World Power Plants

Fontes Nova130.3 MW Hydroelectric

HydroRenewable

Fontes Nova, positioned as the 243rd largest power generation facility in Brazil out of 2,402 plants, holds a significant role in the country's hydroelectric sector, ranked 133rd among 720 hydro facilities. With a capacity of 130.3 MW, this facility contributes approximately 0.05% to Brazil's substantial total capacity of 250,382 MW, which is predominantly derived from hydroelectric power. Commissioned in 1940, Fontes Nova has been a longstanding contributor to the Brazilian energy grid and is indicative of the country’s historic reliance on hydroelectric generation. Located near the metropolitan area of Rio de Janeiro, the plant is surrounded by a network of gas-fired power plants, including the Santa Cruz power plant (936 MW) and the Baixada Fluminense Power Plant (530 MW), which collectively demonstrate the ongoing transition in Brazil's energy landscape toward diversification. Despite being smaller in capacity compared to these gas facilities, Fontes Nova's role in maintaining a stable energy supply is crucial, especially in light of Brazil's commitment to renewable energy sources. The dominance of hydro in Brazil's energy profile underscores the importance of facilities like Fontes Nova in achieving energy security and sustainability. As the country navigates challenges related to climate change and energy demands, the continued operation of such hydroelectric plants will be vital. Fontes Nova not only supports local energy requirements but also contributes to Brazil's broader environmental goals by reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable practices in energy production. Looking ahead, the resilience and adaptability of facilities like Fontes Nova will be key in shaping Brazil's energy future amidst evolving global energy trends.

Capacity
130.3 MW
Commissioning Year
1940

86 years old

Owner
Companhia Hidro Elétrica do São Francisco (CHESF)
Location
-22.7031°, -43.8814°

Brazil, South America

Context & rankings
  • 243. largest of 2,402 plants in Brazil
  • #8,977 worldwide by installed capacity
  • #1,939 of 8,493 Hydroelectric plants worldwide
  • 0.05% of the installed capacity of Brazil
Age & fleet comparison

86 years in operation

Hydroelectric fleet average: 42.1 years

Operator portfolio

Companhia Hidro Elétrica do São Francisco (CHESF) operates 5 plants totalling 1,040 MW

Regional density

76 plants within 100 km, 11,416 MW combined

Nearest plant: Usina Hidrelétrica Fontes Nova (2.1 km)

Location

Coordinates:: -22.703100, -43.881400
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Carbon Footprint

Zero Direct Emissions

Fontes Nova is a hydro power plant producing approximately 457 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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