transmissionsloven

Transmissionsloven, also known as the Danish Transmission Act, is a legislative framework that governs the operation, safety, and regulation of electrical power transmission and related infrastructure within Denmark. Enacted in 1995 and subsequently amended, the act aims to ensure a reliable, efficient, and environmentally sustainable electricity supply while protecting public health and safety.

The law establishes the authority of the Danish Energy Agency to issue permits, supervise network operators, and enforce technical standards. It defines the responsibilities of transmission system operators (TSOs) regarding grid planning, maintenance, and the integration of renewable energy sources. Operators must comply with specified capacity limits, voltage standards, and contingency procedures to prevent blackouts and minimize outage durations.

Key provisions include mandatory reporting of network performance data, requirements for cross‑border interoperability with neighbouring Nordic and European grids, and obligations to facilitate access for new market participants. The act also sets out rules for the allocation of transmission costs, stipulating that charges be proportionate to usage and that cost recovery be transparent to consumers.

Amendments in 2010 and 2018 introduced measures to support the transition to a low‑carbon energy system, such as priority treatment for renewable generation and incentives for grid reinforcement projects. Environmental impact assessments are required for new transmission lines, and provisions for public consultation aim to address concerns over visual and ecological effects.

Critics have highlighted challenges in balancing rapid expansion of renewable capacity with the time‑intensive permitting process, arguing that further simplification may be needed to meet Denmark’s climate objectives. Nonetheless, Transmissionsloven remains the central legal instrument shaping the country’s electricity transmission landscape.