Uniper begins dismantling Wilhelmshaven coal plant

Uniper has started the dismantling of its former 777 MW coal-fired power station in Wilhelmshaven, Germany, following the plant's cessation of electricity generation in December 2021. The comprehensive dismantling program, which began in October 2026, is scheduled for completion by the end of 2029. A significant milestone includes the planned demolition of the plant's 275-meter chimney in spring 2027.

The 50-year-old facility, originally commissioned in 1976, was decommissioned after Germany's coal phase-out policy. Uniper's decision to proceed with decommissioning was made in late 2025, initiating the transition of the approximately 100-hectare site towards new energy purposes. Over its 45 years of operation, the plant consumed over 58 million tonnes of hard coal and produced more than 151 million MWh of electricity.

Alongside the demolition efforts, Uniper is developing new energy projects on the site. A solar park with approximately 17 MWp capacity is nearing completion, and a 50 MW/100 MWh battery energy storage system is under construction. Furthermore, plans are in place for a large-scale electrolysis plant aimed at producing renewable hydrogen, utilizing offshore wind power as part of the Energy Transformation Hub North-West.

Uniper intends to retain certain structures, including administration buildings and workshops, for future operational needs. The site also hosts a long-standing training center that prepares young individuals for technical occupations within the energy sector and provides qualifications for skilled workers transitioning to the energy industry.