Bavaria aims to take control of the hydropower plants from Uniper.
In the future, Bayern has the legal right to take over Uniper's hydroelectric power plants, starting as early as 2030. Bavarian Prime Minister Markus Söder announced this in Munich, mentioning that the state may exercise this right regardless of Uniper's or the federal government's wishes. Over 85 plants are at risk of being seized.
Bavaria seeks to gain control of Uniper's numerous hydroelectric power plants located on rivers within its borders. Söder declared that starting in 2030, the state will exercise its rights and potentially seize these power plants despite any opposition from the company or the federal government. He emphasized that local energy should be controlled by locals: "the principle must increasingly read: Local energy in local hands."
Uniper's current struggles arose due to Russia's halt on natural gas deliveries following its invasion of Ukraine. The federal government, whose majority shareholder is the FDP-led Federal Finance Ministry, desires to return the now-profitable company, specializing in renewables, to the stock exchange.
Söder's coalition of CSU and Free Voters has been pushing for the takeover of Uniper hydroelectric power plants, finding rare common ground with the Bavarian opposition parties Greens and SPD.
Söder revealed in Munich that Bavaria had made an offer to the federal government for the acquisition of the Bavarian Uniper hydroelectric power plants. "So far, we've not received a response," he said. "Thus, fellow citizens, due to the recommendation of Environment Minister Thorsten Glauber, we intend to, starting in 2030, exercise our usufruct rights." This decision pertains to more than 85 plants primarily situated on the Lech, Isar, and Main rivers, accounting for around 40% of all water power in Bavaria.
Germany's water power plants are predominantly located in Bavaria. Based on previous statements, Bavaria can legally claim ownership of these power plants due to historical reasons even if Uniper protests. However, the state must provide compensation to the company and adhere to certain waiting periods. The ministries involved are overseen by Free Voters.
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In Bavaria, the focus is not only on taking control of Uniper's hydropower plants but also on promoting renewable energies in the state's energy supply.
Markus Söder, the Prime Minister of Bavaria, has expressed his commitment to securing local control over energy production, advocating for "Local energy in local hands."
Despite Uniper's hydropower plants contributing significantly to Bavaria's energy supply, particularly on rivers like the Lech, Isar, and Main, they are considered part of the potential takeovers and mergers.
The renewed interest in hydropower plants in Munich signifies a shift towards cleaner and more sustainable energy solutions, aligning with Bavaria's broader goals in energy management.
