Deppe Plans Wind Turbine for Reliable Energy Supply at the Lemke Site

Deppe Backstein-Keramik GmbH announces plans to build its own wind turbine in close proximity to the company's site in Lemke. On 15 December 2025, the municipal council will address the required amendment to the land-use plan in a public meeting.

Background: A Step Toward Renewable Energy
Brick production is energy-intensive. The firing process currently requires natural gas, as alternative technologies—particularly hydrogen—will not be available in sufficient quantities in the short or medium term. At the same time, the local power grid cannot economically provide the required electrical capacity.

To ensure long-term climate-friendly and competitive production, Deppe is investing in its own renewable energy supply. The planned wind turbine is a central element of this transformation process. In addition, photovoltaic installations will be significantly expanded. Other options, such as using biogas from agricultural residues, are being examined.

Technical Specifications and Objectives
The planned wind turbine is expected to generate around 10 million kWh of green electricity per year. Key data for the installation:

  • Hub height: 119 m

  • Tip height: 176.5 m

  • Capacity: 4.1 MW

Combining wind energy, photovoltaics, and potentially biogas, Deppe aims to cover up to 98% of its energy needs from renewable sources in the medium term. In the lower temperature range of the tunnel kilns, electrical energy will increasingly be used to further reduce fossil fuel consumption.

Site Selection and Framework Conditions
The only suitable location is an area north of the brickworks along Spöllbergstraße, opposite the pig farm. All legal requirements regarding noise, shadow flicker, species protection, safety, and technical feasibility can be met there. The turbine will be visible as a new technical structure in the landscape; however, the Spöllberg itself will remain unchanged in substance and use.

The project is part of a comprehensive transformation strategy designed to meet legal climate targets and the requirements of the European Emissions Trading System. Without the production of its own renewable energy, the company would face significant additional costs for CO₂ certificates in the future. A local, independent electricity supply is therefore essential for long-term competitiveness and for securing jobs in the region.

Transparency and Public Involvement
Deppe places great importance on providing early and factual information to the public. (Click here for the full press release.) Early next year, an information event for local residents will be held on the company premises. Attendees will be able to ask questions and learn more about the technical and organizational aspects of the project.

Event Notice: Christmas at the Brickworks
On 17 December, Deppe invites the public to the biennial event “Christmas at the Brickworks.” Factory tours will begin at 6:30 p.m., followed by live music, warm drinks, and grilled food. All proceeds traditionally go to the Blekkerhof in Uelsen.

Image description:
On the right: the planned wind turbine site.
Center: a pig fattening facility.
Left in the background: the Deppe brickworks.