Hamburg and Schleswig-Holstein Push for Faster Grid Expansion to Accelerate Energy Transition
Hamburg, September 29 – The state governments of Hamburg and Schleswig-Holstein have committed to exert greater pressure on grid operators to accelerate the expansion of electricity networks and substations. This agreement was reached during a joint cabinet meeting held at Hamburg City Hall on Tuesday.
Currently, Schleswig-Holstein generates as much electricity from onshore wind turbines alone as ten nuclear power plants previously produced. However, Hamburg faces significant bottlenecks, particularly in connecting large industrial enterprises to the power grid.
Grid Expansion Critical for Energy Transition
Hamburg’s Mayor Peter Tschentscher (SPD) stated on Tuesday, “Actually, this is the job of the transmission system operators.” According to Hamburg and Schleswig-Holstein, these operators are not progressing quickly enough with the expansion of major substations. “And this is now becoming a risk for the energy transition, a risk for climate protection in Hamburg. That’s why we are now getting involved,” Tschentscher emphasized.
Both states also aim to collectively push for lower electricity prices in the North, for example, by abolishing the uniform price across Germany. Schleswig-Holstein’s Minister President Daniel Günther (CDU) remarked, “Ultimately, we would all benefit in Germany if we had more market economy there. And it would also have clear acceptance advantages.” Günther stressed that planned reforms in Berlin must not hinder the expansion of renewable energies.
Reactivation of Bergedorf to Geesthacht Railway Line Agreed
Another key topic at the joint cabinet meeting was the reactivation of the railway line from Hamburg-Bergedorf to Geesthacht. An agreement was signed to this effect. The railway company AKN is now to be commissioned with the preliminary planning for its reactivation. Schleswig-Holstein will bear approximately 60 percent of the costs, and Hamburg about 40 percent, corresponding to their respective shares of the route. Minister President Günther hailed this agreement as good news for commuters. Specific dates for construction, opening, or a cost estimate are not yet available. Residents along the route have expressed opposition to the reactivation, as the old track runs almost through their gardens in some sections.
The decisions made at this joint cabinet meeting underscore the commitment of Hamburg and Schleswig-Holstein to addressing critical infrastructure challenges, particularly in the realm of energy and transport, to support regional development and environmental goals.
Source: https://www.ndr.de/nachrichten/hamburg/ausbau-der-stromnetze-hamburg-und-schleswig-holstein-wollen-druck-machen,kabinettsklausur-126.html
