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Dam and bridge at Usina Granja Velha, built by CRELUZ, Brazil

Reliable electricity is critical to the sustainability of rural communities. In Brazil energy co-operative CRELUZ has built six micro hydro plants which supply electricity to an area of 12,000km2, benefiting over 80,000 people. Reliable power means greater opportunity for income generation and less migration to cities. It also reduces deforestation as locals are no longer stripping the local forests for fuel. Indeed in its commitment to sustainability, CRELUZ has begun a complementary programme of reforestation.