across borders.

An Open Invitation to CIGRE Members

If your organization faces similar challenges or has specific knowledge-sharing needs, I invite you to contact CIGRE Secretary General Philippe Adam. We can arrange a similar workshop, with your organization covering only the travel expenses of the CIGRE ambassadors.

To be clear, CIGRE is not entering the consultancy business. We have many reputable consultants and specialized companies within our ranks for such services. Instead, our goal is to help members leverage CIGRE’s vast international knowledge base and build bridges for better communication. With the massive energy transition ahead, such collaboration is more important than ever.

Konstantin O. Papailiou