The Germany's Federal Network Agency (BNetzA) has completed the planning approval procedure for an important section of the SuedLink high-voltage line in the rural district of Hannover. With this decision, the seventh section of the project is approved, enabling TSO TenneT GmbH, the responsible transmission grid operator, to continue with the construction and operation of this key section.

The approved route spans approximately 66 kilometres, stretching from the boundary between Heidekreis and Hanover rural districts to the boundary between Hanover and Hildesheim rural districts. The route passes through several towns, including Mandelsloh and Garbsen, crossing key infrastructure such as the A2 motorway and the Mittelland Canal, where trenchless technology will be used for the installation of underground ducts.

The approval of this section is of great importance, as it forms part of the SuedLink project, which plays a crucial role in transporting electricity generated by wind farms from the north of Germany, where most of the wind energy is produced, to the south, where the energy demand is higher. The connection between different regions of the country via this high-voltage line will allow for a more efficient distribution of renewable energy generated by wind power, helping to integrate it into the national grid and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

This approval connects Section B1 (from Scheeßel to the boundary between Heidekreis and Hanover rural districts) with Section B3 (from the boundary between Hanover and Hildesheim rural districts to Einbeck), both parts of Projects 3 and 4 outlined in the Federal Requirements Plan Act. The planning approval process for these two sections is ongoing, with updates to be published by the Bundesnetzagentur on 15th March 2025.

Once completed, the SuedLink project will connect Brunsbüttel in Schleswig-Holstein with Großgartach in Baden-Württemberg. It is expected to be fully operational by 2028, contributing to Germany's energy transition by ensuring more efficient transport of clean energy.