Energy sector updates: Enel Rio grid maintenance and new hydroelectric project in Espírito Santo

Enel Rio has announced plans to conduct more than 645,000 tree pruning operations across the state of Rio de Janeiro by the end of the year. This strategic initiative aims to reduce vegetation impact on the electrical grid and enhance system resilience against climate challenges such as storms, high winds, and extreme heat. Between January and July, the company completed over 360,000 prunings. Key municipalities for these operations include Angra dos Reis, Petrópolis, Teresópolis, Macaé, and Niterói.

In Espírito Santo, Santa Maria Participações is investing R$ 60 million to construct a new hydroelectric plant on the Cricaré River in São Mateus. The Km 47 hydroelectric plant is expected to have an installed capacity of 5 megawatts, providing enough energy for approximately 12,000 homes. Construction is projected to begin next year and conclude by 2029, with the project expected to create roughly 300 jobs during its implementation.