The Monumental Jirau Hydroelectric Plant, Built on the Banks of the Madeira River in Rondônia, Boasts a Capacity of 3,750 MW and Supplies 10 Million Homes, Representing a Vital 3.7% of Brazil’s Hydroelectric Power, While Also Boosting the Local Economy and Committing to Sustainable Practices.
In the vast heart of the Brazilian Amazon, the Jirau Hydroelectric Plant rises as a modern colossus on the Madeira River. Located 120 km from the state capital, this monumental project, with an investment of R$ 19 billion, not only redefines the local landscape but also strengthens the national energy supply, benefiting more than 40 million people.
Inaugurated after a robust construction cycle that began in 2009, the Jirau Hydroelectric Plant stands out for its impressive installed capacity of 3,750 MW. Strategically positioned, the dam crosses the Madeira River with a length of 7,875 meters and a height of 62 meters, forming a reservoir of 361.6 km². This capacity allows it to provide enough energy to illuminate 10 million households, accounting for 3.7% of Brazil’s hydropower.
The Concept of Jirau Emerged in the 2000s When the Brazilian Government Recognized the Urgent Need to Expand the Country’s Energy Matrix
The concept of Jirau emerged in the 2000s when the Brazilian government recognized the urgent need to expand the country’s energy matrix, and was realized in 2016. The choice of the Madeira River was made due to its favorable characteristics and vast hydropower potential. The aim was not only to meet the growing energy demand but also to promote the sustainable development of the Amazon region, focusing on clean and renewable energy as an alternative to fossil fuels.
-
A mother of four sought a safer family environment, watched tutorials on the internet, built a 325 m² house with her family, and learned foundation, walls, plumbing, and electrical work without any professional experience.
-
Brazilians build modern houses 10 minutes from Disney, with luxury finishes, 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, a $227 condo fee, and potential for Airbnb, targeting investors who want to use the property in Orlando and rent it out when they are not in the United States.
-
A city with fewer than 2,000 residents believed that 3D-printed houses would solve its housing crisis, but the project stalled, walls cracked, the printer disappeared from the site, and the FBI got involved in the case.
-
India transforms coconut husk into biodegradable mats to reinforce rural roads, uses natural fibers under asphalt, stabilizes unstable soils, and demonstrates how agricultural waste can replace petroleum derivatives in projects subject to heavy rain and traffic.
The Construction of the Jirau Hydroelectric Plant Was Marked by Challenges and Achievements
The construction of the Jirau Hydroelectric Plant was marked by challenges and achievements. Utilizing advanced techniques and materials such as asphalt concrete, the project progressed even under adverse conditions. The plant also stood out for its commitment to sustainability: environmental monitoring programs were implemented to mitigate impacts on local fauna and flora.
Creating Thousands of Jobs and Generating Revenue Through Royalties
Since the beginning of commercial operations, Jirau has significantly contributed to the local and national economy, creating thousands of jobs and generating revenue through royalties, which total approximately 100 million reais annually. These funds have been essential for the development of infrastructure and social services in the region.
Looking ahead, the Jirau Hydroelectric Plant remains a crucial pillar in Brazil’s energy matrix. A symbol of progress and innovation, the plant continues to balance energy generation and environmental preservation, ensuring a lasting legacy of sustainable development for future generations in the country.


Somos auto suficiente em produção de energia e temos a maior tarifa do País, ficamos com todo o impacto ambiental e social e com a conta de energia cada vez maior, 😂😂😂😂
Literalmente o Brasil não é para amadores 😂🤡
Gostaria de saber pra onde está indo esses royalties das usinas hidrelétricas de Jirau e Santo Antônio, que aqui em Porto Velho, ninguém sabe.
O royalties de produção para Prefeitura de Porto Velho
O royalties de Distribuição para a Prefeitura de Piracicaba
Uma vergonha!, além de ter destruído o meio ambiente!, a energia de Rondônia é a mais cara do país!, com 2 usinas dentro do estado!