Turbinhuset, Västerås

In the heart of Västerås, nestled between the City Hall and Västerås Castle, lies a historical gem that has played a pivotal role in the city's development – Turbinhuset. This charming red-brick building, with its quaint architectural blend of Gothic and Romantic styles, is more than just a picturesque landmark; it is a symbol of Västerås' industrial heritage and a testament to the transformative power of electricity.

The Birth of Turbinhuset

The story of Turbinhuset begins in the late 19th century, a time when the world was on the brink of an electrical revolution. In 1884, Västerås Cathedral was illuminated by electric light for the first time, a spectacle that drew crowds willing to pay an entrance fee to witness this marvel. This event was orchestrated by the enterprising Ludvig Fredholm and the Wenström brothers, Göran and Jonas, who were also behind Sweden's first electric street lighting in Stockholm in 1881.

As their company, Elektriska Aktiebolaget, sought to expand, Västerås emerged as a prime candidate for their new base of operations. The city's access to water power, essential for generating electricity, made it an attractive choice. Thus, in 1891, Turbinhuset was constructed on the banks of Svartån, equipped with three turbines that harnessed the river's energy to power the burgeoning electrical industry.

A Turning Point for Västerås

The establishment of Turbinhuset marked a significant turning point for Västerås. The availability of reliable electric power was a crucial factor in attracting ASEA (Allmänna Svenska Elektriska Aktiebolaget), a company that would become a cornerstone of the city's economy. In December 1890, ASEA decided to relocate to Västerås, a decision that would have far-reaching implications.

ASEA's presence in Västerås spurred rapid growth and development. The city's population began to swell, and its industrial landscape transformed. While ASEA initially leased Turbinhuset for 6,000 kronor per year, the company's expansion soon outpaced the building's capacity. By 1902, ASEA had outgrown Turbinhuset and returned it to the city, but the foundation had been laid for Västerås to become a hub of innovation and industry.

From Powerhouse to Museum

After ASEA moved on, Turbinhuset continued to serve as a municipal power station. A major renovation in 1910-11 saw the installation of new machinery, boosting the station's capacity to 200 horsepower. Turbinhuset remained in operation until the 1950s, when advancements in electrical technology rendered its direct current systems obsolete.

In the years that followed, Turbinhuset's role shifted from power generation to storage. However, its historical significance was not forgotten. By the late 1960s, there was a growing movement to preserve Turbinhuset as a museum, celebrating its role in Västerås' industrial heritage. Despite financial challenges, the project gained momentum, and in 1974, King Carl XVI Gustaf inaugurated the Turbinhuset Museum. The museum featured a restored turbine from Dalarna, which powered the original 1910 generator, illuminating the building with carbon filament lamps and offering visitors a glimpse into the past.

Revitalization and Modernization

The story of Turbinhuset did not end with its transformation into a museum. In the autumn of 1995, efforts began to bring Turbinhuset back into commercial operation. The building's foundations were reinforced, and two new turbines were installed, connecting Turbinhuset to the municipal power grid. With a capacity of 110 kW, Turbinhuset once again became a source of electricity, bridging the gap between past and present.

Simultaneously, the museum underwent a renovation, enhancing its exhibits and reaffirming its role as a custodian of Västerås' electrical heritage. Visitors to Turbinhuset can now explore over a century of technological advancements and gain a deeper understanding of the impact of water and electricity on the city's growth.

The Faunapassage

In 2019, Turbinhuset added another chapter to its storied history with the completion of a faunapassage, or fish ladder, designed to help aquatic life navigate the dam. Equipped with automatic cameras, the passage records the species that pass through, providing valuable data for conservation efforts. This initiative is part of Västerås' commitment to sustainability and the United Nations' global goals.

Today, Turbinhuset stands as a vibrant link between Västerås' past and future. It is a place where history comes alive, where the hum of turbines and the glow of vintage lamps tell the story of a city's journey from the age of steam to the era of electricity. A visit to Turbinhuset is not just a step back in time; it is an inspiring reminder of the power of innovation and the enduring legacy of those who dared to dream of a brighter, electrified future.