Thuringia: Low Water Levels in Schmalwasser Dam Halt Energy Production
Due to prolonged dry periods, the Schmalwasser dam near Tambach-Dietharz in Thuringia is currently only half full, holding approximately 9.8 million cubic meters of water. The Thuringian Long-Distance Water Company announced that it cannot supplement the Apfelstädt River with additional dam water beyond minimum requirements this year. Consequently, turbines in Erfurt, part of the Westring cascade system, have been inactive since April to prioritize drinking water supplies. Environment Minister Tilo Kummer emphasized that securing potable water for residents takes precedence over energy generation or river augmentation. The situation has intensified longstanding local disputes regarding water distribution, with citizens previously advocating for more flow into the Apfelstädt. To mitigate shortages, the Schmalwasser dam is now connected to the Ohra dam, which has seen improved levels. Recognizing broader climate challenges, including falling groundwater and erratic rainfall, Thuringia plans to develop a state water resources program. The state has also secured support from other federal states in the Federal Council to request increased EU funding between 2028 and 2034 for modernizing water infrastructure and storage facilities to ensure future supply security.
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Thuringia: Low Water Levels in Schmalwasser Dam Halt Energy Production
Due to prolonged dry periods, the Schmalwasser dam near Tambach-Dietharz in Thuringia is currently only half full, holding approximately 9.8 million cubic meters of water. The Thuringian Long-Distance Water Company announced that it cannot supplement the Apfelstädt River with additional dam water beyond minimum requirements this year. Consequently, turbines in Erfurt, part of the Westring cascade system, have been inactive since April to prioritize drinking water supplies. Environment Minister Tilo Kummer emphasized that securing potable water for residents takes precedence over energy generation or river augmentation. The situation has intensified longstanding local disputes regarding water distribution, with citizens previously advocating for more flow into the Apfelstädt. To mitigate shortages, the Schmalwasser dam is now connected to the Ohra dam, which has seen improved levels. Recognizing broader climate challenges, including falling groundwater and erratic rainfall, Thuringia plans to develop a state water resources program. The state has also secured support from other federal states in the Federal Council to request increased EU funding between 2028 and 2034 for modernizing water infrastructure and storage facilities to ensure future supply security.
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