The complex consists of the Capim Branco I and Capim Branco II hydroelectric plants, and required an estimated investment of approximately US$466.5M.
The project generated approximately 7800 direct and indirect jobs during the construction phase and was created by a joint-venture agreement executed by Companhia Vale do Rio Doce (CVRD), Companhia Energética de Minas Gerais (Cemig), Votorantim Metais and Suzano Papel e Celulose.
The construction works for Capim Branco I and Capim Branco II began in September 2003 and March 2004, respectively. Each plant relies on three groups of hydro generators, taking advantage of the 58m high waterfalls (Capim Branco I) and the 46m waterfalls (Capim Branco II).
As part of the project, the Pau Furado State Park is being created in the Capim Branco I plant area, the first Forest state park in the Triângulo Mineiro. A total of 79 environmental programmes are also being implemented.
