Derby Power Station - then and now

The photograph above left shows Derby’s Electric Power Station in its heyday.

Built in 1893 on land next to the Silk Mill, on Sowter Road, it was officially opened in 1894 as the Electric Light Works.

Originally powered by just six 100hp engines, it rapidly expanded and, in 1930, the site was extended to create a new super station.

Then, in October 1962, the generating board announced plans to switch from coal to oil and the power station’s days were numbered. It finally closed at the end of the 1960s and was demolished in the early 1970s. The site was replaced by an area of grass known as Cathedral Green.

The switching station, however, can still be seen today, adjacent to the Silk Mill Museum.

Did you work at the power station? Add your memories below.

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Derbyshire then and now

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