Established in 1961 as Gasversorgung Süddeutschland GmbH the company aimed to create a comprehensive natural gas network across Baden-Württemberg. That’s the story of terranets bw. Right here before you stands its headquarters. This unassuming building at Am Wallgraben 135 houses a vital piece of Germany’s energy infrastructure.
Initially terranets bw was known as GVS Netz. It operated under a lease model. This meant it managed the network but didn’t own the assets. This changed in 2012. That’s when GVS Netz rebranded as terranets bw. It became an independent transmission operator or ITO. This marked a complete separation from the GVS’s trading activities.
The company’s main function is the unbiased transportation of gas. Its network stretches approximately 2800 kilometers. It serves Baden-Württemberg Hessen parts of Switzerland Vorarlberg and Liechtenstein. Terranets bw also runs its own telecommunications network. This innovative setup uses the protected corridors of the gas pipelines. This provides a highly secure telecommunications infrastructure.
The company’s network includes two compressor stations near Karlsruhe and Ulm. It also operates an underground gas storage facility in Sandhausen. This supports the supply of the entire network in Baden-Württemberg. This is crucial for balancing supply fluctuations. Fluctuations are caused by factors like temperature changes and peak demand times. Smart isn’t it?
Terranets bw isn’t just about gas. In 2021 the company launched the Hydrogen for Baden-Württemberg initiative. This highlights their commitment to a future powered by hydrogen and green gases. They are already exploring how their existing pipeline network can adapt to transport hydrogen. This is a significant move towards a greener energy future.
Today terranets bw employs approximately 300 people. Its annual turnover exceeds 149 million Euros. This demonstrates the scale and importance of its role in the German energy landscape. This building you see before you is more than just an office. It’s the heart of a vital network. A network that keeps the lights on and the homes warm across a large part of Southern Germany.