Launch of WindNODE, the model region for smart energy in north-east Germany
26.01.2017
Berlin – Today marked the official start of the WindNODE project, a joint initiative consisting of over 50 partners to create a model region for smart energy in north-east Germany.
Berlin – Today marked the official start of the WindNODE project, a joint initiative consisting of over 50 partners to create a model region for smart energy in north-east Germany. A major launch event was held to signal the start of the four-year project. Just under EUR 70 million is available for the undertaking, which is being financed by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy. WindNODE comprises all six federal states in the east of the country, including Berlin, and is under the umbrella leadership of the six heads of government. Even now, the region is the pioneer in Germany when it comes to renewable energy sources; around half of the electricity consumed here comes from wind, solar and other renewable energy sources.
In her keynote speech at the launch event, Senator for Economy, Energy and Enterprises Ramona Pop emphasised the fact that WindNODE is a critical project for Berlin in terms of the urban energy transition, making it an initiative of vital interest: "WindNODE is a unique opportunity to present Berlin as a leading light in the switch to renewable energy sources. The capital region has an important role to play. By integrating ready-to-use, fully marketable technologies and solutions into WindNODE, the project will highlight the benefits of an energy system consisting solely of renewable energy sources far beyond the boundaries of the project region. I am certain that WindNODE will also provide incentive for future energy transition projects in Berlin that go beyond the scope of the project consortium. For the Senate, those involved in the project are key partners in the systematic implementation of the energy transition in Berlin."
Uwe Beckmeyer, Parliamentary State Secretary to the Federal Minister of Economics and Labour, had the following to say in his welcome address: "Our SINTEG financing programme is a cornerstone of the energy transition. The aim is to develop model solutions in order to guarantee an intelligent energy supply that – as time goes on – increasingly consists of renewable energies. WindNODE will make a key contribution to the development of these solutions. Over the coming four years, we will invest a total of EUR 200 million into this showcase project. This is a clear signal and a decisive step towards the energy transition and supporting Germany as a successful location for innovation."
In addition to the consortium coordinator 50Hertz, Siemens and Stromnetz Berlin, along with the economic development organisations Berlin Partner für Wirtschaft und Technologie, Energy Saxony and ZukunftsAgentur Brandenburg, are involved in the strategic direction of WindNODE. As well as energy providers, grid operators and high-tech specialists, the WindNODE consortium includes automotive companies, utilities, waste disposal and the housing and retail sectors plus several universities and research institutes in the region. Industry specialists and the general public will be able to view the results of the project at more than 30 sites available to visit throughout eastern Germany.
Overview of WindNODE partners:
