Itaipu Dam
Alto Paraná
The Itaipu Dam, located on the Paraná River at the border between Brazil and Paraguay, is one of the largest hydroelectric power plants globally. Completed in 1984, it is a binational project jointly administered by both countries. The dam has an installed capacity of 14 GW from 20 generating units, each producing 700 MW. Its reservoir is among the world's largest, ranking 45th by size. Itaipu's electricity generation is second only to China's Three Gorges Dam, making it a critical energy source for the region. The dam's name derives from a nearby island and means "the sounding stone" in the indigenous Guarani language. Besides its engineering significance, Itaipu has played a role in regional diplomacy, requiring cooperation between Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina. The facility also includes an environmental and social responsibility center, Tekotopa, emphasizing sustainability and conservation efforts. Its construction involved rerouting the Paraná River and extensive international collaboration. Today, Itaipu stands as a symbol of binational partnership and sustainable energy production in South America.
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Consejo: Visitors are encouraged to book guided tours in advance via the official Itaipu website to fully experience the dam's scale and technology. The best time to visit is during weekdays to avoid crowds. Discounts may be available for students and groups. Visitors should allocate ample time to explore the dam and the Tekotopa Environmental Center. Comfortable walking shoes and sun protection are recommended.
Datos interesantes
- •Itaipu Dam is the third-largest hydroelectric dam in the world by energy production.
- •Its installed capacity is 14 GW, with 20 generating units producing 700 MW each.
- •The name Itaipu means "the sounding stone" in the Guarani language, named after a nearby island.
- •The dam's reservoir ranks as the 45th largest worldwide.
- •It produces more electricity than any hydroelectric plant except for China's Three Gorges Dam.
- •The dam was a major diplomatic project involving Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina.
- •The Paraná River was rerouted in 1978 to enable construction of the dam.
Historia
The idea for the Itaipu Dam originated in the 1960s through negotiations between Brazil and Paraguay, culminating in the 1966 Iguaçu Act and the 1973 treaty establishing the project.
Construction began in 1975 after the creation of the Itaipu Binacional entity in 1974.
A major milestone was the rerouting of the Paraná River in 1978 to facilitate dam construction.
Argentina initially contested the project, but a tripartite agreement in 1979 resolved disputes and set water level regulations among the three countries.
The reservoir started filling in 1982, and the dam began operations in 1984.
Since then, Itaipu has become a cornerstone of regional energy infrastructure and cooperation.
Guía del lugar
Power Plant1984
The heart of Itaipu Dam, consisting of 20 generating units that convert the river's hydraulic energy into electricity, with 10 units operating at 50 Hz for Paraguay and 10 at 60 Hz for Brazil.
Tekotopa Environmental Center
An environmental and social responsibility center associated with Itaipu, focusing on conservation, sustainability, and environmental education.