Struga Hydroelectric Power Plant

The Struga Hydroelectric Power Plant, located in Struga on the Słupia River, is a historic site recognized as the oldest operating hydroelectric power plant in Europe. Built in 1890, it initially served as a mill before being converted into a power plant, which has been operated for generations by the Gliszczyński family. The power plant is part of the Słupia River Basin Hydroelectric Trail and is a unique cultural heritage site under state protection. Architecturally, the facility has undergone numerous modernizations, including in 1951 when the wooden weir was replaced with a concrete one, and in 2009 and 2012 when the turbine and generator were replaced. Currently, the plant uses a TF-900 Francis turbine and a Dolmel generator, providing an installed capacity of 320 kW. Its catchment area covers 239 km², with a maximum water flow of 2.7 m³/s. Interestingly, prior to the 2012 upgrades, the plant operated with a turbine dating back to 1896, highlighting its long-standing technological significance. The Struga Hydroelectric Power Plant is an important part of local culture and history, showcasing the tradition of harnessing water resources for energy. Its preserved original elements, such as an early 20th-century marble electrical panel, attract enthusiasts of technical history and cultural heritage.