The first hydropower plant in Finland was established at the Tammerkoski rapids in Tampere, Pirkanmaa during the late 19th century. This groundbreaking project was an important development in Finland's industrial progress, capturing the power of the falling water to generate electricity. The plant was designed to meet the growing energy demands of the region, particularly to support the booming textile and manufacturing industries emerging in Tampere. The development utilized innovative engineering to convert hydropower into usable electricity, marking a pivotal shift from reliance on traditional energy sources such as coal and wood.

The commissioning of this plant coincided with a surge in industrialization throughout Europe, particularly in Scandinavian countries, where the abundant water resources were seen as untapped potential for energy generation. The engineering techniques employed in the construction of the Tammerkoski plant were pioneering for their time, illustrating the application of scientific principles in creating renewable energy solutions. The significant output of the plant soon attracted attention and investment, leading to the establishment of additional plants along other rivers throughout Finland.

As a result, the Tammerkoski hydropower plant not only transformed the local energy landscape, ensuring a steady supply of electricity for industries but also set a precedent for future hydropower projects. It became a model for sustainable energy practices that would influence energy policies and investments for decades to come. Over time, the development contributed to the environmental considerations of energy production and spurred growth in the use of renewable resources in Finland and beyond.