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Costești-Stânca Hydroelectric Plant
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The Costești-Stânca hydroelectric plant on the Prut River is a major joint project between the Republic of Moldova and Romania, completed between 1973 and 1978. The dam stands 47 meters high and impounds the river into one of the region's largest reservoirs, covering an area of approximately 59 square kilometers. The plant serves not only for electricity generation but also plays a crucial role in flood protection and the irrigation of agricultural land in both countries. The installed capacity of the Moldovan side of the plant is approximately 32 megawatts. By regulating the water flow, bank erosion is reduced, and a stable water supply is ensured for surrounding communities. The reservoir is also an important ecosystem, providing a habitat for numerous fish and bird species. As a strategic infrastructure asset, Costești-Stânca is an example of cross-border cooperation in the field of renewable energy and resource management.
- Location: Moldova
- Top sights: Marea Nordului · Costesti Beach
- Nearby: Glodeni (10 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 | -4 | -2 | 3 | 10 | 16 | 20 | 22 | 22 | 16 | 9 | 4 | -2 |
| Rain mm | 30 | 33 | 40 | 50 | 67 | 89 | 86 | 57 | 45 | 50 | 36 | 32 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Costești-Stânca hydroelectric plant is a joint Moldovan-Romanian project on the Prut River. It provides electricity generation, water level regulation, and flood protection.
Visiting
The plant is typically not open to the public as it is critical infrastructure. Good views can be had from the nearby road bridge spanning the Prut River.
Where to view it
The best viewpoint is from the road bridge passing directly by the dam. Elevated riverbanks offer good overviews of the dam wall and power station.
Local products
The plant itself does not produce directly purchasable goods. The area around Costești is known for agricultural products like corn and sunflowers.
Active season
The hydroelectric plant operates steadily year-round, subject to seasonal water level variations. The Prut River's highest flow occurs in spring during snowmelt.
Nearby
A visit to the dam can be combined with a trip to the nearby city Bălți or the Pădurea Domnească nature reserve. The Romanian side of the Prut also gives attractions.
Geography
Facts
- Commissioning of the power plant took place in 1978.
- The height of the dam wall is 47 meters.
- Reservoir storage volume is 735 million cubic meters.
- Installed capacity on the Moldovan side: 32 MW.
- Jointly managed by Moldova and Romania.
- The length of the reservoir is approximately 70 kilometers.
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Notable places around
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Frequently asked questions
On which river is the Costești-Stânca hydropower station located?
It is located on the Prut River, on the border between Moldova and Romania.
Is it a joint project between two countries?
Yes, it was jointly built by Romania and the then-Soviet Republic of Moldova.
Does the dam also serve for flood protection?
Yes, the reservoir regulates the Prut's water level and protects downstream areas.
Can you cross the border over the dam?
Yes, there is an official border crossing between Moldova and Romania on the dam.
Is the area worth visiting for nature lovers?
Yes, the reservoir is often called the "Moldovan Sea" and gives beautiful landscapes.
Costești-Stânca Hydroelectric Plant: where is it located?
Costești-Stânca Hydroelectric Plant is located in Moldova.
Costești-Stânca Hydroelectric Plant: what is there to see?
Highlights include Marea Nordului, Costesti Beach.
Costești-Stânca Hydroelectric Plant: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Costești-Stânca Hydroelectric Plant: why is it worth visiting?
The Costești-Stânca hydroelectric plant on the Prut River is a major joint project between the Republic of Moldova and Romania, completed between 1973 and 1978.
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The Hundred Hills (Suta de Movile) is a unique geological phenomenon on the banks of the Prut.
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