The expansion of Yacyretá is progressing: Aña Cuá will add more energy to the Argentine electrical system.

The expansion of the Yacyretá Hydroelectric Complex through the mechanization of the Aña Cuá arm is progressing as one of the main energy projects under development in the country.

The project will add approximately 270 megawatts (MW) of installed capacity, which represents about a 10% increase over the current capacity of the plant.

In a scenario marked by the growth of electricity demand, this addition aims to strengthen the Argentine Interconnected System with renewable, firm, and base energy. Thus, the goal is to improve supply security and reduce dependence on thermal sources.

The Works

Currently, the works are being developed on different fronts related to the future hydroelectric plant. Among the ongoing tasks are earth movements for the construction of closure dams, reinforced concrete tasks such as rebar bending, formwork, and pouring, and rockfill processes. In parallel, preliminary interventions have begun for the future removal of the existing dam in the area.

Specific technical tasks are also advancing, such as drilling for waterproofing injections, installation of monitoring instruments, and preparations for the execution of high plastic concrete screens, essential to ensure structural stability.

The Yacyretá Complex currently produces around 19,000 GWh annually and is one of the main energy generators in the country. With the incorporation of Aña Cuá, not only will the available capacity increase, but it will also optimize the use of water resources by utilizing a flow that is currently not used for electricity generation.

The project includes the installation of three Kaplan-type turbines and the construction of a new plant on the Aña Cuá arm of the Paraná River.

Unlike other hydroelectric developments, this project does not involve the construction of a new dam or modifications to the reservoir level, as it uses the so-called ecological flow released by the spillway.

In environmental terms, the initiative includes a fish transfer system designed to preserve the biological connectivity of the Paraná River.

This infrastructure aims to facilitate the migration of species such as dorado, surubí, sábalo, and pacú, through solutions adapted to the hydraulic conditions of the Aña Cuá arm, along with monitoring programs for fish fauna.

From an energy perspective, the expansion will provide greater stability to the system, especially during peak demand times, as it is a manageable renewable source. Additionally, it will contribute to optimizing generation costs and improving the operational efficiency of the complex.

The project includes both large-scale civil works and the assembly of electromechanical equipment and the installation of the necessary systems for the operation of the three generating units. Once completed, it will allow the transformation of a water flow that is currently not utilized into energy.

Moreover, the development of Aña Cuá impacts the regional economy through the hiring of services, the provision of industrial supplies, and the creation of direct and indirect jobs.

This project is part of a long-term strategy aimed at maximizing Yacyretá's generation capacity, consolidating its role as one of the main providers of clean and renewable energy in Argentina.