The BKW story began in 1898 with a pioneering spirit in electricity supply. Since then, hydropower, grid expansion, new energies, international projects, services and integrated solutions have shaped the development of the BKW Group.

1890s

The beginning

At the end of the 19th century, the foundations of BKW were laid. Electrification opened up new opportunities for business and society. The central objective was to supply the Seeland region with electrical energy.

1900s

Growth and new name

In its first few years, the company expands beyond its original power plant. With new facilities and a new name, the foundations are laid for the later Bernische Kraftwerke AG.

1910s

Mühleberg hydropower

BKW is continuing to expand its production base. The Mühleberg hydroelectric power plant represents another important power plant project.

The chronicle of this decade is marked by the purchase of the Kanderwerk and the renaming to Bernische Kraftwerke AG.

1920s

Kraftwerke Oberhasli

The importance of hydropower in the Oberhasli region is recognised early on. With the founding of Kraftwerke Oberhasli AG, BKW lays the foundation for major hydropower plants.

BKW is further expanding its production base. With the Mühleberg hydropower plant, another important power plant project is being created.

1950s

Interconnected grid

Electricity is becoming an indispensable energy source. To strengthen security of supply, the interconnection of power grids is gaining in importance.

The decade stands for the further expansion of electricity production.

1960s

The BKW share

In the 1960s, the BKW share becomes tradable. This marks the beginning of a new chapter in the company’s development on the capital market.

The importance of hydropower in Oberhasli is recognised early on. With the founding of Kraftwerke Oberhasli AG, BKW lays the foundation for significant hydropower plants.

1970s

Nuclear power and KWO expansion

BKW commissions the Mühleberg nuclear power plant. At the same time, the long-term expansion of Kraftwerke Oberhasli reaches a preliminary conclusion.

The expansion in Oberhasli will shape energy production for decades.

1990s

Solar, wind and Storm Lothar

In the 1990s, BKW sets early milestones in solar and wind energy. At the same time, the resilience of the electricity grid is severely tested by Storm “Lothar”.

Electricity is becoming an indispensable energy source. To strengthen security of supply, the interconnection of electricity grids is gaining in importance.

2000s

Stock exchange and Italy

BKW continues to develop on the capital market, certifies hydropower as ecological and expands its position in Italy and in the wind business.

Large storage power plants and the international interconnected power grid are shaping development.

2010s

Strategy and Transformation

BKW is realigning its business. Renewable energies, smart grids, services, building technology, engineering and infrastructure are becoming increasingly important. At the same time, BKW is preparing for the decommissioning of Mühleberg Nuclear Power Plant and will implement it in 2019.

In the 1960s, the BKW share becomes tradable. This marks the beginning of a new chapter in the company’s development on the capital market.

2020s

Solutions 2030

BKW begins the decommissioning of the Mühleberg Nuclear Power Plant and further develops its corporate strategy. With «Solutions 2030», it focuses on solutions for the energy transition – from production, marketing and distribution to efficient use in buildings and infrastructure.

Share trading marks a milestone in the company's development.