ČEPS takes part in Czech SAFEGUARD Opočínek 2024 exercise

As part of the SAFEGUARD Opočínek 2024 exercise, soldiers from the infantry company of the Active Reserve of Regional Military Command Pardubice tested their readiness to carry out tasks involving the defense, protection and guarding of the Opočínek substation operated by ČEPS and ČEZ Distribuce. The exercise in the area around the site took place on 19 and 20 June.

The SAFEGUARD Opočínek 2024 exercise for units of the Active Reserve of the Czech Army was organized by the Regional Military Command (KVV) Pardubice in cooperation with ČEPS and ČEZ Distribuce. Its aim was to assess the readiness of the Active Reserve infantry company and the KVV Pardubice staff to carry out territorial protection and defense tasks while guarding the Opočínek substation, as well as the cooperation between the army unit and the site operators.

The exercise involved carrying out an operational task to protect and defend the site, as well as activities at a static checkpoint, including checking vehicles entering the site and people entering the premises, and rehearsing responses to emergency situations.

“ČEPS has long taken part in joint exercises with the Czech Army, including SAFEGUARD Opočínek 2024. I am very pleased that once again we have demonstrated the excellent cooperation and readiness that are essential to the security and reliability of the electricity transmission system,” said ČEPS Security Director Martin Bílek.

“We are part of the state’s critical infrastructure, and our main goal is to ensure reliable electricity supplies for our customers. Every exercise of this kind tests not only internal systems but also cooperation among all the stakeholders. It is also an excellent preventive measure to help secure the population’s basic needs and people’s health,” said ČEZ Distribuce Security Director Radomír Valica.

“SAFEGUARD military exercises at real critical infrastructure sites are an ideal way to prepare Active Reserve units to carry out tasks during crises. In this respect, ČEPS and ČEZ Distribuce are key partners of the Territorial Forces, which include regional military commands with Active Reserve infantry companies. Thanks to the approach and support of these companies, we are creating the conditions for high-quality preparation and training of the Active Reserve,” added Colonel Petr Holý, director of KVV Pardubice.

Regular exercises involving the Czech Army and other components of the integrated rescue system have been held under the name SAFEGUARD since 2011. Many take place at substations managed by ČEPS and distribution system operators.