Day 11: August 21, 2014

After seeing the leisure side of the Parana River at Iguassu Falls, today, we attend the energy generating side at the Itaipu Dam.  Itaipu is the largest hydroelectric power plant in Brazil, completely powering the neighboring cities.  Itaipu alone has the electric potential to power the entire world for 2 days, a world record!  The Itaipu Dam is very interesting in the sense it is a joint venture between Brazil and Paraguay.  The entire facility population is always composed of 50% Brazilian workers and 50% Paraguayan workers.  The facility itself straddles the border of the two countries.  Going on the technical tour of the dam, we were allowed inside to observe one of the working turbines producing energy.  Truly engineering at its finest.  Having such large access to water and hydropower being such a clean source of energy, it is very clear why Brazil has such reliance on this form of energy.  Visiting the Itaipu Dam was easily one of the highlights of this trip.  In addition to it being amazing from a engineering standpoint, the structure itself was beautiful and provided a great view of the river.

Selfie with the dam

Entrance to the Itaipu Dam

Our tour guide explaining the discharge point of the dam

Plaque stating the dam could power the world for 2 days. A WORLD RECORD!

Main Control Room

Turbine at work

Following our visit of the Itaipu Dam we had a farewell dinner.  Although we were all somewhat excited to head back to the States, we were all sad that we had to split ways even if temporarily.

Farewell Brazil

Me and the myth, the man, the legend, Ihor

The guys and our tour guide