Currently, the German energy system is going through a transition process of historic dimensions. This means that the requirements that have to be laid down for power grids are changing dramatically. This results in a substantial pressure to take action with regard to grid expansion or conversion as well as to the development of new concepts of operation in order to continue ensuring a reliable and safe electricity supply. For the future development of power grids, there is a considerable scope for action and design both from a conceptual perspective (e. g. centralized vs. decentralized) and with regard to the technology chosen (e. g. overhead lines vs. underground cables). In an open social debate, preferences shall be discussed and subsequently implemented in a political approach.