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Kruonis Pumped Storage Plant
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Industrial site
The Kruonis Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Plant is a unique energy facility in Lithuania and the only one of its kind in the Baltic region. Located near the town of Kruonis on the Kaunas Reservoir, it functions as a massive battery for the Lithuanian electrical grid. The plant utilizes the height difference between the Kaunas Reservoir (lower basin) and an artificial upper basin situated on a nearby plateau. During periods of low electricity demand, excess energy is used to pump water to the upper reservoir, which is then released to generate electricity during peak demand. This process is essential for stabilizing grid frequency and integrating renewable energy sources. Originally designed to operate alongside the Ignalina Nuclear Power Plant, it now plays an even more critical role in ensuring national energy autonomy and the synchronization of the Lithuanian grid with Western Europe.
- Location: Lithuania
- Top sights: Maisiejūnų II piliakalnis · Lašinių piliakalnis · Burčiakų piliakalnis
- Nearby: Kaišiadorys (14 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -6 | -5 | 0 | 7 | 13 | 16 | 19 | 18 | 13 | 7 | 2 | -3 |
| Rain mm | 57 | 45 | 46 | 47 | 68 | 80 | 100 | 88 | 56 | 71 | 60 | 57 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
Kruonis Pumped Storage Plant is the only one of its kind in the Baltics, used to stabilize the Lithuanian power grid. It balances fluctuations between electricity generation and consumption.
Visiting
The plant is not open to the public, but the surrounding area can be explored. From the viewpoint near the upper reservoir, there is a good view of the facility.
Where to view it
The hiking trail along the upper reservoir has several spots with excellent views of the machine hall and penstocks. The road to Kruonis runs directly past the lower lake.
Local products
Agriculture dominates the area, focusing on grains and dairy. Local farmers' markets offer seasonal fruits, vegetables, and homemade cheese.
Active season
The plant operates year-round, with peak times in the morning and evening. It is used more intensively in winter for grid stabilization.
Nearby
Combine the visit with the city of Kaunas, about 30 km away. The Kaunas hydropower plant and the botanical garden are also worthwhile destinations in the area.
Geography
Facts
- The total installed capacity of the plant is 900 MW (four units of 225 MW each).
- The upper reservoir spans 303 hectares and sits approximately 100 meters above the lower basin.
- Construction began in 1978, with the first generating unit operational by 1992.
- The plant can reach full generation capacity from a standstill in just two minutes.
- The water stored in the upper reservoir is sufficient for about 12 hours of continuous generation.
- The facility is a key asset for the synchronization of the Baltic power grids with Europe.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Kruonis Pumped Storage Plant (6)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Kruonis Pumped Storage Power Plant?
A power plant that stores energy by pumping water uphill.
Are tours available?
Yes, for organized groups with prior registration.
What does the upper reservoir look like?
It is a huge artificial basin located on top of a hill.
Is the site open to the public?
Only parts of the site; the main plant is secured.
What is its function today?
It serves to stabilize the electrical grid in Lithuania.
Kruonis Pumped Storage Plant: where is it located?
Kruonis Pumped Storage Plant is located in Lithuania.
Kruonis Pumped Storage Plant: what is there to see?
Highlights include Maisiejūnų II piliakalnis, Lašinių piliakalnis, Burčiakų piliakalnis.
Kruonis Pumped Storage Plant: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Kruonis Pumped Storage Plant: why is it worth visiting?
The Kruonis Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Plant is a unique energy facility in Lithuania and the only one of its kind in the Baltic region.
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