Passo do Meio Hydroelectric Power Plant, Brazil | 30 MW Facility

Passo do Meio is a hydroelectric power plant located in Brazil, with an installed capacity of 30 MW. As a renewable energy facility, it plays a role in the country's electricity generation, which is heavily reliant on hydropower. The plant is operational and contributes to the regional grid. Brazil's hydroelectric sector is governed by national regulations, including environmental licensing requirements and water use permits. The country's vast river systems and topography make hydropower a dominant source, accounting for a significant share of the energy matrix. Plants like Passo do Meio typically operate under run-of-river or reservoir configurations, depending on local hydrology. The 30 MW capacity places Passo do Meio in the small-to-medium scale range for hydroelectric plants in Brazil. Its operation supports local energy needs and contributes to the overall reliability of the grid. The plant's environmental impact is generally lower than fossil fuel alternatives, though it still involves considerations such as aquatic ecosystem management and water flow regulation.

As a hydroelectric plant, Passo do Meio generates electricity with low direct carbon emissions, supporting Brazil's clean energy goals. However, hydropower projects can affect local aquatic ecosystems and water flow regimes. The plant's location in southern Brazil, a region with diverse river systems, requires careful management of water resources and fish passage. The 30 MW capacity suggests a relatively modest footprint compared to larger dams, potentially reducing ecological disruption.