Delivering underground hydropower excellence in the Austrian Alps
The Limberg III pumped storage power plant is a major infrastructure project designed to enhance Austria’s energy flexibility and storage capacity. Located in the Kaprun valley, the facility adds 480 MW of installed capacity to the Kaprun - Salzach power plant group and is built entirely underground, minimizing environmental impact while maximizing performance.
AFRY was commissioned by VERBUND Hydro Power GmbH to provide comprehensive site supervision, supports in contract management, and geological consulting throughout the construction phase. Our team oversaw the execution of complex underground works, including:
- A 558-meter pressure shaft with a 42° slope
- Over 5.1 kilometers of drift waterway tunnels
- A machine cavern located 450 meters below the surface
- Cavern system with a total excavation volume of 72.000 m³
In addition to technical oversight, AFRY conducted natural hazard analyses related to the Limberg dam and supported injection measures and barrier enhancements. The plant uses existing reservoirs, Mooserboden and Wasserfallboden, without requiring new surface storage, making it a model of sustainable engineering.
This project reflects the depth of AFRY’s hydropower expertise. Our team brought decades of experience to the table, ensuring that every aspect of construction, from geological documentation to contract execution, was handled with precision and care. - Andreas Wutschl, Head of Service Area PM & site supervision
Limberg III is now in the commissioning phase and is soon ready to support Austria’s energy transition.
Interested in Limberg III pumped storage power plant in Kaprun, Austria?