Ormeo Junqueira Botelho (Antiga Cachoeira Encoberta) - 22.7 MW Hydroelectric Power Plant in Brazil

Ormeo Junqueira Botelho (Antiga Cachoeira Encoberta) is a hydroelectric power plant located in Brazil, with coordinates approximately 21.09°S, 42.34°W. The facility has an installed capacity of 22.7 MW, placing it in the small-to-medium scale range for hydroelectric plants in Brazil. It is currently operational, supplying renewable electricity to the national grid. As a hydroelectric facility, Ormeo Junqueira Botelho operates without direct fuel combustion, resulting in negligible CO2, SOx, and NOx emissions. The plant's technology is typical of run-of-river or small reservoir designs common in Brazil's diverse hydrography. Brazil's regulatory framework for hydroelectric plants includes environmental licensing by IBAMA and state agencies, as well as compliance with the National Water Agency (ANA) for water use rights. The plant's location in the southeastern region of Brazil, near the Paraíba do Sul river basin, supports local energy needs and contributes to the stability of the interconnected grid. Its small capacity makes it suitable for distributed generation, reducing transmission losses and supporting rural or peri-urban communities. The facility plays a role in Brazil's renewable energy mix, which is dominated by hydropower.

The plant uses hydropower, a renewable source with low lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions. However, hydroelectric projects can affect local aquatic ecosystems and water flow regimes. The facility's small capacity and likely run-of-river design minimize reservoir-related impacts. Its location in a region with moderate rainfall supports consistent generation without significant water stress.