Hydropower in Brazil

The project activity consists of the supply of clean hydropower to the Brazilian national interconnected grid through the construction and operation of the Barra Grande hydropower plant. This is located in the southern region of Brazil.

The power plant has an installed capacity of 708 MW, using a small reservoir, with low environmental impact relative to its installed capacity. The Barra Grande hydropower plant generates electricity from a clean and renewable source, helping to meet the growing demand for electricity in Brazil. Thus, the project contributes to environmental, social and economic sustainability and promotes the share of clean and renewable energy in the country.

In 2020, Brazil already covered 83 percent of its electricity consumption with renewable energies. By comparison, Germany was at 49 percent from renewable sources in 2021. Most of Brazil's green energy comes from hydropower, which accounts for more than 60 percent in the country. Wind energy is in second place with just under ten percent, while solar parks play a subordinate role. In 2020, Brazil already covered 83 percent of its electricity consumption with renewable energies. By comparison, Germany was at 49 percent from renewable sources in 2021.

Small hydropower plants use the energy of free-flowing water without using a dam. This allows diesel generators to be replaced by clean electricity generation. Small turbines are placed in a free-flowing river or stream and capture the kinetic energy of the water without creating a dam. As an underwater analogue to wind turbines, their blades rotate as the water flows by, generating electricity relatively continuously. No barriers, diversions or storage are required, only limited structural support. There are no emissions.

The project is located in the southern region of Brazil between the cities of Anita Garibaldi, Santa Catarina State and Pinhal da Serra, Rio Grande do Sul State.