BERLIN, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- The expansion of electricity grids in Germany is making slow progress, current statistics from the German network agency (Bundesnetzagentur) show.

In order to change this, German economy and energy minister Peter Altmaier presented an action plan on Tuesday for a faster expansion of the grids.

According to the German network agency, the current rate of grid expansion is lagging behind the rapid expansion of renewable electricity and must catch up.

The action plan includes new installing cables that can withstand higher currents as well as a nationwide digitalization of the power grid. The so-called smart grid is necessary for optimal operation management and a better capacity utilization of the electricity grid.

Energy politician Ingrid Nestle from the Green Party told the German press agency (dpa) that the German government had pushed the responsibility for the grid expansion onto the federal states for too long. "As a result, the speed of implementation varies widely. We need an intensive dialogue with the people as well as effective and early participation."

Local residents, farmers, and environmentalists alike resist the construction of new power lines in Germany.

The Bundesnetzagentur explained that the power grid must be expanded to fit the requirements of the German electricity sector which has undergone fundamental changes over the last decade. To facilitate this expansion, two major new power lines Suedlink and Suedostlink are expected to be completed by 2025.

Speaking to Xinhua on Tuesday, Bundesnetzagentur press officer Carolin Bongartz said people should be brought closer together so as to approach this project collectively. This concern is also part of Altmaier's campaign over the next three days to promote his plan to expand the national power grid. "It is particularly important to us to involve all parties in this process," Bongartz added.