Belo Monte dam reduces Xingu River flow due to El Niño

Norte Energia has begun a gradual reduction of water flow to the intermediate reservoir of the Belo Monte Hydroelectric Power Plant on the Xingu River in Pará. As a preventive measure against the potential effects of El Niño in the North region of Brazil, the flow will be reduced from 300 m³/s to 100 m³/s.

The operation is scheduled to remain in effect until November 30. According to the company, this measure does not alter the water volume destined for the Volta Grande do Xingu. The reduction aims to provide greater predictability and reliability for the National Interconnected System (SIN) planning and operation.

Additionally, the measure is intended to improve navigability in the main reservoir to assist indigenous and riverside communities, and to support the Belo Monte Fish Transposition System. This system facilitates the movement of migratory species during their reproductive period, contributing to the 'piracema'. Norte Energia will monitor water quality, navigation conditions, and fish movement throughout the period, reporting results to regulatory bodies including Ibama, ANA, and the ONS.