Turbine plant of the former Haas weaving mill, Hydroelectric power station in Ottenbach, Switzerland
The turbine plant of the former Haas weaving mill is a power generation facility built around a Francis turbine system operating at 387 meters elevation. The structure retains its original technical components and demonstrates the engineering approach of an early hydroelectric installation.
The facility opened in 1920 as a technical upgrade to the silk weaving operations of A.F. Haas & Co, marking the shift from mechanical to electric power. Its construction reflected a broader movement to enhance craft production with modern mechanical systems.
The power plant served as a vital employer for the local community and demonstrates how water power drove the valley's industrial growth. The facility stands today as evidence of the close relationship between nature and human labor in this region.
The site at Muristrasse 33 is easy to locate and the facility retains its historic machinery visible from the exterior. Daytime visits work best for viewing the technical details of the facade and machinery setup clearly.
Water for the turbine flows through a canal system established in 1836 that originally powered the weaving machines of the factory. This continuous use of the same water source across generations shows how industrial operators adapted their energy solutions over time.
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