One broken refrigerator – all the losses possibly attributed to the anxiously awaited disconnection of the Baltic states from the Russian power grid last weekend. Considering the speculations expressed in previous weeks about possible voltage fluctuations in the power grid during the transition process, which could lead to damage to electrical appliances, employees of insurance joint-stock company BTA Baltic Insurance Company (BTA) spent the weekend on increased alert. However, the transition has proceeded according to plan and no large number of claims related to power grid problems have been received from customers.

Since the Baltic States’ full connection to the European energy grid, BTA has received only one claim for compensation that could be attributed to voltage fluctuations in the electricity grid. This does not mean the damage was caused directly during the disconnection or connection process. Insurers regularly receive requests to compensate for similar damage to electrical appliances caused by a local problem.

“We are grateful to the electricity transmission system operators of all three Baltic States – Latvia’s Augstsprieguma tīkls, Lithuania’s Litgrid and Estonia’s Elering for their professional work in disconnecting from the Russian unified energy system or BRELL power grid and connecting to the European unified energy grid. Recognising the potential risks and observing the anxiety prevailing in some parts of society, we prepared for various scenarios. We were ready to promptly support customers if electrical equipment or property were damaged during the transition. However, the important event has been successful, deepening the Baltic integration into Europe,” said Kārlis Liepiņš, Director of the BTA Insurance Claims Department, praising the electricity system operators.

The anxiety prevailing in society was demonstrated by the plans of some municipalities to turn off traffic lights at night and prepare backup power generators, as well as the calls to residents to charge mobile devices and portable torches. However, none of what was prepared was necessary.

Additional information:
Līva Strautmane
Manager of Communication
AAS BTA Baltic Insurance Company
E-mail: liva.strautmane@bta.lv
Mobile phone: +371 26065133