energinetværk

Energinetværk is the system of interconnected energy infrastructures that transports energy from producers to end users. It includes electricity transmission, distribution networks, natural gas pipelines, and related infrastructure such as substations, interconnectors, and district heating networks. The concept is used in Denmark to describe both national-scale networks and cross-border connections that ensure reliable energy supply.

In Denmark, the term is often linked to Energinet, the national transmission system operator responsible for high-voltage electricity transmission and the gas transmission network. Energinet owns and maintains critical grid assets, coordinates grid operations, and ensures security of supply and system balancing. The company works with distribution system operators, market participants, and regulators to facilitate energy markets.

The electricity grid consists of transmission levels at high voltage and regional and local distribution networks, connected by substations and interconnectors to neighboring countries. The gas network comprises pipelines and gas storage that enable supply and flow control. In recent years, energy networks have also incorporated district heating, electricity storage, and emerging hydrogen and carbon capture infrastructure as the energy system evolves.

Regulation and governance of energy networks are grounded in Danish and EU rules. The Danish Energy Agency and the Danish Energy Board oversee tariffs, access rules, and network planning, while the European Union sets network codes and market rules that Energinet implements in cooperation with transmission and distribution operators.

Energy networks are undergoing modernization to accommodate increasing renewable generation, electrification of transport and heating, grid expansion, digitalization, and resilience against climate impacts. Cross-border interconnections and regional grids aim to improve reliability and market integration.