Prague Energy Museum

About

The PRE Museum (Muzeum pražské energetiky), also known as the Prague Energy Museum, offers a fascinating look into the history of electricity in Prague and the surrounding regions. Located in a former substation in Holešovice, the museum showcases the evolution of power generation, transmission, and distribution from the early 20th century to the present day. During a pre-booked tour, you can see a variety of historical electrical equipment, including low-voltage, high-voltage, and very high-voltage devices. The exhibits illustrate the technological advancements in the power industry over the decades. You'll find historical measuring instruments and learn about the early days of electrification in Prague. A key highlight is the preserved parts of a 32-year-old encapsulated 110 kV Delle Alsthom switchgear, alongside modern very high-voltage switchgear by Areva, displayed with glass sections for better viewing. The museum also features a collection of historical electrical appliances, offering a glimpse into how electricity was used in homes and industries in the past. For those interested in the technical aspects, there are often luminous models of future 110 kV distribution stations and a model of a new transformer station in Karlín. An intriguing section of the museum explains non-technical losses of electricity.

Prague Czech Republic

Location

Muzeum pražské energetiky (PRE Museum) is located at Jankovcova 960/40 in the Holešovice district of Prague, just 200 meters from the Nádraží Holešovice metro station on line C, with the entrance from Vrbenského street. Housed in a historical high-voltage substation, the museum covers nearly 500 square meters across several floors and showcases the history of electrification in Prague. Its extensive exhibits include high and low voltage equipment, measuring instruments, technical documents, historical plans, and a unique collection of over 100 vintage telephones, some dating back to 1920. Visitors can also see rare devices such as a coin-operated electricity meter and the original control panel from the Jih substation, as well as a display on the activities of dishonest electricity users. A highlight is the preserved 110 kV encapsulated switchgear, offering a glimpse into both historical and modern energy technology. The museum is open to the public by prior telephone arrangement, typically on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8 am to 3 pm, and admission is free. Nearby, tourists will find the vibrant Holešovice neighborhood, known for its cultural venues, trendy cafes, and proximity to attractions like the DOX Centre for Contemporary Art and the Prague Market (Pražská tržnice), making the museum a convenient stop for those exploring this dynamic part of the city.