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Cirata Power Plant
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The Cirata Hydroelectric Power Plant, situated on the Citarum River in West Java, stands as one of Indonesia's most critical energy infrastructure assets. Developed in three distinct phases between 1988 and 1998, the facility has a total installed capacity of 1,008 megawatts generated by eight powerhouse units. It functions as a primary load-follower for the Java-Bali grid, ensuring stability during peak demand periods through its rapid response capabilities. In 2023, the site achieved further international prominence with the commissioning of Southeast Asia's largest floating solar plant on its reservoir surface. This innovative hybrid integration of hydroelectric and solar energy reflects Indonesia's strategic pivot toward renewable resources and carbon reduction. The complex features a massive underground power station and a rock-fill dam that impounds over 700 million cubic meters of water, supporting both electricity generation and regional irrigation needs.
- Location: Indonesia
- Top sights: Floating village · Masjid Jami At-Taqwa · Masjid Jami Al Fauzan
- Nearby: Cidaun (27 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 25 | 25 | 25 | 26 | 26 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 |
| Rain mm | 337 | 366 | 304 | 248 | 152 | 93 | 67 | 41 | 70 | 143 | 242 | 283 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
Generating massive amounts of energy on the Citarum River, this immense hydroelectric facility is Southeast Asia's largest, powering millions of homes and fueling the industrial growth of West Java.
Visiting
While the core generator halls are restricted to official personnel, the surrounding reservoir area is open to the public and serves as a popular destination for scenic recreation and water activities.
Where to view it
Spectacular views of the massive concrete dam and the vast artificial lake can be enjoyed from various elevated vantage points along the winding public roads that encircle the reservoir.
Local products
The creation of the reservoir has fostered a thriving local aquaculture industry, meaning you can easily find floating food stalls and lakeside restaurants serving freshly caught and grilled fish.
Active season
The area is visually impressive year-round, though the dam's water flow is most dramatic during the wet season, while weekends attract large crowds of local tourists seeking a lakeside escape.
Nearby
You can seamlessly connect a trip to the Cirata reservoir with exploring the cooler highlands around Bandung, visiting local tea plantations, or discovering traditional Sundanese cultural villages.
Geography
Facts
- The total installed hydroelectric capacity of the facility is 1,008 megawatts.
- Construction was completed in three major stages between 1988 and 1998.
- The 2023 floating solar installation adds 192 megawatts-peak to the site.
- The underground powerhouse contains eight turbines, each rated at 126 megawatts.
- The dam stands 125 meters tall and creates a reservoir covering 62 square kilometers.
- Cirata provides essential peaking power for the integrated Java-Madura-Bali grid.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Cirata Power Plant (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Can you visit the Cirata power plant?
The site is primarily industrial, but viewpoints along the dam are accessible to tourists.
What is special about Cirata?
It hosts one of Southeast Asia's largest floating solar power plants on its reservoir.
What role does it play in the region?
It is a vital source of hydroelectric power, supporting the Java and Bali power grid.
Are there restaurants nearby?
Yes, the area is famous for local fish restaurants serving grilled fish (Ikan Bakar).
When should you visit Cirata?
Daytime during weekdays is quieter; weekends attract many local day-trippers.
Cirata Power Plant: where is it located?
Cirata Power Plant is located in Indonesia.
Cirata Power Plant: what is there to see?
Highlights include Floating village, Masjid Jami At-Taqwa, Masjid Jami Al Fauzan.
Cirata Power Plant: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Cirata Power Plant: why is it worth visiting?
The Cirata Hydroelectric Power Plant, situated on the Citarum River in West Java, stands as one of Indonesia's most critical energy infrastructure assets.
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