A joint ticketing system for public transport across the Fehmarn Belt is to be established. This also means that prices must be harmonized between the northern German state and southern Denmark. This is outlined in Schleswig-Holstein’s Denmark strategy, launched in September.
The strategy aims to strengthen cooperation between the northern German state and Denmark. The central focus is on promoting cross-border mobility and sustainable energy solutions. The upcoming Fehmarn Belt connection will make cross-border cooperation crucial for both Southern Denmark and Northern Germany.
Cross-border mobility
One of the most significant parts of the strategy concerns easing mobility between the two countries for both commuters and the business sector. The German-Danish Traffic Commission was established as early as 2011. It works to create better connections, including rail projects aimed at strengthening freight and passenger traffic. Today, the commission is primarily active along the Jutland corridor, but this is set to change when the Fehmarn Tunnel opens.
For the Fehmarn Belt region, the goal is to establish a ticketing system that works across the border. Public transport between the two countries must also be better integrated. Specifically, the strategy outlines the need for harmonized prices between the two regions.
Green Infrastructure ambitions
The hinterland connection to the Fehmarn Belt tunnel on the German side is a cornerstone of the Denmark strategy. Schleswig-Holstein is actively working to ensure that the infrastructure will be ready when the tunnel opens in 2029. Rail transport is part of the vision to reduce CO2 emissions, supporting European climate neutrality goals.
The strategy also focuses on long trucks. Here, Schleswig-Holstein is working to allow modular road trains to cross the border. This was already agreed upon between the two countries in December 2023.
Culture and education as bridges
Cultural and educational exchange is also central to Schleswig-Holstein’s Denmark strategy. The Fehmarn Belt connection is seen as a historic opportunity to promote cultural projects that bring the regions closer together.
There is also a focus on education, with Danish language teaching in German schools and cross-border study programs receiving support. Projects like Interreg 6A work to build bridges between educational institutions in both countries, and there is significant backing for expanding opportunities for Danish as a neighboring language, especially in the Fehmarn Belt region, where language understanding can strengthen business opportunities and social connections.
Shared efforts on energy and climate
According to the strategy, the Fehmarn Belt region is to become a hub for renewable energy solutions. A large amount of wind and solar energy is already produced, and there are advanced plans to establish Power to X facilities on Lolland. Collaboration between Danish and German actors creates a unique opportunity to develop a cross-border network of hydrogen refueling stations and energy clusters, supporting the sustainable transition.
