Nestled in the Dan Kia – Suoi Vang valley in Lam Dong, where pine forests stretch endlessly and cool streams flow year-round, Ankroet Hydropower Plant stands as a vibrant historical testament. Despite nearing a century of existence, this place still retains memories of being Vietnam’s first hydroelectric plant, seamlessly intertwined with nature in a serene and captivating manner.
With construction commencing in 1942 and official power generation starting in 1945, Ankroet Hydropower Plant holds the distinction of being Vietnam’s inaugural hydroelectric project. Tucked away in the depths of a dense forest, this engineering marvel was crafted using split stones without any steel reinforcement, showcasing a unique building technique that demanded meticulous attention to each stone and mortar joint.
The primary structures of this plant were predominantly constructed using split stones interlinked with mortar, resulting in a majestic, sturdy appearance. The stone walls, combined with distinctive architectural designs, transformed the plant into an intriguing focal point, attracting not only nature enthusiasts but also architecture aficionados. Some visitors even liken this structure to an ancient villa.
Mr. Tran Ngoc Vinh Phuc, the plant supervisor who has dedicated many years to Ankroet, shared with Lam Dong Newspaper that when the French embarked on constructing this project, they envisioned Dalat as the administrative center of Indochina, and Ankroet as the heart of its energy supply. Despite its secluded location deep in the mountains, the operating team has always been conscientious about environmental preservation. They not only protected the surrounding forests but also supplemented the area with ornamental plants, creating an eco-architectural ensemble that harmoniously blends the grandeur of the old with the majesty of nature.
Ankroet’s ambiance feels detached from the hustle and bustle of the outside world. To reach the plant, visitors must cross a small bridge over Suoi Vang, where the discharged water from power generation blends with the natural stream, creating a picturesque and vibrant scene. The plant, viewed in its entirety, resembles an ancient Western house, exuding a sense of tranquility and allure that captivates all who step foot here.
In 1999, to meet the demands of technological advancements and operational efficiency, the initial power units were decommissioned to make way for a more modern system with higher capacity and automation.
Although no longer in operation, the first two power units are meticulously preserved as invaluable artifacts of an unforgettable historical era. One unit is currently on display at the Vietnam Electricity Group’s Traditional House in Hanoi, while the other proudly resides within the Ankroet compound, offering visitors and professionals a chance to marvel at and explore this engineering marvel.
Ankroet Hydropower Plant not only holds the distinction of being Vietnam’s first hydroelectric project but also boasts a manually excavated mountain tunnel integral to the power generation process. The journey of constructing Ankroet is a testament to courage and sacrifice.
In an era devoid of modern machinery, thousands of workers from across the country gathered here, tirelessly laboring with their bare hands.
The plant’s concrete mountain tunnel stretches 536 meters in length and is designed in the shape of a horseshoe with a diameter of 1.65 meters. At the tunnel’s end lies a surge shaft, standing 44 meters tall with a 4-meter diameter. From this shaft, a 182-meter-long and 1.3-meter-wide steel hydraulic pipe directs water downward to the plant.
The presence of the old power unit amidst the lush greenery serves not only as a display piece but also ignites a passion for research among generations of students in the fields of electricity, architecture, and construction. They visit Ankroet to delve into mechanical structures, learn about construction organization in challenging conditions, and appreciate the harmonious blend of technical design and ecological space.
In 2004, the Ankroet Hydropower Plant was recognized by the Vietnam Records Book Center as Vietnam’s first hydroelectric plant, marking a significant milestone in the region’s energy development history.
Photos: Huy Hung/ Vietnam Electricity Electronic Newspaper
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