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TOURISM OFFICE Ponte 4 - 28863 Formazza (VB) Tel. +39 0324 63059 Email: prolocoformazza@gmail.com OPENING HOURS Tourist Office opening hours from September 1st to May 31st Tuesday from 2:30 pm to 6 pm Friday and Saturday from 10am to 12:30pm and from 2:30pm to 6pm Sunday from 10 to 12:30 LINK 3B Weather Swiss Weather Contributions Received 2024 Privacy Policy Terms and Conditions SOCIALS Facebook Instagram © 2025 by Pro Loco Formazza HYDROELECTRIC POWER PLANTS GENERAL INFORMATIONS The Formazza Valley is the beating heart of Piedmont's hydroelectric power and one of the symbolic areas of the so-called "hydroelectric colonization of Ossola," a phenomenon that began in the early 20th century and radically transformed the Alpine landscape and the local economy. Here, amid glaciers, alpine lakes, and steep gradients, water became energy, giving rise to an extraordinary complex of dams, reservoirs, and hydroelectric power plants, capable of fueling the industrial development of northern Italy. The province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola (VCO), nestled between the Lepontine and Pennine Alps, is characterized by a large presence of alpine lakes. Many of these are artificial basins, created to optimize hydroelectric production at a time when hydroelectric power—white coal—was a major resource for industrial development. Of the 32 artificial basins, only 14 were built on pre-existing natural lakes. The others were built to power power plants that today represent an engineering and historical heritage of extraordinary value. The use of water for energy purposes began as early as the late 19th century, but it was in the early 20th century that the Val Formazza became the undisputed leader. With over 66% of its land non-productive due to the high altitude, the valley was perfectly suited for hydroelectric production. The first to recognize this potential was Ettore Conti, a young entrepreneur destined to become a key figure in the Italian electricity industry. In 1901, he founded the Società Anonima per Imprese Elettriche Conti, linked to Edison. From that moment, a series of projects and construction sites led to the creation of some of the most important plants in the valley: Rivasco Power Plant (1908): it harnessed the waters of the Toce with a 345-meter drop, generating 9,200 kW. Goglio Power Plant: it used the Devero stream and the Codelago and Pianboglio basins (later decommissioned). Sottofrua Power Plant (1924): with a capacity of 7,500 kW, it utilized the Valtoggia basin and Toggia and Lago Nero lakes. Valdo Power Plant (1920s): with 11,000 kW, later integrated into the Ponte system. Cadarese Power Plant (1928): one of the most powerful, producing 56,000 kW thanks to a 7 km long rock-hewn conduit. Morasco Power Plant (1957): entirely built inside a tunnel, it was the valley's first automated power plant, with remote control from Ponte. CONTACTS If you want to visit the hydroelectric power plants, guided tours are organized here:

HYDROELECTRIC POWER PLANTS TOURISM OFFICE Ponte 4 - 28863 Formazza (VB) Tel. +39 0324 63059 Email: prolocoformazza@gmail.com OPENING HOURS Tourist Office opening hours from September 1st to May 31st Tuesday from 2:30 pm to 6 pm Friday and Saturday from 10am to 12:30pm and from 2:30pm to 6pm Sunday from 10 to 12:30 LINK 3B Weather Swiss Weather Contributions Received 2024 Privacy Policy Terms and Conditions SOCIALS Facebook Instagram © 2025 by Pro Loco Formazza The Formazza Valley is the beating heart of Piedmont's hydroelectric power and one of the symbolic areas of the so-called "hydroelectric colonization of Ossola," a phenomenon that began in the early 20th century and radically transformed the Alpine landscape and the local economy. Here, amid glaciers, alpine lakes, and steep gradients, water became energy, giving rise to an extraordinary complex of dams, reservoirs, and hydroelectric power plants, capable of fueling the industrial development of northern Italy. The province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola (VCO), nestled between the Lepontine and Pennine Alps, is characterized by a large presence of alpine lakes. Many of these are artificial basins, created to optimize hydroelectric production at a time when hydroelectric power—white coal—was a major resource for industrial development. Of the 32 artificial basins, only 14 were built on pre-existing natural lakes. The others were built to power power plants that today represent an engineering and historical heritage of extraordinary value. GENERAL INFORMATIONS The use of water for energy purposes