12.02.25 – Raiffeisen Waren-Zentrale Rhein-Main AG (RWZ) and Axpo have entered into a partnership for the development of solar parks in Germany, it was announced today. This collaboration offers new economic opportunities for farmers and advances the energy transition. The expansion of renewable energy is a central pillar of Axpo’s strategy, with Germany playing a key role as an important solar market.
Axpo and Raiffeisen Waren-Zentrale Rhein-Main AG (RWZ) have recently agreed to work together on the development of solar parks. The core of this partnership is to provide sustainable income options for farmers and support Germany’s energy transition. A service framework sets out the cooperation: RWZ will handle landowner outreach and the associated contract negotiations, while Axpo will be responsible for the development, construction, and operation of the solar installations. Additionally, RWZ plans to participate as a regional anchor shareholder in the emerging projects. This offers RWZ customers new economic prospects through attractive lease terms and opportunities for involvement.
Tim Papenfort, Head of Corporate Development at RWZ, highlights the significance of the partnership: “As an established international project developer and electricity trader, Axpo brings valuable expertise, particularly in the construction of new facilities and the marketing of green power. As state subsidies through the Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG) have decreased in recent years, we need a partner who has a strong market focus and can leverage alternative ways to market solar energy.”
Martin Mitscher, Managing Director of Axpo's solar activities in Germany, adds: “RWZ, as one of Germany’s leading agricultural traders, is exceptionally well connected in rural areas, complementing our expertise in the development, construction, and marketing of solar parks. Through its participation in these projects, RWZ also builds trust with landowners and local stakeholders.”
The collaboration with RWZ marks another important step for Axpo implementing its strategy to expand renewable energy across Europe, with Germany playing a central role.
Axpo is driven by a single purpose – to enable a sustainable future through innovative energy solutions. Axpo is Switzerland's largest energy producer and an international leader in energy trading and the marketing of solar and wind power. Axpo combines the experience and expertise of more than 7,000 employees who are driven by a passion for innovation, collaboration and impactful change. Using cutting-edge technologies, Axpo innovates to meet the evolving needs of its customers in over 30 countries across Europe, North America and Asia.
Raiffeisen Waren-Zentrale Rhein-Main AG (RWZ) is one of the oldest and largest agricultural trading companies in Germany, focusing on the western federal states and with activities in neighbouring countries. The RWZ Group generates an annual turnover of 3 billion euros with approximately 2,700 employees across around 180 locations. Within the agricultural value chain, RWZ operates as a wholesaler, consolidating purchase and sale volumes of harvested products such as grains, oilseeds, and potatoes, as well as operational supplies and equipment for agriculture, viticulture, horticulture, and forestry. As a retailer, RWZ offers a wide range of products, services, and expertise required by farmers, winemakers, horticulturists, and foresters for the production of raw agricultural materials and food. Additionally, the RWZ Group is active in the retail sector for private customers as an operator of home and garden stores and as a supplier of heating and building materials.
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