Vienna-Freudenau — 172 MW Hydroelectric

Ranked as the 22nd largest power generation facility in Austria, the Vienna-Freudenau hydro plant plays a pivotal role in the country’s energy landscape. With a capacity of 172 MW, it represents 1.53% of Austria’s total electricity generation capacity of 11,227 MW, which comprises 103 facilities. This plant, commissioned in 1999 and operated by Verbund, showcases advanced hydroelectric generation technology, utilizing the natural flow of the Danube River to convert water into clean energy efficiently. The site’s strategic location near Vienna not only allows for significant energy production but also integrates seamlessly into the regional energy grid. Vienna-Freudenau is part of a cluster of notable nearby facilities, including the Simmering gas plant, which boasts a capacity of 1,272 MW, and the Donaustadt gas plant at 395 MW. Additionally, the Greifenstein hydro plant, with a capacity of 293 MW, complements the hydroelectric capabilities of the region, while Wind Park Hollern II adds a smaller wind component with 37 MW. This cluster emphasizes Austria’s reliance on hydroelectric power, which is the dominant fuel source in the country. The Vienna-Freudenau facility stands out not only for its capacity rank but also for its contributions to the sustainability goals of Austria, where hydroelectricity accounts for a significant portion of the energy mix. The operator, Verbund, is known for its commitment to renewable energy and has been instrumental in advancing Austria’s position as a leader in hydroelectric generation. Looking ahead, the Vienna-Freudenau plant will continue to play an essential role in supporting the national grid, contributing to environmental sustainability, and reducing carbon emissions in line with Austria’s ambitious climate targets.