History of the existing plant
The Kaunertal storage power plant was built within just four years between 1961 and 1964. The construction of the power plant significantly improved the economic conditions in the Kaunertal valley. The road development allowed a tourist boom in the valley, where inhabitants had previously lived almost exclusively from agriculture and forestry. TIWAG also participated in numerous investments in infrastructure projects, such as avalanche and mountain torrent safety installations, the sewerage system and the development of roads and reforestation at high altitudes, making a significant contribution to the protection against natural hazards. Last but not least, the power plant created multiple secure year-round jobs in the region threatened with emigration. Commissioning took place in 1964.
October 1961
Gepatsch dam construction site: Downstream view
November 1961
Prutz powerhouse: Start of the foundation
December 1961
Track laying for pipe transport in inclined shaft
January 1962
Burgschrofen surge chamber: Concrete work in the lower chamber
April 1965
Model of power plant control room
April 1965
Cultivation of the Feichten tunnel excavation disposal site
July 1965
Generator transformers 1–5 and tailwater channel
July 1965
Prutz powerhouse with switchyard
August 1965
Gepatsch dam with dam attendant’s house
September 1965
Pillersattel: 220 kV overhead line
to the West Tyrol transformer station
October 1965
Taschach water intake with arched wall
October 1965
Radurschlbach water intake