Itaipu hydroelectric dam aerial view with massive water release

Itaipu hydroelectric dam, on the Brazil-Paraguay border, is one of the world's largest in energy generation, with an installed capacity of 14 GW.

About this subject

The Itaipu Hydroelectric Dam, located on the Paraná River between Brazil and Paraguay, is one of the largest in the world in energy generation. Inaugurated in 1984, its construction involved about 40,000 workers and cost approximately US$20 billion. The dam is 7,919 meters long and 196 meters high, forming a reservoir of 1,350 km². Its installed capacity of 14,000 MW is composed of 20 generating units of 700 MW each. In 2016, Itaipu set a world record for annual production, generating 103.1 million MWh. The plant supplies about 15% of Brazil's consumption and 85% of Paraguay's. The spillway, with a capacity of 62,200 m³/s, is often activated during flood periods to control the reservoir level. Itaipu's operation is binational, managed by ITAIPU Binacional, and the energy generated is shared equally between the two countries. The dam is also a major tourist attraction, receiving over 500,000 visitors per year, who can tour its facilities and see the spillway in operation. Itaipu represents a milestone in engineering and international cooperation, being considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World by the American Society of Civil Engineers.

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.

How many countries benefit from Itaipu's energy?

Two: Brazil and Paraguay. The energy is split equally, but Paraguay sells its surplus to Brazil.

What is Itaipu's annual production record?

In 2016, Itaipu generated 103.1 million MWh, the highest annual volume ever recorded by a hydroelectric plant at that time.