Public documentation for Formin and Markovci works
Slovenia has moved the proposed reconstruction of the Formin hydropower plant into the public-review stage of the integrated construction-permit process. The Ministry of Environment and Spatial Planning has published documentation covering the plant reconstruction and work on the adjacent Markovci dam. The materials will remain available for public inspection until 24 August.
Scope of equipment replacement and civil works
The project owner is Dravske Elektrarne Maribor, or DEM. DEM plans a comprehensive replacement of the plant’s mechanical and electrical equipment. The scope also includes rehabilitation of the intake canal with a new geocomposite lining, construction of a protective wall, and repairs to the discharge canal and stone embankments.
Capacity and generation outlook after modernisation
Formin entered operation in 1978. It is the last hydropower station on Slovenia’s section of the Drava River that has not undergone a full overhaul. Modernisation is intended to extend the operating life of the plant and bring its hydraulic performance into line with the remainder of the Drava cascade.
Installed capacity is expected to rise by 12.6%, from 116 MW to 130.65 MW. Average annual production is forecast to increase by approximately 7%, from 548 GWh to 588.6 GWh. The investment adds about 14.65 MW of capacity and 40.6 GWh of annual generation.
Construction schedule and permitting coordination
Work on the intake canal and first generating unit is scheduled to begin in August 2027. Reconstruction of the second unit is planned for late 2027. The modernised plant is expected to return to operation by the end of 2028 or early 2029.
The permitting process is described as central to maintaining that timeline. Canal works, dam interfaces, equipment replacement, and staged unit outages must be coordinated without compromising water management or operation of the wider Drava cascade.
Market context for dispatchable hydro in Slovenia
Formin’s modernisation is taking place as flexible hydropower becomes more valuable in Slovenia. The rapid expansion of solar generation is widening the difference between midday and evening prices. Regional drought is increasing the strategic importance of every dispatchable hydro asset.
