Usina Hidrelétrica Engenheiro Souza Dias— 1,551.2 MW Hydroelectric
Usina Hidrelétrica Engenheiro Souza Dias is a significant hydroelectric power generation facility in Brazil, boasting a capacity of 1551.2 MW. Operated by China Three Gorges Brasil Energia Ltda., this power plant harnesses the energy of flowing water to produce electricity, thereby playing a critical role in Brazil's energy landscape. Commissioned in 1969, the plant is strategically located at coordinates -20.7780, -51.6290, near the Paraná River, an area known for its rich hydropower potential. The facility's hydro technology, utilizing a dam system, allows for efficient generation of electricity while contributing to the stability of the local grid. As Brazil increasingly relies on renewable sources for its energy needs, Usina Hidrelétrica Engenheiro Souza Dias exemplifies the country's commitment to sustainable energy generation. This hydroelectric power plant not only provides substantial electricity to the national grid but also supports local economic development by ensuring a reliable energy supply. Its significant capacity plays a vital role in meeting the energy demands of both consumers and industries in the region. The operational context of the plant is further enhanced by Brazil's energy policies, which prioritize renewable energy sources and aim to reduce dependency on fossil fuels. As the nation continues to expand its renewable energy infrastructure, Usina Hidrelétrica Engenheiro Souza Dias remains a cornerstone of Brazil's efforts to promote clean and sustainable energy generation, while also contributing to the overall energy security of the country.
1.55 GW
57 years old
Brazil, South America
- 25. largest of 2,402 plants in Brazil
- #1,202 worldwide by installed capacity
- #150 of 8,493 Hydroelectric plants worldwide
- 0.62% of the installed capacity of Brazil
57 years in operation
Hydroelectric fleet average: 42.1 years
China Three Gorges Brasil Energia Ltda. operates 1 plants totalling 1,551 MW
27 plants within 100 km, 14,352 MW combined
Source: OpenStreetMap
Location
Zero Direct Emissions
Usina Hidrelétrica Engenheiro Souza Dias is a hydro power plant producing approximately 5435 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
Overview of Usina Hidrelétrica Engenheiro Souza Dias: A Major Hydropower Facility in Brazil
The Usina Hidrelétrica Engenheiro Souza Dias, also known as the Jupiá Hydroelectric Power Plant, is a significant hydroelectric facility located on the Paraná River in Brazil. Commissioned in 1969, the plant has a total installed capacity of 1551.2 megawatts (MW), making it one of the key contributors to Brazil's renewable energy landscape. Owned by China Three Gorges Brasil Energia Ltda., it plays an essential role in the country’s energy sector, which relies heavily on hydroelectric power to meet its growing electricity demand.
As a hydroelectric power plant, Usina Hidrelétrica Engenheiro Souza Dias utilizes the kinetic energy of flowing water to generate electricity. Water is channeled through turbines, which then convert the energy of moving water into mechanical energy, and subsequently into electrical energy. This process is inherently more sustainable than fossil fuel-based power generation, as it produces no direct emissions of greenhouse gases during operation. The plant's reliance on hydroelectricity is instrumental in Brazil’s commitment to renewable energy sources, with hydropower accounting for a substantial portion of the country's total electricity generation.
Despite its advantages, the operation of hydroelectric plants like Usina Hidrelétrica Engenheiro Souza Dias is not without environmental impact. The construction of the facility necessitated the flooding of large areas of land, which can disrupt local ecosystems and displace communities. Additionally, alterations to the natural flow of the Paraná River can affect fish migration patterns and the health of aquatic ecosystems. However, modern regulatory frameworks and environmental assessments aim to mitigate these impacts, promoting sustainable practices and habitat conservation around such facilities.
Regionally, the Usina Hidrelétrica Engenheiro Souza Dias serves as a critical component of the electrical grid in Brazil, particularly in the southeastern and central-western regions of the country. By providing a stable and significant source of electricity, the plant supports industrial activities and residential power needs, contributing to economic growth and development. Its strategic location along the Paraná River also positions it as a vital link in a network of hydroelectric facilities that enhance energy security and reliability across Brazil.
In conclusion, the Usina Hidrelétrica Engenheiro Souza Dias stands as a testament to Brazil's investment in renewable energy and its reliance on hydropower. With a capacity of 1551.2 MW, it not only addresses the nation's energy demands but also reflects the complexities of balancing energy production with environmental stewardship. As Brazil continues to evolve its energy policies, the role of hydroelectric plants like Jupiá will remain central to the country's vision for a sustainable energy future.
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