Skip to content
Language:

News

Brazil Suspends Auction for Tapajós Mega Hydro

The Brazilian government has suspended the auction of the 6.1GW São Luiz do Tapajós hydroelectric plant earmarked for December.

The Mining and Energy Ministry cited a need for changes to a study into the impact on indigenous communities, according to state media service Agência Brasil.

A new date for the auction was not given.

The announcement comes a day after environmental lobby group Amazon Watch accused Brazil of “flouting” international law by failing to properly consult local communities about the project.

The São Luiz do Tapajós project forms part of an 11GW mega-dam complex earmarked for the Tapajós and Jamanxim rivers in Brazil’s northern state of Pará. It will comprise seven independent power plants and is expected to attract investment of US$9bn.

“Your reports helped our foundation divest from companies whose practices destroy the Amazon rainforest. We're honored to support your work. Thank you for showing us a better way.”