PORR impresses at the SuedOstLink open-day event

Transport route engineering

PORR impresses at the SuedOstLink open-day event

Magdeburg, 13.05.2026 / Transport route engineering

Enthusiastic interest, lively discussions and a real hands-on highlight: around 300 visitors attended the SuedOstLink construction site open day south of Sülzetal on Friday to get a behind-the-scenes look at the energy transition. The team from PORR Verkehrswegebau was also in attendance, presenting the work they are carrying out on the A1 section of the project.

On a construction site, a person in the cab of a yellow crawler excavator is manoeuvring the excavator arm to position an object attached to a chain precisely over a marked target area. Two other people are standing nearby, giving instructions or observing the process, whilst a construction hoarding, fields and a PORR banner can be seen in the background. The scene gives the impression of a hands-on activity where visitors can try out the technology for themselves and experience operating the excavator. — © PORR
A particular highlight of the construction site open day in Sülzetal: during the excavator skill game, visitors were able to try out the machinery for themselves and experience the infrastructure up close.

A large number of visitors, ranging from young to old, accepted the invitation from the transmission system operator 50Hertz to find out more about the major project first-hand. The focus was on questions relating to the construction of the underground cable route, the technology used, and environmental and safety measures.

Information and hands-on experience

As the main contractor, PORR Verkehrswegebau had its own stand and answered questions about civil engineering. They clearly explained the tasks PORR is undertaking in the construction of the SuedOstLink: from laying the cable protection pipes in open-cut trenches to creating access roads and work areas.

One interactive highlight attracted particular interest: a skill game involving an excavator, where visitors could operate the machine themselves. Whether children or senior citizens, the chance to operate an excavator independently was in high demand throughout and became a real crowd-puller at the event.

Enthusiasm for technology and construction processes

The Open Construction Site Day gave guests the opportunity to experience the complex processes involved in a modern pipeline construction project at first hand. In addition to information stands, a varied programme awaited them, featuring interactive elements such as a 3D excavator simulation, as well as a range of family-friendly activities.

The event highlighted the high level of interest in energy transition infrastructure projects when technology is explained in an accessible way and brought to life. Direct dialogue with the companies involved enhances transparency and acceptance of the grid expansion.

Contribution to the energy transition made visible

Through its involvement in Sülzetal, PORR Verkehrswegebau is underlining its role as a key implementation partner for the SuedOstLink, a direct current connection approximately 540 kilometres long linking northern and southern Germany.

The day impressively demonstrated that major projects such as the SuedOstLink are not merely technical challenges, but also opportunities to inspire people about infrastructure, construction and the energy transition.