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Brazil's President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has announced that this year 11 new electricity generating plants will go on line in Brazil. Ten will be hydroelectric power plants and one thermoelectric. Together they will add a total of 3,000 MW to the country's power grid.
The President also announced that in the near future Brazil will have another 4,742 MW on line when 15 hydroelectric power plants now under construction go into operation.
The work will cost around US$ 919 million (2.5 billion reais) and create 28,400 direct or indirect jobs.
Finally, Lula reported that the Ministry of Mines and Energy will seek tender offers for the eventual construction of another 17 power plants that will add an additional 2,800 MW to the country's energy grid.
Speaking at the inauguration of the Monte Claro hydroelectric power plant in Rio Grande do Sul, Lula declared: "We inaugurate this power plant at a moment when we roll out a new model for the Brazilian energy sector that is more secure than ever for the investor. I am certain we will have the electricity we need for our development," he said.
Lula went on to say that the government is totally engaged in the effort to expand investments in energy infrastructure, pointing out that the Development Bank (BNDES) has approved financing totalling US$160.2 million (R$435.8 million) for three power plants in the Antas River Energy Complex (the Monte Claro plant is one of them).
Infrastructure Projects
Lula also called on Brazilian and foreign entrepreneurs to open discussions with the Brazilian government on the major infrastructure projects the country requires.
Lula said that entrepreneurs will play a vital role and that he has already suggested that the Minister of Mines and Energy, Dilma Rousseff, hold a meeting in April to demonstrate to entrepreneurs the opportunities for partnerships in infrastructure.
"This is the moment to believe in the country," the President commented, reiterating that Brazil is experiencing an extraordinary time.
"Our destiny is not to lose Brazil's current chance to undergo a sustainable growth cycle that can last 10, 15, or 20 years," Lula added.
Agência Brasil
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