Positioned as the 231st largest power generation facility in Brazil, UHE Risoleta Neves (Candonga) demonstrates a modest yet significant contribution to the country’s hydroelectric landscape, with a generation capacity of 140 MW. This facility stands out, not only for its production capabilities but also for its hydroelectric ranking as the 127th of 720 hydro plants, reflecting Brazil's extensive reliance on hydroelectric power. The facility employs state-of-the-art hydropower technology, utilizing the natural flow of water to generate electricity efficiently. Given that Brazil boasts a total power capacity of 250,382 MW, UHE Risoleta Neves contributes approximately 0.06% to the national grid, underscoring its role in a country where hydroelectric power is the dominant fuel source. Within a 50 km radius, UHE Risoleta Neves is surrounded by several hydroelectric plants, including the Risoleta Neves (Antiga Candonga) with an equivalent capacity of 140 MW, the Brecha plant which operates at 12.4 MW, and the smaller São Gonçalo (Antiga Santa Bárbara) at 11 MW. This clustering of hydro facilities highlights a regional energy context that strengthens the local power grid and enhances reliability. The presence of these plants creates a robust hydroelectric network, essential for meeting the energy demands of the surrounding communities while capitalizing on Brazil’s rich water resources. UHE Risoleta Neves is operated by a dedicated team, contributing to the efficiency and sustainability of energy production in the region. Commissioned in the early 2000s, this facility remains a crucial component of Brazil’s transition towards renewable energy sources. As the global focus shifts towards reducing carbon footprints and embracing sustainable practices, the importance of UHE Risoleta Neves in promoting hydroelectric power cannot be overstated. Its operational longevity and capacity will continue to play a vital role in fulfilling the energy needs of Brazil, aiding in the nation's commitment to a greener future.
26 years old
Brazil, South America
- Primary Fuel Type
- Hydro
- Energy Source
- Renewable
- Country
Brazil- Continent
- South America
- Data Source
- Global Power Plant Database
Hydro power generation utilizes the kinetic energy of flowing water to produce electricity. This renewable energy source operates primarily through the use of hydroelectric power plants, which are strategically placed on rivers or in locations where water flow is significant. The fundamental principle behind hydro power generation is relatively straightforward: water stored in a reservoir is released, flowing through turbines that convert the water's kinetic energy into mechanical energy. This mechanical energy is then transformed into electrical energy through generators. The effectiveness of hydro power plants largely depends on the height from which water falls, known as the 'head,' and the volume of water flowing through the turbines, referred to as the 'flow rate.' Together, these factors determine the total energy output of the plant. Globally, there are approximately 7,842 hydro power plants distributed across 128 countries, with a total installed capacity of about 1,288.5 gigawatts (GW). China leads the world in hydro power generation, boasting 989 plants with a capacity of 279.9 GW. Other notable countries include Brazil with 756 plants (119.4 GW), the United States with 1,491 plants (110.2 GW), Canada with 612 plants (102.4 GW), and Madagascar, which, despite having only five plants, has a significant capacity of 91.1 GW. The extensive network of hydroelectric facilities underscores the importance of this energy source in the global power generation landscape. The advantages of hydro power generation are numerous. It is a renewable resource, making it a sustainable choice for electricity production. Hydro power plants typically have low operational costs once established, and they can be adjusted to meet fluctuating electricity demands, providing reliable baseload power. Additionally, hydroelectric plants contribute to reduced greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuel-based power generation, thereby aiding in climate change mitigation efforts. However, hydro power is not without its disadvantages. The construction of large dams can lead to significant ecological and social disruptions, including the displacement of communities and alterations to local ecosystems. The creation of reservoirs can flood vast areas of land, impacting wildlife habitats and biodiversity. Moreover, hydro power generation is highly dependent on climatic conditions; droughts can significantly reduce water availability, thereby compromising electricity output. In recent years, global trends indicate a growing emphasis on renewable energy sources, with hydro power continuing to play a pivotal role. Many countries are investing in modernizing existing hydroelectric plants to enhance efficiency and reduce environmental impacts. Innovations such as small-scale hydro systems, which have a reduced ecological footprint, are gaining traction, especially in regions where large-scale projects may be infeasible. Looking ahead, the future of hydro power generation appears promising yet complex. As climate change continues to influence weather patterns, the availability of water resources for hydroelectric generation may become increasingly unpredictable. This necessitates a balancing act between harnessing hydroelectric potential and protecting the environmental and social integrity of affected regions. Continued advancements in technology and design, alongside a commitment to sustainable practices, will be crucial for the evolution of hydro power in the global energy mix. With its significant capacity and established infrastructure, hydro power remains a cornerstone of the renewable energy landscape, poised to contribute to a sustainable future.
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