Overview
Paraúna is a 4.28 MW hydroelectric power plant located in Brazil. It is operational and contributes to the country's renewable energy generation.
Paraúna is a hydroelectric power plant located in Brazil, with an installed capacity of 4.28 MW. As a small-scale hydro facility, it plays a role in the country's diverse energy mix, which relies heavily on hydropower. The plant is operational and contributes to the local grid. Hydroelectric plants in Brazil operate under the regulatory framework of the National Electric Energy Agency (ANEEL) and must comply with environmental licensing requirements set by the Brazilian Institute of the Environment and Renewable Natural Resources (IBAMA). Small hydro plants like Paraúna are subject to simplified licensing procedures but still adhere to standards for water use and ecological flow. The plant's capacity of 4.28 MW places it in the small hydro category, typical for run-of-river projects that have minimal environmental impact compared to large dams. Its operation supports Brazil's renewable energy goals and provides clean electricity to the surrounding region.
Environmental context
As a hydroelectric plant, Paraúna generates electricity without direct CO2 emissions, contributing to low-carbon energy. However, hydro projects can affect local aquatic ecosystems and water flow regimes. The plant's small scale likely minimizes these impacts, but it still requires careful management of water resources and fish passage. The surrounding region in Brazil may have seasonal rainfall patterns that influence generation capacity.
Frequently asked questions
The Paraúna hydroelectric plant is located in Brazil, with coordinates approximately 18.6381° S, 43.9647° W.
The Paraúna hydroelectric plant has an installed capacity of 4.28 megawatts (MW).
Paraúna is a hydroelectric power plant, which uses water flow to generate electricity.
Hydroelectric plants in Brazil are regulated by the National Electric Energy Agency (ANEEL) and must obtain environmental licenses from IBAMA or state agencies, depending on size and location.
Small-scale hydroelectric plants like Paraúna produce renewable energy with low greenhouse gas emissions, and their smaller footprint often results in less ecological disruption compared to large dams.