The dismantling of fossil fuel power plants is a complex process that requires careful planning and specialised expertise. Old coal and gas-fired power plants must be dismantled safely and in an environmentally friendly manner to make way for new, sustainable energy sources. Aspects such as the handling of hazardous substances, the recycling of materials and the renaturation of the sites play a decisive role in this process.
Experience in dismantling fossil fuel power plants
PORR has established itself as a leading company in the field of power plant dismantling, among other things. With its environmental engineering service area, the company has extensive experience and modern technologies to carry out these demanding projects efficiently and safely. Examples of its expertise include the dismantling of the former Wilmersdorf power plant in Berlin (completed in 2023), the partial dismantling of the Moabit power plant (completed in 2024) as well as the old Lichterfelde cogeneration plant, which is scheduled for completion in autumn 2026. Another example is the dismantling of the RWE power plant in Voerde on the Lower Rhine, which has been underway since autumn 2023 on behalf of RWE Generation SE.
Innovative approaches and technologies
The company relies on innovative approaches and technologies in the dismantling process. Building Information Modelling (BIM) is used to digitally plan and monitor the dismantling steps, enabling precise control and minimisation of risks. This digital planning allows the material flow to be analysed in detail, potential hazards to be identified at an early stage and processes to be optimally coordinated. In addition, state-of-the-art demolition machines and recycling plants are used to efficiently recycle materials and minimise environmental impact. This holistic approach not only ensures that the dismantling is carried out efficiently and safely, but also makes a sustainable contribution to the circular economy.
Sustainability and resource conservation
Sustainability is a particularly important aspect of power plant dismantling. The environmental engineering division plays a central role here by developing and implementing innovative recycling processes. This allows valuable raw materials to be recovered and returned to the economic cycle. During the dismantling of the Voerde power plant, over 90 percent of the materials, including concrete and steel, were recycled and reused for other construction projects. This example highlights our expertise in power plant decommissioning and shows how innovative approaches and technologies contribute to the successful implementation of such projects. The environmentally friendly disposal and recycling of building materials help to reduce direct emissions and promote the circular economy. In addition, the safe handling of hazardous substances and the renaturation of the sites support the company's social and environmental goals.
Outlook
The dismantling of fossil fuel power plants will continue to gain importance in the coming years as more and more old plants are replaced by renewable energies. This change is not only a central component of the energy transition, but also places high demands on planning, safety and sustainable disposal. Environmentally friendly dismantling and responsible handling of dismantling materials are crucial factors in conserving resources and reducing CO₂ emissions. With its experience and technical expertise, PORR is well positioned to help shape this challenging task and make an important contribution to the energy transition and power plant dismantling.
