the government identified the expansion and improvement of the networks as a key priority by developing a strategic plan for grid extension and in line with the recent revision of the energy act is establishing tenyearplans for grid extension which are coordinated amongst operators on a national basis this initiative is welcome as it ensures the coordination of the projects and may create synergies increases transparency and enhances participation of all relevant stakeholders also while it will not reduce the need for grid expansion smartening the grid could help managing unpredictable energy sources and generating efficiency gains as it improves demand side management