Contribution to the analysis of energy and environmental planning for small hydroelectric power plants

This study compared installed power and flooded areas (reservoirs) of eight small hydroelectric power plants located in eight large hydroenergetic basins in Brazil. The work was carried out using extensive data available on Brazil's installed and projected hydroelectric potential. This study included the use of an environmental index defined as the quotient obtained by dividing nominal potency by the area flooded by the reservoir. It was found that this index is an important tool when applied in the initial stage of a project, defining better and worse alternatives in relation to environmental impact. The study demonstrated that small hydroelectric centers exert an important strategic influence from the environmental point of view, contributing to a reduction in environmental impact and minimization of social and agrarian conflicts.