Rudolf Fettweis power station, Hydroelectric power complex in Forbach, Germany.
The Rudolf Fettweis power station is a hydroelectric facility near Forbach that combines run-of-river and pumped-storage systems. A network of tunnels links separate plants together, using the Schwarzenbach reservoir as the main water storage component.
Construction began in 1922 under engineer Theodor Rehbock and finished in 1926. The project represented a major step forward in German hydroelectric power development.
The reservoir here is a gathering place where locals fish, boat, and walk along the water's edge throughout the year. The lake has become woven into how people spend their free time in this part of the Saarland.
The facility is visible from nearby walking paths, and access to the reservoir and surrounding trails is straightforward. Visitors should keep in mind that this site is along a river valley where weather can change quickly.
Four separate plants were built in different phases as the project expanded over time. The reservoir takes roughly two and a half months to drain completely when maintenance requires it.
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