Ybbs-Persenbeug Hydropower Plant

Commissioned in 1959, Ybbs-Persenbeug was the first run-of-river power plant built on the Austrian stretch of the Danube and remains one of the country’s largest. The structure spans the river with an integrated weir, lock system, and power station housing six Kaplan turbines. Each unit contributes to a total capacity of roughly 236 megawatts, generating electricity for over 300,000 households annually. Its design reflects post-war Austrian industrial development and remains notable for the early integration of navigational infrastructure with energy production. The plant also played a formative role in the standardization of turbine technology and dam construction along the Danube. Today, the facility continues to operate 24/7, contributing to grid stability while enabling vessel traffic through its twin locks. Ybbs-Persenbeug also serves as a public educational site, allowing visitors to experience working turbine galleries, control rooms, and machine halls in a functioning power plant setting.

Guided tours are available year-round for individuals, school groups, and technical visitors. Tours typically last 60 to 90 minutes and include the machine hall, turbine viewing areas, historical exhibits, and a discussion of hydropower principles. Tours must be booked in advance and are suitable for visitors aged 6 and up. For school groups, age-appropriate content is offered. The plant provides both German- and English-language tours. Basic safety equipment is provided; visitors should wear flat, closed footwear. Photography may be restricted in certain areas. The facility is wheelchair accessible with some limitations, and group sizes are usually capped to ensure safe supervision. Tour fees are modest and often waived for educational groups or during special events such as open days or national energy weeks.