As one of the core research partners in SynGRID, University of Zagreb Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing (FER) plays an important role in low-voltage grid management and smart distribution networks. Dr. Tomislav Antić is a Senior Researcher at FER’s Department of Energy and Power Systems, where his work focuses on planning and operation of smart distribution networks, integration of distributed energy resources and advanced modelling of low-voltage grids.

In this interview, he shares his perspective on FER’s contribution to the project, cooperation with international partners and the experience of hosting the first SynGRID review meeting in Zagreb.

FER is one of the key academic partners in SynGRID. Could you briefly explain your team’s main role in the project?

As an academic partner, one might expect our main role to focus on research activities that lead to conference and journal publications. Although this is somewhat true, our contribution goes well beyond that. FER was responsible for identifying relevant programmes and calls that SynGRID partners can target in the future, and we have already applied to several calls together with partners from Slovenia and Greece and we continuously monitor new opportunities.
We also lead the work package dedicated to capitalizing the research and innovation efforts of all partners. This includes not only research papers and project proposals but also curriculum enhancements, cross mentorship initiatives, exchanges for PhD students, and more.

What specific benefits have you observed in working with partners from Slovenia, Greece and beyond?

I think this is a highly beneficial project not just for FER but for everyone involved. Partners from Slovenia and Greece might have more experience in leading activities in Horizon Europe projects while Croatian partners publish more and are more involved in creating and changing curricula. This creates an environment of knowledge sharing and constructive suggestions, making the collaboration both productive and enjoyable.

FER recently hosted the first SynGRID review meeting in Zagreb. What were the main highlights of this meeting for you? What were the main challenges in preparing and hosting this meeting?

I am pleased that the meeting went so well. The comments from both the project officer and the external reviewer were very encouraging, and I look forward to continuing our work on the project. I’m confident that we can achieve excellent results in the remaining period. We did not face any major challenges during the preparation, mainly the usual coordination of finding a date and time that suited everyone. We are fortunate to have access to a venue that meets all the requirements for hosting this type of meeting, which helped reduce potential logistical issues.

In your view, what should be the key contribution of SynGRID for the region and for FER after the project’s completion? Do you foresee concrete opportunities for follow-up projects (e.g., LIFE, ERDF) or long-term impacts on Croatia’s energy transition?

As already mentioned, several project proposals have been submitted, and we plan to identify a few more opportunities during the project. I firmly believe that everyone will do their best to continue the collaboration even after SynGRID officially concludes. During the project, we also plan to replicate the successful Slovenian pilot in Luče, which is a key outcome that will support future research and innovation activities in Croatia.
Although research projects are an important part of SynGRID, they are not its only purpose. We are also actively engaged with industry and regulatory bodies, including system operators and other key stakeholders. This cooperation ensures that our work is aligned with real sector needs and that the results we produce can support practical improvements. It also creates a dynamic environment where academic insights meet real operational challenges, making our work both relevant and impactful. We believe that some of our results and conclusions will help inform the decisions needed to support Croatia’s energy transition.