The Last Coal for Chemnitz Power Plant
Steam Finale for the Chemnitz-Küchwald CHP Plant
Just days before the lignite-fired Chemnitz-Küchwald CHP plant was taken offline, a steam-hauled train was successfully scheduled for one last run. The Leipzig-based locomotive 52 8079 was slated for the task, assisted by the SRS "Ludmilla" 132 088. Various scenes and train configurations were captured over two days in late December 2023. A highlight was the loaded block train—cleared of graffiti the previous day—which provided unique photo opportunities on Friday as it traveled the diversionary route via Profen, Gera, and Chemnitz. The weather gods also smiled upon us on Saturday, gifting us a magnificent crossing of the Göhren Viaduct. Scheduled steam operations in 2023!
Friday, 29.12.2023
The day begins with locomotive 132 088 hauling the train - which had been completely cleared of graffiti the previous day - from Profen to Plagwitz. There, 52 8079 takes the lead and heads toward Gera. The journey continues via Zeitz to Bad Köstritz, with several stops for photography along the way. Next comes a short shuttle run back to Crossen, where 132 088 - which had been pushing the train until then - moves to the front to serve as the lead locomotive. Together, they continue via Gera to Glauchau, where 52 8079 takes on water. Twilight sets in, creating a mystical atmosphere. The steam locomotive hauls the heavy coal train through the night to the rail connection at Chemnitz-Küchwald - truly unforgettable moments. But that is not all; the day’s highlight follows as 52 8079 accelerates the empty train out of Küchwald toward Profen. Just past the power plant, the train tackles the steep climb up to Borna. In Plagwitz, the steam locomotive is uncoupled, and 132 088 hauls the empty train the rest of the way to Profen. An incredible day draws to a close, filled with epic moments - especially during the night hours!
Saturday, 30.12.2023
Once again, locomotive 132 088 hauls the loaded train from Profen to Plagwitz in the morning, where the steam locomotive is already waiting. The day focuses on the core route of the coal shuttle, running from Profen via Leipzig and Borna to Chemnitz. Throughout the day, the train makes several round trips along the interesting section between Cossen and Frohburg. The loaded train is delivered, and an empty train from Küchwald is taken on; this is hauled to Profen in the evening by locomotive 52 8079. This train marks the end of the event and, simultaneously, the long era of lignite transport to Chemnitz. Just a few days later, the Küchwald combined heat and power plant receives its final rail delivery before being permanently shut down in mid-January 2024.
