Our impact
Automated Navigation Dams (VNF), France
Background
The Project consists of the design, construction, operation and heavy maintenance of 29 automated navigation dams and was justified by the necessity to replace the former obsolete and dangerous to operate manual dams on the Aisne and Meuse rivers (northeast of France). The Project also includes the operation of two pre-existing dams, which have been modernised, and the operation of four micro-hydropower plants with a total capacity of 4.6 MW.
The new dams prevent flooding, regulate water flow, and produce electricity, to the benefit of the users of the rivers (navigation, irrigation, industry, fish farms) and the population living on the banks (protection against flooding, water reserves).
Stage:
In Operation
ESG/SDG Key facts
The Project is in line with VNF’s environmental performance objectives set at closing. They comprise both hydropower generation and the implementation of independent channels at each dam, designed to allow migratory fish movements and preserve aquatic wildlife.
Fishways have proven successful, with fish moving upstream in large numbers, after 140 years without access to the upper reaches of the waterway. Counting cameras installed in the passes provide valuable data on the fish stock.
A public information centre is providing information and illustrations about the dams’ operation, the public-private contract with VNF, the current works and the technology used.
Free guided visits of the dams are frequently organised on the Meuse and Aisne rivers. The Project Company also takes part in local fairs and is collaborating with local organisations to promote public awareness.