A device controls a load flow in an alternating-voltage network. The device is distinguished by a module series circuit of two-pole switching modules that can be inserted in series into a phase line of the alternating-voltage network. Each switching module has an energy store and controllable power semiconductors that can be switched on an off and each switching module can be controlled in such a way that a switching-module voltage can be produced at the poles thereof, which switching-module voltage corresponds to a positive or negative energy-store voltage or a voltage having the value of zero. A control apparatus for controlling the switching modules is provided, which control apparatus is configured to control the switching modules in such a way that a periodic longitudinal voltage can be produced at the module series circuit. A method for controlling a load flow in an alternating-voltage network is performed by the device.