German Municipal Utility Moves Network Operations to the Cloud

Gemeindewerke Halstenbek, the municipal utility serving the town of Halstenbek, Germany, is taking a big step forward in managing its infrastructure. It has decided to move network operations to the cloud with HxGN NetWorks, a geospatial asset management solution provided by Hexagon.

This move isn’t just about upgrading technology—it’s about preparing for the future. With stricter cybersecurity laws coming into play, such as Germany’s KRITIS regulations for protecting critical infrastructure, Gemeindewerke Halstenbek needed a secure, reliable system. The new cloud-based platform will help the utility meet these requirements while also streamlining operations.

For Halstenbek, which serves around 10,000 residents with electricity, water, and natural gas, the change will also have some tangible benefits. The system will make it easier to adapt to modern demands—such as electric vehicles, rooftop solar power, and other renewable energy sources—by scaling up as needed. It may also speed up response times during outages since field crews will have mobile access to up-to-date network information.

Andreas Riemenschneider, the technical manager at Gemeindewerke Halstenbek, said “Upgrading to a cloud-based solution gives us a secure, state-of-the-art network that will serve us well into the future. Our customers will benefit from more sustainable utilities and a stronger, more stable power grid.”