KIVI Limburg excursion: Discover the impressive Garzweiler opencast mine

On Monday 21 September 2026, KIVI Limburg is organising a unique excursion to the Tagebau Garzweiler lignite mine in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany.
This enormous opencast mine is one of the largest in Europe and represents a fascinating combination of energy production, technological marvels and large-scale nature restoration projects.
During this excursion, you’ll gain a rare insight into the world of industrial mining and the transformation of the landscape into lakes, nature reserves and agricultural areas.

Programme

  • 09:30 – Departure from Maasbracht by coach to Grevenbroich (the coach will be ready for boarding from around 09:15).
  • 11:00 – Welcome at the Information Centre, Erftstr. 111, 41517 Grevenbroich.
    • Brief introduction by an RWE guide on the mining process, the machinery and energy production.
      Coach tour through the active mining area, with views of the gigantic bucket-wheel excavators that move up to 240,000 tonnes of material per day.
      Visit to areas where former mining sites are being transformed into lakes, nature reserves and agricultural land.
      Opportunity to ask questions and take photos (where permitted).
  • 2.00 pm – Departure for the Skywalk viewpoint
  • 14:45 – Return journey

Practical information

  • Duration of the excursion: approx. 3.5 hours (excluding travel time).
  • Language: German (guided by an RWE guide).
  • Transport: Coach, included in the price.
  • Number of participants: Minimum 20, maximum 50.
  • Contribution:
    • KIVI members: €15
      VIZL members: €15
      Non-KIVI members: €25
  • Dress code: Sturdy footwear compulsory; please follow all RWE safety regulations.
  • Lunch/coffee:
    • You must bring your own packed lunch.
      Coffee/tea on arrival: by arrangement with RWE.
  • Registration: By 13 September at the latest.
  • Note: The programme is subject to change due to operational or weather conditions.

Why take part?

  • To see at close quarters how advanced mining technology and logistics are applied on a massive scale.
  • Discover how landscapes are being redeveloped following intensive mining, including new nature and recreation areas.
  • A unique opportunity to ask questions of RWE experts and discuss the future of energy in Germany and Europe.
  • Further information: RWE Garzweiler


Name and contact details for further information:
Dieudonne Cobben, Limburg@kivi.nl, 06-25219629