Volkhov Hydroelectric Station, Hydroelectric power station in Volkhov, Russia
Volkhov Hydroelectric Station is a dam spanning approximately 212 meters across the Volkhov River designed to generate electricity through water flow. The facility operates three hydroturbines that produce roughly 347 gigawatt-hours of power each year.
Construction began in 1918 as the first hydroelectric power station in the Soviet Union under the GOELRO electrification plan. This project launched the Soviet era of large-scale hydropower development and industrial advancement.
The station holds federal cultural heritage status as a symbol of early Soviet industrial innovation and engineering skill. Visitors today can see how Soviet-era engineers solved the challenge of powering a growing nation through water.
The station sits along the Volkhov River and is accessible from the surrounding area, offering views of the dam and its setting. Keep in mind this is an active power facility, so some areas may have restricted access for safety reasons.
During World War II, the station powered Leningrad through underwater cables stretched across Lake Ladoga. This hidden supply line kept electricity flowing to the besieged city when other sources were cut off.
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