The Südharz grid connection
One of the flagship projects of 50Hertz (a German TSO) is the Südharz grid connection, which is the transmission network between the interconnection points Lauchstädt near Halle, Saxony-Anhalt, Wolkramshausen near Nordhausen, Thuringia, and Vieselbach near Erfurt, Thuringia.
The project aims to replace the existing 220 kV overhead line with a 380 kV one. The new line, with its grid connection point at Wolkramshausen, will secure the electricity infrastructure in the entire area of northern Thuringia, and southern Harz up to Mansfelder Land, connecting the region to the extra-high voltage grid.
With its increased capacity, the project also makes an important contribution to the energy transition (Energiewende) by feeding regionally generated wind power into the extra-high voltage grid and transporting it to regions where it is needed. The project has been included in Germany’s Federal Grid Development Plan since 2014; the permitting process began in 2020, and the construction phase is expected to start in 2025 and be completed in 2028.
In parallel to the official public participation required by the law, 50Hertz has created a "public dialogue discourse" for informal community participation and engagement. It is always adapted to the local and regional needs of each project, according to 50Hertz. This informal public discussion aims to fill the potential gaps created by the Grid Expansion Acceleration Act (NABEG), which has removed some steps in the permitting process. This proactive approach helps to identify potential barriers at an early stage and is therefore time and cost effective, while fostering public trust.
The company has engaged a wide range of stakeholders, including landowners, local authorities, environmental agencies and political representatives to ensure diverse input. However, with a transparent communication strategy, including an online platform and direct community outreach, the project provides a valuable example of inclusive infrastructure development that seeks to balance between technical feasibility, regulatory compliance and community engagement.
Source: Community Engagement and Benefit Sharing. CAN Europe 2025, https://caneurope.org/content/uploads/2025/04/CANE-April-2025_Community…
