Start of laying of underground electricity cables

Now that the demolition works of the high-voltage line between high-voltage substations “Baasrode” and “Sint-Gillis-bij-Dendermonde” have been completed, Elia is starting the next phase of the works. In mid-March, Elia will start laying new underground electricity cables (150 kV).

The works are necessary to prepare the electricity grid for the increasing energy demand in the surrounding area. This allows Elia to continue to guarantee a reliable electricity supply for businesses and citizens.

Works in different phases

Preparatory works were carried out in February for the laying of the new underground electricity cables (150 kV). After that, the laying of the underground electricity cables is taking place in different phases to limit inconvenience in time and space. The end of the works is planned for December 2023.

Archaeological research

Our works are being carried out under the guidance of archaeologists. Archaeological research has since been completed at the Zwijvekekouter in Dendermonde. A great many archaeological discoveries have been made at this site in the past, showing that people were exploring this place from at least the Neolithic period onwards. Traces of human habitation can be seen in graves from the Iron Age, the Roman period and the early Middle Ages. 

With this research, about a hundred potsherds were collected from the Iron Age, the Roman era and the Middle Ages. Most of the archaeological finds should be interpreted as waste material and indicate human habitation. For example, fragments of roof tiles and an oil lamp from the Roman period were found. The research also provided other interesting information about the site and how it developed alongside a meandering river Dender. The research shows that the river Dender used to flow right up to the area where we are currently working.