International Exchange with KEPCO on the Transformation of Power Grids

On July 6 and 7, we welcomed a delegation from the Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) to Consentec’s headquarters in Aachen for a two-day workshop. The discussions focused on the transformation of modern power systems, long-term grid planning, and practical experience from the development of Germany’s transmission network in the context of the energy transition.

Power grids are facing fundamental changes. The rapid expansion of renewable energy, evolving demand patterns, increasing electrification across heating, transport, and industry, as well as emerging technologies such as hydrogen, battery energy storage, and data centers are making forward-looking and resilient grid planning more important than ever. At the same time, security of supply, economic efficiency, public acceptance, and practical feasibility must continue to be ensured.

During the workshop, we shared insights from the evolution of the German power system. Topics included long-term power system and grid studies, scenario development, approaches to dealing with uncertainty, and how technical analyses can support concrete planning and investment decisions. Grid modeling, congestion analyses, and reliability assessments also featured prominently in the discussions.

Another key focus was Germany’s Network Development Plan (NEP) process. We explained how scenario frameworks, system and grid analyses, public consultations, and regulatory reviews interact to shape concrete grid expansion projects. The discussions highlighted that successful grid planning requires not only technical expertise but also transparent processes, well-founded assumptions, and effective stakeholder engagement.

The workshop also explored practical experience from major transmission projects such as SuedLink and SuedOstLink. Topics including route selection, permitting procedures, environmental assessments, public acceptance, changing framework conditions, and project risks illustrated the complexity of implementing large-scale infrastructure projects in practice.

The mutual exchange was particularly valuable. We also gained important insights into the Korean perspective. The KEPCO delegation shared extensive experience in grid planning, permitting, construction, route planning, and stakeholder management. Comparing the German and Korean frameworks demonstrated that, although national power systems differ considerably in their organization, many of the underlying challenges are remarkably similar.

The workshop once again underscored the importance of international dialogue for the continued development of power systems. Exchanging experiences on planning processes, challenges, lessons learned, and successful approaches helps broaden perspectives and supports the development of more effective solutions for the transformation of energy systems. We greatly appreciated the open and constructive discussions with KEPCO and look forward to building on the many valuable insights gained through this exchange.