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Check Out How Emae Reestablished the Operation of the Hydropower Plant UHE Rasgão in São Paulo After ANEEL Authorization, Marking a New Impulse for Energy Generation in the State
The Generating Unit 2 of UHE Rasgão, located in Pirapora do Bom Jesus, São Paulo, resumed commercial operations on October 28, 2025, after months of suspension. The decision was formalized by ANEEL (National Electric Energy Agency) through a dispatch published in the Official Federal Gazette and boosts the energy outlook.
History of the Suspension of Hydropower Plant UHE Rasgão
Emae (Metropolitan Company of Water and Energy), responsible for the hydropower plant, had announced the resumption on October 14, after meeting all technical and regulatory requirements. This return represents an important advance for the energy security of São Paulo state.
The hydropower plant UHE Rasgão, with an installed capacity of 11 MW, had its operations interrupted in March 2024 due to the need for replacement of components in the engines. In June, the turbine was officially shut down.
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Operational instability raised concerns about the reliability of hydropower generation in the metropolitan region. The prolonged suspension impacted local supply and required special attention from regulatory authorities and the plant operator.
Emae Leads Technical Recovery of UHE Rasgão
Emae played a decisive role in the reactivation of UHE Rasgão. After identifying the technical problems, the company implemented corrective measures and submitted technical documentation to ANEEL.
The agency concluded that the unit was ready for commercial operation, allowing the resumption of generation. Emae’s actions were essential to ensure the safety and efficiency of the resumption. Additionally, the company underwent significant structural changes. In April 2024, it was privatized and acquired by a fund linked to businessman Nelson Tanure.
In October 2025, Sabesp announced the purchase of 70.1% of Emae for R$ 1.13 billion, consolidating a new phase of integrated management between sanitation and energy. This transition of control may represent a new approach to the management of energy assets, focusing on operational efficiency and sustainability.
Impacts of the Resumption of the Hydropower Plant on the Energy Scenario of São Paulo
The return of UHE Rasgão to commercial operation brings direct benefits to the São Paulo electrical system:
- Reinforcement of local hydropower generation, reducing dependency on more expensive and polluting thermal sources.
- Stability in energy supply for the metropolitan region of São Paulo.
- Integration with sustainability policies, aligned with the National Energy Plan.
The reactivation of UHE Rasgão helps maintain the clean and sustainable profile of the Brazilian energy matrix. Moreover, the efficient use of water resources is crucial strategies to face climate challenges and ensure energy supply during drought periods.
The Hydropower Plant as a Vector of Regional Development
The presence of the hydropower plant UHE Rasgão in Pirapora do Bom Jesus not only contributes to energy supply but also to local development.
The generation of direct and indirect jobs, the stimulation of the regional economy, and the appreciation of infrastructure are positive effects of the operation of the plant. The clean energy generated by UHE Rasgão strengthens the environmental commitment of the state of São Paulo.
Furthermore, the integration between energy and sanitation, promoted by the new management of Emae, can generate important synergies for the rational use of water and the preservation of natural resources.
Prospects for the São Paulo Electric Sector After the Resumption of UHE Rasgão
The reactivation of UHE Rasgão represents more than the return of a turbine to operation. It is a symbol of the technical capacity of Emae, the regulatory action of ANEEL, and the importance of the hydropower plant in the energy matrix of São Paulo.
With the integration of energy and sanitation, the state of São Paulo positions itself as a reference in efficient resource management. UHE Rasgão, now fully operational, is a fundamental part of this new scenario.
The expectation is that other generation units will undergo similar modernization and reactivation processes, contributing to the resilience of the national electrical system. Joint action between companies, government and society will be essential to guarantee a sustainable and safe energy future.
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