Information
The Abandoned Thermoelectric Plant is located on the south coast of Tenerife, near El Médano, and was constructed in 2008. The facility features a striking 26-meter-diameter solar dish, originally designed to track the sun using an array of mirrors.
The plant was part of an innovative project to generate electricity and hydrogen using solar power. Though never completed, the structure remains visually impressive and is situated close to a beach, making it a unique stop for those interested in abandoned places and sunset views.
Visiting is at your own risk — the site is abandoned and not monitored.
History
This ambitious energy project began in 2008 with the intention of building three solar-tracking structures, each featuring a mirrored dish. The first phase had a budget of €5 million, while the second stage was projected to cost €111 million.
Unfortunately, the structure was built on rural land without proper urban planning approval, which led to repeated shutdowns. The plant was closed three times, and all construction work ceased in 2009.
After closure, the company behind the project filed a court case against the Canary Islands government, demanding €50 million per day in damages from the date of closure (9 February 2009), citing a loss of €40 million. The case was rejected in 2013, and the facility has remained abandoned ever since.
How to Get Here
By Car
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The site is located near El Médano on Tenerife’s south coast and is easily accessible by car.
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Parking: Nearby parking available in El Médano or closer to the site along coastal paths.
By Public Transport
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Take bus line 411, which stops within walking distance of the thermoelectric plant.
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