50Hertz

The Transmission System Operator (TSO) 50Hertz

50Hertz is responsible for the operation, maintenance, planning, and expansion of the 380/220 kilovolt transmission grid throughout the northern and eastern part of Germany. Our grid covers an area larger than 109,000 km² and runs a length of approx. 10,000 km – the distance from Berlin to Rio de Janeiro. It is the technical backbone that reliably supplies power to around 18 million people – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

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Integration of renewable energies

High output volumes of renewable energies have made our service territory one of the largest electricity-exporting regions in Europe. By 2020, 30% of power generation in Germany is to be provided by renewable energies. Our system already takes up 40% of the wind power installed in Germany and in 2010, we started connecting the emerging offshore wind farms in the Baltic Sea to the transmission system. Photovoltaic systems, too, are displaying exponential growth rates – a trend that appears to be lasting.

Support the electricity market

50Hertz as a transmission system operator is actively operating on the EPEX electricity exchange, playing a significant role in enhancing the liquidity of the electricity market. Acting as a catalyst in this market, we provide for the interaction between market players and make transparent information available to all partners, thereby strengthening Germany as a location for business.

Pan-european connection

Its central position gives 50Hertz an important role in European electricity exchanges: Our company links the networks of Denmark, Poland, the Czech Republic to Germany, and Scandinavia to the European mainland. We are a driver in developing European regional markets, especially in Northern and East Central Europe. Furthermore, 50Hertz is a reliable partner in the European Network of Transmission System Operators for Electricity, ENTSO-E.

System stability and security

One of our core tasks is to keep the relationship between frequency and voltage stable within the permissible tolerances. Our workforce of 700 at 50Hertz see to the constant availability of electricity, low-cost electricity transport to consumption hotspots, and full integration of renewable electricity into the system. For this purpose, we develop the network in line with demand, and ensure close connections with our customers through our regional branches.

Planning the system of the future

For your secure electricity supply, we are currently planning the construction of new extra-high voltage overhead lines. All projects are listed on our grid extension pages.

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