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Kostolac Power Station
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Industrial site
The Kostolac Power Station is a significant thermal energy production complex in eastern Serbia, located near the city of Požarevac on the banks of the Danube. The history of electricity generation at this site dates back to 1948, with the current major units, Kostolac A and Kostolac B, built between the 1960s and 1980s. The plant uses lignite as fuel, which is extracted from the immediately adjacent Drmno and Ćirikovac open-pit mines. The power station covers about 15 to 20 percent of Serbia's electricity needs, making it a cornerstone of the national energy system. In recent years, extensive environmental investments have been made, including flue gas desulfurization plants, to align emission levels with European standards. Interestingly, the complex is located in the immediate vicinity of the ancient Roman city of Viminacium, which regularly leads to significant archaeological finds during mine expansions. Currently, a new 350 MW unit (B3) is being completed with Chinese support to secure long-term capacity.
- Location: Serbia
- Nearby: Požarevac (11 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -1 | 1 | 6 | 12 | 17 | 21 | 24 | 24 | 18 | 12 | 6 | 1 |
| Rain mm | 50 | 48 | 52 | 55 | 82 | 82 | 69 | 56 | 57 | 57 | 51 | 52 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Kostolac Power Station is a major electricity generator in Serbia, primarily fueled by lignite from nearby open-pit mines. It plays a central role in national energy supply, powering households and industry.
Visiting
The power station grounds are closed to the public for safety reasons. From surrounding roads and the Danube riverbank, the distinctive cooling towers and smoke stack can be seen from a distance.
Where to view it
The best viewpoint is the Danube riverside road near Kostolac, from which the power station is clearly visible. The observation platform at the nearby river port also has a wide view of the entire facility.
Local products
The main product of the power station is electricity, which is fed into the national grid. In the Kostolac region, agricultural products like corn and wheat, as well as bricks from local clay pits, are typical.
Active season
The power station runs continuously year-round, with seasonal peaks in winter due to higher heating demand. Maintenance is typically carried out in warmer months to ensure supply in winter.
Nearby
A visit to the power station can be combined with exploring the nearby Danube wetlands and the Viminacium Archaeological Park. The ancient Roman site is just a few kilometers away, offering a fascinating contrast to the industrial landscape.
Geography
Facts
- The first power unit in Kostolac was commissioned in 1948.
- The plant is fueled by lignite from the adjacent Drmno open-cast mine.
- Kostolac B consists of two units with a total capacity of nearly 700 MW.
- The new B3 unit is the first large power plant built in Serbia in 30 years.
- The site is adjacent to Viminacium, a major Roman provincial capital.
- Modern desulfurization units were added to meet EU environmental norms.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What type of power plant is Kostolac?
It is a lignite-fired thermal power plant operated with coal from nearby open-pit mines.
Who operates the Kostolac power plant?
It is operated by EPS (Elektroprivreda Srbije), the state power utility.
Where exactly is Kostolac located?
Near the Danube, about 90 km east of Belgrade.
Are there any sights nearby?
Yes, very close by is the significant Roman archaeological site Viminacium.
Is the power plant being modernized?
Yes, a new block (Kostolac B3) was built with the help of Chinese partners.
Kostolac Power Station: where is it located?
Kostolac Power Station is located in Serbia.
Kostolac Power Station: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
Kostolac Power Station: why is it worth visiting?
The Kostolac Power Station is a significant thermal energy production complex in eastern Serbia, located near the city of Požarevac on the banks of the Danube.
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