Forecasts project further daily discharge variation between 5,000 and 7,000 m³/s, aiming to stabilize reservoir elevation near 34.40 to 34.60 meters in the short term. River height measurements downstream have shown marked decreases: 44 centimeters at Concordia, 43 centimeters at a point below the dam, and smaller falls in northern measurement points such as Bella Unión and Monte Caseros. Such declines in water levels are expected to continue as outflows are gradually reduced toward 21,500 m³/s in the coming days. The river front at Concordia port is anticipated to descend towards 13.0 meters, with Salto port bordering 13.3 meters.
The hydropower complex, featuring 14 turbines with an 8,400 m³/s turbination capacity and a maximum evacuation capacity of 61,560 m³/s via spillways and turbines combined, operates with a mixed structure comprising concrete and earth dams. This infrastructure also supports navigation, regional water supply, and ecological functions including fish migration. The reduction in reservoir levels and discharge flows reflects current precipitation insufficiencies in the basin and aligns with weather forecasts indicating limited rain with intermittent storms over the following days. These conditions necessitate ongoing operational adjustments to balance energy generation, environmental mandates, and regional water usage across Argentina and Uruguay.
This article was curated and published as part of our South American energy market coverage.
