Interview in the series "SPIE Energotest - People and Energy" - interview with Tomasz Olszewski - Chairman of the Board of SPIE Energotest

We invite you to the latest interview in the series "SPIE Energotest - People and Energy", in which we talk to Tomasz Olszewski - CEO at SPIE Energotest.

Mr President, you are organising the next edition of the conference "Electricity Automation in the Age of Transformation". What is its main idea?
The foundation is very clear: we are pointing out the directions of development of power automation for all participants in the National Power System. The energy transition is accelerating and with
it the requirements for protection, automation and monitoring systems are changing. That is why we focus on a rational approach and practical knowledge, close to the real challenges of the market, rather than theory detached from implementations.

What determines the development of power automation the most today?
The variability and pace of change - above all the development of RES, the decentralisation of generation, the digitalisation of infrastructure and growing expectations in terms of reliability. Power automation under these conditions is not an add-on - it is the safety mechanism of the NPS. There is a need to ensure intelligent, stable and fault-tolerant management of the system as it operates under new dynamic operating conditions. Our conference helps you to 'catch a perspective' on how these processes affect the system and how to prepare for the next stages of the transition.

In the conference description, you strongly emphasise the six sectors that form the pillars of the event. Why is this approach important to you?
Because the NPS is an interconnected system. If we want to talk about automation in the age of transformation, we need to look broadly. That's why we are building the conference around 6 pillars: transmission and distribution, RES
with storage, conventional generation, industry and technology providers.

This is a huge value: instead of talking "in your silo", we come together in one place and talk
about a common system.

The conference is also a platform for building collaboration. How do you take care of this dimension?
Very consciously. Of course we have a substantive agenda and speakers, but equally important is the space for conversations, exchange of experiences and meetings that often result in long-term cooperation. This is why the conference is valued as one of the most professional and valuable events in the Polish power industry.

You talk a lot about the substantive quality. What sets it apart?
We focus on the highest engineering level, selection of speakers and content supported by the experience of practitioners
and experts. Q&A sessions are also an important element - we want active discussion and concrete answers. The agenda changes from edition to edition with the market and technological advances, so the event allows you to really 'keep up' with trends and industry requirements.

The conference has a tradition dating back to 1996. What do you think makes it grow in interest year after year?
Because participants see the value: we are consistently building a standard of quality and organisation, while developing the topics. It's a place where science, practice and innovation come together. And where a very broad group meets: professionals, business leaders, the scientific and research communities and technology providers. This diversity has a unique effect.

The conference is recording an impressive turnout. Is this proof that the industry needs such formats?
Decidedly. The scale of participation shows that the industry needs meetings that are substantive, professional and practical. With over 300 participants and more than 100 companies in previous editions, it is confirmation that this is not a side topic. Electricity automation is strategic for transformation today.

This year's edition will be held on 13-15 May 2026 in Wisla. What kind of meeting do you expect?
First and foremost substantive and concrete. We want participants to return with concrete conclusions and answers: what to change, how to design, how to secure and monitor, how to cooperate between sectors. And that behind-the-scenes relationships are born that build a modern Polish power industry for years to come.

Finally, one sentence: why is it worthwhile to be with you at the conference?
Because it is one of the few events that unites the entire power industry around practical automation
- and helps you understand how to safely and responsibly go through the transition.