Getting in touch with the operator of the Dubrava hydroelectric power plant
The operating method of the Dubrava hydroelectric power plant, located only 15 km from the Hungarian border, have a remarkable influence on the water flow of the Hungarian section of the river.
The so-called high-peak operation, during which the power generation of the power plant is maximized in some periods and restrained in other times, causes rapid and significant water level changes in the downstream sections of the river, including Őrtilos in Hungary. In low water periods the water level fluctuation is up to 1-1.5 m per day, having unfavorable ecological impacts and greatly increasing the riverbed erosion.
According to recent research results presented during the meeting, the operating system of the Dubrava power plant is largely correlated with the actual prices of the Croatian energy exchange. Participants learned more about the results of studies analyzing the riverbed erosion of Drava, possibilities of stopping the riverbed erosion, and the evaluation of river ecosystem services. Furthermore, the operation of the Dubrava power plant and the factors influencing it were presented, as well as an overview of the hydropower plants in the upper sections of river Drava.
After the consultation we visited the hydroelectric power plant itself, the associated reservoir and canals and had a conversation on the fish cascade connected to the power plant, the amount of water, which is the ecological minimum for downstream sections, and other issues.
The consultation ended with seeking next steps together and will continue with the preparation of joint actioins.
Photos: WWF Hungary