Next generation distribution substation for increasing the system resilience

Project results are expected to contribute to all of the following expected outcomes:

• Improved observability, monitoring and control of the electricity distribution grids;
• Optimised management (including maintenance) of the grids by system operators and improved system resilience (including withstanding natural hazards and cybersecurity incidents);
• Grid operators integrate in their practices real-time decision-making. These could be assisted by artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms, if applicable;
• A ‘smart substation ecosystem’ is created that includes distribution system operators, technology/solution providers, integrators, application developers etc. This should cover both high-to-medium and medium-to-low voltage levels.

Scope:
Projects are expected to:

• Demonstrate the integration of power electronics, intelligent electronic devices (IEDs), and software solutions in the distribution substations or in their proximity;
• Demonstrate real-time monitoring and analysis of grid conditions (including power quality, voltage levels, grid component monitoring, and overall system performance) that allow operators to quickly identify and address any potential issues or disturbances, help to prevent outages and minimise the impact of service disruptions;
• Consolidate data streams from otherwise dispersed sources to create unified visualisations and consolidated analytics that offer insights into the performance of distributions substations;
• Develop the concept of a flexible and programmable electricity distribution grid in which the substation is a centre of intelligence that facilitates optimal power routing while ensuring the resilience of the electricity grid.

All legal entities

Planned opening date: 16 September 2025
Deadline date: 17 February 2026 17:00:00 Brussels time

Applications must be submitted electronically via the Funding & Tenders Portal electronic
submission system (accessible via the topic page in the Search Funding & Tenders section).

Paper submissions are NOT possible.

Applications must be submitted using the forms provided inside the electronic submission
system (not the templates available on the topic page, which are only for information). The
structure and presentation must correspond to the instructions given in the forms.