The company said the investment programme will focus heavily on strengthening its flexible generation capacity, with more than half of the planned spending directed toward projects that can respond quickly to changing electricity demand, particularly in Germany.
The move comes as Berlin prepares to sell its 99.12% stake in Uniper, following the company’s state rescue during Europe’s 2022 energy crisis. Potential buyers, including Canada’s Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPPIB) and Czech energy group Energetický a průmyslový holding (EPH), are expected to submit letters of interest as part of the sale process.
Uniper Eyes Data Centre Power Demand
As part of its growth strategy, Uniper said it sees significant opportunities in supplying electricity to data centres, whose rapid expansion across Europe is driving demand for reliable and long-term energy solutions.
The company said the increasing use of artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and digital services is accelerating the need for stable electricity supplies, creating new commercial opportunities for energy providers.
Uniper has identified more than 10 of its existing sites with suitable infrastructure that are strategically located near major European data hubs.
The company revealed that three data centre-related projects are already at an advanced stage of development, with additional investment decisions expected before the end of the year. One project in the United Kingdom has already been completed.
“The rising electricity demand from data centres requires powerful, reliable and long-term supply solutions,” Uniper Chief Executive Officer Michael Lewis said in a statement.
New Revenue Streams Through Power Agreements
Uniper said it plans to generate additional income through structured power purchase agreements (PPAs), which allow companies to secure long-term electricity supplies at agreed terms.
Where commercially viable, the company also intends to provide direct electricity supply from its own generation assets, creating a closer link between its power plants and large-scale energy consumers.
The strategy reflects the changing role of traditional energy companies as electricity demand grows from digital infrastructure, while businesses increasingly seek dependable low-carbon power sources.
Transformation Continues After Energy Crisis Rescue
Uniper’s renewed investment plans represent a major shift for the company after it became one of the biggest casualties of Europe’s energy disruption in 2022.
The firm was rescued by the German government after soaring natural gas prices and supply disruptions created severe financial pressure. Since then, Uniper has worked to reposition itself through investments in cleaner energy, flexible generation, and new business models.
The planned €5 billion investment programme is expected to support the company’s transition while strengthening its role in Europe’s evolving energy market.
With governments and businesses placing greater emphasis on energy security and digital infrastructure, Uniper is positioning its power assets as potential foundations for future growth.