began as early as the late 19th century, but it was in the early 20th century that the Val Formazza became the undisputed leader. With over 66% of its land non-productive due to the high altitude, the valley was perfectly suited for hydroelectric production. The first to recognize this potential was Ettore Conti, a young entrepreneur destined to become a key figure in the Italian electricity industry. In 1901, he founded the Società Anonima per Imprese Elettriche Conti, linked to Edison. From that moment, a series of projects and construction sites led to the creation of some of the most important plants in the valley: Rivasco Power Plant (1908): it harnessed the waters of the Toce with a 345-meter drop, generating 9,200 kW. Goglio Power Plant: it used the Devero stream and the Codelago and Pianboglio basins (later decommissioned). Sottofrua Power Plant (1924): with a capacity of 7,500 kW, it utilized the Valtoggia basin and Toggia and Lago Nero lakes. Valdo Power Plant (1920s): with 11,000 kW, later integrated into the Ponte system. Cadarese Power Plant (1928): one of the most powerful, producing 56,000 kW thanks to a 7 km long rock-hewn conduit. Morasco Power Plant (1957): entirely built inside a tunnel, it was the valley's first automated power plant, with remote control from Ponte. CONTACTS If you want to visit the hydroelectric power plants, guided tours are organized here:

TOURISM OFFICE Ponte 4 - 28863 Formazza (VB) Tel. +39 0324 63059 Email: prolocoformazza@gmail.com OPENING HOURS Tourist Office opening hours from September 1st to May 31st Tuesday from 2:30 pm to 6 pm Friday and Saturday from 10am to 12:30pm and from 2:30pm to 6pm Sunday from 10 to 12:30 LINK 3B Weather Swiss Weather Contributions Received 2024 Privacy Policy Terms and Conditions SOCIALS Facebook Instagram © 2025 by Pro Loco Formazza HYDROELECTRIC POWER PLANTS GENERAL INFORMATIONS The Formazza Valley is the beating heart of Piedmont's hydroelectric power and one of the symbolic areas of the so-called "hydroelectric colonization of Ossola," a phenomenon that began in the early 20th century and radically transformed the Alpine landscape and the local economy. Here, amid glaciers, alpine lakes, and steep gradients, water became energy, giving rise to an extraordinary complex of dams, reservoirs, and hydroelectric power plants, capable of fueling the industrial development of northern Italy. The province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola (VCO), nestled between the Lepontine and Pennine Alps, is characterized by a large presence of alpine lakes. Many of these are artificial basins, created to optimize hydroelectric production at a time when hydroelectric power—white coal—was a major resource for industrial development. Of the 32 artificial basins, only 14 were built on pre-existing natural lakes. The others were built to power power plants that today represent an engineering and historical heritage of extraordinary value. The use of water for energy purposes began as early as the late 19th century, but it was in the early 20th century that the Val Formazza became the undisputed leader. With over 66% of its land non-productive due to the high altitude, the valley was perfectly suited for hydroelectric production. The first to recognize this potential was Ettore Conti, a young entrepreneur destined to become a key figure in the Italian electricity industry. In 1901, he founded the Società Anonima per Imprese Elettriche Conti, linked to Edison. From that moment, a series of projects and construction sites led to the creation of some of the most important plants in the valley: Rivasco Power Plant (1908): it harnessed the waters of the Toce with a 345-meter drop, generating 9,200 kW. Goglio Power Plant: it used the Devero stream and the Codelago and Pianboglio basins (later decommissioned). Sottofrua Power Plant (1924): with a capacity of 7,500 kW, it utilized the Valtoggia basin and Toggia and Lago Nero lakes. Valdo Power Plant (1920s): with 11,000 kW, later integrated into the Ponte system. Cadarese Power Plant (1928): one of the most powerful, producing 56,000 kW thanks to a 7 km long rock-hewn conduit. Morasco Power Plant (1957): entirely built inside a tunnel, it was the valley's first automated power plant, with remote control from Ponte. CONTACTS If you want to visit the hydroelectric power plants, guided tours are organized here:

