Koehler Paper Has Launched a Feasibility Study for Wind Energy in the Rhine Port of Kehl
Koehler Paper and Badische Stahlwerke (BSW), a steel producer, have teamed up with the Rhine port of Kehl to study the feasibility of harvesting wind energy at the port facilities. They hope to find out if building wind turbines is a feasible solution to suppling their own energy at the companies' sites in Kehl. Energy cost in Germany have risen drastically in the last two years – a huge challenge for energy intensive companies like Koehler Paper and Badische Stahlwerke, especially given the intense international competition faced by both companies. At the same time, both companies need to source a significant quantity of electricity from renewables to meet the climate goals of the German national government and the government of the state of Baden-Württemberg, as well as the self-imposed climate goals of the companies themselves. A species protection assessment and an environmental impact study have already been commissioned. Wind measurements are now scheduled to start in June. The feasibility study also includes an analysis of noise emissions and economic viability. The feasibility study is scheduled to last through the summer of 2025, and should indicate whether the site is suitable for wind turbines.