Xingó Dam— 3,162 MW Hydroelectric
The Xingó Dam is a vital hydroelectric power generation facility located in Brazil at coordinates -9.6209, -37.7911. With a substantial capacity of 3,162 MW, it is one of the largest hydroelectric plants in South America, contributing significantly to Brazil's energy mix. Commissioned in 1987, the Xingó Dam plays an essential role in the energy infrastructure of the northeastern region of Brazil, where it provides a reliable and renewable source of electricity. The dam utilizes advanced hydroelectric technology, featuring a large reservoir and turbines that convert the energy of flowing water into electricity efficiently. This renewable energy source is crucial for meeting the growing electricity demands of local communities and industries. The strategic placement of the dam along the São Francisco River allows it to harness the river's flow, ensuring a consistent generation of energy throughout the year. In terms of environmental impact, the Xingó Dam also plays a significant role in managing water resources for irrigation and flood control, which is particularly important in the agricultural regions surrounding the river. As part of Brazil's energy policy, which emphasizes sustainability and renewable energy, the Xingó Dam exemplifies the country's commitment to reducing reliance on fossil fuels and increasing the share of clean energy in its national grid.
3.16 GW
39 years old
Brazil, South America
- 15. largest of 2,402 plants in Brazil
- #305 worldwide by installed capacity
- #50 of 8,493 Hydroelectric plants worldwide
- 1.26% of the installed capacity of Brazil
39 years in operation
Hydroelectric fleet average: 42.1 years
Chesf (Companhia Hidro Elétrica do São Francisco) operates 2 plants totalling 6,324 MW
12 plants within 100 km, 10,491 MW combined
Source: Wikidata
Location
Zero Direct Emissions
Xingó Dam is a hydro power plant producing approximately 11080 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
Xingó Dam: A Major Hydro Power Facility in Brazil
The Xingó Dam, located on the São Francisco River in northeastern Brazil, is a significant hydroelectric power station with a total installed capacity of 3,162 megawatts (MW). Commissioned in 1987, this facility plays a crucial role in Brazil's energy sector, contributing to the country's goal of generating a substantial portion of its electricity from renewable sources. As a hydroelectric plant, the Xingó Dam harnesses the kinetic energy of flowing water to produce electricity, making it a vital component of Brazil's strategy to utilize its abundant water resources for sustainable energy production.
The dam operates by utilizing the gravitational force of falling water to turn turbines, which then generate electricity. The hydroelectric process is considered one of the cleanest forms of energy generation, as it produces no direct emissions of greenhouse gases. However, it is essential to recognize that hydroelectric power does have potential environmental impacts. The construction of the Xingó Dam led to the flooding of approximately 700 square kilometers of land, which resulted in the displacement of local communities and changes to the local ecosystem. These environmental changes can affect fish populations and alter habitats for various species, making careful management of water resources and ecological considerations essential in the operation of such facilities.
In the context of Brazil's energy landscape, the Xingó Dam is pivotal for several reasons. The country relies heavily on hydroelectric power, which accounts for a significant portion of its total electricity generation. The Xingó Dam, as one of the largest hydroelectric plants in Brazil, contributes a considerable amount of power to the national grid, helping to meet the energy demands of both urban and rural areas. Its capacity allows for the management of energy supply during peak demand periods, thus enhancing grid stability and reliability.
Regionally, the Xingó Dam is of great significance as it not only provides electricity but also supports local economies through job creation and infrastructure development. The reservoir created by the dam serves multiple purposes, including irrigation for agriculture, recreation, and tourism. The surrounding areas have seen an influx of visitors, drawn by the natural beauty of the reservoir and the recreational opportunities it offers, such as fishing and boating.
Overall, the Xingó Dam stands as a testament to Brazil's commitment to renewable energy and sustainable development. Its operation illustrates the balance between harnessing natural resources for energy and the necessity of protecting the environment and local communities. As Brazil continues to navigate the complexities of energy production and environmental stewardship, the Xingó Dam will remain an integral player in the nation’s energy portfolio and regional development.
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