Inefficient Grid Blocks Germany’s Energy Revolution

The German government’s plan to improve the storage capacity of the present grid by installing approximately 1,800 kilometres of new, high voltage power lines by 2012 resulted in only 214 kilometres of installed power lines until June 7, writes the cospp.com news portal.

After renouncing nuclear power, Germany’s process to shift to renewables will require great effort, especially in upgrading the national electricity grid.

Namely, estimation on official level says that the country would need at least 3,800 kilometres of new power lines by 2022, when it plans nuclear phase-out. The new grid is essential for the offshore wind energy transport from the North Atlantic Ocean to the southern regions of the country, which are highly industrialised.

The new grid should cost some EUR 32 billion,with at least 4,400 kilometres of the existing one that needs to be upgraded.

[mappress]

Offshore WIND staff, June 12,2012; Image: Mitsubishi