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Significant milestone: Unit 3 at MHKW Rothensee in operation

Some 15 months after the topping-out ceremony, the third incineration line at the Rothensee waste-to-energy plant was officially inaugurated – a project that extends far beyond the region and sets new standards in waste treatment and energy generation. In future, not only will non-recyclable residual waste from industry and commerce be efficiently incinerated, but sewage sludge will also be treated separately in an innovative rotary kiln. This process allows for the recovery of phosphorus from the remaining sludge ash – an important step toward a circular economy and resource conservation.

With the expansion to three incineration lines, the facility can now process up to one million tonnes of waste per year, generating sustainable electricity and district heating for the Magdeburg region. Thermal treatment produces up to 20 times less CO₂ than landfill disposal – a key contribution to climate protection and the energy transition.

In addition to its environmental benefits, Block 3 also provides economic momentum: with an investment of around 220 million euros, 40 new jobs have been created, strengthening the local economy and securing the region’s long-term energy supply.

Further information on the expansion of the MHKW Rothensee (in German only)

A look behind the scenes on Open Day

The very next day, numerous visitors took the opportunity to get a close-up look at the new plant components during the Open Day. Guests were given exclusive insights into the thermal waste treatment facility and learned more about the innovative processes that make Block 3 so unique.