Energy Policy & Regulation

Uniper has reaffirmed its long-term transformation strategy, outlining plans to diversify its business by tapping into the growing demand for data centers. The German energy company intends to invest approximately €5 billion ($5.72 billion) by 2030, with funding directed toward expanding flexible power generation and renewable energy.

The initiative is designed to strengthen Uniper’s position in the evolving energy market while creating new revenue opportunities through digital infrastructure.

More than half of the planned investment will be allocated to flexible power generation, with Germany remaining the company’s primary focus. Uniper, which was rescued by the German government during Europe’s 2022 energy crisis, is seeking to modernize its portfolio and support the country’s transition to a more resilient and sustainable energy system.

The strategy comes as the German government prepares to divest its 99.12% stake in Uniper. Potential investors, including Canada’s CPPIB and the Czech energy group EPH, are expected to express interest as Berlin advances plans to return the utility to private ownership.

Uniper also highlighted data centers as a key growth opportunity, citing rising electricity demand driven by digitalization. The company has identified more than 10 strategically located sites across Europe that are suitable for data center development, with three projects already at an advanced stage and another in the UK completed.

CEO Michael Lewis said increasing demand from data centers requires reliable, long-term power solutions, adding that Uniper plans to generate new revenue through structured power purchase agreements and direct electricity supply from its own generation assets where commercially viable.