The energy transition, driven by the rapid integration of renewable energy sources and the electrification of demand, is placing unprecedented pressure on power distribution grids. In Europe, as IEA stated (https://www.iea.org/reports/world-energy-investment-2025/european-union), renewables already account for around 50% of electricity generation, significantly increasing the operational and planning complexity of distribution networks.

At the same time, distribution systems are becoming the backbone of the transition, with more than 70% of new solar renewable capacity expected to be connected at distribution level by 2030. However, grid infrastructure is struggling to keep pace. Recent Afry’s report shows that over €100 billion of renewable projects are currently stuck in distribution grid connection queues across several European countries, while hundreds of gigawatts of capacity remain awaiting connection due to grid constraints.

These trends highlight a fundamental challenge for distribution system operators: how to ensure sufficient grid capacity, maintain resilience, and avoid congestion, while managing an increasing volume of connection requests and decentralized assets.

Advanced software tools support grid planners in addressing these challenges by accelerating infrastructure planning and decision‑making processes, enabling more efficient CAPEX allocation and faster processing of grid connection requests.

Through real-world use cases developed in collaboration with distribution system operators, these solutions provide a data-driven view of the grid, helping to:

• identify where and when to invest in infrastructure,
• optimize the utilization of existing assets,
• and reduce connection request backlogs.