The Estreito power plant, positioned in Brazil at coordinates -6.5872, -47.4594, is a significant hydroelectric facility that contributes to the country's renewable energy landscape. Commissioned in 2011, Estreito has a capacity of 1,087 MW, making it an important player in Brazil's energy generation portfolio. Utilizing hydroelectric technology, this facility harnesses the power of flowing water to generate electricity, which is a clean and sustainable method of energy production. The plant's location along the Tocantins River facilitates its operation, allowing it to take advantage of Brazil's abundant water resources. As Brazil continues to rely heavily on hydroelectric power for its energy needs, Estreito stands out as a modern solution to meet growing electricity demand while minimizing environmental impact. The importance of Estreito in the local grid cannot be overstated, as it provides essential baseload power that supports both urban and rural electrification efforts. Brazil's energy policy emphasizes the development of renewable sources, and Estreito's operation aligns with this commitment to sustainability and reducing dependency on fossil fuels. The facility's contribution to energy generation is crucial in promoting energy security and stability in a country that faces the ongoing challenges of climate change and energy access. As Brazil navigates its energy future, Estreito serves as a benchmark for modern hydroelectric projects, demonstrating how renewable energy can be effectively integrated into the national grid.
1.09 GW
15 years old
Brazil, South America
- 51. largest of 2,402 plants in Brazil
- #2,235 worldwide by installed capacity
- #307 of 8,493 Hydroelectric plants worldwide
- 0.43% of the installed capacity of Brazil
15 years in operation
Hydroelectric fleet average: 42.1 years
Eletrobras operates 63 plants totalling 54,619 MW
1 plants within 100 km, 2 MW combined
Location
Zero Direct Emissions
Estreito is a hydro power plant producing approximately 3809 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
Estreito Hydroelectric Power Plant: A Key Player in Brazil's Energy Landscape
The Estreito Hydroelectric Power Plant, with a capacity of 1087 megawatts (MW), is a significant contributor to Brazil's energy sector. Commissioned in 2011, this hydroelectric facility is located on the Tocantins River, strategically positioned between the states of Maranhão and Tocantins. As one of the largest hydroelectric plants in Brazil, Estreito plays a crucial role in meeting the country's growing electricity demand and supports the national grid's stability.
Hydropower is a renewable energy source generated by harnessing the kinetic energy of flowing water. At Estreito, the plant utilizes the flow of the Tocantins River to produce electricity through a series of turbines and generators. The hydroelectric process involves the creation of a reservoir that allows water to be stored and released in a controlled manner, ensuring that electricity can be generated consistently. This method of energy production is not only sustainable but also contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuel-based power generation. The Estreito plant exemplifies Brazil's extensive investment in renewable energy sources, aligning with the nation's commitment to sustainable development and energy diversification.
The environmental impact of hydroelectric power plants, including Estreito, is a subject of ongoing discussion. While hydroelectric facilities produce clean energy and help mitigate climate change, they can also disrupt local ecosystems and affect biodiversity. The construction of the Estreito plant involved the flooding of certain areas, leading to changes in land use and potential displacement of wildlife. Mitigation efforts, including environmental monitoring and biodiversity conservation initiatives, have been implemented to address these challenges. The Brazilian government and the plant's operators work to balance the benefits of renewable energy generation with the need to protect natural habitats and promote ecological sustainability.
Regionally, the Estreito Hydroelectric Power Plant serves as a vital energy source for various sectors, including industry, agriculture, and residential areas. Its capacity to generate over a thousand megawatts of power significantly contributes to the electricity supply in the surrounding states and the broader Brazilian grid. The plant enhances energy security and reliability, particularly in a country that has historically relied on hydropower for a substantial portion of its electricity generation. Moreover, the Estreito facility supports local economies by creating jobs during both the construction phase and ongoing operations.
In summary, the Estreito Hydroelectric Power Plant stands as a noteworthy example of Brazil's commitment to renewable energy. With its substantial capacity and strategic location, it plays an essential role in the country's energy landscape while also highlighting the complexities of balancing ecological preservation with energy production. As Brazil continues to pursue sustainable energy solutions, the Estreito plant remains a pivotal asset in the transition to a cleaner and more resilient energy future.
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