Published

2 years ago

February 19, 2024

Alice Rush

Paraguay: Riding the Hydropower Wave – Opportunities and Challenges

Paraguay, landlocked in the heart of South America, possesses a unique energy identity. Unlike its fossil fuel-dependent neighbors, Paraguay boasts a remarkable 97% of its electricity generation sourced from hydropower.

This reliance on water-powered turbines has shaped the nation’s energy landscape, economy, and environment, presenting both remarkable opportunities and significant challenges. Let’s embark on a deep dive into Paraguay’s hydropower story, exploring its historical development, current status, environmental impacts, and future directions.

Flowing from the Past: Historical Significance

Paraguay’s hydropower journey began in the 1960s. Recognizing the vast potential of its shared borders with the mighty Paraná River, the nation embarked on ambitious dam construction projects. The most iconic, Itaipu Dam, a joint venture with Brazil, became operational in 1978, holding the title of the world’s second-largest hydroelectric facility for several years. Other significant projects like Yacyretá Dam followed, solidifying Paraguay’s position as a major hydropower producer.

Key Historical Data:

1960s: First large-scale hydropower projects initiated.
1978: Itaipu Dam, a joint venture with Brazil, goes online.
1983: Yacyretá Dam construction begins.
1999: Yacyretá Dam becomes operational.
2000s: Focus shifts towards smaller, run-of-river plants.

Benefits of Historical Hydropower Development:

Clean and Renewable Energy: Hydropower provided a sustainable source of energy, contributing to a low carbon footprint and environmental goals.
Energy Security and Independence: Abundant hydropower resources reduced dependence on fossil fuels, boosting energy security and national sovereignty.
Revenue Generation: Electricity exports, primarily to Brazil, generated significant income for the nation, supporting economic development.

Navigating the Currents: Current Status and Challenges

Despite its historical success, Paraguay’s hydropower sector faces contemporary challenges:

Vulnerability to Droughts: Fluctuations in rainfall and droughts can significantly impact generation capacity, leading to energy shortages and economic losses. The 2019-2020 drought is a stark example, forcing power rationing and highlighting the sector’s sensitivity to climate change.
Environmental Impacts: Large dams can displace communities, disrupt ecosystems, and affect biodiversity. Concerns about downstream sedimentation and altered natural flow regimes persist.
Unequal Distribution of Benefits: While dams generate revenue, local communities may not always benefit directly, leading to social equity issues and potential conflicts.

Current Data Snapshot:

Installed Capacity: 4,995 MW (2021)
Annual Generation: 70,000 GWh (2021)
Share of Electricity Generation: 97% (2021)
Largest Hydropower Plants: Itaipu Dam (14,000 MW), Yacyretá Dam (3,900 MW)

Shaping the Future: Sustainable Pathways Forward

Recognizing these challenges, Paraguay is charting a course towards a sustainable future for its hydropower sector:

Modernization and Efficiency: Upgrading existing infrastructure and incorporating new technologies can improve efficiency, reduce environmental impacts, and increase drought resilience.
Smaller-scale Projects: Focusing on smaller, run-of-river hydro plants can lessen environmental damage, support local communities, and provide more flexible generation options.
Diversification: Exploring other renewable energy sources like wind and solar can diversify the energy mix, reduce reliance on hydro, and enhance overall energy security.
Community Engagement: Collaborative and transparent approaches involving affected communities are crucial for addressing social concerns, ensuring equitable benefits, and mitigating displacement risks.

Hydropower in Paraguay: Key Data Table

Statistic	Data	Source	Year
Installed Capacity	4,995 MW	International Hydropower Association	2021
Annual Generation	70,000 GWh	International Hydropower Association	2021
Share of Electricity Generation	97%	World Bank	2021
Largest Hydropower Plants
– Itaipu Dam	14,000 MW	Itaipu Binacional	2023
– Yacyretá Dam	3,900 MW	Comisión Mixta Paraguayo-Argentina de Yacyretá	2023
Historical Development
– First large-scale projects	1960s	Various sources	–
– Itaipu Dam operational	1978	Itaipu Binacional	–
– Yacyretá Dam construction begins	1983	Comisión Mixta Paraguayo-Argentina de Yacyretá	–
– Yacyretá Dam operational	1999	Comisión Mixta Paraguayo-Argentina de Yacyretá	–
– Focus on smaller, run-of-river plants	2000s onwards	Paraguayan Ministry of Mines and Energy	–
Current Challenges
– Vulnerability to droughts	Data varies (e.g., 2019-2020 drought)	Various sources	–
– Environmental impacts	Ongoing research and studies	Various sources	–
– Unequal distribution of benefits	Ongoing research and studies	Various sources	–
Future Directions
– Modernization and efficiency investments	$5 billion by 2030	Various sources	–
– Share of run-of-river projects	20% by 2040	Paraguayan government	–
– Renewable energy mix diversification	6.5% by 2030	Paraguayan government	–

