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Study Trip 2024: Insights into the Energy Transition with TenneT in Germany

From rotating phase shifters to 900 MW converter stations and offshore control centers – this year’s study trip took us to the heart of Europe's power grid. Together with TenneT, we explored the infrastructure behind the energy transition.

Group photo with all participants of the study trip

In June 2024, students from the Institute of Energy Systems and Electrical Drives at TU Wien embarked on a five-day study trip across Germany – organized in collaboration with the transmission system operator TenneT. The aim was to explore key components of the European power grid and to gain first-hand insights into current high-voltage and system operations projects.

Day 1 – Starting in Bergrheinfeld:
We departed early in the morning from the TU campus in Vienna by bus. Our first stop was the Bergrheinfeld/West substation, where we toured a 400 kV switchyard and a rotating phase shifter – essential technologies for grid stability and voltage control.

Day 2 – HVDC converter station and cable installation:
After a night in Kassel, we continued to the substation in Garrel/Ost. There, we visited one of Germany’s largest infrastructure projects: a 900 MW high-voltage direct current (HVDC) converter under construction, along with a high-voltage cable pull site. Equipped with personal protective gear, we gained deep technical insights on site.

Day 3 – TCSC and TenneT Campus:
The third day took us to the Stadorf substation to explore a Thyristor Controlled Series Capacitor (TCSC). Later, we traveled to the TenneT campus in Lehrte, where we received a warm welcome and an offshore grid introduction. In the afternoon, the first internal seminar sessions took place, with group presentations on ongoing student projects.

Day 4 – Control center and networking:
After more presentations in the morning, we were invited to visit the central onshore and offshore control center – a definite highlight of the trip. The day concluded with a relaxing evening and group dinner in Bamberg.

Day 5 – Return to Vienna:
With new knowledge, experiences, and inspiration, we returned to Vienna on Friday.

We sincerely thank TenneT for the outstanding program and warm hospitality, and all participants for their active contributions. Special thanks go to Prof. Bernd Klöckl and Prof. Hans Auer, who accompanied the trip and supported the academic program throughout.
The 2024 study trip was not only educational but also an inspiring and memorable group experience.