Epiroc hydraulic breaker paves the way for power plant deconstruction in Gelsenkirchen-Scholven
5. September 2025
Regrata and Uniper launch major demolition project to support Germany’s energy transition.
In a significant step toward a climate-friendly energy future, the deconstruction of Block F at the Scholven hard coal power plant in Gelsenkirchen is now underway. The project, led by Regrata Abbruch und Recycling GmbH & Co. KG—part of the Matthäi Group—is being carried out on behalf of Uniper Kraftwerke GmbH. Central to the technical execution is the deployment of advanced machinery, including the newly introduced Epiroc HB 5800 hydraulic breaker.
From industrial heartland to future energy hub
Official handover of the Epiroc HB 5800 hydraulic breaker. From left to right: Torsten Treger, Regional Sales Manager North, Epiroc; Björn Bassen, Authorized Officer and Senior Site Manager, Regrata; Cedric Alexander Drewenstedt, Heavy Equipment Operator, Regrata.
The Scholven power plant has been a landmark in the Ruhr region for over a century. Originally built to supply energy to the Scholven coal mine, the site evolved into one of Europe’s most powerful coal power stations during the 1960s and 1970s, boasting an installed capacity of 2,126 MW. Block F, commissioned in 1979, was decommissioned in 2014.
The dismantling of Block F marks a pivotal moment in the transformation of the site. Plans are in place to construct a new gas and steam turbine facility (GuD), designed to be hydrogen-ready. This development positions Scholven as a forward-looking energy and technology location.
High-performance technology: Epiroc HB 5800 in action
"The Epiroc HB 5800 supports Regrata in executing this technically demanding project. It combines power and reliability—key requirements for handling such complex tasks. That’s why Regrata has relied on Epiroc hydraulic breakers for years,"
Precision meets complexity
The first strikes of the Epiroc HB 5800 hydraulic breaker on the grounds of the Scholven power plant.
The scope of the project includes the full dismantling of Block F’s power generation and auxiliary systems. In addition to the Epiroc breaker, Regrata is deploying long-reach excavators weighing up to 175 tons, crawler lattice boom cranes, and high-capacity crushing and pressing systems. The Thüringer Sprenggesellschaft, also part of the Matthäi Group, is responsible for the controlled demolition of select structures using blasting techniques.
Despite the technical and logistical challenges, the project is progressing on schedule. The construction timeline spans from April 2024 to September 2026.
Looking ahead: Hydrogen-ready energy infrastructure
For further information please contact:
Anja Kaulbach
Global Marketing and Communications Manager
Phone: +49 (0)173-7255139
Email:
anja.kaulbach@
Epiroc is a global productivity partner for mining and construction customers and accelerates the transformation toward a sustainable society. With ground-breaking technology, Epiroc develops and provides innovative and safe equipment, such as drill rigs, rock excavation and construction equipment and tools for surface and underground applications. The company also offers world-class service and other aftermarket support as well as solutions for automation, digitalization and electrification. Epiroc is based in Stockholm, Sweden, had revenues of more than SEK 64 billion in 2024, and has around 19 000 passionate employees supporting and collaborating with customers in around 150 countries. Learn more at www.epirocgroup.com.
Epiroc’s Attachments division develops, manufactures and markets excavator attachments, ground engaging tools and hydraulic handheld tools. The products are used in construction, infrastructure, deconstruction, recycling, and mining. The division also provides related services and has production facilities on four continents. Please see www.epiroc.com for product offerings.