Itaipú opens spillway gates to manage rising reservoir levels

The Itaipú Hydroelectric Power Plant, a binational facility serving Paraguay and Brazil, opened its spillway gates on June 28, 2026. The controlled water release was initiated at 7:30 AM due to the reservoir's water level reaching 220.30 meters, nearing its maximum operational level of 220.40 meters.

This action was prompted by significant rainfall in the upper reaches of the Paraná River. The plant's interconnected electrical systems were unable to regulate the rising reservoir level solely through increased power generation. Consequently, the spillway gates on the left side of the dam were opened, releasing approximately 1,450 cubic meters per second.

The gates will remain open to ensure the operational safety of the dam until systemic conditions allow for reservoir level management through generation adjustments. Itaipú, characterized by its "at the water's edge" design with a low storage capacity, must operate at or near its maximum level. This means it cannot store excess water beyond its capacity.

The last time Itaipú opened its spillway for reservoir level control was on November 23, 2025. Prior to that, a brief opening occurred on November 9, 2025, for cleaning purposes as part of the plant's Technological Update project. Despite this water release, Itaipú affirmed its continued full commitment to meeting the energy needs of both Paraguay and Brazil.

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Itaipú continues to fully meet the energy needs of Paraguay and Brazil, and that the usina is of the 'at the water's edge' type, characterized by having a reservoir with low storage capacity.