German corporation Siemens Energy is a global leader in energy technology. The group offers a range of technological products for the energy sector, but one that is particularly relevant to energy from waste (EfW) is their steam turbines. With 120,000 steam turbines delivered globally, Siemens Energy has a well-established reputation for innovation and efficiency. We spoke to Vladimir Stepan – Siemens Energy’s Vice President for the Region of Europe & Africa Industrial Steam Turbines and Generators – about decarbonisation, the Energy from Waste Conference, and what their steam turbines have to offer to the sector.

Offering both new steam turbines and maintenance services, Siemens Energy plays a key role in supporting the EfW industry. Mr Stepan, who oversees the servicing of steam turbines and generators within Europe and Africa, highlighted the company’s extensive expertise:

We provide servicing, modernisations, upgrades, repairs, and retrofits. Our experience, expertise, and references within the sector allow us to deliver proven solutions to our customers.”

With a strong record in EfW application delivered to their customers, Siemens Energy continues to enhance energy efficiency through their steam turbine technology.

When asked about the biggest changes he has seen in the energy sector, Mr Stepan pointed to the gradual transition from traditional fuel sources to more sustainable alternatives. “The biggest change I’ve experienced is the shift away from coal towards biomass and other renewable sources,” he explained. “It wasn’t a sudden boom, but rather a gradual process, with some early adopters leading the way and others following.”

This transition is closely linked to decarbonisation, a key priority for Siemens Energy. Mr Stepan outlined three key levers for achieving decarbonisation: fuel shift, process optimisation, and increasing efficiency. He explained how following these three key levers has made them successful in their attempts: “For example, in one project, we increased the efficiency of a 10 MW turbine to 12.5 MW, demonstrating how efficiency improvements can contribute to reducing emissions.” 

A crucial element of decarbonisation is steam turbine technology itself, which plays a vital role in energy generation. 

We see steam turbines as a key part of decarbonisation because the process itself requires heat and steam,” Mr Stepan said. “This is where we can offer our expertise and technical knowledge to help customers develop decarbonisation projects.”

Siemens Energy is also a key participant in the Energy from Waste Conference, which Mr Stepan sees as an essential platform for industry collaboration. “We are hoping to exchange knowledge, connect with potential customers, and discuss the latest advancements in steam turbine technology,” he explained. “That is why the conference is such a great platform for sharing. It’s not always possible to describe everything you offer in a leaflet or brochure.”