TOURISM OFFICE Ponte 4 - 28863 Formazza (VB) Tel. +39 0324 63059 Email: prolocoformazza@gmail.com OPENING HOURS Tourist Office opening hours from September 1st to May 31st Tuesday from 2:30 pm to 6 pm Friday and Saturday from 10am to 12:30pm and from 2:30pm to 6pm Sunday from 10 to 12:30 LINK 3B Weather Swiss Weather Contributions Received 2024 Privacy Policy Terms and Conditions SOCIALS Facebook Instagram © 2025 by Pro Loco Formazza HYDROELECTRIC POWER PLANTS GENERAL INFORMATIONS The Formazza Valley is the beating heart of Piedmont's hydroelectric power and one of the symbolic areas of the so-called "hydroelectric colonization of Ossola," a phenomenon that began in the early 20th century and radically transformed the Alpine landscape and the local economy. Here, amid glaciers, alpine lakes, and steep gradients, water became energy, giving rise to an extraordinary complex of dams, reservoirs, and hydroelectric power plants, capable of fueling the industrial development of northern Italy. The province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola (VCO), nestled between the Lepontine and Pennine Alps, is characterized by a large presence of alpine lakes. Many of these are artificial basins, created to optimize hydroelectric production at a time when hydroelectric power—white coal—was a major resource for industrial development. Of the 32 artificial basins, only 14 were built on pre-existing natural lakes. The others were built to power power plants that today represent an engineering and historical heritage of extraordinary value. The use of water for energy purposes began as early as the late 19th century, but it was in the early 20th century that the Val Formazza became the undisputed leader. With over 66% of its land non-productive due to the high altitude, the valley was perfectly suited for hydroelectric production. The first to recognize this potential was Ettore Conti, a young entrepreneur destined to become a key figure in the Italian electricity industry. In 1901, he founded the Società Anonima per Imprese Elettriche Conti, linked to Edison. From that moment, a series of projects and construction sites led to the creation of some of the most important plants in the valley: Rivasco Power Plant (1908): it harnessed the waters of the Toce with a 345-meter drop, generating 9,200 kW. Goglio Power Plant: it used the Devero stream and the Codelago and Pianboglio basins (later decommissioned). Sottofrua Power Plant (1924): with a capacity of 7,500 kW, it utilized the Valtoggia basin and Toggia and Lago Nero lakes. Valdo Power Plant (1920s): with 11,000 kW, later integrated into the Ponte system. Cadarese Power Plant (1928): one of the most powerful, producing 56,000 kW thanks to a 7 km long rock-hewn conduit. Morasco Power Plant (1957): entirely built inside a tunnel, it was the valley's first automated power plant, with remote control from Ponte. CONTACTS If you want to visit the hydroelectric power plants, guided tours are organized here:

TOURISM OFFICE Ponte 4 - 28863 Formazza (VB) Tel. +39 0324 63059 Email: prolocoformazza@gmail.com OPENING HOURS Tourist Office opening hours from September 1st to May 31st Tuesday from 2:30 pm to 6 pm Friday and Saturday from 10am to 12:30pm and from 2:30pm to 6pm Sunday from 10 to 12:30 LINK 3B Weather Swiss Weather Contributions Received 2024 Privacy Policy Terms and Conditions SOCIALS Facebook Instagram © 2025 by Pro Loco Formazza HYDROELECTRIC POWER PLANTS GENERAL INFORMATIONS The Formazza Valley is the beating heart of Piedmont's hydroelectric power and one of the symbolic areas of the so-called "hydroelectric colonization of Ossola," a phenomenon that began in the early 20th century and radically transformed the Alpine landscape and the local economy. Here, amid glaciers, alpine lakes, and steep gradients, water became energy, giving rise to an extraordinary complex of dams, reservoirs, and hydroelectric power plants, capable of fueling the industrial development of northern Italy. The province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola (VCO), nestled between the Lepontine and Pennine Alps, is characterized by a large presence of alpine lakes. Many of these are artificial basins, created to optimize hydroelectric production at a time when hydroelectric power—white coal—was a major resource for industrial development. Of the 32 artificial basins, only 14 were built on pre-existing natural lakes. The others were built to power power plants that today represent an engineering and historical heritage of extraordinary value. The use of water for energy purposes began as early as the late 19th century, but it was in the early 20th century that the Val Formazza became the undisputed leader. With over 66% of its land non-productive due to the high altitude, the valley was perfectly suited for hydroelectric production. The first to recognize this potential was