Rhine Bike Path Closure: Voerde Power Plant Shutdown to Last Several Weeks
In the small town of Voerde, Germany, a significant transformation is underway as the former coal-fired power plant, owned by energy supplier RWE, is being redeveloped by transmission grid operator Amprion. The demolition of the power plant is expected to be completed by the end of 2026, with the process already underway for about two years.
The transformation is not limited to demolition works. Amprion is also dismantling its 220-kV transformer station in Moellen as part of the project. The closure of the bike path between the Rhine shore and the power plant site, scheduled from July 7th to August 22nd, is due to these demolition works. Signs for a detour via Frankfurter Straße and Ahrstraße will be placed at the entrances of the bike path, located at Strandhaus Ahr and near the turnoff to Friedrichstraße on Frankfurter Straße.
RWE is responsible for determining the green after-use of the old power plant site, and various options are under consideration. Scenarios include the construction of a gas-fired power plant, battery storage, or a hydrogen electrolyzer. However, the specific plans for the site have not been finalized.
Matthias Machinek, spokesperson for Amprion, explained that the closure is necessary for safety reasons due to the facility's location at the outer edge of the site. The bike path closure is likely for maintenance, construction, or safety reasons, although this cannot be confirmed with certainty from the information provided.
For detailed and accurate information on the closure and alternative routes, it is recommended to consult local municipal announcements, official Voerde city websites, or relevant transportation authority notifications closer to or during the closure period.
As the transformation continues, Voerde and Amprion are working together to ensure a sustainable future for the site, with a focus on green after-use. The transformation of the former coal-fired power plant in Voerde is a multi-faceted process that includes considerations for the environment and the community's needs.
This transformation marks an important step in Germany's ongoing efforts to transition away from coal and towards renewable energy sources. As the power plant in Voerde is decommissioned, the community looks forward to a greener, more sustainable future.
The transformation is not only limited to the power plant's demolition; Amprion is also dismantling the 220-kV transformer station in Moellen, which is part of the project. In collaboration with Voerde, Amprion is focusing on a sustainable green after-use for the old power plant site, with possibilities including a gas-fired power plant, battery storage, or a hydrogen electrolyzer.
