Birkenfeld-Ötisheim 380 kV Transmission Line Upgrade

Fullføring av 380 kV linje

Omexom Germany has successfully completed the construction and commissioning of a new 380 kV transmission line between Birkenfeld and Ötisheim. The project involved building approximately 12 kilometers of new 380 kV overhead line within a total route length of about 14 kilometers, incorporating both new construction and reconstruction. The line was mostly installed parallel to the A8 motorway to maximize efficient land use and minimize environmental impact, addressing key requirements of grid expansion in Germany.

Nye og hybride master i prosjektet

To connect the Birkenfeld substation to the existing 380 kV grid operated by TransnetBW, the project included erecting 37 new 380 kV towers and 5 new 110 kV towers, while modifying or reinforcing 9 existing towers. Notably, this project introduced the first use of solid-wall towers at the 380 kV voltage level in Germany, with 18 such towers built reaching heights up to 95 meters. These towers combined 380 kV and 110 kV circuits on single masts, optimizing corridor usage and enabling removal of outdated infrastructure. Additional lattice towers were also constructed to create a hybrid infrastructure solution tailored to technical, ecological, and spatial constraints.

Tekniske utfordringer og koordinering

The project faced several technical and logistical challenges, including the complex construction of solid-wall towers under demanding planning conditions and five conductor crossings over the busy A8 motorway, some near major highway construction sites. Delays in project start dates required multiple schedule adjustments. Strict ecological protections required close collaboration with authorities and stakeholders to safeguard sensitive environments. A key operational component involved precise coordination and stringent safety protocols for five wire-rope hoists used to install conductors over the motorway. Additionally, existing 110 kV lines managed by Netze BW and DB Energie were rerouted or restrung as part of the modernization effort.

Drift igangsatt og modernisering

Despite the challenges, the transmission line is now fully operational at the 380 kV level, strengthening regional grid reliability and supporting Germany's Energiewende, the country's transition towards renewable energy systems. The decommissioning and dismantling of 37 outdated towers by 2027 will further streamline the grid corridor, demonstrating significant infrastructure modernization and environmental consideration.