Overview
HKW Sandreuth is an 18 MW biomass power plant in Nuremberg, Germany, operated by N-ERGIE AG. It generates electricity from waste, contributing to the region's renewable energy mix.
HKW Sandreuth is a biomass power plant located in Nuremberg, Germany, with an installed capacity of 18 megawatts. Operated by N-ERGIE AG, the facility is classified as a biomass power plant and uses waste as its primary fuel source. The plant is currently operational and plays a role in the local energy grid. The plant operates under the regulatory framework of the European Union's Industrial Emissions Directive (2010/75/EU), which sets emission limits and requires the use of Best Available Techniques (BAT) for waste-to-energy facilities. In Germany, the plant also complies with the Federal Immission Control Act (BImSchG) and the Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG), which support biomass and waste-to-energy generation. The 18 MW capacity places it in the small-to-medium scale range for biomass power plants in Germany. As a waste-to-energy facility, HKW Sandreuth contributes to waste management and renewable energy production in the Nuremberg metropolitan area. By converting waste into electricity, the plant reduces landfill dependency and provides a local source of power. Its operation aligns with Germany's Energiewende (energy transition) goals, supporting the shift toward a more sustainable energy system.
Environmental context
The plant's use of waste as fuel reduces methane emissions from landfills and displaces fossil fuel-based electricity. However, combustion of waste can release pollutants such as dioxins, heavy metals, and particulate matter, requiring advanced emission control systems. Located in an urban area, the facility must comply with strict EU and German air quality standards to minimize local environmental impact.
Frequently asked questions
HKW Sandreuth is located in Nuremberg, Germany, at coordinates 49.4386 N, 11.0606 E.
HKW Sandreuth is a biomass power plant that uses waste as its primary fuel to generate electricity.
The plant has an installed capacity of 18 megawatts (MW).
Biomass power plants in Germany must comply with the EU Industrial Emissions Directive, the Federal Immission Control Act (BImSchG), and the Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG), which set emission limits and promote renewable energy.
Waste-to-energy plants like HKW Sandreuth reduce landfill waste, lower methane emissions, and generate electricity, contributing to a circular economy and renewable energy targets.