Itaipu Dam the world's largest hydroelectric production again
Itaipu Hydroelectric Dam 
Itaipu Hydroelectric Dam has been again the world's largest annual hydroelectric production, surpassing the Three Gorges dam in China. Last year, Itaipu produced 89.2 million megawatt-hours (MWh), 2.5% more than the Chinese dam.
In 2014, Itaipu had lost the position as the world's leader in the annual hydroelectric production due to the water crisis Brazil had faced. Last year, Itaipu's energy production had been below the average of recent years, but was considered excellent due the drought scenario faced by a large part of the country for the second consecutive year, especially in the first half.
Since the opening date, in May 1984, Itaipu, which belongs to Brazil and Paraguay, has generated 2,312 billion MWh, the world's largest accumulated production of energy. However, the Itaipu's installed capacity (14,000 MW) is less than the one of the Chinese Three Gorges (22,400 MW).
Itaipu currently meets 15% of all electricity demand in Brazil and satisfies more than 75% of Paraguay's electricity market needs.
The energy produced by Itaipu in 2015 would be enough to supply the consumption of Brazil's entire Northeast region for a year and a month; the Southeast for four months; and the South for a year. It would meet the entire demand of a city like São Paulo for three years; Curitiba for 18 years; and Foz do Iguaçu for 155 years and eight months.
The expectation for 2016 is for Itaipu to produce more than 90 million MWh. During this year's first week, Itaipu is producing 17% more than in the same period of 2015.
Translated by Amarílis Anchieta
Fonte: Itaipu Dam the world's largest hydroelectric production again
