China gears up to build power plant in Chernobyl exclusion zone

World Today

China gears up to build power plant in Chernobyl exclusion zone

China’s GCL- Power has confirmed its plans to build a solar power plant in the Chernobyl exclusion zone.

GCL-Power said the new plant will bring remarkable social and economic benefits. CCTV’s Aljosa Milenkovic reports from Chernobyl.

For three decades, Chernobyl Exclusion Zone it was the area detached from the rest of the world. But now, it is about to be reclaimed by the humans.

Chinese investors were offered to develop one of world’s largest solar power plants right there. Land is cheap here since it is not suitable for vast majority of other activities.

Combined with the presence of Chernobyl nuclear power plant electric grid infrastructure, that makes this place perfect for new, solar power plant.

One kilowatt of electricity requires solar panels that cover area of roughly 25 square meters.

China’s GCL-SI company is planning to build a gigawatt strong solar power plant.

The field is just a part of 2.600 hectares there in Chernobyl Exclusion Zone dedicated by the Ukrainian government for construction of new solar power plant.

Since operating solar power plant does not require too much human attendance, the biggest concern would be health of its construction workers.

Ukraine government is trying to attract billions in Chinese investment into Chernobyl Exclusion Zone. And the incentives they are offering for electricity producers should sweeten the deal.

Although life will never be back in many areas of Chernobyl Exclusion Zone, solar power plant will return that zone back into life.


Teng Jianqun on China’s role in building Chernobyl

For more on China’s role in rebuilding the Chernobyl exclusion zone, CCTV America’s Mike Walter spoke with Teng Jianqun, director of American Studies Department at the China Institute of International Studies.