Santos Port Authority launches tender for Itatinga hydropower complex

The Santos Port Authority (APS) published a tender notice on Monday, June 8, for the fee-based use of the Itatinga complex, a site in Bertioga, São Paulo, that includes a historic hydropower plant and village.

The complex also includes an approximately 30-kilometer transmission line, along with support and service areas. The project calls for upgrading the plant’s installed capacity to 18 MW from the current 15 MW.

The plan also includes modernizing the transmission line and restoring 61 homes and community facilities in Vila de Itatinga, with room for historical and ecological tourism projects. The tender also allows for the complex to be integrated with green hydrogen production.

The future operator will be required to supply part of the energy generated by the plant to APS free of charge and on a priority basis to meet the port authority’s internal demand. Any surplus power may be sold. The plant’s operating performance will be measured periodically using power-sector indicators.

“The Itatinga concession combines the preservation of a century-old asset with the port authority’s vision for the future. By modernizing the plant and allowing for potential integration with green hydrogen production, the Port of Santos strengthens its role in the energy transition and reaffirms its commitment to sustainability and operational efficiency,” said APS President Anderson Pomini.

The contract will run for 20 years from the date the operator takes over the site, with the possibility of extension. Required investments in civil, hydraulic and electromechanical upgrades are estimated at about R$200 million. In return, the operator will pay APS at least 3% of annual gross operating revenue.

Bidders must submit representation, bid and qualification documents on Aug. 11, 2026. The public session to open the proposals is scheduled for Aug. 17, 2026, starting at 3 p.m. The tender notice and annexes are available at this link.

Historical heritage

The Itatinga Small Hydropower Plant is one of Brazil’s most important engineering landmarks. Construction began in 1904 and was completed in 1910, making it one of the country’s first run-of-river hydropower plants. For more than a century, the plant has supplied power to the Port of Santos and became an essential asset in the expansion of the logistics complex.

Vila de Itatinga also has significant historical and cultural value, with preserved original buildings, workers’ homes and community facilities such as a church, school, bakery and sports club. The site is recognized for its cultural, historical and architectural importance and has potential for heritage preservation, ecotourism and historical-cultural tourism projects.

Source: APS

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