Conservation Strategy Fund Report: Risk Scenarios and Environmental Issues around the Belo Monte Dam

By: 
Uncertainties in Amazon Hydropower Development
Date: 
Monday, August 16, 2010

ABSTRACT: The Amazon region is the final frontier and central focus of Brazilian hydro development, which raises a range of environmental concerns. The largest project in the Amazon is the planned Belo Monte Complex on the Xingu river. If constructed it will be the second biggest hydroelectric plant in Brazil, third largest on earth. In this study, we analyse the private and social costs, and benefits of the Belo Monte project. Furthermore, we present risk scenarios, considering fluctuations in the project’s feasibility that would result from variations in total costs and power.

Download the full article here.