EL PROYECTO HIDROELÉCTRICO DEL MOLINO DE DAROQUI

Abstract

The electrification of the city of Valencia began with the installation of several generators in the Marquis of Campo’s gas factory located inside the city. That was in 1887. Upon Campo's death, his influence is quickly diluted and the market opens up to other competitors. Improvements in lighting and motorization led to a strong increase in the demand for electricity and, consequently, the appearance of new producers. After the closure of the Campo’s factory, the Daroqui hydroelectric complex was projected in the vicinity of Valencia. This action was intended to take advantage of the strength of the water in an inheritance of the same name located in Manises close to the river Turia. The project required an important transformation both in civil and electrical engineering including thermal support. An old flour mill located there gave name to the whole that was going to be the main asset of the company Electro Hidráulica del Turia that was founded in 1905. The objective of the society was to supply electrical energy to the city of Valencia and the surrounding towns.