>> Timeline of the main stages, decisions, and highlights of the decommissioning of the Séchilienne Dam
2009
The French State acquired all the structures related to the operation of the Noyer Chut hydroelectric plant, including the intake canal and the Séchilienne dam, as part of the risk prevention measures related to landslides on the ruins of Séchilienne and to address the need to restore the ecological continuity of the river.
Between 2010 and 2013
The first phases of decommissioning were launched. The Isère Departmental Directorate of Territories (DDT) demolished the Noyer Chut hydroelectric plant, filled in the intake canal, and removed the two segments of the Séchilienne dam’s water level control gates, as they were no longer producing electricity and posed a risk of accidental closure.
2016
In June, the environmental authority of the General Council for the Environment and Sustainable Development (CGEDD) issued its opinion on the project for the final dismantling of the dam. It emphasized that the main objective was to restore the ecological continuity of the Romanche River, notably by removing the weir and unnecessary ancillary structures. The opinion also highlighted environmental issues such as the free movement of fish, impacts on flood flow, and sediment transport.
2018
The dam dismantling work is complete.
The Séchilienne dam
©IGN – ©Géoportail
– Commissioned: 1917
– End of service: 1946
– Dismantled: 2018
Renaturation of the Romanche valley ©Roberto EPPLE
>> Chronology of the major stages, decisions, and highlights of the dam and power plant developments of the Romanche-Gavet project
2001
In 2001, EDF wished to renew the concession for the power plant chain between Gavet and Livet. Two options were considered: modernizing the six existing structures or reconfiguring the entire project. After careful analysis, the reconfiguration option was chosen.
2010
The Romanche-Gavet project is part of the “Commitment Agreement for the Development of Sustainable Hydropower in Coherence with the Restoration of Aquatic Environments” signed by EDF in June 2010 as part of the Grenelle Environment Forum.
On December 31, the Official Journal published the decree awarding EDF the concession for the future Romanche-Gavet hydroelectric power plant for a period of 60 years. In the spring, construction work on the Gavet hydroelectric power plant began.
2012
Construction of the Livet water intake dam begins.
2013
A rockslide on the construction site interrupts work. Geological studies and safety measures were carried out before resuming operations.
2015
Work resumes after safety measures. Construction of the Livet water intake dam is completed.
2020
In the spring, the six old power plants cease operation. On October 9, the entire new Romanche-Gavet hydroelectric facility is officially inaugurated and commissioned.
2021
In April, deconstruction work begins on the old hydroelectric infrastructure in the Romanche Valley.
2024
The complete deconstruction of the hydroelectric structures is completed.
Photos of the valley and the dismantled structures
Comparison of aerial views ofPierre-Eybesse ©IGN – ©Géoportail
Comparison of aerial views ofRioupéroux ©IGN – ©Géoportail
Comparison of aerial views ofInfernet ©IGN – ©Géoportail
Comparison of aerial views ofRoberts ©IGN – ©Géoportail
Comparison of aerial views of Livet ©IGN – ©Géoportail
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