World Power Plants

Mascarenhas189 MW Hydroelectric

HydroRenewable

Positioned as the 191st largest power generation facility in Brazil, the Mascarenhas hydroelectric plant commands attention with its capacity of 189 MW. This facility contributes a modest 0.08% to Brazil's extensive total capacity of 250,382 MW, where hydroelectric power reigns supreme as the dominant fuel type. Commissioned in 1973, Mascarenhas has been instrumental in harnessing the natural flow of the nearby river, employing sophisticated hydropower technology to transform kinetic energy into electricity effectively. Situated in a region rich with hydroelectric potential, Mascarenhas operates alongside the more powerful Aimorés hydro plant, which boasts a capacity of 330 MW. While the proximity to Aimorés highlights the competitive nature of the local energy sector, Mascarenhas stands out with its unique operational history and localized impact. Brazil's energy profile is characterized by an impressive number of plants, with 2,402 total facilities primarily relying on hydroelectric generation. Despite Mascarenhas’ relatively small share of national capacity, it plays a vital role in enhancing energy supply stability in its region. The plant's operation not only supports Brazil's energy needs but also contributes to the country’s efforts to promote renewable energy and reduce carbon emissions. As the energy landscape evolves, Mascarenhas is well-positioned to continue its legacy of sustainability, playing a crucial role in Brazil's transition to a greener, more renewable future.

Capacity
189 MW
Commissioning Year
1973

53 years old

Owner
Companhia Hidro Elétrica do São Francisco (CHESF)
Location
-19.5005°, -40.9185°

Brazil, South America

Context & rankings
  • 191. largest of 2,402 plants in Brazil
  • #7,663 worldwide by installed capacity
  • #1,524 of 8,493 Hydroelectric plants worldwide
  • 0.08% of the installed capacity of Brazil
Age & fleet comparison

53 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

16 plants within 100 km, 1,418 MW combined

Nearest plant: Aimorés (11 km)

Location

Coordinates:: -19.500500, -40.918500
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Carbon Footprint

Zero Direct Emissions

Mascarenhas is a hydro power plant producing approximately 662 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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