Consolidating European power

Synchronous coupling of the power grids on either side of the former iron curtain is discussed. Presently, in power exchanges between eastern and western Europe, AC at 50 Hz is converted to DC and back again at the same frequency. Such a link is asynchronous. The advantages of switching to synchronized operation, whereby all generators producing the same frequency operate at exactly the same speed and the angular positions of the rotors are linked by a synchronizing electric torque, are examined. Political and social issues affecting such a change are considered, and a three-stage process is described.<>