Enio Verri: Itaipu guarantees Brazil's energy security.
The Brazilian director-general of the binational company highlights the strategic role of the power plant, investments in clean energy, and regional integration.
247 - In interview with TV 247 (watch here), granted to journalists Leonardo Attuch and Tereza Cruvinel, the Brazilian director-general of Itaipu, Enio VerriHe highlighted the role of the hydroelectric plant as a pillar of the country's energy security and as a global example of regional integration. For him, the plant is "Brazil's great battery," guaranteeing reliable energy when intermittent sources, such as wind and solar, are unavailable.
"Itaipu is today Brazil's great battery; it guarantees the stability of the electricity sector. It produces firm, clean, and cheap energy, which positions the country as a model for the world," Verri stated.
A revolutionary work
According to the official, Itaipu is the result of two revolutions: one in engineering and the other in international politics. The power plant, built more than 50 years ago without advanced software, has become the largest engineering project ever undertaken in Brazil and a symbol of cooperation between Brazil and Paraguay.
Hydropower, which once supplied 25% of all energy consumed in Brazil, now accounts for 9%. This is because the country has diversified its energy matrix, with 40% of its installed capacity coming from wind and solar sources.
Energy for two countries
According to the treaty governing the binational agreement, each country is entitled to 50% of the energy produced. Paraguay, however, consumes only 15% and is obligated to sell the surplus 35% to Brazil. This dynamic has been the subject of disputes, but Paraguay's debt was paid off in 2023, allowing the revenue to be divided equally between the two countries.
“We work shoulder to shoulder with the Paraguayan directors. The relationship today is very healthy, despite the frequent negotiations regarding tariffs,” Verri emphasized.
He recalled that the Itaipu tariff was reduced by 26% and frozen for four years, until 2026.
Investments and innovation
Verri presented projects that expand production and diversify the plant's energy mix. Among them is the use of... biogasGreen hydrogen and synthetic petroleum (SAF) for aviation. In addition, Itaipu is developing solar power generation on the water surface of its reservoir, aiming for energy self-sufficiency.
The company also maintains social and environmental programs, such as riverbank reforestation, spring protection, and support for waste picker cooperatives. According to Verri, these projects reinforce the binational company's mission of uniting energy production and socio-environmental responsibility.
Regional integration and sovereignty
The Director-General advocated for the expansion of electrical integration in South America, highlighting that the experience of the National Interconnected System can serve as a model. He also commented on the negotiations of Annex C of the Itaipu Treatywhich will allow Paraguay to sell energy on the free market starting in 2027.
Verri criticized the Jair Bolsonaro government for spying on Paraguayan directors during discussions about surplus energy, calling the episode a "damage to bilateral relations."
COP 30 and Brazil's leadership
When addressing the climate crisis, Enio Verri reinforced Brazil's role in COP 30, which will be held in Belém, as a global example of a clean energy matrix.
"Brazil is a model for the world in energy production. We guarantee the most economical, cheap and clean energy, while developed countries still depend on coal and oil," he stated.
Itaipu is expected to participate in at least eight plenary sessions, presenting award-winning experiences in clean energy, biofuels, and environmental policies.
Political perspectives
When questioned about the national scenario, Verri assessed that the government of the president Squid He delivered economic and social progress even in a polarized environment. He stated that, despite international turbulence and the United States' "tariff hikes" under President [name missing], the country achieved significant progress. Donald TrumpBrazil maintains stability, growth, and a leading global role.
Invitation to tourism
Enio Verri also encouraged Brazilians to visit Itaipu, highlighting the grandeur of the project and the natural beauty of the Foz do Iguaçu region.
“It’s a fantastic sum that shows the revolutionary capacity of humankind. Beyond the waterfalls, visiting Itaipu is to experience a masterpiece of engineering and regional integration,” he concluded. Watch:
