The economic boom that Switzerland experienced after the war necessitated the expansion of hydroelectric power: in a short space of time, between 1950 and 1970, nearly 80 dams over 15 metres high were built. These account for half of the existing structures in our country.

It was during this period that the Grande Dixence dam was built; at 285 metres high, it remains the world’s tallest gravity dam.

Since then, the pace of dam construction has slowed. However, Swiss engineers have contributed their knowledge and experience to numerous projects abroad. In this way, they preserve their expertise and remain at the forefront of a technology that is constantly advancing.

This is beneficial in ensuring the effective maintenance of our own dams.