A significant step for the energy transition: ENERTRAG inaugurates modernised Bertikow substation

ENERTRAG is celebrating the inauguration of the modernised Bertikow substation together with grid operator 50Hertz Transmission. After around two years of construction, a key infrastructure project for the energy transition in the Uckermark region has been completed. The substation forms the hub for feeding more than 500 megawatts of renewable electricity from wind and solar plants in the region into the supraregional transmission grid.

Modern technology for greater performance and less noise

The conversion from 220 to 380 kilovolts has significantly increased the transport capacity of the substation. Two new transformers with a rated output of 400 MVA and 450 MVA replace the technology, which was up to 50 years old. The modernisation enables lower-loss feed-in, reduces grid bottlenecks and minimises curtailments of renewable electricity. In addition, sound insulation panels and an earth wall ensure that noise pollution in the surrounding area is well below the legal limits.

Regional value creation and citizen participation

The project strengthens the community of Uckerfelde through additional trade tax revenues, which can be invested in infrastructure, education and community projects. With the combined power plant bonus, households in Uckerfelde can also benefit directly from the energy transition and receive up to 350 euros annually in the final stage. Cooperation with residents and the municipal council was conducted in a spirit of partnership and transparency throughout the entire project.

Outlook: Battery storage for flexible supply

The substation forms the basis for the planned Bertikow battery storage facility with an output of 200 MW and a capacity of 800 MWh. The storage facility will store surplus wind and solar power, balance fluctuations in the grid and further increase security of supply in north-east Germany. Commissioning is planned for the third quarter of 2027.

Comments on the project

Richard Henke, Head of Grids at ENERTRAG: "After around two years of intensive work together with 50Hertz, we can now celebrate a project that is making concrete progress in the energy transition in the Uckermark region. The modernisation of the substation was technically challenging, but necessary. With the new 380 kV technology, we are laying the foundation for more than 500 megawatts of renewable electricity from our region to flow reliably into the grid. It was particularly important to us to take the concerns of local residents seriously. The new technology is not only more powerful, but also significantly quieter. This shows that the energy transition and quality of life go hand in hand."

Dr Tobias Bischof-Niemz, Member of the Executive Board for International Projects & Technology at ENERTRAG: "The Bertikow substation is much more than a technical infrastructure project – it is the heart of a regional power plant network that demonstrates how climate-neutral energy supply works reliably. The intelligent combination of regional wind and solar power results in predictable, flexible and cost-effective electricity. At the same time, regional value creation creates strong local roots and increases resilience and security of supply for all of us. Bertikow proves that the Uckermark region is a pioneer of an energy future that is technically feasible, economically viable and socially supported."

Inauguration with guided tours

As part of the inauguration on 27 November 2025, representatives from politics, administration and civil society had the opportunity to take guided tours of the modernised substation and learn about the significance of the project for the energy transition. The event provided a forum for dialogue and exchange on the regional energy transition.