In the course of the energy-related expansion of the Mur between Bruck and Graz, the beginning of the 1980’s saw Steirische Wasserkraft- und Elektrizitäts-AG (STEWEAG) planning a bay power plant at Friesach. In 1981 investigation was carried out into the geological conditions in the area, and a planning support group was formed comprising representatives of the local municipalities, environmental planners and fishing industry officials.
An Environmental Impact Assessment took place in 1991, following ten years of planning and preparation. After obtaining the approvals for water rights, nature conservation, forest clearance, and electricity industry and electricity rights, STEWEAG was granted the building permit in May 1995. The following summer saw the start of preparatory work in the area of the construction site, followed by the start of construction in October 1995.
Since the power plant construction was carried out using the dry construction technique, it was necessary to create a new riverbed beneath the power plant. The foundations of the power house and weir system were created on solid greenschist. The gravel for concrete production was obtained on-site and processed.
June 1998 saw the commissioning of the first hydroelectric generating set, followed by the second in the ensuing August. Following completion of the works in the reservoir area and in the underwater region, the plant was officially commissioned in June1999.