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Sihwa Lake Tidal Power Station
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The Sihwa Lake Tidal Power Station, located in Ansan, is the world's largest tidal power plant, surpassing the Rance Tidal Power Station in France. Officially opened in 2011, it is built on a 12.5-kilometer sea wall that was originally constructed for land reclamation. The station harnesses the significant tidal range of the Yellow Sea, which can reach up to nine meters, using ten bulb turbines with a total capacity of 254 megawatts. It generates approximately 552.7 GWh of electricity annually, enough to power a city of half a million people. Beyond energy production, the plant plays a vital role in ecological restoration by facilitating water circulation between the lake and the open sea, significantly improving water quality. Managed by the Korea Water Resources Corporation (K-water), it stands as a global benchmark for sustainable marine energy development and successful environmental engineering.
- Location: South Korea
- Top sights: Celltrion Symbolic Sculpture · Daebudo March 1st Independence Memorial · Paper art museum
- Nearby: Incheon (12 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Sep, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -1 | 1 | 4 | 9 | 15 | 20 | 23 | 25 | 22 | 16 | 9 | 2 |
| Rain mm | 22 | 32 | 36 | 69 | 86 | 103 | 323 | 246 | 129 | 52 | 51 | 26 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
This monumental facility is the largest tidal power plant globally, playing a critical role in South Korea's transition toward sustainable and renewable energy sources.
Visiting
While the operational areas of the power plant are restricted, visitors can typically explore the adjacent park and dedicated observation facilities which explain the technology.
Where to view it
The best panoramic views are generally obtained from the Sihwaho Lake Reed Marsh Park or the T-Light Park, offering excellent perspectives of the massive seawall and turbines.
Local products
Travelers in this coastal region might encounter fresh seafood at nearby local markets, as well as educational souvenirs related to renewable energy and marine conservation.
Active season
The facility operates continuously year-round based on tidal cycles, but the surrounding parks are most spirited during the warmer spring and autumn months for outdoor activities.
Nearby
A trip here is ideally combined with exploring the scenic Daebudo Island, enjoying its famous kalguksu (noodle soup), or visiting the beautiful coastal trails in Ansan city.
Geography
Facts
- Largest tidal power station in the world
- Total installed capacity of 254 megawatts
- Annual power generation of roughly 552.7 GWh
- Features ten submerged bulb turbines
- Operated by Korea Water Resources Corporation (K-water)
- Vital for the ecological recovery of Lake Sihwa
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Notable places around
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Sights in the town Sihwa Lake Tidal Power Station (12)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Sihwa Lake Tidal Power Station?
It is the world's largest tidal power station, located on the Sihwa Seawall near Ansan.
Can you visit the power station?
Yes, the 'Sihwa Lake Tidal Power Park' features a culture center and an observation tower (Moon Tower).
How is energy generated there?
Electricity is generated by the massive tidal range of the Yellow Sea as water flows into the lake.
When is the best time for the observation tower?
At sunset, the tower provides a spectacular view over the sea and the bridges.
What else can you do nearby?
The Daebudo coastal path is great for hiking and trying fresh seafood.
Sihwa Lake Tidal Power Station: where is it located?
Sihwa Lake Tidal Power Station is located in South Korea.
Sihwa Lake Tidal Power Station: what is there to see?
Highlights include Celltrion Symbolic Sculpture, Daebudo March 1st Independence Memorial, Paper art museum.
Sihwa Lake Tidal Power Station: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Sep, Oct.
Sihwa Lake Tidal Power Station: why is it worth visiting?
The Sihwa Lake Tidal Power Station, located in Ansan, is the world's largest tidal power plant, surpassing the Rance Tidal Power Station in France.
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