Germany is preparing to transfer to Ukraine a “fully functional” gas-fired power plant from the Lubmin site linked to the Nord Stream network, as part of humanitarian energy support, despite mounting local criticism.
The plant, previously used to generate process heat for Russian gas entering Germany’s pipeline system, became economically unviable after Russia halted supplies in 2022. Operator SEFE (Securing Energy for Europe) GmbH (Berlin) said there were no alternative heat customers, leading to the facility’s closure in 2023. A sale was also not possible.
According to the company, the plant will now be dismantled and made available to a Ukrainian operator “as part of humanitarian aid,” adding that the move avoids higher costs linked to scrapping while helping maintain Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. The facility has a reported capacity of around 84 megawatts.
Local officials and politicians have raised concerns over the decision. Lubmin mayor Axel Vogt warned the issue could be “politically instrumentalized” and stressed the site would be “very well suited” for continued domestic energy use. He also called for a clear communication strategy regarding the plant’s removal via the town’s industrial port.
Criticism has been strong from the right-wing Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) party. Regional AfD politician Nikolaus Kramer described the move as “absurd,” arguing that “a fully functional CHP plant is to be dismantled right there and given to Ukraine.” He added: “This plant should serve the energy security of our country. A slap in the face for our citizens.”
