LOHAS (Lifestyles of health and sustainability) is a demographic defining a particular market segment related to sustainable living, „green” ecological initiatives, and generally composed of a relatively upscale and well-educated population segment.

Source: Wikipedia

The construction of Birsfelden Hydroelectric Plant began in 1950, it started operations in 1954. In 1978 the large lock was expanded by a second one, to guarantee maximum capacity in case of failure in one of the locks.
The most prominent change was the modernisation in 1995: the entire plant was brought up to date, to increase production and reduce staff costs. By around the mid 21st century, a renovation of the plant will be necessary. The license to operate the plant extends to 2034.

From a conversation with Werner Maier, director of Birsfelden Hydroelectric Plant
Pictures: © Birsfelden Hydroelectric Plant

Fish ladders have to ensure unblocked upstream migration for a variety of fish. Fish orientate their migration according to the current, therefore the access into a fish ladder has to be close to the main current, i.e., near the turbine’s tailrace at power stations. On larger bodies of water, an extra small hydro power plant is built next to the fish ladder, discharging a lot of water into the lowest basin of the fish ladder. A strong current from the fish ladder attracts fish, while only the water flowing through the fish ladder is lost for electricity gain. Two types of technical construction are prevalent: Given enough space, brook like diversion channels are built. With little space, vertical slot fish passages are used. Concrete basins with varying water levels, differences ranging between 15-30 cm, are built in a row, connected by vertical slots.

Different sources, including Der Lachs – ein Fisch kehrt zurück. Mertens et al. 2011, Haupt-Verlag, Bern.

The cantons of Basel-Stadt and Basel-Land signed a contract to share the energy from Birsfelden Hydroelectric Plant and distribute it to the region. 50% of the shares still belong to BS, 50% to BL. BL hedge their shares through cooperatives in Münchenstein and Liestal.

From a conversation with Werner Maier

vid_stro_004.mov from FHNW HGK IXDM on Vimeo.

Birsfelden Hydroelectric Plant: in front of the transformers’ hall

Birsfelden Hydroelectric Plant: weir