Danish transmission system operator Energinet has received approval to proceed with plans to replace aging overhead power lines with underground cables across a 23-kilometre route in southwest Zealand.
The Danish Agency for Green Area Conversion and Aquatic Environment has determined that the project, which stretches between Hejninge near Slagelse and southeast of Skælskør near the Stigsnæs Power Station, does not require an environmental impact assessment. The decision allows Energinet to begin preparatory work ahead of construction.
The new infrastructure will involve the installation of 132 kV underground cables, replacing overhead lines that have been in service for nearly five decades and are expected to reach the end of their operational life within a few years.
“We are very pleased that we have now received the environmental decision and can get started with the work,” said Allan Vestergaard Jensen, project manager at Energinet.
“The overhead lines must be replaced so that Energinet can maintain security of supply in the area. In addition, there is a need to strengthen capacity in southwest Zealand,” he added. “In the future, we must be able to transport large amounts of renewable energy from the south to consumers in the remaining part of Zealand.”
Energinet said it will begin contacting local landowners to negotiate agreements for cable installation. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2026, with the removal of the existing overhead lines and pylons planned for 2027.
