The Kiik Hydroelectric Power Station, a relic of the Soviet era, stands as a testament to a time when small hydroelectric plants dotted the Novosibirsk region, providing electricity to villages and collective farms. Located near the village of Kiik, the abandoned structure attracts history buffs, post-apocalyptic enthusiasts, and tourists alike.

Constructed in the mid-20th century, these small hydroelectric power stations addressed the critical need for electricity in rural communities. Villagers welcomed the development, marking a significant improvement in their daily lives. However, their lifespan was short-lived. Within 15 to 20 years, most were shut down due to the higher cost of energy production compared to larger power plants like the Novosibirsk Hydroelectric Power Station.

Today, the Kiik Hydroelectric Power Station remains a popular destination for those seeking unique sights and atmospheric photography. The journey to Kiik typically involves a drive along the Gusinobrodskoye Highway, followed by a turn towards Karpysak and then through Toguchin. Public transport is also an option, although it requires a considerable walk or bike ride from Izyl station.

The village of Kiik itself has a rich history, dating back nearly 500 years. While its early history is intertwined with Tatar and Khakass cultures, the village primarily remembers events such as the Great Patriotic War, the collective farms, and the hydroelectric power station.

The abandoned state of the hydroelectric power station is immediately apparent, with empty window openings and graffiti-covered walls bearing witness to decades of disuse. Locals recall that the building has been vacant for approximately 50 years. Despite its disrepair, the station remains a gathering place for young people.

While the roof has collapsed and the interior is largely empty, the site retains its charm. A powerful stream of water, the majestic station building, and a weathered pedestrian bridge create an atmospheric scene. These elements provide ample opportunities for memorable photographs.

Built in 1953 and operational until the mid-1970s, the Kiik Hydroelectric Power Station provided electricity to Kiik, Borovoye, and Zarechny. Villagers who worked there remember the construction as a remarkable feat, carried out primarily by women. They worked tirelessly in shifts to build the station, which brought much-needed electricity to the area.

Despite its initial success, the station’s operation was marred by tragedy and environmental setbacks. A fatal boating accident in the early 1970s, claiming nine lives, led to the construction of a new, safer pedestrian bridge. Shortly after, an operational error resulted in the dam’s destruction, leading to the station’s closure in 1974.

In the 1980s, the hydroelectric power station was gradually dismantled. The remaining structure became a playground for children and a backdrop for tourists. Despite discussions about restoring the station in 2012, the project never materialized due to financial constraints. The possibility of transforming it into a museum remains, but concerns about accessibility and the overall condition of the site persist.