Skip to content

Three underground electricity arteries being constructed by 50 Hertz beneath Berlin

Underground power infrastructure expansion: 50Hertz constructing three energy routes across Berlin

50Hertz Grid Operator Plans Substantial Increase in Power Transmission Capacities Within the...
50Hertz Grid Operator Plans Substantial Increase in Power Transmission Capacities Within the Capital Region

Unveiling Berlin's New Power Network: A Journey through Three Underground Highways

Underground Power Infrastructure Expansion in Berlin: 50Hertz Taking on Three Major Projects - Three underground electricity arteries being constructed by 50 Hertz beneath Berlin

सहयोगी, आसान और तत्कालीन जानकारी पर wherein lies the soul

The East German power grid operator, 50Hertz, is set to construct three new, subterranean high-voltage power lines, cutting right through the heart of Berlin. This ambitious move aims to amplify transport capacities, particularly for electricity from renewable energy sources, as announced by the company. Construction will commence gradually from 2030.

Stefan Kapferer, CEO of 50Hertz, commented, "Steady supply of green energy is a must for Berlin's economic standing. These three new power lines will beef up the infrastructure, all while minimizing the interference with the urban landscape."

Cables at depths of up to 40 meters

The trio of projects includes strengthening and expanding the so-called cable diagonal Berlin, which runs from the northwest to Marzahn in the east of the city. A planned six-kilometer stretch between the substations (UW) Reuter and Teufelsbruch in Berlin-Hakenfelde will be laid at depths of up to 40 meters below.

A four-meter-diameter tunnel will be drilled there, housing the cables. This new construction will replace the existing route and result in a capacity increase of approximately 40 percent, as announced by 50Hertz.

The second project is the cable vertical Berlin South, planned as an underwater tunnel spanning 14 kilometers. "The starting shaft will be located in Brandenburg near the Berlin city boundary in Großbeeren," the announcement states.

Lastly, there's the cable vertical Berlin North, an approximately 20-kilometer line, of which 17 kilometers will run underground. "The line originates at the UW Reuter, connects a yet-to-be-built substation in Tegel's search area, runs in as straight a path as possible, and ends at the UW in Malchow."

Construction's domino effect?

The phased commissioning of the new lines, beginning in 2036 and concluding by the end of the 30s, is yet to disclose the height of the construction costs.

Although construction is primarily underground, it's expected that residents won't be entirely spared from its constraints. "Building in Berlin's densely populated urban area is a technical challenge and warrants a broad dialogue with all relevant stakeholders," Kapferer highlighted. "We urge the government to actively support these vital energy transition projects."

  • Berlin
  • Network Expansion
  • Power Highway
  • High-Voltage Line
  • Electricity
  • Stefan Kapferer
  • Economic Location
  • CEO

Insights:

Laying the Groundwork: Potential Influences on Residents

  1. Buzzing and Construction Disrupted Slumber: There's no escaping the symphony of noise during construction work, which can disrupt residents' peaceful slumber. Drilling and excavation can be a nuisance, particularly at odd hours.
  2. Commute Conundrums: Temporary road closures for construction might cause a ripple effect on traffic flow and access in adjacent neighborhoods, resulting in increased travel times and congestion.
  3. Aesthetic Adjustments: Although most of the infrastructure lies underground, the construction phase may still include temporary visual disturbances, such as fencing, construction equipment, and access points, altering the landscape. Once completed, the architectural impact on the surface remains minimal.
  4. Environmental Statements: Construction could potentially trigger temporary environmental impacts, like dust and increased vibration levels. However, modern construction techniques are designed to minimize these effects.
  5. Greener Pastures: The enhanced infrastructure brings numerous advantages, such as a more stable and sustainable power supply, thereby reducing the likelihood of blackouts. This yields benefits for residents in the form of uninterrupted modern utilities.
  6. Boosting Berlin's Economy: Large-scale infrastructure projects can stimulate the economy, creating jobs and promoting investment, indirectly benefiting residents through increased local spending and growth.

Making Magic Happen: Ameliorating Adverse Effects

  • Noise Nullification: Tactical noise barriers or strategic planning of noisy activities during less sensitive hours could help contain the decibels.
  • Community Collaboration: Regular communication with residents, informing them about construction timelines and associated impacts, can help manage expectations.
  • Environmental Preservation: Regular monitoring of the environment during construction to adhere to strict standards ensures minimal ecological impact.

Though strikes during construction may disrupt the lives of residents, the long-term benefits of improved infrastructure and economic growth make it a significant investment for the city and its people.

  1. Stefan Kapferer, the CEO of 50Hertz, envisions that the increased supply of green energy resulting from the expansion of the power highway will bolster Berlin's economic standing, as the new high-voltage lines will bolster the city's infrastructure.
  2. In addition to the construction’s positive effects on the city's energy policy, the project also includes measures to alleviate its impact on the community, such as strategic noise barriers, regular communication with residents, and adherence to environmental standards during construction.

Read also:

    Latest