Palmar Dam, Hydroelectric power station at Rio Negro, Uruguay

Palmar Dam stretches across 2080 meters of the Rio Negro and produces electrical power through its turbine system. The structure serves as a passage connecting different regions on both sides of the river.

Studies for using the Negro River's 140 m drop for power began in 1904, and engineer Víctor Sudriers pushed the idea as minister from 1908. The French firm Sofrelec started Palmar studies in 1962; the Comisión Mixta del Palmar (Comipal) took over in 1973, when a decree declared the dam a national necessity. Construction ran from 1977 to 1982 under Mendes Junior with Alsthom equipment, financed mainly by Banco do Brasil. Inaugurated on 22 December 1981 as Represa 9 de febrero de 1973, it was renamed Constitución by law in 1985.

The reservoir, Lago Palmar, is where the Yí River meets the Negro River and covers up to 320 km². On its shore a forested park with native and foreign tree species holds a camping area, and the Soriano municipal government runs a parador with a pool, bungalows and a clinic. Dorado fishing draws anglers in summer.

The facility can be reached by road that runs across the structure, connecting vehicles between both banks. You can explore the surrounding area and find viewing spots along the dam itself.

The dam performs a dual role by generating power while also serving as a roadway between two regions. This combination of energy production and transportation infrastructure is an example of practical engineering.