From Start-up to International Player: Deutsche Windguard Celebrates 25 Years of Driving the Energy Transition

Varel/Husum (Deutschland) - At the beginning of September 2025, Deutsche Windguard celebrated its 25th anniversary with a large jubilee event at its headquarters in Varel.

Founders Axel Albers, Gerhard Gerdes, and Dr. Knud Rehfeldt, together with guests from business, politics, and the wind industry, looked back on the company’s early days in 2000 – when it was one of the first independent providers of technical operations management for wind farms.

“In the beginning, we were a small start-up. Modern wind energy generation was about 15 years old with a contribution to the electricity supply of one to two percent,” said Managing Director Gerhard Gerdes. Today, Deutsche Windguard employs around 200 people, operates in some 70 countries, generates half of its revenue internationally, and maintains subsidiaries in the USA, China, and India.

Lower Saxony’s Minister President Olaf Lies praised the company’s pioneering role and emphasized the importance of clear framework conditions, consistent grid expansion, and offshore wind energy for the acceptance of renewable energies. With its expertise, Deutsche Windguard is a valued partner of the state government on key issues such as port expansion and the further development of wind energy and hydrogen.

Mayor Gerd-Christian Wagner also commended the company for its long-term commitment to Varel: “The name of our town plays an integral role in the energy transition. Highly qualified employees find attractive jobs here, young people discover exciting perspectives for their professional future, science and industry work hand in hand.”

A highlight of the anniversary celebration was the keynote speech by Professor Dr. Claudia Kemfert, who outlined the prospects for the energy sector in times of global crises and the transformation of the energy system. Guests also had the opportunity to explore Deutsche Windguard’s extensive portfolio of around 60 services spanning the entire wind energy value chain.

Source: IWR Online, Sep 09 2025