The SAIDI (System Average Interruption Duration Index) is an important indicator that measures the average duration of power interruptions per end consumer within a year. It is expressed in minutes and is a key indicator for assessing the reliability and quality of the electricity supply. A low SAIDI value indicates a high level of security of supply, while a higher value indicates more frequent or longer power outages.

In the European context, including Austria, the SAIDI plays a central role in monitoring and improving the energy supply. Grid operators and regulators use this value to assess the performance of distribution grids and, if necessary, take measures to improve grid stability and reliability. In Austria, for example, the SAIDI value is at a relatively low level in international comparison, which indicates a well-developed and reliable grid infrastructure. According to the regulatory authority E-Control, the SAIDI value in Austria has often been below 40 minutes in recent years, which indicates a stable and reliable supply.

The SAIDI is calculated by dividing the sum of outage durations per year affecting all consumers by the number of connected end customers. The SAIDI does not distinguish between planned and unplanned outages, making it a comprehensive measure of overall grid reliability. In many cases, planned maintenance work is coordinated in such a way that it affects the SAIDI value as little as possible, for example through night work or other measures to minimize the impact on consumers.

In countries with a high proportion of renewable energy, such as Austria, the SAIDI value can be particularly important. The integration of fluctuating energy sources such as wind and solar energy poses a challenge for grid stability, as these sources do not supply electricity continuously. Grid operators must therefore develop flexible and intelligent systems to compensate for possible fluctuations and minimize the number of interruptions. Smart grids, which are increasingly being used in Austria, are one such solution to increase grid stability and further reduce the SAIDI value.

In addition to technical grid stability, external factors also influence the SAIDI value. Extreme weather events such as storms or heavy rainfall can cause considerable damage to the grid structure, which in turn leads to longer power outages and therefore a higher SAIDI value. Austrian grid operators rely on preventative measures such as the expansion of weatherproof lines and regular inspections of critical grid components in order to avoid outages and ensure the quality of supply.

The SAIDI value is also important for the future in the context of European energy policy. With the increasing expansion of renewable energies, the use of energy storage systems and the electrification of sectors such as transport and industry, the reliability of electricity grids will be under greater pressure. Regulatory authorities and grid operators will continue to use the SAIDI as a key indicator to assess grid performance and make the necessary investments in grid stability.

Overall, the SAIDI is a key benchmark for assessing the quality of supply in the energy sector. In Austria, the SAIDI stands for a high degree of grid reliability, and the ongoing expansion of the infrastructure and innovative grid technologies are helping to further optimize this value.