De Uniper-centrale EON electriciteitsfabriek 

History & Current Status
Origins & Early History (1906–1930s)

The E.ON Electrical Plant in The Hague, also known today as the Uniper Power Plant, first opened its doors on February 1, 1906. This monumental structure quickly earned the title of being the oldest still-operating power station in the Netherlands. Its design stood out with a striking castle-like façade, reflecting early 20th-century industrial grandeur. Behind this decorative exterior, the plant housed a large turbine hall, a boiler room, and towering industrial chimneys that dominated the city’s skyline. For decades, it was a key energy supplier, fuelling The Hague’s growth during a time of rapid industrialisation.

Transition and Technological Upgrades (1960s–1980s)

After World War II, technological progress and rising energy demands reshaped the plant’s function. Originally coal-fired, it was converted to natural gas, reducing pollution and improving efficiency. By the 1970s, it became a central hub for district heating systems, supplying both electricity and heating to thousands of households and businesses in The Hague. A major milestone came in 1983, when the plant was modernised with a combined-cycle gas turbine (STEG installation). This upgrade significantly boosted energy efficiency and placed the plant at the forefront of sustainable energy solutions of its time.

E.ON Era & Cultural Use (1999–2010s)

In 1999, the facility entered a new chapter when it was acquired by E.ON Benelux, one of Europe’s leading energy companies. Following the acquisition, the plant underwent a substantial retrofit in 2007, which included the installation of General Electric gas turbines and other modern equipment. This not only extended its operational life but also improved reliability and energy output.
At the same time, the plant began to take on a secondary cultural role. From 2013 onwards, the disused turbine hall was occasionally opened to the public for art exhibitions, performances, and cultural installations. These events revealed the building’s striking industrial architecture and transformed it into a unique space where heritage, art, and urban exploration converged.

Present Day

Today, the Uniper Den Haag EON power plant continues to operate as a vital energy provider, delivering both electricity and district heating to the city. While the site is not abandoned, its industrial character and atmospheric turbine hall have made it a favorite subject for urbex photographers and industrial heritage enthusiasts. Access to the interior is generally restricted, limited to officially sanctioned cultural events or guided visits.
The plant remains a living piece of Dutch industrial history: a rare example of early 20th-century architecture adapted to 21st-century energy demands. For urban explorers, historians, and anyone fascinated by industrial decay and preservation, the E.ON Electrical Plant in The Hague offers a unique glimpse into the evolution of energy production in the Netherlands.