Fish Pass

The EDF hydroelectric power plant in Gerstheim has been equipped with a fish pass modeled on the innovative design of the Strasbourg fish pass, which was commissioned in 2016. This structure allows migratory fish, especially salmon, to swim upstream along the Rhine towards Switzerland, in line with commitments made by the French government under the European Rhine 2020 program. The facility stretches 400 meters long and 5.5 meters wide, featuring a natural configuration that facilitates the passage of species. The construction involved 3,400 cubic meters of concrete and 270 tons of reinforcement, along with 35,000 cubic meters of earthworks. Additionally, 8,000 shrubs and plants were planted along the pass to integrate the structure into its environment. The total budget, including studies, amounts to 15 million euros, jointly funded by EDF and the Rhine-Meuse Water Agency.