Cottbuser Baltic Sea filled: Where is the relaxation for the region?

Cottbuser Baltic Sea filled: Where is the relaxation for the region?

An important milestone in Lusatia: the Cottbus Baltic Sea, the largest artificially created lake in Germany, has finally reached its target water level. After a flooding that started from the energy group LEAG five and a half years ago, the water level of 62.5 meters is now assumed. The flooding was mainly carried out with water from the Spree, with a total of around 170 million cubic meters of water being directed in the approximately 1,900 hectares of former lignite mining, as the Deutschlandfunk . Despite the water level reached, the Baltic Sea remains a construction site for the time being, access is prohibited.

The challenges of flooding

The filling of the Baltic Sea was not without difficulty. Due to dryness, the flooding had to be interrupted several times. Experts point out that the Spree, important for drinking water supply in Berlin and the surrounding area, could lead less water by 2038 by the planned setting of lignite mining. This was also reported by another Berliner Abendblatt that highlighted the flooding as a success for the water supply and the future development of the region.

With the achievement of the target water level, LEAG plans to use the lake not only for leisure and tourism applications, but also to implement important projects of the energy transition. Among other things, a floating solar system and the delivery of district heating are planned. However, the completion and use of the Baltic Sea as a recreation area could take several years, with an additional 50 million cubic meters of water being needed until the pore rooms are completely filled in. The renovation work and the necessary exams are continued, and the population is asked to have patience until the necessary permits are available.