French dam and hydropower professionals have launched a public initiative to develop a LEGO set dedicated to dams and hydroelectric power. The project, titled “Discovering the World of Hydroelectricity” has been submitted to the LEGO Ideas platform and requires 10,000 public votes to be considered for commercial production by the company.
The concept was developed by French companies HYDROELEC and HYDROELEC2, and the initiative is being promoted within the international dam community by the International Commission on Large Dams (ICOLD). Supporters are being encouraged to register on the LEGO Ideas website and vote for the project.
The proposed set is designed as a detailed, modular model of a run-of-river LEGO hydropower plant. The 4996 piece build includes:
- A dam structure (run-of-river type)
- Multiple generation units with three levels
- A turbine system based on a Pelton design
- An alternator, transformer, and electrical and hydraulic control cabinets
- High-voltage (HV) and low-voltage (LV) transmission components
The model also incorporates additional infrastructure and environmental features, including a fish pass, a facility section representing plant operations, and elements illustrating local fauna, flora, and recreational activities such as fishing.
The modular design allows builders to assemble either a smaller configuration or an expanded version, such as a 10-unit power plant.
According to the project creators, the objective is to provide an accessible introduction to hydroelectric power for children and adults. The model is intended to demonstrate the full electricity generation process, from water flow and turbine operation to grid connection and end use.
The developers also propose a functional version powered by water, subject to LEGO approval. A dedicated website would accompany the set, offering technical explanations tailored to different age groups and levels of expertise.
The creators previously developed a 3D-printed working turbine model that was presented in local schools. The LEGO project expands on that outreach effort.
If the project reaches the 10,000-supporter threshold, it will proceed to formal review by LEGO for potential production.
