The Mooserboden water reservoir of Austrian hydropower producer Verbund is seen near Kaprun, Austria, August 31, 2016.
Verbund explained that comprehensive repair work will be undertaken at the Limberg III power station, which has a capacity of 480 megawatts, as well as at the upper-level installations at Kaprun, which provide an additional 160 megawatts. These repairs are expected to be complex and will require extended technical intervention before the units can return to operation.
Despite the temporary loss of capacity at Kaprun, Verbund confirmed that overall power supply reliability will not be affected. The company said the remaining storage and pumping stations at Kaprun, along with its other hydropower facilities in Zillertal and Malta-Reisseck, will continue to ensure stable electricity generation and grid balance across Austria.
The Kaprun complex is one of Verbund’s most important hydropower sites, playing a key role in energy storage and grid stabilization. Pumped storage plants like Kaprun are designed to balance electricity supply and demand by storing water in higher reservoirs during periods of low consumption and releasing it to generate power during peak demand. This makes them essential components in supporting renewable energy integration and maintaining energy security.
Verbund did not specify the exact cause of the technical faults but noted that investigations are underway to determine the necessary measures for restoring full functionality. The company said it is prioritizing safety and operational reliability in planning and executing the repairs.
Austria relies heavily on hydropower for its electricity supply, with Verbund being the country’s largest producer of renewable energy. The company operates an extensive network of hydroelectric stations, which account for the majority of Austria’s power generation and contribute significantly to its renewable energy targets.
The temporary shutdown of the affected units is not expected to impact Austria’s overall energy balance, as other facilities within Verbund’s network are currently operating at normal capacity. The company assured that it remains fully capable of meeting national electricity demand through alternative hydropower and grid management resources.
Verbund said it will provide updates on the progress of repair work and restoration timelines as technical assessments advance. The company reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a secure and sustainable energy supply while ensuring the long-term performance and safety of its hydropower infrastructure.
