Wind energy has undergone impressive development in recent decades. Two pioneers at RWE Renewables Europe & Australia, Achim and Jörn, are playing a key role in this success story: they are driving forward the expansion of wind farms in northern Germany, where they know every large landowner.

The duo's many years of experience

Achim and Jörn started out as pioneers in the wind energy industry, following parallel career paths. ‘When we started out, wind turbines like the 450 kW turbine with a height of 65 metres were the norm,’ reports Achim. He joined Winkra 30 years ago and accompanied the company's transformation into Essent before it was finally taken over by Innogy. After Innogy went public and RWE and E.ON subsequently split, a central renewable energy organisation was created at RWE. Jörn is celebrating his 25th anniversary as a project manager in origination, and together they have been working as a wind pioneer duo for RWE in northern Germany since 2012.

Everyday work as a wind pioneer

Based in Hanover, Jörn and Achim are responsible for the regions of Schleswig-Holstein and Lower Saxony. ‘Our job is to identify suitable locations and sites for wind turbines,’ they explain. This is done in collaboration with 15 to 20 colleagues from the Scouting and Origination department, who review regional and land-use plans, check where approval conditions are optimally met and carry out profitability calculations.

They actively approach landowners, present RWE and the company's plans and advantages. ‘At owners’ meetings, some of which involve over 100 owners, we present our plans using state-of-the-art technology and then negotiate with groups of spokespersons. These negotiations can take several months and are crucial for drawing up contractually binding plans,’ explains Jörn. It can take 9 to 12 months between initial contact and the conclusion of contracts.

Milestones and personal highlights

One of their most impressive projects is a wind farm near Rotenburg, which is being expanded through repowering initiatives. ‘A total of 16 turbines are being dismantled to make way for newer, more powerful turbines,’ says Achim. These improvements will result in a significant increase in yield and expand land use. In the past, dismantled turbines were given a second life as spare parts in Spain or were recycled, contributing to RWE's sustainable business model. Repowering projects are therefore a particular highlight for the two: ‘Here, we take responsibility by operating the turbines ourselves and can thus drive sustainable development forward.’

With their motto ‘We're here to stay,’ Achim and Jörn embody an optimistic view of the future of wind energy. ‘Direct enquiries from owners who have heard about us through word of mouth from other landowners make our work much easier and reflect the trust placed in us,’ explains Jörn. The trusting cooperation with the owners is the best compliment the duo could receive: ‘We know that we welcome here at any time.’