Ettore Conti, a young entrepreneur destined to become a key figure in the Italian electricity industry. In 1901, he founded the Società Anonima per Imprese Elettriche Conti, linked to Edison. From that moment, a series of projects and construction sites led to the creation of some of the most important plants in the valley: Rivasco Power Plant (1908): it harnessed the waters of the Toce with a 345-meter drop, generating 9,200 kW. Goglio Power Plant: it used the Devero stream and the Codelago and Pianboglio basins (later decommissioned). Sottofrua Power Plant (1924): with a capacity of 7,500 kW, it utilized the Valtoggia basin and Toggia and Lago Nero lakes. Valdo Power Plant (1920s): with 11,000 kW, later integrated into the Ponte system. Cadarese Power Plant (1928): one of the most powerful, producing 56,000 kW thanks to a 7 km long rock-hewn conduit. Morasco Power Plant (1957): entirely built inside a tunnel, it was the valley's first automated power plant, with remote control from Ponte. CONTACTS If you want to visit the hydroelectric power plants, guided tours are organized here:

TOURISM OFFICE Ponte 4 - 28863 Formazza (VB) Tel. +39 0324 63059 Email: prolocoformazza@gmail.com OPENING HOURS Tourist Office opening hours from September 1st to May 31st Tuesday from 2:30 pm to 6 pm Friday and Saturday from 10am to 12:30pm and from 2:30pm to 6pm Sunday from 10 to 12:30 LINK 3B Weather Swiss Weather Contributions Received 2024 Privacy Policy Terms and Conditions SOCIALS Facebook Instagram © 2025 by Pro Loco Formazza HYDROELECTRIC POWER PLANTS GENERAL INFORMATIONS The Formazza Valley is the beating heart of Piedmont's hydroelectric power and one of the symbolic areas of the so-called "hydroelectric colonization of Ossola," a phenomenon that began in the early 20th century and radically transformed the Alpine landscape and the local economy. Here, amid glaciers, alpine lakes, and steep gradients, water became energy, giving rise to an extraordinary complex of dams, reservoirs, and hydroelectric power plants, capable of fueling the industrial development of northern Italy. The province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola (VCO), nestled between the Lepontine and Pennine Alps, is characterized by a large presence of alpine lakes. Many of these are artificial basins, created to optimize hydroelectric production at a time when hydroelectric power—white coal—was a major resource for industrial development. Of the 32 artificial basins, only 14 were built on pre-existing natural lakes. The others were built to power power plants that today represent an engineering and historical heritage of extraordinary value. The use of water for energy purposes began as early as the late 19th century, but it was in the early 20th century that the Val Formazza became the undisputed leader. With over 66% of its land non-productive due to the high altitude, the valley was perfectly suited for hydroelectric production. The first to recognize this potential was Ettore Conti, a young entrepreneur destined to become a key figure in the Italian electricity industry. In 1901, he founded the Società Anonima per Imprese Elettriche Conti, linked to Edison. From that moment, a series of projects and construction sites led to the creation of some of the most important plants in the valley: Rivasco Power Plant (1908): it harnessed the waters of the Toce with a 345-meter drop, generating 9,200 kW. Goglio Power Plant: it used the Devero stream and the Codelago and Pianboglio basins (later decommissioned). Sottofrua Power Plant (1924): with a capacity of 7,500 kW, it utilized the Valtoggia basin and Toggia and Lago Nero lakes. Valdo Power Plant (1920s): with 11,000 kW, later integrated into the Ponte system. Cadarese Power Plant (1928): one of the most powerful, producing 56,000 kW thanks to a 7 km long rock-hewn conduit. Morasco Power Plant (1957): entirely built inside a tunnel, it was the valley's first automated power plant, with remote control from Ponte. CONTACTS If you want to visit the hydroelectric power plants, guided tours are organized here:

