Slovenia’s Sostanj thermal power plant has temporarily restarted unit 5 as colder weather increases district heating demand. Unit 6 remains under maintenance during the restart period.
District heating demand is reported at approximately 400 MWh per day. Unit 5 is expected to run mainly on weekdays until the end of October, at roughly 150 MW.
Gas turbine overhaul schedule and backup coverage
The restart is intended to provide operational cover ahead of an overhaul of the plant’s second gas turbine. That overhaul is scheduled to begin on 12 October.
The plant’s first gas turbine, with a capacity of 42 MW, underwent major refurbishment last autumn. After refurbishment work on the second turbine, the plant plans a trial operating period before returning the equipment to regular service.
Status of unit 5 and planned withdrawal
Unit 5 has been in cold reserve since 1 January 2025. Under current legislation, it is expected to be permanently withdrawn once both gas turbine overhauls are completed.
Options for the retired unit include dismantling it or selling it as a complete technological package. Completion of the turbine work will determine when Sostanj can withdraw unit 5 while maintaining heat supply.
This temporary return reflects reliance on available backup equipment during maintenance periods for district heating operations.