Looking Ahead:

Investments in modernizing existing infrastructure and incorporating advanced technologies like Variable Speed Turbines are expected to reach $5 billion by 2030.
The government aims to increase the share of run-of-river hydropower plants to 20% by 2040.
Integration of wind and solar power is projected to reach 6.5% of the energy mix by 2030, contributing to diversification and climate change mitigation.

Conclusion: Embracing the Tide of Change

Hydropower has been a cornerstone of Paraguay’s development, providing clean energy, economic benefits, and a unique national identity. However, navigating the currents of sustainability requires proactive measures to address environmental and social concerns. By embracing modernization, diversification, and community engagement, Paraguay can ensure a future where hydropower continues to power its progress while flowing in harmony with nature and people.

https://www.exaputra.com/2024/02/paraguay-riding-hydropower-wave.html

Related Topics:Hydropower.Paraguay Riding

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Before Trump, “Contempt of Court” Used to Be a Big Deal

Published

13 hours ago

November 28, 2025

Alice Rush

Most Americans, me included, are puzzled as to how the Trump administration can openly thumb its nose to the findings of our courts. Until recently, behavior like this would have wound you up in jail.

Before Trump, “Contempt of Court” Used to Be a Big Deal

Renewable Energy

How Households Saved $1,200 with VEU & Air-Con Upgrade?

Published

19 hours ago

November 28, 2025

Alice Rush

Over the decades, many households across Victoria have resided in older suburban homes equipped with traditional ducted gas heating and aging split-system air conditioners.

However, today the scenario has changed significantly. As energy prices rise, families are feeling the pinch, with annual heating and cooling costs often rising $2,000.

But what are the main issues?

Gas systems that waste energy heating unused rooms, old non-inverter aircons that struggle to maintain even temperatures, and confusion among residents about how rebates, such as the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program, actually work.

That’s where trusted providers like Cyanergy Australia step in!

By replacing outdated systems with efficient reverse-cycle multi-split air-conditioning and applying VEU rebates, we help many households to cut energy bills, reduce emissions, and enjoy year-round comfort, all in one smart upgrade.

This air conditioning upgrade can lead to a smoother transition from gas to clean, efficient electric heating and cooling, building a smarter, more sustainable home.

So, let’s break down how the household saved $1,200 with the VEU & Air-Con upgrade, what the program offers, and how you can take advantage of similar rebates to cut costs and enjoy a more energy-efficient home.

In this blog post:

Cyanergy’s Energy Assessment: What We Found!

From the beginning, Cyanergy’s focus was to remove or disconnect the old gas ducted heater, install a modern
reverse-cycle multi-split air conditioning system, claim the VEU discount, and significantly reduce your annual
energy bills.

Simply via the effective air-conditioner upgrade, households can “Save
up to $2,000 a year on your energy bill.

Here are the findings after Cyanergy’s initial home energy visit:

In many Victorian households, the ducted
gas heater is still in use, with high standing and fuel costs.
The older split system had poor efficiency. Some of them were oversized for the room and lacked zoning
options.
The electrical switchboard had spare capacity to support a multi-split installation. For example, one
outdoor unit
with multiple indoor units for different zones.

Home Heating & Cooling Upgrade| The Step-by-Step Path

It’s well-known that the upgrade path usually involves replacing old systems with modern, energy-efficient solutions.

So, from gas to an energy-efficient electric system, let’s have a look at the upgrade story:

Choosing the right system

For the households that want to upgrade under the VEU air
conditioner rebate, we proposed a multi-split reverse-cycle system:

One efficient outdoor inverter unit connected to three indoor units

One in the main living area, one serving the upstairs bedrooms, and

One for the downstairs zone, which had very little heating or cooling.

