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Fierza Hydroelectric Power Station
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Industrial site
The Fierza Hydroelectric Power Station is Albania's largest and most powerful hydroelectric facility, serving as the primary hub of the Drin River cascade. Constructed between 1971 and 1978 with Chinese assistance, it stands as a massive monument to the industrial infrastructure of the socialist era. The plant has an installed capacity of 500 megawatts and generates a significant portion of Albania's annual electricity supply. At 167 meters in height, the rock-fill dam is one of the tallest of its kind in Europe. Its completion resulted in the formation of Lake Fierza, which extends across the border into Kosovo and stores immense volumes of water, critical for regulating the entire downstream cascade. Fierza acts as the primary regulator for the national power grid and is indispensable for exporting peak-load electricity to neighboring countries. The strategic importance of this facility for national self-sufficiency and energy security remains unparalleled.
- Location: Albania
- Top sights: Fierza Reservoir · Fierzë, Shkodër · Valbona (river)
- Nearby: Bajram Curri (12 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -3 | -1 | 2 | 7 | 12 | 16 | 19 | 20 | 14 | 9 | 5 | -1 |
| Rain mm | 118 | 111 | 114 | 90 | 92 | 73 | 50 | 49 | 96 | 117 | 150 | 134 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Fierza Hydroelectric Plant has Albania's highest dam and forms the country's largest reservoir. It is the centerpiece of Albanian hydropower generation, supplying a vital share of national electricity needs.
Visiting
The dam and power plant are usually not open to the public as critical infrastructure. The reservoir and surrounding shores can be viewed from public roads and viewpoints.
Where to view it
An excellent viewpoint is the road crossing the dam crest, offering memorable views of the lake and mountains. The viewing platform on the western shore also provides a panorama of the reservoir.
Local products
In surrounding villages like Fierza and Bajram Curri, travelers can buy local honey, cheese, and fruit from the region. Hand-carved wooden items and traditional Albanian clothing are also available at small markets.
Active season
The plant generates power year-round, with highest output in spring and autumn when Drin River flow is greatest. Maintenance is typically carried out during low-water summer months.
Nearby
Combine the visit with a boat ride on Lake Fierza or a hike in the surrounding Albanian Alps. The town of Kukës with its bridge over the Drin is also worth a detour.
Geography
Facts
- The installed capacity is 500 MW, utilizing four Francis turbines.
- The dam stands 167 meters high and is built from rock-fill.
- Construction was officially completed in the year 1978.
- Lake Fierza has a maximum storage volume of 2.7 billion cubic meters.
- The plant produces an average of 1.3 billion kWh of electricity annually.
- It is the uppermost stage of the three-part Drin River cascade.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
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Sights in the town Fierza Hydroelectric Power Station (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Fierza hydroelectric plant?
It is the uppermost power plant in the Drin cascade and forms the massive Fierza reservoir.
Is the dam wall visible to tourists?
Yes, the massive rock-fill dam is an impressive sight, especially when using the ferry on Koman Lake.
How large is Lake Fierza?
It is one of the largest artificial lakes in Albania and extends to the border with Kosovo.
Can you swim or boat in Lake Fierza?
There are no organized beaches, but boat trips between Fierza and Koman are very popular with tourists.
Why is Fierza important for Albania?
It provides a significant portion of national electricity production from hydropower.
Fierza Hydroelectric Power Station: where is it located?
Fierza Hydroelectric Power Station is located in Albania.
Fierza Hydroelectric Power Station: what is there to see?
Highlights include Fierza Reservoir, Fierzë, Shkodër, Valbona (river).
Fierza Hydroelectric Power Station: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Fierza Hydroelectric Power Station: why is it worth visiting?
The Fierza Hydroelectric Power Station is Albania's largest and most powerful hydroelectric facility, serving as the primary hub of the Drin River cascade.
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