Itaipu+Dam

The Itaipu Dam is located on the Parana River and is used by Brazil and Paraguay for hydro-electric power, and is the largest power plant of its kind. The dam has 18 turbines that are spun as water passes through into the river below, these turbines are what produce all the power (Kented). Paraguay receives 50% of the power produced and Brazil receives the other 50%. Paraguay is a small country and only uses about 10% of the power. By law, Paraguay must sell all un-used power back to Brazil. The problem lies in the fact that the price Paraguay agreed to sell the power to Brazil for is far below the international market price. This does not help Paraguay’s already struggling economy. The water in the lake formed by the dam supplies water for people in their homes and also water for use by farmers (Kented). Without the construction of this dam, much of Paraguay would be without electricity, and even more importantly, without water.
 * ITAIPU DAM **

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