The supply security in Vienna is at 99.99%, which is exceptionally high compared to other regions. On average, Viennese experience a power outage every 4 years, while in Austria it happens every 1.5 years. The Wiener Netze invest in a stable network that supports the requirements of the energy transition. Currently, the Simmering substation is being renewed; a new switchgear has already been constructed. Transformers are now being delivered and installed successively.

Transformer Delivery to Simmering Substation

Today, the fourth transformer was delivered by rail. To transport the 300-ton transformer from the train to its destination, extensive crane setups, lifting, and installation work are necessary. "It is always impressive to see how many companies are involved and the scale we are dealing with when new infrastructure for the city is created," expressed Peter Hanke, City Councillor for Finance, Economy, and Wiener Stadtwerke, enthusiastically during an on-site visit. "The Wiener Netze are investing around 150 million euros in the new substation so that the people of Vienna can continue to be supplied with electricity safely and reliably in the future," explained Hanke.

Network Expansion for Energy Transition

"With the delivery of the fourth transformer with a nominal capacity of 300 megawatts (MW), we are approaching the final stretch in the completion of the new substation here in Simmering. In total, the new facility will have 5 transformers. Commissioning is planned for 2026," said Gerhard Fida, Chairman of the Management Board of Wiener Netze. "With the expansion of the power grid, we enable the energy transition and manage to bring renewable energy from the surrounding area to Vienna safely and reliably," explains Fida. A transformer with 300 MW capacity can simultaneously operate about 60 million LEDs (each 5 W), 3 million lamps (each 100 W), or 375,000 vacuum cleaners (each 800 W).

Substation Converts Electricity

The power line network of the Wiener Netze extends over approximately 20,800 kilometers, which corresponds to the distance from Vienna to Los Angeles and back. 47 substations and about 11,000 transformer stations ensure reliable energy transport: To transport energy in an electrical supply network with high voltage and low losses from one place to another, high voltage is converted into medium voltage in a substation. In transformer stations, medium voltage is converted into the low voltage needed for one or more households.

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