An emblematic dam-hydropower plant

With impressive dimensions, the dam-hydropower plant of Génissiat is an unmissable stopping point in the landscape of the Upper Rhone, sitting astride Ain and Haute-Savoie. It is also a milestone in France’s energy history: a few kilometres from the source of the Rhone in Switzerland, this hydroelectricity facility was the 1st built by CNR in the Rhone Valley.

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Did you know?
When did the dam-hydropower plant start operating?
In what way is this hydroelectricity structure special with respect to CNR’s other developments on the river?
How many households can it supply with electricity?

The tour circuit

The visits, guided by a professional tour guide, last an hour and a half. You will be at the heart of an industrial facility, next to the turbines and transformers, in the control room, and the team operating the site. Soak in the atmosphere!

Discover the circuit

Réservation
Reservation obligatory

The guided tours are available only by reservation, for both individuals and groups.

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Yesterday

Rebuilding France

After 11 years of construction disturbed by the war, Génissiat supplied its first KWh in 1948 and supplied Paris with electricity at the time.

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Today

Making hydroelectricity the leading source of renewable energy

The dam-hydropower plant supplies 10% of the annual production generated from the Rhone. An essential link in hydroelectricity production between Switzerland and France, CNR plays a pivotal role in managing the sediments naturally present in the water.

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Tomorrow

Exploiting the force of water differently

CNR is developing a project of 39 hydrokinetic river turbines immediately downstream of Génissiat, making it the largest river installation of its kind in the world.

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FAQ

All the answers to the questions you have been asking yourself.

Consult the FAQ

Réservation
Reservation obligatory

The guided tours are available only by reservation, for both individuals and groups.

Visit a multi-green energy site: Bollène