RWE, Borussia Dortmund Partner for Major Solar Initiative

• Borussia Dortmund and RWE AG's transformative partnership will power the iconic stadium with Germany's largest solar installation, driving sustainability and reducing energy costs for thrilling home matches!

RWE AG and Borussia Dortmund have entered a long-term sustainability partnership, agreeing to expand the photovoltaic (PV) system on the stadium roof, which will become the largest solar installation on any German stadium, boasting a capacity of over 4.2 MWp. The project, involving over 9,500 solar modules, aims to produce enough power to meet the club’s annual energy requirements for home matches, while excess electricity will be sold to the power grid.

The initiative will include a 3.4 MWh battery storage system to provide energy during non-sunny periods. Additionally, RWE and Borussia Dortmund previously installed a smaller PV facility at the club's fan service center. The collaboration will not only decrease the club's energy costs but also pave the way for further energy projects over the next six years.

How will RWE and Borussia Dortmund's partnership impact renewable energy in sports stadiums?

- Leading by Example: RWE and Borussia Dortmund's partnership sets a precedent for other sports teams and stadiums in Germany and beyond to consider renewable energy solutions, demonstrating the feasibility of transitioning to sustainable energy sources within sports infrastructure.

- Community Engagement: This initiative can enhance community engagement by promoting awareness of renewable energy. Borussia Dortmund's large fanbase can be educated about solar energy, contributing to local sustainability efforts and potentially inspiring fans to adopt similar measures at home.

- Reduction in Carbon Footprint: The implementation of the PV system and the associated battery storage will significantly reduce the stadium's carbon footprint, contributing to broader targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the sports industry.

- Energy Independence: By generating their own energy, Borussia Dortmund will become less dependent on external energy sources, potentially stabilizing their operational costs against rising energy prices, which is a growing concern in the current climate.

- Innovation in Sports Infrastructure: The advanced solar technology used in this installation may spur further innovation in sports infrastructure, encouraging other stadiums to upgrade their energy systems with cutting-edge renewable technologies.

- Job Creation: The expansion of solar installation projects is likely to create jobs in both the construction and maintenance sectors, contributing to economic growth within the regions where the stadium operates.

- Enhanced Matchday Experience: The use of renewable energy can enhance the matchday experience by potentially powering innovative technologies (such as LED displays) that rely on electrical energy generated from solar power, elevating the fan experience.

- Potential for Future Projects: The long-term sustainability partnership between RWE and Borussia Dortmund can pave the way for future renewable energy projects, such as additional solar installations, wind energy projects, or electric vehicle charging stations at or near the stadium.

- Encouraging Partnerships: This collaboration may encourage more partnerships between energy companies and sports organizations, fostering a broader commitment to sustainability and leading to large-scale renewable energy initiatives across various leagues and sports.

- Visibility in Sustainability Goals: With a significant audience during multiple seasons, Borussia Dortmund's commitment to renewable energy can provide visibility to sustainability goals in sports, influencing fans and stakeholders to prioritize environmentally friendly practices in their own operations and lifestyles.