Itaipu Binacional identified as strategic energy reserve for Brazil

The National Electric System Operator (ONS) has identified the Itaipu Binacional reservoir as a strategic resource to ensure energy security in Brazil as the El Niño phenomenon intensifies. During a meeting of the Electric Sector Monitoring Committee (CMSE), officials discussed measures to meet energy demand amid potential hydrological changes.

In unfavorable scenarios involving increased energy consumption and poor hydroenergetic conditions, the ONS may implement several measures. These include the complementary use of thermoelectric plants, optimized operation of the São Francisco River hydroelectric plants, and the strategic use of the Itaipu reservoir. There is also the possibility of activating the Operative Power Reserve between September and December 2026.

Projections indicate that El Niño is expected to peak between October 2026 and February 2027. While the South region has seen favorable rainfall, conditions in the Southeast, Center-West, and North regions remain a concern. In a worst-case scenario, the ONS warns of the potential need to dispatch all available thermoelectric resources and utilize the operative power reserve starting as early as September.