The renovation of the aging 110 kV transmission line between Hudo and Kočevje has been completed, and the line was reconnected to the power grid. With this, ELES significantly improves the reliability of electricity supply in the Kočevje area.
In spring 2024, ELES began renovating the deteriorated 110 kV transmission line Hudo–Kočevje, originally built back in 1965. Before the renovation, the line was in poor condition and had reduced transmission capacity along this route. The renovation was carried out in two phases to minimize the duration of the disconnection.
The first phase began in spring last year and was completed this spring. During this time, we fabricated steel structures, prepared access roads, and built foundations and steel structures up to the first level on most of the support towers.
In the second phase, which concluded recently, we constructed angle-tension towers, completed the remaining transmission structures, and carried out electromechanical works (installation of conductors, insulators, suspension equipment, and optical ground wires).
The 22 million euro renovation of the transmission line was completed in recent days, and the line was reconnected to the power grid on 17 September 2025. The renovated transmission line is 32 kilometers long, has 111 tower locations, and is crucial for reliable electricity supply in the Kočevje area. It will also enable the delivery of additional electricity in the future.
Significant Improvements in Electricity Supply
With increasing electrification of society, the growing number of renewable energy sources, heat pumps, and electric charging stations, the importance of reliable electricity supply is also rising. A properly functioning transmission network—maintained by ELES—plays a key role in this. Investments in the renovation and upgrade of the power grid are not only necessary but essential for continued reliable supply.
The Hudo–Kočevje transmission line is not the only renovation project in the Dolenjska region. This year, we also began upgrading the 110 kV Brestanica–Hudo transmission line, which is expected to be completed by 2033. The existing single-circuit line does not provide an adequate level of operational reliability and represents a bottleneck in this part of the 110 kV network. Therefore, the line will be gradually upgraded to a double-circuit system.