Overview
Paulo Mascarenhas is a 1 MW hydroelectric power plant located in Brazil. It is operational and contributes to the country's renewable energy mix.
Paulo Mascarenhas is a hydroelectric power plant situated in Brazil, with coordinates approximately 20.24°S, 42.91°W. With a capacity of 1 MW, it is a small-scale facility within the Brazilian power generation sector, which relies heavily on hydropower for its electricity supply. The plant operates under Brazil's regulatory framework for hydroelectric generation, which includes environmental licensing and water use permits. As a small hydro plant, it likely uses run-of-river technology, minimizing reservoir impact. Brazil's National Electric Energy Agency (ANEEL) oversees such facilities to ensure compliance with grid integration and environmental standards. This facility plays a role in local energy supply, contributing to the diversification of generation sources. Its small capacity suggests it may serve a localized community or industrial area. The plant's operational status indicates ongoing contribution to Brazil's renewable energy portfolio, which is dominated by large hydropower but also includes small-scale projects like Paulo Mascarenhas.
Environmental context
As a hydroelectric plant, Paulo Mascarenhas has a low carbon footprint but may affect local aquatic ecosystems. Its small capacity and likely run-of-river design reduce habitat disruption compared to large dams. The plant's location in Brazil's Atlantic Forest region may intersect with sensitive biodiversity areas, though specific impacts depend on local water management practices.
Frequently asked questions
Paulo Mascarenhas is located in Brazil at coordinates approximately 20.24°S, 42.91°W. The specific city or state is not publicly listed.
The plant has a capacity of 1 megawatt (MW), classifying it as a small-scale hydroelectric facility.
The operator of Paulo Mascarenhas is not publicly disclosed. In Brazil, hydroelectric plants are typically operated by energy companies under ANEEL regulation.
Hydroelectric plants in Brazil must comply with environmental licensing from IBAMA and state agencies, including water use permits and impact assessments. Small plants like Paulo Mascarenhas may have simplified requirements.
As a small hydro plant, it adds to Brazil's renewable energy generation, which is predominantly hydroelectric. It supports local grid stability and reduces reliance on fossil fuels.