Grid reinforcement Mecklar-Vieselbach

The need for the reinforcement of the current 380 kV overhead line between the substations Mecklar (Hessen) and Vieselbach near Erfurt (Thuringia) was already determined a few years ago: for historical reasons, only a few comparable lines connect the transmission systems on both sides of the former inner-German border. At the same time, the production of electricity from renewable energy sources is increasing in the north and east, while the consumption centres are located in the south and south-west of the Republic. Accordingly, more bottlenecks occur at the grid connection points, including the line between Mecklar and Vieselbach. Instead of today’s electrical current of 2,500 amperes, the line shall therefore be operated at 3,600 amperes in the future so that the high security of supply within the German power grid can be maintained.

The grid reinforcement between Mecklar and Vieselbach is a joint project. 87 kilometres of the 130 kilometre long line are owned by 50Hertz. The replacement of the conductors as well as the necessary structural adjustments to some of the towers are planned for this section between the state borders of Hessen and Thuringia near Eisenach and the Vieselbach substation near Erfurt. The tap point in the Eisenach substation, which connects the local distribution grid to the transmission grid, is also renewed and expanded. Transmission system operator TenneT is responsible for the remaining western section; it too will implement measures to increase the intensity of current there.

Since 2013, the project has been part of the Federal Requirements Plan Act as Project No. 12 and was since confirmed in all subsequent versions of the Act. The authority that is competent for its approval is the Federal Network Agency in Bonn. The completion and commissioning of the line are planned by 2027/2028.

Should you have any questions regarding the procedure or tips for the planning team, please address the project’s contact person mentioned below. This person can also provide you with further information about the project and recent maps.