The Rance Tidal Power Station

Location: Brittany, France

Type: Tidal

Status: Operational

Year of establishment: 1966

Installed Capacity: 240 MWe

Project Description

This was the first power station to take advantage of tidal water flow to produce electricity. The reason that the Rance River estuary was chosen was due to its large tidal range; it actually has the highest tidal range in France. Opened in 1966 as the world's first tidal power station, it is currently operated by Électricité de France.

Purpose/Application

Electricity production.

Unique Aspect

EDF prepared a discovery center at La Rance, which is free and open to the public all year round. A life-size turbine (bulb turbine), interactive terminals, models, videos, and information panels help visitors understand the working, history, and environment of the tidal power plant.