TOURISM OFFICE Ponte 4 - 28863 Formazza (VB) Tel. +39 0324 63059 Email: prolocoformazza@gmail.com OPENING HOURS Tourist Office opening hours from September 1st to May 31st Tuesday from 2:30 pm to 6 pm Friday and Saturday from 10am to 12:30pm and from 2:30pm to 6pm Sunday from 10 to 12:30 LINK 3B Weather Swiss Weather Contributions Received 2024 Privacy Policy Terms and Conditions SOCIALS Facebook Instagram © 2025 by Pro Loco Formazza HYDROELECTRIC POWER PLANTS GENERAL INFORMATIONS The Formazza Valley is the beating heart of Piedmont's hydroelectric power and one of the symbolic areas of the so-called "hydroelectric colonization of Ossola," a phenomenon that began in the early 20th century and radically transformed the Alpine landscape and the local economy. Here, amid glaciers, alpine lakes, and steep gradients, water became energy, giving rise to an extraordinary complex of dams, reservoirs, and hydroelectric power plants, capable of fueling the industrial development of northern Italy. The province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola (VCO), nestled between the Lepontine and Pennine Alps, is characterized by a large presence of alpine lakes. Many of these are artificial basins, created to optimize hydroelectric production at a time when hydroelectric power—white coal—was a major resource for industrial development. Of the 32 artificial basins, only 14 were built on pre-existing natural lakes. The others were built to power power plants that today represent an engineering and historical heritage of extraordinary value. The use of water for energy purposes began as early as the late 19th century, but it was in the early 20th century that the Val Formazza became the undisputed leader. With over 66% of its land non-productive due to the high altitude, the valley was perfectly suited for hydroelectric production. The first to recognize this potential was Ettore Conti, a young entrepreneur destined to become a key figure in the Italian electricity industry. In 1901, he founded the Società Anonima per Imprese Elettriche Conti, linked to Edison. From that moment, a series of projects and construction sites led to the creation of some of the most important plants in the valley: Rivasco Power Plant (1908): it harnessed the waters of the Toce with a 345-meter drop, generating 9,200 kW. Goglio Power Plant: it used the Devero stream and the Codelago and Pianboglio basins (later decommissioned). Sottofrua Power Plant (1924): with a capacity of 7,500 kW, it utilized the Valtoggia basin and Toggia and Lago Nero lakes. Valdo Power Plant (1920s): with 11,000 kW, later integrated into the Ponte system. Cadarese Power Plant (1928): one of the most powerful, producing 56,000 kW thanks to a 7 km long rock-hewn conduit. Morasco Power Plant (1957): entirely built inside a tunnel, it was the valley's first automated power plant, with remote control from Ponte. CONTACTS If you want to visit the hydroelectric power plants, guided tours are organized here:

TOURISM OFFICE Ponte 4 - 28863 Formazza (VB) Tel. +39 0324 63059 Email: prolocoformazza@gmail.com OPENING HOURS Tourist Office opening hours from September 1st to May 31st Tuesday from 2:30 pm to 6 pm Friday and Saturday from 10am to 12:30pm and from 2:30pm to 6pm Sunday from 10 to 12:30 LINK 3B Weather Swiss Weather Contributions Received 2024 Privacy Policy Terms and Conditions SOCIALS Facebook Instagram © 2025 by Pro Loco Formazza WALSER CULTURE WALSER Discover the Walser heritage of the Formazza Valley, shaped by Alemannic pioneers since the 13th century. Admire the iconic wooden Blockbau houses, with slate roofs and the characteristic "mushrooms" (Pilze) of the granaries, visible in villages like Riale and Ponte. Titsch, an ancient German dialect, is the beating heart of this identity, now an intangible heritage. Experience Walser traditions at events like Pomattertag and discover the skill of wood craftsmanship. An authentic soul and a unique Alpine heritage, just waiting to be explored. WALSER MIGRATIONS: HISTORICAL PROFILE AND CAUSES OF EMIGRATION FROM VALAIS Between the 12th and 14th centuries, the Walser migrated from the Upper Valais ("Goms") to new Alpine valleys. While the exact causes of this exodus remain uncertain, their settlement was often encouraged by feudal lords, eager to populate and control inaccessible territories. Decisive for their success was the granting of "Walser Right" (Walserrecht). This privilege guaranteed the settlers: Personal freedom Community autonomy Hereditary land tenancy THE PUSH TO THE SOUTH It is believed that groups crossed the Simplon Pass before 1200 and colonized the southern part of the pass, later driving out the Latin population from the Zwischenbergen region. In the 13th century, several high Italian valleys were colonized. For example, settlers from the Mattertal settled in the Pomatt (Formazza Valley), Saaser Tal, and Gressoney. Settlers from the Pomatt migrated again in the mid-13th century and founded Boso-Gurin, the only German-speaking town in the Canton of Ticino to this day. Other Italian Walser (Southern Walser) colonies include Im Land (Alagna), Makaná (Macugnaga), Urnafásch (Ornavasso), Rima, and