World Power Plants

Ilha dos Pombos187.169 MW Hydroelectric

HydroRenewable

Ranked as the 192nd largest power generation facility in Brazil, Ilha dos Pombos holds a significant position within the country's extensive energy landscape. With a capacity of 187.169 MW, it is part of Brazil's rich hydroelectric ecosystem, which is the dominant fuel type in the nation. This facility contributes to just 0.07% of the national capacity, making it a relatively small player among Brazil's 2,402 total plants that collectively generate 250,382 MW of electricity. Commissioned in 1924, Ilha dos Pombos has been operational for nearly a century, showcasing the durability and reliability of hydroelectric power. The generation technology employed here is primarily based on the gravitational force of water, which is harnessed to rotate turbines, thus converting kinetic energy into electric power. This method is both sustainable and efficient, utilizing the natural water flow of the region. In the surrounding area, Ilha dos Pombos is not alone. Nearby hydro plants like Simplício (305.7 MW), Barra do Braúna (39 MW), and Santa Rosa II (30 MW) create a regional cluster of hydroelectric facilities, with Simplício being the most significant in terms of capacity. This network enhances the reliability of the grid and supports Brazil's ambitious renewable energy goals. Despite its modest capacity, Ilha dos Pombos plays a role in Brazil's broader energy strategy, which is heavily reliant on hydroelectric power, accounting for a substantial portion of the national energy mix. The plant's age and continuous operation reflect its importance in providing a steady power supply, particularly in a country where hydroelectricity dominates. Owned and operated by a local entity, the facility's long history highlights the critical role of hydroelectric power generation in Brazil's energy transition and sustainable development efforts. Looking ahead, Ilha dos Pombos exemplifies the potential for existing hydro facilities to contribute to renewable energy targets while also providing local communities with stable electricity and supporting economic growth.

Capacity
187.169 MW
Commissioning Year
1924

102 years old

Owner
Companhia Energética de Minas Gerais (CEMIG)
Location
-21.8500°, -42.5833°

Brazil, South America

Context & rankings
  • 192. largest of 2,402 plants in Brazil
  • #7,690 worldwide by installed capacity
  • #1,531 of 8,493 Hydroelectric plants worldwide
  • 0.07% of the installed capacity of Brazil
Age & fleet comparison

102 years in operation

Hydroelectric fleet average: 42.1 years

Operator portfolio

Companhia Energética de Minas Gerais (CEMIG) operates 120 plants totalling 9,477 MW

Regional density

47 plants within 100 km, 4,458 MW combined

Nearest plant: CIF Mineração (11.2 km)

Location

Coordinates:: -21.850000, -42.583300
Open in Google Maps
Carbon Footprint

Zero Direct Emissions

Ilha dos Pombos is a hydro power plant producing approximately 656 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

See Incorrect or Missing Data?

Help us improve our database by reporting any corrections or updates. Your contribution helps keep our global power plant data accurate and up-to-date.