Christian Kullmann, the CEO of chemical conglomerate Evonik, has called for a postponement of the planned coal phase-out in North Rhine-Westphalia, currently set for 2030. Speaking to the “Rheinische Post”, Kullmann argued that there are insufficient gas power plants to ensure stable energy supply, noting that the grid infrastructure resembles that of Albania. Furthermore, he stressed that affordable hydrogen sources are scarce. He stated that extending the use of coal is in the industry’s best interest, estimating that the company will need coal until at least 2033, potentially for longer, depending on the prevailing conditions. Kullmann criticized the political environment in Berlin and Brussels, claiming that the overemphasis on “Greta commitments” has been too stringent, and argued that the focus should now shift toward supporting economic growth.
In addition to his stance on fossil fuels, the Evonik CEO also advocated for pushing back Germany’s climate neutrality target from 2045 to 2050, claiming this delay would help prevent further disadvantages for industry. He pointed out that Germany accounts for only 1.6 percent of global CO2 emissions, asserting that while the timing of Germany’s climate neutrality is irrelevant to the global climate, it is crucial for the survival of the German chemical sector. Regarding the reform of emissions trading, Kullmann reiterated that no tightening is necessary. He argued that while Europe already operates the world’s strictest CO2 fee regime, climate change knows no borders, and it is completely wrong to undermine European chemicals in international competition with additional fees.
Separately, Evonik is advancing the separation of its chemical parks, which have been placed into a unit called Syneqt. Kullmann informed the “Rheinische Post” that Syneqt constitutes a “real gem,” boasting two modern gas power plants in Marl, a large pipeline network, and €200 million in profits. He noted that the company plans to market the unit in the autumn and, following that, determine its future direction. Potential paths include selling the unit or having Syneqt merge with another chemical park operator. However, Kullmann indicated that his focus is not on the Currenta (the company derived from Bayer), but rather on partners from the Netherlands or Belgium, as the Rhein-Ruhr, Flemish, and Southern Holland regions form the strongest chemical hub in Europe. The chemical parks in Marl and Wesseling, which employ 3,500 people, have been transferred to the Syneqt unit.
