RO25 Visit to the Iron Gates I hydroelectric power station

After the cruise packed with emotion on small boats on the Danube, we went by coach to the Iron Gates I hydroelectric power station. To start with, we visited the museum which opened in 1976, presenting the main characteristics of the Danube River, hydrological data and historical-archaeological exhibits. It also displays older artifacts from the Pre-Neolithic. In addition to the historical-archaeological exhibits, the Museum of Hydropower exhibits the principles of hydro-engineering and the construction of the Iron Gates I hydroelectric power plant. 

It first showed the impact of the construction of the dam had on the nearby places and the town that were drowned.

Thanks to an animated model, a guide explained to the students how electricity is produced in the power station.

The visit ended with the impressive Hall of Turbines, where we could see how 6 Kaplan turbines with an installed capacity of 194.5 MW each work. The weight of each turbine is 3680 tons. Iron Gate I Hydroelectric Power Plant is the largest hydroelectric plant in Romania, producing 50% of the country's hydro power. Located in the Iron Gate Gorge, which forms the border between Serbia and Romania, it is the largest dam on the Danube River. It is operated as a joint-venture between Serbia and Romania. Both countries share the power generated by the dam, each maintaining their own power station facility.

The students were really interested and impressed by the visit to this exceptional place. Through observation, guided discussion and thinking, they realized that although the impact on the environment at the time of construction can’t be denied, hydro power is a very important source of renewable energy.that preserves natural resources and prevents using fossil fuels. It was a good opportunity to discuss other sources of renewable energies and our own role in protecting the environment.