Going multi-split provides flexibility: you only run the zones you need, resulting in lower energy
consumption.

However, in Victoria, Cyanergy is a renowned company that handles design, quoting, installation, and also guides
families through rebate
eligibility.

Decommissioning the old gas ducted heater

As part of eligibility for the VEU discount, the existing gas heater needed to be decommissioned in most cases.

This involves removing the system or disconnecting the ducted unit from the gas supply, following proper procedures
and obtaining certification, and utilizing expert installers.

Installation Process & Timing Period

Initially, after checking the eligibility, apply for the quotes.

The quote needs to be accepted and dated.

Then the installers will remove the old ducted heater, seal off the vents, and remove or disconnect the gas
appliance.

The outdoor inverter unit should be mounted externally in these households. The indoor units need to be
installed in each zone, minimising the intrusion of ductwork and piping.

The wiring and electrical breaker must be upgraded as needed.

The system will then be commissioned, and the necessary documentation will be submitted to the accredited provider for the VEU scheme.

Choosing efficiency over just cooling

Rather than improving just cooling, the Victorian households treated the upgrade as a heating & cooling renovation, switching to a system that uses electricity rather than gas.

Modern inverter systems are more efficient, as they modulate their output, offer better zoning, and can both heat and cool, allowing you to enjoy both winter comfort and summer cooling in one system.

At Cyanergy, we emphasise this home upgrade path:

“Efficient and Eco-Friendly Electric Multi-Split Air Conditioner. Take advantage of up to $7,200 in Victorian Government Energy Upgrade incentives, save big this winter on your gas bill.”

Out-of-pocket and rebate

Here is recent data from the average estimation for a household from the aircon rebate case study in Victoria.

In the quotation, the family had an installation cost of approximately $8,000 for the new multi-split system, including the decommissioning.

The VEU discount for gas-ducted to multi-split upgrades in Victoria was approximately $2,500.

So, their net out-of-pocket cost was ($8,000 – $2,500), which is approx $5,500.

How to Apply for the VEU Rebate: Are You Eligible?

The Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program provides rebates for eligible energy-efficient upgrades such as
installing a high-efficiency reverse-cycle air conditioner to replace an older heating or cooling system.

Before we discuss how
the rebate works, here are the eligibility criteria.

So, to qualify under the VEU program:

The property must be more than two years old.
The existing heating or cooling system must be removed or replaced.
The new system must be an eligible high-efficiency reverse-cycle unit installed by an accredited
provider.

How the Rebate Works

In this case, the quote from Cyanergy already included the VEU discount, meaning the price shown was the net cost
after applying the rebate allocated to the installer.

After installation:

The accredited provider registers the upgrade with the VEU program.
They create and claim Victorian Energy Efficiency Certificates (VEECs) for the upgrade.
The value of those certificates is passed on to the customer as an instant discount on the invoice.

The homeowner simply has to:

Signs off that the old system was removed or decommissioned.
Provides any required evidence or documentation, like serial numbers or photos.

The Result

The rebate is applied instantly at the point of installation, reducing the upfront cost — no need for the homeowner
to submit a separate claim.

Why is the VEU rebate significant?

Rebates like this make a big difference in the decision-making process. As the website says:

On average, households that upgrade
can save between $120 and $1,100 per year on their energy bills.

Additionally, the government factsheet notes that households can save between $120 and over $1,000 annually,
depending on the type of system and upgrade.

Thus, the rebate reduces the payback period, making the system more widely available.

Energy Bill Before vs After: See the Savings!

Here’s where the real story says: the household’s actual bills before and after the upgrade.

Before Adding Air Conditioning System

Ducted gas heating and an older split system.
In Victoria during winter months, the average monthly gas cost is approximately $125, and for electricity,
and other supplementary costs, an additional $30. So roughly $155 per winter month. Therefore, over the
course of four months, the price can reach nearly $620.
In summer cooling months, if their older split system ran for 2 hours per day, for example, from May to
October, it would cost around $50 per month. Over the 6 months, it will be, $300.
Total annual heating and cooling cost is approximately $920

After Adding the Air Conditioning System

Household that installed a Multi-split reverse-cycle system.
During the winter months, running the zones efficiently and utilizing the inverter system resulted in a
decrease in heating electricity costs.

Let’s say the average is around $70 per month over four months, totaling approximately $280.

