A large power station at Nechells was identified in 1912 as being necessary to meet current and future demand.

[1] At the start of the First World War the Birmingham Corporation together with Shropshire, Worcestershire and Staffordshire Electric Power Company proposed to build two large power stations one at Nechells (2 × 15 MW alternators) and one at Stourport (3 × 15 MW machines) to meet their needs.

Construction started in 1919 on a 23-acre (9.3 ha) site adjoining the temporary power station and commercial operation began in 1922.

The Prince started up no.1 turbo-alternator, unveiled a bronze plaque commemorating his visit and was presented with a model of the generator.

[6][7] The plant comprised:[7] The station opened in stages: June 1951, December 1951, November 1952 and September 1953.