World Power Plants

Usina Hidrelétrica Fontes Nova132 MW Hydroelectric

HydroRenewableVerified: Feb 2026

Ranking as the 238th largest power generation facility in Brazil, Usina Hidrelétrica Fontes Nova is a noteworthy player in the Brazilian hydroelectric landscape, despite its modest capacity of 132 MW. This facility contributes to a mere 0.05% of Brazil's total capacity of 250,382 MW, which is dominated primarily by hydroelectric power. Positioned in a region rich with various energy sources, the Fontes Nova plant stands out by utilizing hydroelectric technology, which harnesses flowing water to generate electricity, thus contributing to Brazil’s reputation as a global leader in renewable energy. Located approximately 50 kilometers from significant gas-fired plants such as the Santa Cruz power plant (936 MW) and the Baixada Fluminense Power Plant (530 MW), Usina Hidrelétrica Fontes Nova is part of an intricate energy network that provides stability and diversity to the grid. While the nearby gas plants play a crucial role in meeting immediate energy demands, the hydroelectric output from Fontes Nova helps in balancing the supply with renewable energy, showcasing the importance of diversified energy sources in the region. In the broader context of Brazil's energy profile, where there are 2,402 total plants and 720 of them are hydro facilities, the Fontes Nova plant ranks 130th among hydro plants. This reveals that while it may not be among the largest, it still plays a significant role in the overall generation capacity of hydroelectric power in the country. With Brazil relying heavily on hydroelectric energy, the plant’s contribution is essential for maintaining the balance in the national energy supply, especially during periods of drought when water levels might be low. Owned and operated by Light, a prominent player in the Brazilian energy sector, the Usina Hidrelétrica Fontes Nova has been contributing to the grid since its commissioning. As nations worldwide strive to transition toward more sustainable energy practices, the continued operation of hydroelectric facilities like Fontes Nova represents a commitment to renewable energy and environmental stewardship in Brazil. Looking ahead, the significance of Usina Hidrelétrica Fontes Nova extends beyond its immediate power generation. It exemplifies the potential of hydroelectric energy in contributing to a sustainable future, particularly as Brazil continues to lead the way in renewable energy adoption. The facility not only plays a vital role in the local energy landscape but also highlights the importance of preserving natural resources while meeting the growing energy demands of the population.

Capacity
132 MW
Commissioning Year
2013

13 years old

Owner
Light
Location
-22.6921°, -43.8642°

Brazil, South America

Context & rankings
  • 238. largest of 2,402 plants in Brazil
  • #8,915 worldwide by installed capacity
  • #1,915 of 8,493 Hydroelectric plants worldwide
  • 0.05% of the installed capacity of Brazil
Age & fleet comparison

13 years in operation

Hydroelectric fleet average: 42.1 years

Operator portfolio

Light operates 2 plants totalling 188 MW

Regional density

76 plants within 100 km, 11,414 MW combined

Nearest plant: Nilo Peçanha (1.4 km)

Data provenance

Location

Coordinates:: -22.692069, -43.864189
Open in Google Maps
Carbon Footprint

Zero Direct Emissions

Usina Hidrelétrica Fontes Nova is a hydro power plant producing approximately 463 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.