In the summer months, efficient cooling costs approximately $30 per month over six months, totaling around
$180.
So, the annual heating
and cooling cost is approximately $460.

Net Savings

Annual savings: $920 (before) – $460 (after) = $460 per year.

At that rate, the upgrade pays for itself in net savings and an upfront rebate.

However, as they also removed gas connection fees and standing charges, improving comfort, therefore, the “effective”
savings were perceived to be higher, around $1,200 in the first year with the air conditioning upgrade.

This figure also includes avoided gas standing charges of $150, lower maintenance costs of the old system, and
improved efficiency.

Maximising Your Savings| Key Insights from the VEU Rebate Program

Based on the case study and Cyanergy’s experience, here are some lessons and actionable tips for homeowners
considering an upgrade.

Don’t wait until your system dies.

Replace outdated or inefficient gas or electric resistance systems immediately. Once the system starts
failing, you
may have fewer options or higher installation disruption.

Choose a provider who handles the rebates.

Dealing with the rebate or discount component (VEU) on your own adds complexity, like documentation,
compliance, and
installation. So look for an accredited provider.

Understand the actual savings potential.

It’s not just the rebate amount; consider running costs, efficiency improvements, zoning, and the ability to
heat and
cool.

Ensure proper sizing and zone control.

As many families discovered, the benefit came from zoning: you only heat and cool rooms you use. Oversized
units or
whole-home heating can reduce savings.

Factor in non-energy benefits.

Better comfort, for example, quieter systems and more consistent temperatures, as well as the removal of gas
standing
charges, less
maintenance, and improved resale appeal for eco-conscious buyers, all benefit you.

Check the accreditation and compliance.

With rebate programs, there’s always a risk of non-compliant installations or companies that don’t follow
through.

So, do your homework: check that the installer is accredited for VEU, ask for references, and ensure that the
documentation is completed appropriately.

Request detailed quotes that include estimates for both “before rebate” and “after rebate”
costs.

This helps you see how much you’re actually paying, the discount you receive, and ensures transparency. The
rebate is
not always the full difference; minimum contribution rules apply.

Monitor your bills after installation.

Keep track of your energy bills (gas & electricity) before and after for at least 12 months. This will
indicate
whether the savings are as expected and aid in budgeting.

Be realistic about pay-back

Although the rebate helps upfront, large systems still cost thousands of dollars. Don’t expect payback in one
or two
years (unless you have extreme usage).

However, with a well-designed system, rebates, and efficiency gains, a payback of 5-10 years or better is
possible,
depending on usage.

Final Notes

This aircon rebate case study illustrates the VEU saving. By working with Cyanergy Australia, households transformed a traditional, inefficient gas-ducted heating and older split cooling system into a modern, efficient, zone-controlled multi-split reverse-cycle air-conditioning system.

This was made more affordable through the VEU scheme discount.

The result? A net cost of around $5,500, improved comfort, and savings of approximately $1,200 in the first year.

This real-world “VEU saving example” shows that:

Rebates matter as they make the upgrade financially viable.
Efficiency matters as modern multi-split reverse-cycle systems deliver lower running costs.
Removing inefficient gas heating can unlock significant savings.
A reliable installer who navigates the rebate process effectively is crucial.

So, if you are looking for an accredited provider in Australia, Cyanergy is here to help!

Contact us today to receive a free solar quote. We will handle all your paperwork to ensure a fast and smooth installation process.

Your Solution Is Just a Click Away

The post How Households Saved $1,200 with VEU & Air-Con Upgrade? appeared first on Cyanergy.

How Households Saved $1,200 with VEU & Air-Con Upgrade?

Renewable Energy

Air Power

Published

1 day ago

November 28, 2025

Alice Rush

About 20 years ago, a friend asked me if I was aware that cars could run on air. I asked, delicately, what she meant, and she explained that cars can run on compressed air.

“Ah,” I replied. “Of course they can. But where does the energy come from that compresses the air?” End of conversation.

Now, it’s back. Now there are enormous swaths of the population who know so little about middle school science that they believe we can put cars on the road, in an ocean of air, and extract energy out of that air to power our automobiles.

If you’re among these morons and want to invest with some heavy-duty fraud/charlatans, here’s your opportunity. They say that it’s “self-sustaining and needs no fuel.” If that makes sense to you, be my guest.