The Issime run-of-river hydroelectric power plant, known to many as the “Gran Praz” power plant, was built during a complex and troubled period: it was built in 1939, but came into operation in 1943. The careful design of the plant, which was prepared respecting the surrounding land features, demonstrates how it is possible to produce 100% renewable hydroelectric power in an environmentally sustainable way.

With a capacity of less than 5 MW, Issime joins the shortlist of CVA’s 5 small hydroelectric plants. The plant’s intake structure is located in the hamlet of Rickard, in the Municipality of Issime, a few meters downstream from the outlet of the Zuino power plant. The central building, on the other hand, is located just upstream of the Guillemore basin artificial lake of the Pont-Saint-Martin plant, into which water passing through the turbine is discharged.

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