125 years RWE

Looking back on an eventful company history

RWE, Rheinisch-Westfälisches Elektrizitätswerk, was founded on 25 April 1898 as a public company in Essen, Germany. At the end of the 19th century, the use of electricity in agriculture, industry and private households was practically non-existent. However, as RWE’s growth took off, electricity became a big seller that brought prosperity and progress to many generations of people.

Today, RWE looks back with immense pride on more than 125 years of history. Already a pioneer of a growing industrial society back in the day, the Group is now driving the international green energy transition. Between 2024 and 2030, RWE is investing €55 billion in renewables and innovative technologies, in particular in the Americas and Europe and aims to achieve net zero emissions by 2040.

The motto of RWE’s anniversary year 2023: Energising the future

Together with several hundred thousand employees and with its partner companies around the globe, RWE has been shaping the energy world of the future since 1898.

While the company used to operate the most sophisticated fleet of nuclear and coal-fired power plants in the world, it now runs gigantic solar and wind farms.

In this way RWE – now a worldwide leading energy producer – remains true to its consistent goal of making innovations fit for the future.

Everything about the anniversary

From local energy utility to global electricity producer

Immerse yourself in the history of RWE

More than 125 years RWE

RWE Foundation

The foundation funds non-profit social projects which enable equal opportunities and intercultural understanding

More about the RWE Foundation
Here you can find the anniversary press release