SYMPOSIUM THEME
The traditional conceptual separation between transmission and distribution is no longer sufficient to address the challenges of modern power systems. Power flows are becoming more dynamic and less predictable, while system inertia, fault levels, and voltage control characteristics are changing across all voltage levels. This evolution places Distribution System Operators, distribution experts, and manufacturers at the very heart of the energy transition. Their operational experience, technological innovation, and deep understanding of real-world constraints are critical to maintaining system performance while enabling change. We therefore invite the distribution community to engage actively in the CIGRE’s Symposium in Heidelberg to contribute their expertise—transmission and distribution, working together, as one grid. The focus will be on technical showcases and practical applications.
PS1 – One Grid
- Planning and Operation of Distribution Systems
- Power Quality and Safety
- Protection, Automation and Control for High Penetration of Distributed Energy Resources
- Customers, Regulation, Market Design and Risk Management
PS2 – Grid Equipment
- Impact of Bidirectional Power Flow and Overload
- Substations as Hubs for Power and Information between Transmission and Distribution
- Evolutions of Asset Management, Monitoring and Environmental Requirements
PS3 – System Management
- Flexibility, System Stability, Coordinated Voltage and Congestion Management
- Interfaces, Data Models and Communication Network Architecture
- Physical Resilience and Cybersecurity
Technical Committee
The CIGRE 2027 Symposium in Heidelberg (Germany) focuses on technological evolutions and enablers to manage the Energy Transition. This includes:
- The increasing use of Inverter‑Based Resources (IBR) to connect Renewable Energy Sources (RES) and energy storage at both distribution and transmission levels
- The growing penetration of Distributed Energy Resources (DER) at the distribution level
- Emerging challenges for system components in managing a bi‑directional power‑flow grid
These developments affect substation and network equipment, protection and automation systems, as well as network planning, operation, and management across all voltage levels. The CIGRE Symposium aims to provide a consolidated and up‑to‑date overview of these topics.
The following CIGRE Study Committees will participate in the symposium:
- A2 Power Transformers and Reactors
- A3 Transmission and Distribution Equipment
- B2 Overhead Lines
- B3 Substations and Electrical Installations
- B5 Protection and Automation
- C5 Electricity Markets and Regulation
- C6 Active Distribution Systems and Distributed Energy Resources
- D2 Information Systems Telecommunications and Cybersecurity