Protest in Klagenfurt: Mölltaler defend themselves against power plant plans!

Protest in Klagenfurt: Mölltaler defend themselves against power plant plans!

Klagenfurt, Österreich - On December 13, 2024, there was a loud protest in Klagenfurt against the planned construction of a power plant by Kelag in Kolbnitz. Around 100 Mölltaler demonstrated with posters and whistles on Arnulfplatz to make their rejection of the gush compensation power plant clear. The citizens' initiative "saves the Möll" fears that the construction will have massive negative effects on the environment and the leisure opportunities, especially on fishing and water sports. Alexandra Königsreiner, a spokeswoman for the initiative, emphasized that the worst option for the Mölltal, was the best for Kelag and warned of an impending "demise" of the valley.

project representatives defend the power plant

Despite the violent protests, it is clear that Kelag wants to hold on to the construction of the power plant. Peter Macher-Lepuschütz, the project manager, explained that the power plant would offer a solution for the daily drain fluctuations on the Möll and at the same time improve the water ecological condition on 21 kilometers of flow route. It is also emphasized that the project could provide energy for around 25,000 households, which Kelag emphasizes as a positive aspect of the project. A simulation of the basic water volume in the Möll was already carried out after the power plant has been commissioned, and 4 cubic meters per second are planned for the winter, as Macher-Lepuscht explained. This measure could be important for leisure use along the Möll, according to the project manager.

The country is ultimately dealing with the decision about the project, which should undoubtedly have further protests. The Mölltaler initiative shows that the citizens are strong in their beliefs and struggle to protect their habitat. The debate about the power plant in Kolbnitz remains highly topical, while Kelag continues to adhere to the plans, as Kelag reports.