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Embalse Nuclear Power Plant

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Embalse Nuclear Power Plant (Argentina)

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The Embalse nuclear power plant in the province of Córdoba is the second nuclear power plant in Argentina and an important part of the national energy infrastructure. It was commissioned in 1984 and is a CANDU (CANada Deuterium Uranium) reactor, a Canadian technology that can also be operated with natural uranium. The power plant is located on the shores of a large reservoir that provides the cooling water. Embalse has recently undergone a comprehensive modernization process to extend its service life by another 30 years. It makes a stable and reliable contribution to the Argentine electricity grid and is a major employer in the region. The power plant is an example of successful international cooperation in the field of nuclear technology and underscores Argentina's commitment to low-carbon energy production.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Oct, Nov.

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Avg °C23222016131091214182123
Rain mm12812210762238983068111112

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?
Embalse Nuclear Power Plant in Córdoba is a significant nuclear facility generating electricity and medical isotopes. It plays a central role in Argentina's energy supply and pharmaceutical industry, making it relevant for visitors interested in nuclear technology.
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Visiting
The power plant grounds are not open to the public, but the surroundings including the Embalse lake provide viewpoints to see the dome and cooling towers. Guided tours are occasionally offered by the operator for registered groups, though they are not regular.
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Where to view it
A good public viewpoint is the road along the Embalse lake, from which the distinctive dome of the reactor is visible. Hiking trails around the reservoir also provide views of the power plant from a safe distance.
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Local products
No radioactive products are sold in the region, but Villa General Belgrano town has honey and artisan foods. Medical isotopes are not available for direct purchase by travellers.
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Active season
Electricity production runs year-round, while maintenance outages typically occur in spring (September-November). The peak tourist season for the lake region is summer (December-February).
Nearby
Combine a visit with the pleasant German-heritage town of Villa General Belgrano and the natural Cerro de la Cruz. The Embalse reservoir also features fishing and sailing opportunities.

Geography

Coordinates
-32.23100, -64.44400

Facts

  • The second nuclear power plant built in Argentina (1983).
  • Uses a CANDU (Canada Deuterium Uranium) reactor type.
  • One of the few plants in the world that produces Cobalt-60.
  • Underwent a complete life-extension refurbishment from 2015 to 2019.
  • Has a net electric power of 656 MWe.
  • Located in the Calamuchita Valley, a major tourist region.
  • The reactor uses natural uranium and heavy water.
  • Essential for the energy stability of the province of Córdoba.

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Sights in the town Embalse Nuclear Power Plant (12)

Cartel Villa del Dique📍 landmark

This colorful welcome sign serves as a popular photo stop marking the entrance to the lakeside town of Villa del Dique.

Pumakawa (reserva de vida silvestre)🎡 recreation

Dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of pumas, this wildlife reserve actively works to protect native fauna in the Calamuchita Valley.

Balneario Municipal📍 landmark

Shaded by tall trees, this municipal bathing complex provides direct access to the clear waters of the reservoir for swimming and recreation.

Museo de Piedras🏛 museum

Showcasing a diverse geological collection, this local museum exhibits fascinating minerals and semi-precious stones found in the region.

Cerro Mirador📍 landmark

Hiking up this elevated hilltop trail rewards visitors with panoramic vistas over the vast Río Tercero reservoir.

Mirador Villa del Dique🌿 nature

This scenic lookout point provides sweeping, uninterrupted views of the sparkling lake and the distant Sierras de Córdoba.

Península de Embalsina🌿 nature

Jutting deeply into the reservoir, this forested peninsula gives secluded lakeside trails and panoramic water views on three sides.

Costa pescador🎡 recreation

Featuring a gently sloping bank, this shoreline stretch is heavily frequented by anglers casting their lines for local pejerrey fish.

Cerro 2011🌿 nature

From the summit of this distinct hill, hikers can enjoy an elevated perspective over the surrounding valleys and the Embalse nuclear plant area.

Museo Municipal Alba Posse🏛 museum

Housed in a historic municipal building, this museum preserves artifacts and photographs documenting the region's early settlement and construction of the dam.

Morteritos🏺 historical

Embedded into the solid bedrock, these ancient circular grinding holes were left behind by the indigenous Comechingones communities.

Playa Municipal🎡 recreation

Managed by the local town, this expansive public beach has lifeguard services and wide sandy stretches along the Río Tercero reservoir.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the Embalse nuclear plant?
Embalse is a nuclear power plant in Córdoba, near the Embalse del Río Tercero reservoir. It is an important part of the country’s power supply.
Can you visit the plant?
Only very limited, because it is a security-critical facility. Public visits are rare and usually only possible through official programs.
When is the best time to go to the Embalse area?
Spring and autumn are handy, when the weather is pleasant and not too hot. Clear days are especially nice for the lake-and-mountain scenery.
What is worth seeing nearby?
The reservoir, the town of Embalse, and Córdoba’s sierras are very close. That makes the area popular for nature and weekend trips too.
What is Embalse known for?
Embalse is a marker of energy and lakeside scenery in Córdoba. The nuclear plant and reservoir make it interesting for both tech and nature fans.
Embalse Nuclear Power Plant: where is it located?
Embalse Nuclear Power Plant is located in Argentina.
Embalse Nuclear Power Plant: what is there to see?
Highlights include Cartel Villa del Dique, Pumakawa (reserva de vida silvestre), Balneario Municipal.
Embalse Nuclear Power Plant: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Oct, Nov.
Embalse Nuclear Power Plant: why is it worth visiting?
The Embalse nuclear power plant in the province of Córdoba is the second nuclear power plant in Argentina and an important part of the national energy infrastructure.
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