At the end of 2022, European Trans Energy GmbH (EUROPTEN) was awarded the contract for the re-electrification of Graz-Köflacher Bahn und Busbetrieb GmbH (GKB) for section 4, which extends from Wettmannstätten station to Wies-Eibiswald station (route length around 35 km). As part of this project, around 47 km of overhead line will be installed using ÖBB overhead line types.
The work began in April 2023. The management of EUROPTEN invited on behalf of the Chairman of the Supervisory Board Dr. Hannes Androsch, in the presence of the managing directors of the GKB, Mag. Gerald Klug and Mag. Franz Weintögl, and the mayor of Deutschlandsberg, Mag. Josef Wallner, to the presentation of the section on September 5, 2023 in Deutschlandsberg.
The planned total commissioning of section 4 is planned for December 2024.
“Thanks to the professional project team and the good cooperation with the client, we were able to not only adhere to the schedule, but are ahead of schedule. We are pleased that we can support the GKB and, as EUROPTEN, make a significant contribution to the electrification of Western Styria,” said Wilfried Rendl, CEO EUROPEN.
GKB managing director Mag. Gerald Klug stated: “The electrification of the GKB serves climate protection and enables more public mobility throughout Western Styria. After completing this main century-project , we will save around 16,000 tons of CO² per year in the future. This is 480,000 tonnes of CO² less in the next 30 years alone.”
Mayor Mag. Josef Wallner emphasized: “I am pleased that the EUOPTEN employees have integrated well into the region, have become part of our community and that the construction work has been well received by the population.”
“There is a need for action to counteract global warming and emissions and to promote electrification. This can only be achieved if concrete actions are taken, projects are implemented and measures are not just announced. For this reason, we as EUROPTEN would like to thank GKB for this order and congratulate on the successful project,” said Dr. Hannes Androsch.