Image: Weibold
The 220 kV supply ring in the central area is therefore “environmentally friendly and permissible”. The existing 110 kV network, parts of which are more than 70 years old, no longer meet the requirements. The project operators Austrian Power Grid (APG), Netz OÖ and Linz Netz confirmed that the project was handled professionally and see an important contribution to the energy transition. The notification shows that the new power lines and those that are to be replaced will not have any negative effects in terms of nature conservation or electrosmog.
650 million euros are being invested, a number of municipalities are affected (Linz, St. Florian, Ernsthofen, Enns, Asten), more than 80 kilometers of power lines are being built or replaced, mainly on existing routes and above ground. New substations do not have to be built for this, existing ones are converted. State Councilor for the Environment Kaineder thanked the auditors for the fact that this specially set up procedural “fast lane at the speed of light” worked. This is the only way that voestalpine can produce carbon-neutral steel with sufficient green electricity in the future. “The electrical heart of Upper Austria is being renewed, which means energy security for generations.”
Here you can see the exact route. In some cases, lines from 110 kV to 220 kV will be carried out on sections of line already designed for this, as well as expansion and conversion work in a total of eight substations, according to the project operators. The start of construction is planned for 2024. Commissioning will take place in stages from 2026 to 2030. Gerhard Christiner, Technical Director APG: “The positive EIA decision is the initial spark for supplying the central region of Upper Austria with sustainable energy. This project enables the development and decarbonization of the business location and creates the conditions for access to cheap electricity.”
more from economy
