World Power Plants

Usina Termelétrica de Santa Cruz350 MW Natural Gas

GasVerified: Feb 2026

The Usina Termelétrica de Santa Cruz is a vital gas-fired power generation facility located in Brazil, contributing significantly to the country's energy mix. With a capacity of 350 MW, this power plant plays an essential role in meeting the energy demands of the region. Commissioned in 1968, it has been an integral part of Brazil's electricity supply, particularly in the state of Rio de Janeiro where it is situated at coordinates -22.9145, -43.7660. Operated by Furnas, this facility utilizes gas technology, known for its efficiency and lower emissions compared to traditional coal power plants. The use of gas as a fuel type allows the Usina Termelétrica de Santa Cruz to provide reliable baseload power while also supporting peak demand periods. Gas plants like this one are crucial in bridging the energy transition towards more sustainable sources, especially in a country that has been increasingly focusing on renewable energy policies. The energy generated by this plant significantly contributes to the local grid, helping to stabilize and ensure a consistent power supply for both residential and industrial users in the surrounding areas. Furthermore, as Brazil continues to develop its energy infrastructure, the role of gas-fired power generation facilities like Usina Termelétrica de Santa Cruz remains pivotal in balancing energy sources and supporting economic growth.

Capacity
350 MW
Commissioning Year
1968

58 years old

Owner
Furnas
Location
-22.9145°, -43.7660°

Brazil, South America

Context & rankings
  • 131. largest of 2,402 plants in Brazil
  • #5,633 worldwide by installed capacity
  • #2,095 of 5,146 Natural Gas plants worldwide
  • 0.14% of the installed capacity of Brazil
Age & fleet comparison

58 years in operation

Natural Gas fleet average: 26.9 years

Operator portfolio

Furnas operates 1 plants totalling 350 MW

Regional density

65 plants within 100 km, 10,977 MW combined

Nearest plant: Do Atlântico (3.8 km)

Data provenance

Location

Coordinates:: -22.914475, -43.766001
Open in Google Maps
Carbon Footprint490 g CO₂/kWh
Annual CO₂
676.1 Kt
1380 GWh/year × 490 g/kWh
Cumulative CO₂
39.21 Mt
Over 58 years of operation
Past Retirement
1998
28 years past expected retirement
Annual emissions equivalent to
147.0K
cars per year
90.1K
homes per year
30.7M
trees to offset

Estimates based on Gas emission factor (490 g CO₂/kWh) and capacity factor (45%). Actual emissions may vary based on operating conditions, efficiency, and fuel quality.

Technical Details

Primary Fuel Type
Gas
Energy Source
Non-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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