Strettara hydroelectric plant
The Strettara hydroelectric plant is situated on the Scoltenna River in the municipality of Montecreto in the province of Modena. Built between 1917 and 1919, the plant is fed by the Riolunato reservoir and is equipped with two 6,000-horsepower steam turbines that generate a total capacity of 6.8 MW. In 1945, the dam was damaged by retreating German soldiers but was repaired in a matter of days.
Technology
Hydroelectric
Status
In operation
Operational capacity
6.8 MW
Energy production
13 GWh
Average production achieved in the last three representative years.
CO2 emissions avoided
5,816 metric tons per year
Energy needs met
About 5,000 households per year
Milestones
Impact on local communities
The Strettara hydroelectric plant is very well integrated into the local area. Around the Riolunato reservoir, created by the Riolunato dam built between 1916 and 1920, are areas for sport fishing. Periodically the dam and the power plant release volumes of water to enable the hosting of a national long canoe event along the Scoltenna River.
Also near the plant is the Ponte dei Leoni, an ancient stone structure dating back to 1715, which is a crossing point for the Via Romea Germanica, which leads all the way from the Brenner Pass to Rome. Following renovation work in the 2000s, the bridge was converted for use by pedestrians and cyclists.