Beznau Nuclear Power Plant, Nuclear power plant in Döttingen, Switzerland
The Beznau Nuclear Power Plant sits on an artificial island in the Aare River and houses two pressurized water reactors that produce electricity for hundreds of thousands of households. The facility spreads across a large site with cooling pools, office buildings, and security structures that define the industrial landscape.
The plant began operations in 1969 as Switzerland's first nuclear power station and reflects the country's early decision to embrace nuclear energy for electricity production. A second reactor was added in 1972, and both units have supplied the region's power needs ever since.
The plant stands as a representation of Switzerland's industrial development and commitment to energy independence through nuclear power generation technology.
Visitors can join free guided tours lasting about 90 minutes if arriving in groups of at least eight people and aged 12 or older. The tours provide access to the control room and various facility areas, though advance booking is necessary.
The facility uses Aare water for cooling and channels excess heat into a district heating network that supplies warmth to nearby municipalities. This approach demonstrates how industrial waste heat can be redirected for community benefit.
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