Ersatzbrennstoff-Heizkraftwerk Bernburg

In the heart of Bernburg, nestled within the industrial landscape, stands the Ersatzbrennstoff-Heizkraftwerk Bernburg. This remarkable facility, often referred to as the EBS power plant, is a beacon of modern energy solutions and a focal point of both local pride and controversy. As you venture into this industrial marvel, prepare to uncover the intricate workings of a plant that plays a pivotal role in the region's energy supply.

The Role of the EBS Power Plant

The Ersatzbrennstoff-Heizkraftwerk Bernburg is more than just a power plant; it is an industrial powerhouse that fuels the adjacent Solvay GmbH plant. This facility, operated by Prezero Energy, a subsidiary of the Schwarz Group, has been a cornerstone of energy provision since its inception. Despite its primary function as an energy provider, the plant is often viewed by critics as a large-scale waste incineration facility, making it a subject of ongoing debate within the community.

A Strategic Location

Strategically positioned on the industrial grounds of Solvay in eastern Bernburg, the EBS power plant is bordered by the Bundesstraße 185 to the south and the picturesque Saale River to the north. The plant's proximity to residential areas, with the nearest homes just 150 meters away, underscores the delicate balance between industrial advancement and community welfare. The nearby Dröbelsche Busch, part of the Nienburger Auwald-Mosaik FFH conservation area, adds a touch of natural beauty to the industrial setting, creating a unique juxtaposition.

The Fuel Behind the Power

At the heart of the EBS power plant's operations is the use of substitute fuel, primarily derived from commercial waste. Annually, the plant processes an average of 400,000 tons of waste, with a maximum capacity of up to 552,000 tons. This impressive throughput places the Bernburg facility among the largest waste-incinerating industrial power plants in Germany, second only to the MHKW Magdeburg-Rothensee in Saxony-Anhalt.

However, the plant's reliance on truck deliveries for fuel, with approximately 140 deliveries per day, has sparked concerns among critics. They argue for the utilization of the existing, yet unused, rail connection to mitigate the environmental impact of increased road traffic and fine particulate emissions.

Technical Marvels

The EBS power plant boasts a thermal capacity of 214.5 megawatts, achieved through three identical combustion lines with grate firing. This setup generates 225 tons of steam per hour at a temperature of 410°C and a pressure of 42 bar, primarily used in Solvay's soda production. Notably, the plant also produces up to 35.7 megawatts of electrical energy through a condensation turbine, showcasing its dual role in both steam and electricity generation.

The plant's efficiency, dependent on its operational mode, is a testament to its advanced engineering. With a thermal efficiency of 17.8% and an electrical efficiency of 37.2%, the EBS power plant exemplifies the intricate balance of maximizing energy output while minimizing waste.

State-of-the-Art Emission Control

One of the standout features of the EBS power plant is its sophisticated emission control system. The plant employs a multi-stage process to ensure that the exhaust gases released into the atmosphere are as clean as possible. This includes SNCR denitrification, desulfurization using sodium bicarbonate, injection of activated coke, and a fabric filter. These measures collectively work to remove harmful substances such as heavy metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), dioxins, and furans from the exhaust gases.

Despite these advanced measures, the plant's emission levels remain a point of contention. Critics highlight the potential for unmonitored emissions, such as ammonia slip and nitrous oxide, which are byproducts of the denitrification process. Additionally, the plant generates significant solid waste, including slag, ash, and residues from the exhaust gas cleaning process, which are classified as hazardous and require careful disposal.

Historical and Environmental Context

The site of the EBS power plant has a storied history. Before the current facility was built, the area was an industrial wasteland, contaminated with production waste from a bag and shoe factory that operated until 1989. The construction of the power plant involved extensive soil remediation to address these historical pollutants, transforming the site into a modern industrial hub.

The plant's construction began in 2008, following a series of planning and approval processes initiated by Tönsmeier and Solvay in 2006. Despite legal challenges from opponents, the plant commenced operations in 2010, marking a new chapter in Bernburg's industrial evolution.

An Industrial Landmark

The Ersatzbrennstoff-Heizkraftwerk Bernburg stands as a symbol of modern industrial capability and environmental stewardship. Its role in providing energy to the Solvay plant, while managing significant waste volumes, underscores its importance to the local economy. However, the ongoing debates surrounding its environmental impact and operational practices highlight the complex interplay between industrial progress and community concerns.

As you explore Bernburg, take a moment to appreciate the EBS power plant's contributions to the region's energy landscape. Whether viewed as a marvel of engineering or a focal point of environmental debate, this facility embodies the dynamic nature of modern industrial development.