Navigating the Future of Power Plants: Insights from RWE's CEO
Key Ideas
  • RWE's CEO emphasizes the importance of a cost-efficient Power Plant Safety Act for Germany's energy transition while also stressing the need for swift implementation to build new power plants urgently.
  • RWE aims to build at least 3 GW of gas-fired power plants by 2030 to support the coal phase-out, contingent on successful tender processes and favorable market conditions.
  • The company believes that a blend of renewables, storage capacities, and secure backup from gas-fired power plants is necessary for an efficient energy system, with the potential for gas plants to become climate-neutral with CCS technology.
  • RWE acknowledges the need for a hydrogen infrastructure for industries and gas-fired power plants, highlighting challenges in ramping up hydrogen technology due to cost impediments and lack of market demand.
In a recent interview, RWE's CEO, Mr. Krebber, discussed the complexities surrounding the Power Plant Safety Act in Germany and the company's perspective on the energy transition. Krebber emphasized the dual need for a cost-efficient legislative framework and expedited implementation to facilitate the construction of new power plants. He advocated for a balance between cost efficiency and speed in introducing regulations post the German elections. Regarding the potential construction of 50 new gas-fired power plants, Krebber indicated that RWE's participation would depend on tender designs and market conditions. He highlighted the importance of renewables, storage capacities, and gas-fired backup for an effective energy system, with gas plants possibly transitioning to be climate-neutral through CCS technology. The discussion also touched upon the challenges of hydrogen infrastructure development, with Krebber underscoring the demand for hydrogen in industries and power generation. He pointed out hurdles in ramping up hydrogen technology due to economic constraints and the need for market demand to drive supply. Krebber further addressed the delay in onshore wind investments in the U.S. due to policy changes, signaling RWE's cautious approach towards new investments amid evolving regulatory landscapes. Despite challenges, he expressed optimism about the growing demand for electricity and economic trends benefiting RWE's onshore plants.
ADVANCEH2

Our vision is to be the world's leading online platform for advancing the use of hydrogen as a critical piece needed to deliver net-zero initiatives and the promise of a clean H2 energy future.

© 2025 AdvanceH2, LLC. All rights reserved.