World Power Plants

Balbina Dam250 MW Hydroelectric

HydroRenewableVerified: Feb 2026

The Balbina Dam is an important hydroelectric power generation facility located in Brazil, with a capacity of 250 MW. Situated at coordinates -1.9172, -59.4736 in the Amazon region, this dam plays a significant role in the country's energy generation mix, which relies heavily on hydropower. As one of the largest producers of hydroelectric energy in the world, Brazil leverages its abundant water resources, and the Balbina Dam exemplifies this strategy. The facility employs traditional hydroelectric technology, utilizing the flow of water to generate electricity efficiently. The operational context of the Balbina Dam is particularly relevant given Brazil's energy policy focus on sustainable development and reliance on renewable energy sources. The dam not only provides essential electricity to the local grid but also supports the integration of other renewable sources, contributing to the overall stability of the energy supply. Since its commissioning in 1981, Balbina has been a key player in meeting the energy needs of Brazil, particularly in the northern regions where energy demand continues to grow. The facility is vital for ensuring energy security and stability, underscoring Brazil's commitment to harnessing its natural resources sustainably while addressing the challenges of climate change.

Capacity
250 MW
Commissioning Year
1981

45 years old

Owner
Eletrobras
Location
-1.9172°, -59.4736°

Brazil, South America

Context & rankings
  • 155. largest of 2,402 plants in Brazil
  • #6,654 worldwide by installed capacity
  • #1,236 of 8,493 Hydroelectric plants worldwide
  • 0.1% of the installed capacity of Brazil
Age & fleet comparison

45 years in operation

Hydroelectric fleet average: 42.1 years

Operator portfolio

Eletrobras operates 63 plants totalling 54,619 MW

Regional density

2 plants within 100 km, 253 MW combined

Nearest plant: Rio Preto da Eva (89.8 km)

Data provenance

Source: Wikidata

Location

Coordinates:: -1.917222, -59.473611
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Carbon Footprint

Zero Direct Emissions

Balbina Dam is a hydro power plant producing approximately 876 GWh of clean electricity per year with zero direct CO₂ emissions during operation.

Lifecycle emissions: ~24 g CO₂/kWh (manufacturing, transport, decommissioning)

Technical Details

Primary Fuel Type
Hydro
Energy Source
Renewable
Country
Brazil
Continent
South America
Data Source
Global Power Plant Database

BrazilEnergy Profile

2,402
Total Plants
250.4 GW
Total Capacity
HydroGasBiomassWind
Top Fuels

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