In mid-July, E.ON commissioned its 10,000th digital secondary substation within its German grid—a major milestone in its efforts to modernize power distribution amid the rapid growth of solar systems, electric vehicles, and heat pumps. With over 1.9 million renewable energy systems totaling more than 103 gigawatts already connected, the need for intelligent grid management is greater than ever. Digital secondary substations play a critical role by collecting and transmitting real-time data essential for the safe and efficient operation of distribution grids.
Though unassuming in appearance, these smart substations form the crucial interface between regional medium-voltage and local low-voltage grids. They enable real-time electricity flow monitoring and seamless integration of renewable energy. Each minute, approximately 2 million data points are transmitted to E.ON’s central platform, where automated processing enhances transparency, control, and overall grid stability. Thomas König, E.ON Board Member responsible for Energy Networks, said, “The energy transition can only succeed with robust, intelligent distribution grids. Digital secondary substations play a key role in this – with their help, local grid capacities can be optimally utilized and more renewable energy can be integrated into our grids. At the same time, the data obtained forms the basis for new, innovative solutions. The substations developed by E.ON combine ‘copper with brains’ and set new standards in the industry. Commissioning the 10,000th digital secondary substation underscores our ambition, as Germany’s largest distribution system operator, to actively drive the energy transition forward.”
E.ON’s standardized approach to digital substations—developed in-house—has streamlined procurement, accelerated deployment, and improved collaboration with suppliers. With up to 500 units installed monthly, the rollout is rapidly scaling. This digital infrastructure paves the way for future solutions, including flexible EV charging and optimized use of grid capacity, ultimately benefiting both grid operators and consumers.
