"Without biomass, it won't work"
Interview with Rainer Poll, Managing Partner of Bernhard Poll Schornsteintechnik GmbH
Bernhard Poll Schornsteintechnik GmbH from Dörpen in Emsland specializes in modern exhaust systems and chimney technology. The company combines artisanal tradition and technological innovation. Rainer Poll, managing partner and 3rd generation in the family business, spoke with Wirtschaftsforum about the importance of biomass in the context of the energy transition and why, in his opinion, the current conditions complicate economic success.
Wirtschaftsforum: Mr. Poll, you lead a company that has continuously reinvented itself over several generations. What distinguishes Bernhard Poll Chimney Technology today?
Rainer Poll: Our major advantage is that we come from craftsmanship. We are not just manufacturers of chimney and exhaust systems, but also installers and service providers. This means: We know our products from practical experience, we understand the requirements on the construction site and with the customer. We offer not only standards, but solutions – from planning to installation, all from one source.
Wirtschaftsforum: Where exactly do you see the core competencies of your company?
Rainer Poll: Biomass burning units have very high physical demands on the material and its processing.
Our strength lies in the planning, manufacturing, supply, and installation of exhaust systems made from high-alloy stainless steel and their installation components, such as silencer systems, auxiliary air and explosion protection devices. Suitable stainless steel fixing systems provide stability. Fire protection shafts made of aerated concrete offer the necessary safety. Set-up and heating rooms of biomass plants must be ventilated, for which specifically designed supply and exhaust systems in modular construction are suitable. For large boiler systems, the product range of our sister company, LAB-Lüftungs- und Anlagenbau GmbH, can also be utilized. Among other things, the core competencies include standalone exhaust systems and the manufacturing of supply and exhaust air towers.
Wirtschaftsforum: Your company has a long history. Can you briefly outline it for us?
Rainer Poll: Our roots are in traditional construction crafts. My grandfather founded the company in 1933 as a construction company. My father then significantly developed the company in the 1960s when fossil fuels became the standard in the Emsland region. At that time, he developed a process for tapering the cross-sections of chimneys. That was our entry into chimney technology. Later, stainless steel pipes and industrial applications were added. I have been managing director since 2006 and sole shareholder since 2020. Overall, we employ 180 people, including 50 at LAB.
Wirtschaftsforum: How important is the topic of innovation in your company?
Rainer Poll: Very important. Our innovative strength lies in constantly improving existing systems, making them more efficient and especially more user-friendly. The requirements are constantly increasing, both technically and regulatory. We offer our customers solutions and design them so that they are simple and reliable for them to use.
Wirtschaftsforum: You said that biomass plays a central role at Bernhard Poll Schornsteintechnik. What is your stance on this in the context of the energy transition?
Rainer Poll: I am convinced that it will not work without biomass. Relying solely on electricity and heat pumps for the energy transition I find unrealistic. Biomass has not really been considered in any contract or political planning so far. Yet, it has enormous potential when used correctly. As a company, we need a clear direction, and politics must understand that openness to technology is crucial.
Wirtschaftsforum: What challenges are you currently facing in particular?
Rainer Poll: The political conditions are a major issue: bureaucracy, high labor costs, tax burdens – all these slow us down. The demographic change also affects us like many others. We strongly focus on internal training to address the shortage of skilled workers. Our team is stable, with low turnover. Our company culture is familial. There is no 'formal you' mentality; I know each of our about 130 employees by their first names. We live the team spirit, even in the leadership team.
Wirtschaftsforum: What are your expectations and plans for the future of the company?
Rainer Poll: In the short term, we first want to achieve our sales target this year. The year started off weak, but it is picking up now. I therefore expect a positive result. We are already heating with the most modern technology and are completely switching to biomass, and also producing our own electricity. In two to three years, we will be completely carbon neutral. This is also part of my responsibility as a business owner.
Wirtschaftsforum: Finally, one last question: What is your personal motivation in your work?
Rainer Poll: Previous generations have laid the foundation that we are able to build upon today. Their hard work and visions deserve our deepest respect and gratitude. This foundation allows us to freely develop, to embark on new paths, and to actively shape the future.