Remember Hans Christian Ørsted? The man who discovered electromagnetism now has H. C. Ørstedsværket named in his honor. This natural gas-fired power station hums with the legacy of innovation. Today we stand before H. C. Ørstedsværket. It is located at Enghave Brygge in Copenhagen. But this power station is more than just a modern energy source. It is a monument to Copenhagen’s industrial evolution.
Initially, Copenhagen relied on smaller power stations within the city. Gothersgade Power Station led the way in 1892. But these early stations used direct current. This limited their range. As Copenhagen grew, so did its need for power.
The introduction of alternating current changed everything. It allowed for larger power plants further from the city center. Andreas Fussing designed H. C. Ørstedsværket. Construction took place between 1916 and 1920. Its location on Kalvebod Beach was strategic. It provided easy access to cooling water and coal loading. The Southern Harbour was conveniently close.
Upon completion, H. C. Ørstedsværket became Denmark’s largest power station. It held this title until 1940. It supplied all of Copenhagen with lighting. The older power stations became backups.
H. C. Ørstedsværket expanded in 1924. Further adaptations occurred between 1930 and 1932. Louis Hygom and Valdemar Schmidt oversaw these expansions. The 1932 expansion included a massive Burmeister & Wain diesel engine. For 30 years, it was the world’s largest diesel engine.
That colossal engine still exists today. It is an exhibit at DieselHouse. DieselHouse is an interactive museum. On the first and third Sundays of each month, they start the engine. It runs for about ten minutes. It roars to life at 11 a.m.
Coal fueled H. C. Ørstedsværket until 1994. Then, it converted to natural gas. The transition marked a shift toward cleaner energy.
The building itself is a landmark. Its red washed walls and tall windows are distinctive. Blue chimneys rise into the sky. The Danish Heritage Agency recognizes it. It is one of 25 Danish Industrial Heritage Sites.
Today, H. C. Ørstedsværket primarily provides district heating. It serves the greater Copenhagen area. Unit 8 consists of a natural gas fired gas turbine. This unit alone produces 25 MW of electricity. It also generates 200 MJ/s of heat.
From its early days as a coal-fired giant to its current natural gas operations, H. C. Ørstedsværket has adapted to Copenhagen’s evolving energy needs. It stands as a reminder of the city’s industrial past and its commitment to a sustainable future. The power station continues to power and heat the city. It embodies innovation. It also reflects Copenhagen’s dynamic history.