UTE GNA II receives approval from ANEEL to begin operations at Brazil’s largest gas-fired power plant
UTE GNA II Geração de Energia S.A. announced that it has received authorization from the Brazilian Electricity Regulatory Agency (ANEEL) to start commercial operation of its four generating units, totaling 1,673 MW of installed capacity, with effect from May 31, 2025. The second power plant in operation at the Port of Açu, Rio de Janeiro, UTE GNA II represents an investment of R$7 billion and is the largest natural gas-fired power plant in Brazil.
Selected as a strategic project under the Federal Government’s New Growth Acceleration Program (Novo PAC), UTE GNA II has the capacity to supply power to approximately 8 million households and represents about 10% of the natural gas-fired generation in the national power matrix. Powered by natural gas, a fuel recognized as a catalyst for the global energy transition, the plant ensures cleaner, stable and reliable energy, independent of weather conditions.
Together with UTE GNA I, which has been in operation since 2021, the start-up of UTE GNA II consolidates GNA’s position as the largest liquefied natural gas (LNG)-to-power complex in Latin America, with 3 GW of installed capacity, connected to a privately operated LNG terminal.
Energy efficiency and socio-environmental commitment. UTE GNA II is a thermal power plant composed of three gas turbines and one steam turbine in a combined cycle configuration, providing very high efficiency, in addition to a substation and a 500 kV transmission line.
The plant uses cutting-edge technology, with efficiency exceeding 60%, one of the highest in Brazil, which allows it to generate approximately 572 MW (35% of its installed capacity) without additional gas consumption, thereby reducing emissions. The plant is also designed to operate using up to 50% hydrogen as a substitute for natural gas. Another key feature is the use of nearly 100% seawater, treated through its desalination plant, thus maximizing the preservation of water resources.
During construction phase, approximately 10,000 jobs were created. To support the local community development, GNA implemented a free Professional Qualification Program offering 450 training spots, 41% of which were filled by women — reinforcing its commitment to gender equity. Another standout is the safety culture: UTE GNA II achieved over 20 million man-hours worked without lost-time- injury during construction, setting a benchmark for the industry.
Expansion. Looking to the future, the company holds environmental licenses for an additional 3.4 GW, which will allow it to expand the installed capacity of its thermal power complex to up to 6.4 GW and has future options for potential national gas pipeline network connections and onshore LNG terminal. The strategic location of the Port of Açu is a key advantage for consolidating the gas and energy hub led by GNA, with the potential to attract industries and boost the socioeconomic development of the state of Rio de Janeiro and the country.
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