Who knows how green electricity gets to the grid? Christoph Harwalik from our project development team! Christoph, a Bavarian native drawn to Berlin with a degree in renewable energy from the HTW Berlin University of Applied Sciences, plans grid connections for wind and solar power plants at the Green Wind Group.

Where is the best connection?

At the same time as approval processes for renewable energy farms, Christoph has to submit inquiries to grid operators such as E.DIS or WEMAG: Where is the best grid connection point? Where is it best to link up the plants? Alternatives always need to be considered, as existing grids are often overloaded or too far away. This is often the case in Brandenburg and Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. “And after all, we need to make sure that everything works on time despite this!” says the young grid expert.

Up to five years planning

Green Wind builds its own substations and transformers or works with interested parties and partners to increase the voltage. Christoph: “This requires a great degree of detailed planning early on so that grids can be expanded if necessary to commission a renewable energy farm. This often takes up to five years of development.”

A Bavarian in Berlin

It was not only the capital’s charm that drew him to study with Professor Joachim Twele at the HTW Berlin University of Applied Sciences, but also his enthusiasm for wind energy. “Giant plants produce huge quantities of green energy. It’s essentially a really simple idea that yields great results!” As a Master’s student, he was immediately impressed by the straightforward application process, personal atmosphere and friendly team. “And that still hasn’t changed!” adds the Bavarian in Berlin.

Photo: Pablo Castagnola