Itaipu hydroelectric dam aerial view with massive water release

Itaipu hydroelectric dam, on the Brazil-Paraguay border, is one of the largest in the world with a capacity of 14 GW.

About this subject

The Itaipu hydroelectric dam, located on the Paraná River at the Brazil-Paraguay border, is one of the largest engineering works in the world. Inaugurated in 1984 after a historic bilateral agreement, the plant has an installed capacity of 14,000 MW, generating about 90 million MWh per year, supplying approximately 10% of Brazil's consumption and 85% of Paraguay's. Its construction required diverting the Paraná River, excavating 63 million cubic meters of earth, and using 12.3 million cubic meters of concrete, enough to build 210 Maracanã stadiums.

The main dam is 196 meters tall and 7,919 meters long, forming a reservoir that stretches 170 km to Foz do Iguaçu. The spillway gates, shown in the image releasing a massive amount of water, can discharge up to 62,200 cubic meters per second, a flow equivalent to 40 times that of Iguazu Falls. This system is activated to control the reservoir level, especially during flood periods, preventing damage to the structure and ensuring operational safety.

Beyond power generation, Itaipu plays a crucial role in South American energy integration. The plant is a symbol of cooperation between Brazil and Paraguay, with binational management by Itaipu Binacional. In 2023, it set a production record, generating over 100 million MWh, surpassing previous marks. Visiting the complex is a major tourist attraction in the region, with tours including the viewpoint, the dam, and the spillway, offering an impressive experience of the grandeur of hydroelectric engineering.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the generation capacity of the Itaipu dam?

Itaipu has an installed capacity of 14,000 MW, with 20 generating units of 700 MW each. In 2023, it generated over 100 million MWh.

Why is water released through the spillway?

The release controls the reservoir level during heavy rains or floods, preventing overload on the dam and ensuring the plant's safety.

Is Itaipu the largest hydroelectric dam in the world?

Currently, Itaipu is the second largest in annual generation, behind China's Three Gorges Dam. In installed capacity, it ranks among the largest.