The Lillaz run-of-river hydroelectric plant is located in the municipality of Cogne, in a valley famous for its green landscapes that make it unique in the world.

The power plant is located at the beginning of the valley of the Urtier stream, in a corner (literal meaning of “Cogne” in Aosta Valley patois) of the Gran Paradiso Nature Park. The plant, which went into operation in 1919, was built to provide the hydropower needed for mining work from the mines and at the same time illuminate the miners’ village of Cogne.

The Lillaz hydroelectric power plant derives water upstream from the 150-meter natural drop, which is overcome with the three water jumps of the famous Lillaz waterfalls. The 600-litre/second penstock brings all the energy from the water to the Pelton turbines of the three installed units. The Lillaz power plant, with only 1 MW of power, is among CVA’s 5 small hydropower plants with a capacity of less than 5 MW.

This plant is part of one of the Energy Tours routes.

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