Itapebi is a significant hydroelectric power generation facility located in Brazil, showcasing a capacity of 456 MW. This power plant plays a vital role in Brazil's energy landscape, contributing to the country's substantial reliance on hydropower as a primary energy source. Commissioned in 2003 and situated at coordinates -15.9403 latitude and -39.5206 longitude, Itapebi utilizes advanced hydroelectric technology, likely incorporating a dam system that efficiently converts the energy of flowing water into electricity. The strategic location of the facility allows it to take advantage of Brazil's abundant water resources, enabling it to produce a steady supply of clean and renewable energy. Hydroelectric power is a cornerstone of Brazil's energy policy, which emphasizes sustainability and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. As such, Itapebi not only aids in meeting local and national electricity demands but also contributes to the environmental goals set forth by the Brazilian government. The facility is integral to the local grid, providing essential power during periods of high demand and helping to stabilize the energy supply across the region. Given Brazil's commitment to expanding its renewable energy portfolio, Itapebi serves as a prime example of how hydroelectric power generation can effectively support the country's energy needs while promoting sustainability.
23 years old
Brazil, South America
- 100. largest of 2,402 plants in Brazil
- #4,902 worldwide by installed capacity
- #793 of 8,493 Hydroelectric plants worldwide
- 0.18% of the installed capacity of Brazil
23 years in operation
Hydroelectric fleet average: 42.1 years
Companhia Hidro Elétrica do São Francisco operates 10 plants totalling 5,375 MW
2 plants within 100 km, 119 MW combined
Location
Zero Direct Emissions
Itapebi is a hydro power plant producing approximately 1598 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
Itapebi Hydroelectric Power Plant: A Key Player in Brazil's Energy Landscape
The Itapebi Hydroelectric Power Plant, located in Brazil, is a significant asset in the country's energy sector, boasting a total capacity of 456 megawatts (MW). Commissioned in 2003, the plant harnesses the power of hydroelectric energy, a renewable resource that plays a crucial role in Brazil's diverse energy mix. Hydro power remains a dominant source of electricity in Brazil, accounting for a substantial portion of the nation's energy supply, partly due to the country's vast river systems and favorable climatic conditions that support hydroelectric generation.
The Itapebi plant utilizes the flow of water from the Rio das Contas, employing a conventional dam design that allows for the storage and controlled release of water to drive turbines. This method of energy generation is highly efficient, as it can produce electricity without the direct emissions associated with fossil fuels. The technical aspects of hydroelectric power involve converting kinetic energy from falling water into mechanical energy, which is then transformed into electrical energy through generators. The Itapebi facility exemplifies advanced engineering in hydroelectric technology, incorporating modern turbine designs that optimize energy output while minimizing operational losses.
From an environmental perspective, hydroelectric plants like Itapebi provide a cleaner alternative to conventional fossil fuel power generation, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions. However, the construction and operation of large dams can also have ecological consequences, such as alterations to local ecosystems and impacts on aquatic wildlife. In the case of Itapebi, environmental assessments were conducted to mitigate potential negative effects, ensuring compliance with regulations aimed at preserving biodiversity and maintaining water quality in the surrounding areas.
Regionally, Itapebi is vital for the local economy and energy reliability. It not only contributes to the stabilization of the electrical grid in Brazil, especially during peak demand periods, but also supports regional development through job creation and infrastructure improvements. The plant helps to ensure that electricity remains accessible to millions of Brazilians, particularly in the southeastern states, which are among the most populous and industrialized regions in the country. Furthermore, the presence of such a power plant can attract investment and foster economic growth in surrounding communities.
In conclusion, the Itapebi Hydroelectric Power Plant underscores Brazil's commitment to renewable energy and its strategy to leverage hydroelectric resources for sustainable development. As the country continues to face challenges related to energy demand and environmental sustainability, facilities like Itapebi will remain integral to Brazil's ongoing efforts to balance economic growth with ecological stewardship.
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