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Chivor Hydroelectric Plant
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The Chivor Hydroelectric Plant (also known as La Esmeralda) is located in the Tenza Valley, Boyacá Department, on the Batá River. Completed in two phases during the 1970s and 1980s, it is one of Colombia's oldest and most reliable large-scale power plants. The rock-fill dam stands 237 meters high and impounds the Batá River in the Esmeralda Reservoir. The plant utilizes the terrain's massive elevation drop to achieve an installed capacity of 1,000 megawatts through underground pressure tunnels. Chivor plays a stabilizing role in the Colombian power grid and is a vital component of the national infrastructure. Its surroundings are characterized by steep mountains and dense forests, making its construction an engineering feat of its time. The project is currently operated by private energy companies and undergoes continuous maintenance to ensure supply security.
- Location: Colombia
- Top sights: Finca campestre Acapulco · Pozo el Amor · Parroquia Nuestra Señora de la Medalla Milagrosa
- Nearby: Paipa (32 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 19 | 20 | 19 | 19 | 18 | 18 | 17 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 19 | 18 |
| Rain mm | 36 | 57 | 146 | 273 | 315 | 262 | 236 | 190 | 158 | 239 | 208 | 109 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Chivor Hydroelectric Plant is one of Colombia's most important dam facilities, supplying electricity to the central region. It plays a key role in the region's energy supply and is a vital component of the national infrastructure.
Visiting
Access to the plant itself is usually not public, but visitors can view the facility from designated viewpoints. Typically, there are areas where one can see the dam wall and the reservoir from a safe distance.
Where to view it
Recommended viewpoints are along the access road above the reservoir and on nearby hills. From these spots, visitors enjoy an impressive panoramic view of the entire facility and the surrounding mountain landscape.
Local products
In the surrounding area, typical regional products like coffee, bananas, and tropical fruits are grown. These goods are often available at local markets in nearby villages.
Active season
The plant operates year-round, but the highest water flow occurs during the rainy season from May to October. During this time, the facility is particularly impressive to view.
Nearby
The region is handy for combining with visits to nearby colonial towns or hikes in the surrounding mountains. A detour to nearby nature reserves is also worthwhile.
Geography
Facts
- The dam was one of the highest in the world at the time of its completion.
- The plant has a total installed capacity of 1,000 MW.
- It features eight Pelton turbines for electricity generation.
- The Esmeralda Reservoir covers a surface area of approximately 12 km².
- The elevation drop between the reservoir and the power house is nearly 800 meters.
- The project was significantly funded by World Bank loans during the 1970s.
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Notable places around
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Sights in the town Chivor Hydroelectric Plant (3)
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Frequently asked questions
Where is the Chivor hydroelectric plant located?
In the Boyacá department, at the La Esmeralda reservoir.
Can you do water sports there?
The reservoir is photogenic and provides boating and fishing opportunities.
What is special about Chivor?
It is one of the most important plants for central Colombia's electrical stability.
How deep is the reservoir?
In some places, it is over 200 meters deep.
When is the best time to visit?
The dry season from December to March has the best views.
Chivor Hydroelectric Plant: where is it located?
Chivor Hydroelectric Plant is located in Colombia.
Chivor Hydroelectric Plant: what is there to see?
Highlights include Finca campestre Acapulco, Pozo el Amor, Parroquia Nuestra Señora de la Medalla Milagrosa.
Chivor Hydroelectric Plant: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Chivor Hydroelectric Plant: why is it worth visiting?
The Chivor Hydroelectric Plant (also known as La Esmeralda) is located in the Tenza Valley, Boyacá Department, on the Batá River.
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