The small hydroelectric power stations : run-of-river or dam power plants

Electrabel operates 8 run-of-river and dam power plants in the south-east of Belgium, primarily along the Warche and Amblève. These plants have a total capacity of 21,7 MW.

How does a dam hydroelectric power plant work?

• A run-of-river power plant is located on a dammed water course. There is a low drop height (between 3 and 15 metres). The volume and speed of the water flowing through the turbines depends on the flow of the river.
• A dam power plant first storages a huge quantity of water in an artificial barrier lake. The turbine is located either close to the foot of the dam or further downstream.

Did you know: in addition to generating electricity, a dam/barrier lake can also be used as a reservoir as well as to regulate the reserves of drinking water and rises in water levels