Rimella. WALSER COLONIES IN THE WEST In the 12th and 13th centuries, German-speaking Valaisans settled in French Savoy. There they founded three colonies, two of which are still called Les Allamands (the Germans) today. However, the German language has long since disappeared. THE WALSER OF THE NORTH In the 12th and 13th centuries, people from the Lötschental settled in the Bernese Oberland, founding colonies in the Lauterbrunnertal and Planalp at the foot of the Brienzer Rothorn. Another settlement was founded south of Thun. The so-called Lötscher were those who had returned to the Bernese Oberland. THE EASTWARD EXPANSION Walser expansion continued eastward: settlers from the Upper Valais settled first in Ursera and then in the Upper Rhine area (Obersaxen). Subsequently, the Pomatt (Formazza Valley) became an important center of further emigration. Settlers from the Pomatt were among the first to settle in Avers and the Rheinwald (Graubünden). Davos also saw significant Walser colonization, perhaps from groups from the Lower Valais or other southern colonies. From these new settlements, such as the Rheinwald and Davos, expansion continued into neighboring valleys, Liechtenstein and Austrian Vorarlberg, where the Grosswalsertal and Kleinwalsertal still bear their mark today. FORMAZZA - LAW The Thalbuch (1486), granted by the Duke of Milan, is the cornerstone of Walser liberties in the Formazza Valley, based on the original autonomies of the Valais. It established an autonomous court (Valley Council) with minor civil and criminal jurisdiction, a model later adopted by other Walser colonies in Graubünden and Vorarlberg. Equally fundamental is the communal order of the Alps and forests: still in force today, it divides common property into "quartieri" (corresponding to the settlements from Foppiano to Canza), assigning collective ownership of the entire valley territory to the consortia. Visit the Walser Help Desk in Formazza VISIT

TOURISM OFFICE Ponte 4 - 28863 Formazza (VB) Tel. +39 0324 63059 Email: prolocoformazza@gmail.com OPENING HOURS Tourist Office opening hours from September 1st to May 31st Tuesday from 2:30 pm to 6 pm Friday and Saturday from 10am to 12:30pm and from 2:30pm to 6pm Sunday from 10 to 12:30 LINK 3B Weather Swiss Weather Contributions Received 2024 Privacy Policy Terms and Conditions SOCIALS Facebook Instagram © 2025 by Pro Loco Formazza HYDROELECTRIC POWER PLANTS GENERAL INFORMATIONS The Formazza Valley is the beating heart of Piedmont's hydroelectric power and one of the symbolic areas of the so-called "hydroelectric colonization of Ossola," a phenomenon that began in the early 20th century and radically transformed the Alpine landscape and the local economy. Here, amid glaciers, alpine lakes, and steep gradients, water became energy, giving rise to an extraordinary complex of dams, reservoirs, and hydroelectric power plants, capable of fueling the industrial development of northern Italy. The province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola (VCO), nestled between the Lepontine and Pennine Alps, is characterized by a large presence of alpine lakes. Many of these are artificial basins, created to optimize hydroelectric production at a time when hydroelectric power—white coal—was a major resource for industrial development. Of the 32 artificial basins, only 14 were built on pre-existing natural lakes. The others were built to power power plants that today represent an engineering and historical heritage of extraordinary value. The use of water for energy purposes began as early as the late 19th century, but it was in the early 20th century that the Val Formazza became the undisputed leader. With over 66% of its land non-productive due to the high altitude, the valley was perfectly suited for hydroelectric production. The first to recognize this potential was Ettore Conti, a young entrepreneur destined to become a key figure in the Italian electricity industry. In 1901, he founded the Società Anonima per Imprese Elettriche Conti, linked to Edison. From that moment, a series of projects and construction sites led to the creation of some of the most important plants in the valley: Rivasco Power Plant (1908): it harnessed the waters of the Toce with a 345-meter drop, generating 9,200 kW. Goglio Power Plant: it used the Devero stream and the Codelago and Pianboglio basins (later decommissioned). Sottofrua Power Plant (1924): with a capacity of 7,500 kW, it utilized the Valtoggia basin and Toggia and Lago Nero lakes. Valdo Power Plant (1920s): with 11,000 kW, later integrated into the Ponte system. Cadarese Power Plant (1928): one of the most powerful, producing 56,000 kW thanks to a 7 km long rock-hewn conduit. Morasco Power Plant (1957): entirely built inside a tunnel, it was the valley's first automated power plant, with remote control from Ponte. CONTACTS If you want to visit the hydroelectric power plants, guided tours are organized here:

