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Itaipu Binacional hydrological management

Updated 2 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

What changed

2026-09-24 10:36 UTC → 2026-09-29 22:13 UTC · added removed

The National Electric System Operator (ONS) identified the Itaipu Binacional reservoir as a strategic resource to maintain energy security in Brazil due to the intensification of the El Niño phenomenon. Officials discussed potential measures to meet energy demand, including the use of thermoelectric plants and the strategic management of the Itaipu reservoir, noting that El Niño was expected to peak between October 2026 and February 2027. In mid-September, heavy rainfall in the basin caused increased inflows, prompting Itaipu Binacional to open its spillway to regulate reservoir levels and ensure safe dam operations. On September 13, operations began with the left spillway channel, initially discharging between 1,700 and 1,735 cubic meters per second. Discharge volumes were increased to 3,100 cubic meters per second by early morning, with forecasts suggesting levels could reach 3,800 cubic meters per second. By late September, flow rates had peaked at over 3,800 cubic meters per second, with some discharges reaching up to 6,000 cubic meters per second. The controlled water discharge attracted approximately 2,767 visitors to the Paraguayan side of the dam. The spillway was scheduled to reopen on Thursday, On Monday, September 24, following this period 28, Itaipu Binacional conducted a controlled discharge from 8:00 to 13:30 with a flow rate of management. Throughout these maneuvers, approximately 700 m3/s. Technical teams continue to monitor volumes to maintain the binational entity has maintained normal electricity supplies reservoir near a reference maximum of 220.50 meters above sea level. While no further openings are currently scheduled for both Brazil and Paraguay, noting that the discharge is strictly for immediate term, technical forecasts suggest the gates may reopen next weekend to continue managing water level management levels and dam safety. downstream conditions.

Versions

  1. 2026-09-29 22:13 UTC Itaipu Binacional hydrological management
  2. 2026-09-24 10:36 UTC Itaipu Binacional hydrological management
  3. 2026-09-14 17:43 UTC Itaipu Binacional hydrological management

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