Belmeken-Sestrimo-Chaira Cascade, Hydroelectric cascade in Eastern Rila Mountains, Bulgaria
The Belmeken-Sestrimo-Chaira Cascade is a hydroelectric system in Eastern Rila Mountains consisting of three reservoirs and two pumped-storage power stations that manage water from the Maritsa, Struma, and Mesta river basins. The cascade spans different elevations across the mountains, with the main reservoir situated at 1923 meters.
Construction of this engineering complex began in 1964 and continued through multiple phases until 1999, establishing it as Bulgaria's largest hydrotechnical facility. The gradual development allowed for expanding hydropower generation capacity across the region over several decades.
The cascade system integrates with local communities through the Belmeken sports complex, which provides athletic facilities near the western dam section.
Visitors can access the cascade through marked trails from Sestrimo village or the Yundola area. Weather conditions and seasonal changes affect accessibility and the best viewpoints for seeing the reservoirs.
The Chaira pumped-storage power plant is one of the largest of its kind in Southeast Europe and uses elevation differences between the reservoirs for power generation. This innovative system pumps water uphill during surplus energy periods and releases it later to produce electricity.
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