The interconnection of the isolated systems of Manaus and Macapá to the BIPS should occur in the second half of 2013, with the entry into operation of a 500 kV transmission system of approximately 1,400 km - starting from the substation Tucuruí, through substations Xingu, Jurupari and Oriximiná, in the state of Pará, to reach the substations of Silves and Lechuga, now in the state of Amazonas. The interconnection of Manaus system to the BIPS will be at Lechuga substation, and the interconnection of Macapá system to the BIPS will be from Jurupari substation.

A large number of works in the receiving systems of Manaus and Macapá is also planned, to allow the integration of the distribution system to the transmission system.

Several studies have been conducted to allow the integration of the systems Macapá and Manaus to the BIPS, highlighting studies on energization, load rejection and restoration, contingency analysis and voltage control, systemic protections and adjustments and controllers optimization.

Due to the uncertainties inherent in the performance of a system of 1,400 km of double circuit transmission lines, much on the Amazon rainforest and with extensive river crossings, it was necessary to define a Regional Scheme for Load Relief (ERAC), concomitant with a thermal generation dispatch, as a way to mitigate the consequences of any losses of that interconnection. Thus, it will be possible to provide enhanced security and reliability to Manaus, since the city is one of the headquarters chosen for the World Cup in 2014.

A further challenge for the entry into operation of this interconnection was the delay in major facilities planned for the receiving systems of Manaus and Macapá. The delay will involve several operating configurations throughout the year of 2013, which require additional studies seeking to define operational measures to mitigate the risk of load cut both to Manaus as to Macapá, in a possible loss of interconnection, and the amounts of thermal generation which shall remain in operation during this temporary operation, aiming at mitigating the impacts of contingencies in the system.