RDP project database
Renovation of a Hydroelectric Power Station
Summary
This project consisted in the renovation of a hydroelectric power plant located on the site of the existing ‘Zettinger’ watermill, run by a farm household in the Diekirch district.
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Background
For many generations, the Bourg Family had been running the hydroelectric power plant located on the banks of the Sûre River in Moestroff, in addition to their farm in Buschrodt. Given its dilapidated state, the Bourg family decided to renovate the infrastructure. Since the early stages of its implementation, the project has been supervised by the regional office of the Administration of Technical Services for Agriculture and the Energy Agency.
Objective
The main objective of the project was to diversify the farm activities and increase the farm’s income through the production and sale of electricity.
Main activities
The main activities undertaken to achieve the project’s objective consisted in the renewal of the technical equipment of the hydroelectric power plant, after having conducted an evaluation to assess the type of intervention needed. A new grid to retain debris has been installed, including an automatic cleaning device. The canal has been enlarged to bring water and its embankments strengthened. A new power generator was also installed.
Results & Benefits
The renovation of the hydroelectric plan contributed to the generation of additional income and to the increase of annual energy yield from 10 to 20%. The project also permitted the revaluation of the old watermill where the plant was located.
Lessons learnt
The shortfall in the price of energy (from 8.34 in 2008 to 3.09 cents/kWh in 2009) had an impact on the initial expectations in terms of generation of additional income. Therefore, it is advisable to have a solid business plan and to evaluate all possible scenarios before proceeding with an investment of this kind.
Project location and other information
The project location is in Moestroff, in the commune of Bettendorf, Diekirch district (North-East of the Grand-Duchy of Luxembourg).
Region
Luxembourg (Grand-Duché)
RDP Territory
Luxembourg
Total project cost (€)
350 500
EAFRD contribution (€)
42 060
National contribution (€)
63 090
Private contribution (€)
245 350
Contact name
Denise Bourg-Biver
Telephone
+352 83 80 52
Languages for contact
French, German
At a glance
Country
Luxembourg
Final beneficiary type
Individual farmers
Budget range
€100 000 - €500 000
Start date:
16/03/2009
End Date:
08/12/2009
Theme / Measure:
• Rural Quality of Life & Economic Diversification
• Rural economic diversification
• 311. Diversification into non-agricultural activities
Keywords:
Alternative technology, Renewable energy, Energy, Water , Farm diversification
Last update
24/03/2014
