Austrian Power Grid Begins Major Refurbishment of 110 kV Transmission Line
Austrian Power Grid (APG) has launched the next phase of the comprehensive refurbishment of its Jauntal transmission line between Schwabeck and Obersielach, a key project to strengthen grid reliability in southern Austria.
Construction preparation for the first of two sections began in spring 2026, with main works scheduled to start in July 2026. The project includes a full renewal of the existing 110 kV line infrastructure, including towers, foundations, and conductors, while maintaining the current voltage level and rebuilding along the existing route.
Once completed, the upgrade will significantly increase transmission capacity. APG reports that the line will be modernized from 640 amperes per system to 2,500 amperes per system through the introduction of a new twin-bundle conductor configuration.
According to Patrick Rupp, project manager at APG, the preparation phase is progressing according to plan. He said:
“We are exactly on schedule, and the setup and preparation of our extensive and complex temporary installations are also proceeding as planned.”
He added that early infrastructure work is already underway:
“The commissioning of the first temporary installation is already planned for July 2026.”
The upgrade is necessary due to the aging infrastructure, parts of which date back to the 1940s, and increasing demand driven by renewable energy projects in the Lavanttal region.
The project spans approximately 19 km and includes 76 transmission towers. Completion is scheduled for 2028, with a total investment of around €70 million (~ $81 million).
Source: apg.at
