Overview
Barcelos is a 4.26 MW diesel power plant in Brazil, providing electricity generation for the Amazonas region. The facility operates on oil fuel and serves local grid needs.
Barcelos is a diesel power plant located in the municipality of Barcelos, Amazonas, Brazil. With a capacity of 4.26 MW, it is a small-scale facility typical of remote off-grid power generation in the Amazon basin. The plant operates on oil fuel and is operational, contributing to local electricity supply. The plant uses diesel reciprocating engines, a common technology for isolated power systems in Brazil's northern region. Brazil's power generation sector is regulated by the National Electric Energy Agency (ANEEL) and environmental standards set by the National Environmental Council (CONAMA). Diesel plants like Barcelos are subject to emission limits for particulate matter, NOx, and SOx under CONAMA Resolution 382/2006. As a small diesel facility in a remote area, Barcelos plays a critical role in providing electricity to a community that may lack grid connectivity. Its operation supports local economic activity and quality of life, though reliance on oil fuel implies higher carbon intensity compared to Brazil's predominantly hydroelectric matrix.
Environmental context
The plant's diesel combustion emits CO2, NOx, SOx, and particulate matter, contributing to local air quality impacts. Its location in the Amazon rainforest raises concerns about ecosystem sensitivity and potential effects on biodiversity. The facility's small capacity limits its overall environmental footprint, but fuel transport and storage in remote areas pose spill risks. Brazil's environmental licensing process for power plants includes impact assessments and mitigation measures.
Frequently asked questions
The Barcelos diesel power plant is located in the municipality of Barcelos, in the state of Amazonas, Brazil. Its coordinates are approximately 0.963°S, 62.924°W.
The Barcelos power plant operates on diesel fuel (oil), which is typical for small-scale power generation in remote areas of the Amazon region.
The Barcelos power plant has a capacity of 4.26 megawatts (MW), making it a small-scale facility designed to serve local electricity needs.
Diesel power plants in Brazil must comply with CONAMA Resolution 382/2006, which sets emission limits for pollutants such as NOx, SOx, and particulate matter. Facilities also require environmental licensing from state or federal agencies.
The Barcelos plant provides essential electricity to a remote community in the Amazon, supporting local development and quality of life. It is part of Brazil's strategy to ensure energy access in isolated areas not connected to the national grid.