TOURISM OFFICE Ponte 4 - 28863 Formazza (VB) Tel. +39 0324 63059 Email: prolocoformazza@gmail.com OPENING HOURS Tourist Office opening hours from September 1st to May 31st Tuesday from 2:30 pm to 6 pm Friday and Saturday from 10am to 12:30pm and from 2:30pm to 6pm Sunday from 10 to 12:30 LINK 3B Weather Swiss Weather Contributions Received 2024 Privacy Policy Terms and Conditions SOCIALS Facebook Instagram © 2025 by Pro Loco Formazza HYDROELECTRIC POWER PLANTS GENERAL INFORMATIONS The Formazza Valley is the beating heart of Piedmont's hydroelectric power and one of the symbolic areas of the so-called "hydroelectric colonization of Ossola," a phenomenon that began in the early 20th century and radically transformed the Alpine landscape and the local economy. Here, amid glaciers, alpine lakes, and steep gradients, water became energy, giving rise to an extraordinary complex of dams, reservoirs, and hydroelectric power plants, capable of fueling the industrial development of northern Italy. The province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola (VCO), nestled between the Lepontine and Pennine Alps, is characterized by a large presence of alpine lakes. Many of these are artificial basins, created to optimize hydroelectric production at a time when hydroelectric power—white coal—was a major resource for industrial development. Of the 32 artificial basins, only 14 were built on pre-existing natural lakes. The others were built to power power plants that today represent an engineering and historical heritage of extraordinary value. The use of water for energy purposes began as early as the late 19th century, but it was in the early 20th century that the Val Formazza became the undisputed leader. With over 66% of its land non-productive due to the high altitude, the valley was perfectly suited for hydroelectric production. The first to recognize this potential was Ettore Conti, a young entrepreneur destined to become a key figure in the Italian electricity industry. In 1901, he founded the Società Anonima per Imprese Elettriche Conti, linked to Edison. From that moment, a series of projects and construction sites led to the creation of some of the most important plants in the valley: Rivasco Power Plant (1908): it harnessed the waters of the Toce with a 345-meter drop, generating 9,200 kW. Goglio Power Plant: it used the Devero stream and the Codelago and Pianboglio basins (later decommissioned). Sottofrua Power Plant (1924): with a capacity of 7,500 kW, it utilized the Valtoggia basin and Toggia and Lago Nero lakes. Valdo Power Plant (1920s): with 11,000 kW, later integrated into the Ponte system. Cadarese Power Plant (1928): one of the most powerful, producing 56,000 kW thanks to a 7 km long rock-hewn conduit. Morasco Power Plant (1957): entirely built inside a tunnel, it was the valley's first automated power plant, with remote control from Ponte. CONTACTS If you want to visit the hydroelectric power plants, guided tours are organized here:

TOURISM OFFICE Ponte 4 - 28863 Formazza (VB) Tel. +39 0324 63059 Email: prolocoformazza@gmail.com OPENING HOURS Tourist Office opening hours from September 1st to May 31st Tuesday from 2:30 pm to 6 pm Friday and Saturday from 10am to 12:30pm and from 2:30pm to 6pm Sunday from 10 to 12:30 LINK 3B Weather Swiss Weather Contributions Received 2024 Privacy Policy Terms and Conditions SOCIALS Facebook Instagram © 2025 by Pro Loco Formazza HYDROELECTRIC POWER PLANTS GENERAL INFORMATIONS The Formazza Valley is the beating heart of Piedmont's hydroelectric power and one of the symbolic areas of the so-called "hydroelectric colonization of Ossola," a phenomenon that began in the early 20th century and radically transformed the Alpine landscape and the local economy. Here, amid glaciers, alpine lakes, and steep gradients, water became energy, giving rise to an extraordinary complex of dams, reservoirs, and hydroelectric power plants, capable of fueling the industrial development of northern Italy. The province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola (VCO), nestled between the Lepontine and Pennine Alps, is characterized by a large presence of alpine lakes. Many of these are artificial basins, created to optimize hydroelectric production at a time when hydroelectric power—white coal—was a major resource for industrial