Akkats

When Akkats power plant was built, between 1969 and 1973, only one turbine was installed and Lake Vaikijaure was regulated by means of a dam. Although the difference in water level was as little as 1.5 metres, the construction of the power plant resulted in the disappearance of the Kaitum and Akkat waterfalls. Through the construction of reflecting pools, efforts have been made to raise the water level at the edges of the lake, which would otherwise dry out.

In 2008, the plant was modernised and the old turbine was replaced by two smaller but more efficient turbines, increasing capacity by 26 GWh.

Monumental art, Uvssat davás

Akkats power plant is also a popular tourist destination. The attraction is the monumental artwork of artists Bengt Lindström, Lars Pirak and Lars J:son Nutti, which is known as the ‘Gates to the West’, or Uvssat davás in the local Sami language. The paintings adorn the gates of the power plant and symbolise the Sami way of life and culture, which is a major feature of this part of northern Sweden.