Brazil's mega dams, among world's largest, struggle due to droughts

Brazil's mega dams, including Santo Antônio, Jirau, and Belo Monte, are facing significant operational challenges due to severe droughts exacerbated by climate change. These dams, which were once seen as a cornerstone of Brazil's green energy strategy, are now producing electricity at only a fraction of their capacity—less than 10% for Santo Antônio and even lower for others. The drought has led to river levels dropping to record lows, forcing the shutdown of many turbines and raising concerns about the future viability of these energy sources. Hydropower accounts for nearly half of Brazil's energy supply, and the underperformance of these dams has resulted in the government failing to meet its energy output commitments. Experts predict that droughts will become more frequent, further jeopardizing the dams' operations. In response to the declining output, Brazil is turning to fossil fuels and exploring alternative energy sources like solar and wind. The government is also considering building additional dams, despite environmental concerns and opposition from activists who highlight the ecological damage caused by existing projects. The situation raises questions about the sustainability of Brazil's energy strategy and its ambitions to become a leader in renewable energy.

- Brazil's mega dams are operating at significantly reduced capacity due to droughts.

- Hydropower constitutes about 47% of Brazil's energy, but output has consistently failed to meet contractual obligations.

- Climate change is expected to increase the frequency of droughts, further impacting energy production.

- The government is exploring fossil fuels and alternative energy sources in response to declining hydropower output.

- Environmental concerns persist regarding the construction of new dams and the ecological impact of existing projects.