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Uniper Marks Coal Transition Milestone with Gelsenkirchen Cooling Tower Demolition

The controlled explosion cleared the way for a new, sustainable power plant. No evacuations were needed, showing Uniper's commitment to safety and change.

In the image there is a commercial building and in front of that there are few plants and there are...
In the image there is a commercial building and in front of that there are few plants and there are some wires and in the background there are many tall buildings.

Uniper Marks Coal Transition Milestone with Gelsenkirchen Cooling Tower Demolition

Uniper has marked a significant milestone in its transition away from coal with the demolition of a cooling tower at the Gelsenkirchen-Scholven power plant. On September 6, 2025, a controlled explosion brought down the 116-meter-high structure, clearing space for a new, hydrogen-ready gas power plant.

The demolition, part of an ongoing project since April 2024, was carried out using 60 kilograms of explosives. Despite the substantial charge, the explosion was carefully controlled to ensure safety. A 300-meter safety zone was secured, and no evacuations were necessary. The expert who executed this task remains unnamed in public records.

The cooling tower's collapse is not an isolated event. Uniper has planned further demolitions, including the F boiler house and the REA facility, scheduled for this year and 2026. These actions are part of Uniper's commitment to decarbonization, supply security, and site preservation. The recycled concrete rubble from the cooling tower, amounting to 11,000 tons, will be used to fill construction pits on-site.

The demolition of the cooling tower at the Gelsenkirchen-Scholven power plant signals a clear shift towards a more sustainable future. Uniper's plans for an H2-ready gas power plant at the site underscore this commitment. The successful controlled explosion, with no disruption to local residents, demonstrates the company's dedication to safety and responsible transformation.

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