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Chornobyl Solar Farm
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Industrial site
The Chornobyl Solar Farm is a symbolic renewable energy project located in the Exclusion Zone, just 100 meters from the decommissioned fourth reactor of the Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant. Launched in 2018, the facility represents a significant shift from nuclear disaster to green energy production, utilizing the existing high-voltage power lines and infrastructure of the site. The solar plant was developed as a joint venture between the Ukrainian company Rodina and the German Enerparc AG, covering an area of 1.6 hectares. With a capacity of approximately 1 megawatt, it generates enough electricity to power about 2,000 apartments, proving that contaminated land can still serve productive industrial purposes. The project serves as a pilot for further large-scale solar developments in the zone, aiming to transform the region into a major hub for renewable energy in Eastern Europe. Its completion marked a historic moment in Ukraine's energy transition, blending modern technology with a site of profound historical importance.
- Location: Ukraine
- Top sights: Site of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster · City Park · High radiation place
- Nearby: Slavutych (74 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 | -7 | -5 | 0 | 8 | 15 | 19 | 22 | 21 | 15 | 8 | 2 | -4 |
| Rain mm | 45 | 42 | 44 | 41 | 71 | 69 | 82 | 53 | 44 | 59 | 47 | 51 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Chornobyl Solar Farm was built in the Chornobyl exclusion zone to utilize idle land and existing grid infrastructure. It marks the zone's shift towards renewable energy and symbolizes a new beginning after the disaster.
Visiting
The solar farm is located in the strictly controlled exclusion zone, accessible only with an official guided tour. From the road near the Dytiatky checkpoint, the solar panels can be seen from a distance.
Where to view it
The best viewpoint is the observation platform at the checkpoint, offering an overview of the solar field. Guided tours also include a stop at a nearby viewpoint for a closer look.
Local products
The solar farm generates electricity but does not produce goods. In the nearby town of Chornobyl, souvenirs and books about the disaster history are sold by local vendors.
Active season
The solar farm generates electricity year-round, with peak output in sunny summer months. Visitor numbers to the exclusion zone are highest in spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant.
Nearby
Combine the visit with a guided tour of the Chornobyl power plant and the abandoned city of Pripyat. The Chornobyl Disaster Museum in Kyiv is also worth a visit.
Geography
Facts
- Commissioning took place in October 2018 after one year of construction.
- The facility consists of a total of 3,800 photovoltaic panels.
- The project was realized with an investment of approximately 1 million euros.
- The solar modules are mounted on special concrete foundations to avoid disturbing the soil.
- The 1 MW capacity is planned to be expanded up to 100 MW in the future.
- It is the first energy production at the site since the shutdown of the last reactor in 2000.
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Notable places around
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Sights in the town Chornobyl Solar Farm (7)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Chornobyl solar power plant located?
It is located in the immediate vicinity of the old nuclear power plant in the Chornobyl exclusion zone.
Can you visit the solar plant?
It can be viewed from a distance as part of an official tour of the exclusion zone.
Why was it built there?
To utilize the existing power grid of the old plant and make meaningful use of the land.
Is it dangerous to stay there?
Short stays on guided tours are considered safe if rules are followed.
When was the solar park opened?
Operation started in 2018 as a symbol of energy transition in the zone.
Chornobyl Solar Farm: where is it located?
Chornobyl Solar Farm is located in Ukraine.
Chornobyl Solar Farm: what is there to see?
Highlights include Site of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster, City Park, High radiation place.
Chornobyl Solar Farm: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Chornobyl Solar Farm: why is it worth visiting?
The Chornobyl Solar Farm is a symbolic renewable energy project located in the Exclusion Zone, just 100 meters from the decommissioned fourth reactor of the Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant.
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