Overview
Ibirama is a 21 MW hydroelectric power plant located in Brazil. It is operational and contributes to the country's renewable energy capacity.
Ibirama is a hydroelectric power plant located in Brazil, with a capacity of 21 MW. As a hydroelectric facility, it generates electricity from the flow of water, a renewable energy source. The plant is operational and plays a role in Brazil's energy mix, which relies heavily on hydropower. Brazil's hydroelectric sector is regulated by national environmental and energy policies, including licensing requirements from the Brazilian Institute of Environment and Renewable Natural Resources (IBAMA). The country's vast river systems support numerous hydroelectric plants, and Ibirama fits within the small-to-medium scale range typical for such facilities in the region. The plant's operation contributes to the local grid, providing clean energy and supporting regional development. Its location in southern Brazil, near the Itajaí River basin, aligns with the area's hydrographic characteristics. The facility's capacity, while modest, adds to the distributed generation capacity that helps stabilize the grid and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Environmental context
Hydroelectric power generation, such as at Ibirama, has a low carbon footprint but can affect local aquatic ecosystems and water flow regimes. The plant's location in a river basin may influence sediment transport and fish migration patterns. Brazil's regulatory framework requires environmental impact assessments and mitigation measures for hydro projects, aiming to balance energy production with ecological preservation.
Frequently asked questions
The Ibirama hydroelectric power plant is located in Brazil, with coordinates approximately 27.0372° S, 49.5708° W.
The Ibirama hydroelectric plant has a capacity of 21 megawatts (MW).
Yes, the Ibirama hydroelectric plant is currently operational.
Hydroelectric plants in Brazil are regulated by the Brazilian Institute of Environment and Renewable Natural Resources (IBAMA) and the National Electric Energy Agency (ANEEL). They must comply with environmental licensing and water use permits.
Hydroelectric power generation has low greenhouse gas emissions but can alter river ecosystems, affect fish migration, and change sediment transport. Environmental mitigation measures are typically required to minimize these impacts.