development. Of the 32 artificial basins, only 14 were built on pre-existing natural lakes. The others were built to power power plants that today represent an engineering and historical heritage of extraordinary value. The use of water for energy purposes began as early as the late 19th century, but it was in the early 20th century that the Val Formazza became the undisputed leader. With over 66% of its land non-productive due to the high altitude, the valley was perfectly suited for hydroelectric production. The first to recognize this potential was Ettore Conti, a young entrepreneur destined to become a key figure in the Italian electricity industry. In 1901, he founded the Società Anonima per Imprese Elettriche Conti, linked to Edison. From that moment, a series of projects and construction sites led to the creation of some of the most important plants in the valley: Rivasco Power Plant (1908): it harnessed the waters of the Toce with a 345-meter drop, generating 9,200 kW. Goglio Power Plant: it used the Devero stream and the Codelago and Pianboglio basins (later decommissioned). Sottofrua Power Plant (1924): with a capacity of 7,500 kW, it utilized the Valtoggia basin and Toggia and Lago Nero lakes. Valdo Power Plant (1920s): with 11,000 kW, later integrated into the Ponte system. Cadarese Power Plant (1928): one of the most powerful, producing 56,000 kW thanks to a 7 km long rock-hewn conduit. Morasco Power Plant (1957): entirely built inside a tunnel, it was the valley's first automated power plant, with remote control from Ponte. CONTACTS If you want to visit the hydroelectric power plants, guided tours are organized here:

TOURISM OFFICE Ponte 4 - 28863 Formazza (VB) Tel. +39 0324 63059 Email: prolocoformazza@gmail.com OPENING HOURS Tourist Office opening hours from September 1st to May 31st Tuesday from 2:30 pm to 6 pm Friday and Saturday from 10am to 12:30pm and from 2:30pm to 6pm Sunday from 10 to 12:30 LINK 3B Weather Swiss Weather Contributions Received 2024 Privacy Policy Terms and Conditions SOCIALS Facebook Instagram © 2025 by Pro Loco Formazza HYDROELECTRIC POWER PLANTS GENERAL INFORMATIONS The Formazza Valley is the beating heart of Piedmont's hydroelectric power and one of the symbolic areas of the so-called "hydroelectric colonization of Ossola," a phenomenon that began in the early 20th century and radically transformed the Alpine landscape and the local economy. Here, amid glaciers, alpine lakes, and steep gradients, water became energy, giving rise to an extraordinary complex of dams, reservoirs, and hydroelectric power plants, capable of fueling the industrial development of northern Italy. The province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola (VCO), nestled between the Lepontine and Pennine Alps, is characterized by a large presence of alpine lakes. Many of these are artificial basins, created to optimize hydroelectric production at a time when hydroelectric power—white coal—was a major resource for industrial development. Of the 32 artificial basins, only 14 were built on pre-existing natural lakes. The others were built to power power plants that today represent an engineering and historical heritage of extraordinary value. The use of water for energy purposes began as early as the late 19th century, but it was in the early 20th century that the Val Formazza became the undisputed leader. With over 66% of its land non-productive due to the high altitude, the valley was perfectly suited for hydroelectric production. The first to recognize this potential was Ettore Conti, a young entrepreneur destined to become a key figure in the Italian electricity industry. In 1901, he founded the Società Anonima per Imprese Elettriche Conti, linked to Edison. From that moment, a series of projects and construction sites led to the creation of some of the most important plants in the valley: Rivasco Power Plant (1908): it harnessed the waters of the Toce with a 345-meter drop, generating 9,200 kW. Goglio Power Plant: it used the Devero stream and the Codelago and Pianboglio basins (later decommissioned). Sottofrua Power Plant (1924): with a capacity of 7,500 kW, it utilized the Valtoggia basin and Toggia and Lago Nero lakes. Valdo Power Plant (1920s): with 11,000 kW, later integrated into the Ponte system. Cadarese Power Plant (1928): one of the most powerful, producing 56,000 kW thanks to a 7 km long rock-hewn conduit. Morasco Power Plant (1957): entirely built inside a tunnel, it was the valley's first automated power plant, with remote control from Ponte. CONTACTS If you want to visit the hydroelectric power plants, guided tours are organized here: