Brazil's 361-MW Maua hydropower project is now in operation, HydroWorld.com has learned.

The US$675 million hydroelectric plant -- owned by a consortium consisting of utility Companhia Paranaense de Energia Electrica (Copel) and Eletrobras subsidiary Eletrosul -- is located on the Tibagi River in Parana state.

HydroWorld.com reported in October that the consortium, called Energetico Cruzeiro do Sul, had received permission to operate from the Environmental Institution of Parana (IAP) more than a decade after a permit application was first submitted.

"This represents the government's strategic vision to develop a sustainable Brazil using clean, renewable energy," said Eletrosul President Eurides Mescolotto.

Energetico Cruzeiro do Sul said two units are now online, with an additional three to begin operating in January.

Work on the Maua complex's first phase was completed in September 2009.