Tienen (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Elia is upgrading Tienen’s outdated 70kV grid to 150kV by 2029 to meet rising electricity demand. Work will start in 2026; Sarah Martens is Elia’s spokesperson.
Elia, Belgium’s electricity grid operator, is upgrading the electricity system in the Tienen region. The old 70kV power lines are being replaced with more powerful 150kV lines. Elia spokesperson Sarah Martens says that the old lines are outdated and can’t handle the increased demand for electricity.
She added that this is an increasing demand as more individuals are now operating electric vehicles, heat pumps, and other electric appliances. These new lines can support the added demand and see to it that the region gets a steady and solid supply of energy for the future.
How is Elia upgrading Tienen’s electricity grid by 2029?
Elia is starting the first phase of the project by upgrading the high-voltage substation in Tienen. They have already applied for a permit to start the work. To keep people informed, Elia is holding a meeting on Wednesday, April 23rd, at OC De Koepel in Goetsenhoven. They mentioned that they will try to minimise any disruption caused by the work while building a better energy network.
Elia’s work will involve laying underground cables and will start in August 2026 and continue until December 2029. The work will only be done during the day, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., to reduce disruption for people living in the area.
Elia promises that people will still be able to get to their homes and businesses during the construction. They will set up temporary paths or access routes if needed. Elia mentioned that the project is being done in steps, with different sections, like Kersbeek, Diest, and the area between Tienen and Diest, having their permits.
