“Development Is Capitalism Plus Energy”: National Energy Production as an Economic Integration Corollary

ABSTRACT

This article proposes a discussion about the national energy production dynamics and its possibilities regarding the hydroelectric development in the countryside of Brazil; it has as referential support the construction of the Urubupunga Hydroelectric Complex. At the time of its construction, it was the world’s second largest complex of its kind. Planned and executed between 1950 and 1970, it was represented as a national engineering landmark and as an element of territorial and economic integration, with regional planning bodies and political groups conducting its actions, decisions and directives. Comprehending its project refers to a network of practices, narratives, and powers that, aside from energy production, made of this enterprise a memory landmark of the energy sector and a promoter of transformations in various national segments.

Keywords:
electric energy; hydroelectric plants; Urubupunga Complex; development; integration