Energy Management Support Department

The Energy Management Support Department is responsible for the development, operation, and technical support of the energy management systems used at the Energy Control Centers (ECCs) and for preparing system protection, supporting and energy management studies, aimed at the optimal and secure operation of the power system. Through these systems, applications and studies, the Department ensures the reliable monitoring, control, secure operation and protection of the National Interconnected Electricity System, while also effectively supporting balancing market processes.

The Department’s scope of responsibilities includes the uninterrupted operation, technical support, upgrading, and expansion of the Energy Management System (EMS) and the associated infrastructure used for the Transmission System’s monitoring and control. At the same time, it ensures the functionality and ongoing development of the Balancing Market Management System (BMMS), supporting critical processes such as bid submission by market participants, the Integrated Scheduling Process, and the real-time operation of the balancing market.

Particular importance is attached to the interconnection of ECC systems with the corresponding systems of European Transmission System Operators and ENTSO-E, enabling the real-time exchange of operational information, the publication of market data, and the enhancement of transparency and operational security within the interconnected European electricity system. In addition, the Department supports the interfaces required for IPTO’s participation in the PICASSO and MARI European balancing platforms.
The Department provides specialized support to users of all related systems, develops new technology-driven applications in accordance with national and European standards, and contributes to IPTO’s compliance with the regulatory framework, grid codes and European regulations. It also manages and supports simulation platforms for power system operation and balancing market processes, used for personnel training and new application and procedure testing.

A key area of the Department’s work involves monitoring technological developments and best practices in power system and electrical network protection systems, with the objective of continuously improving the reliability and operational security of the Transmission System. To this end, it evaluates the available protection equipment and has developed the Selective Coordination Policy, ensuring the coordinated operation of system protection schemes in conjunction with the protection systems of interconnected networks.

The Department also carries out specialized protection setting and coordination studies aimed at the timely and selective isolation of faults, thereby minimizing their impact on power system operation. Another key responsibility is the investigation and analysis of faults, as well as the assessment of protection system performance, in order to draw conclusions and take corrective measures where necessary.

In addition, the Department conducts operational security, disturbance analysis, and dynamic performance studies to assess system stability and resilience under a wide range of operating conditions. It thus helps ensure the reliable, secure, and efficient operation of the electricity transmission system.

Through its participation in ENTSO-E and other international organization working groups and committees, the Department actively contributes to the development and adoption of best practices and technological advancements in the field of energy management. Its overall contribution to IPTO’s mission is critical, supporting business continuity, system operational security, the efficient functioning of the electricity market, and the smooth integration of Greece into the European energy landscape.