Energy Minister Lex Delles has stressed the urgent need to modernise Luxembourg's electricity infrastructure to secure future energy imports and accommodate potential high-demand users like Google amid local opposition and environmental concerns.
In conversation with RTL, Energy Minister Lex Delles recently underlined the importance of modernising Luxembourg's electricity infrastructure, arguing that 380,000 volt lines are necessary to avert potential issues: "This is not a transit line to get through Europe, but one that will allow us to import the additional electricity that we will need in the future."
Delles explained that an entity like Google – should they set up shop here in the Grand Duchy – would need one eighth of the electricity consumption that Luxembourg recorded only two years ago.
At present, the modernisation project affects 17 municipalities. Residents have until 6 July to consult the results of the environmental studies and voice concerns. Delles emphasised that this is more than just a mere formality and drew attention to a citizen's initiative from Imbringen that is against the local expansion project. Two cases received additional checks to evaluate potential problems.
A map details the plans for the power lines, with several route alternatives on small sections. The line is planned to run from Bertrange through Bambesch and up to Bereldange, around Steinsel to Lorentzweiler, where it passes north of Bourglinster and Junglinster and further east to the German border.
However, plans to install underground lines have been scrapped as this undertaking was considered far too expensive and even more invasive. While the ministry has scheduled additional discussions with municipal officials, there are currently no plans for further town hall meetings.
Video report in Luxembourgish
