Germany to Oppose Burying New Power Lines to Save Grid Costs

Germany wants to stop laying new high-voltage power lines underground and to give preference to overhead lines in a move that could save billions in overall system costs.

Most new direct current transmission lines in the extra-high-voltage grid should be built above ground, according to a draft law from the economy ministry seen by Bloomberg. The legislation would also restrict legal recourse and the decision-making power of the energy regulator.