Challenges and outlook for hydropower development in Brazil

Despite the success of public auctions for the purchase of electricity, linked to the establishment of long-term power purchase agreements, since 2008 the number of new hydro projects has been significantly reduced in Brazil. This paper discusses the set of key challenges delaying the implementation of new medium- and large-scale hydropower projects in the country. Issues addressed include hydrological risk, lack of recognition of the role of hydropower in integrating and balancing intermittent renewables, and the ‘platform hydropower’ concept in areas with potentially significant environmental, climate and social impacts.