This paper presents the case of small hydroelectric power plants, in design, construction and operation phases in Brazil, showing that although not a high investment when compared with major hydroelectric projects, they can make a difference in the surrounding communities.These power plants are owned by BROOKFIELD ENERGIA RENOV(A)VEL, an independent power producer in Brazil, subsidiary of BROOKFIELD RENEWABLE ENERGY GROUP.This paper will show that building a power plant can be used by the affected population as a tool to ensure regional development for the region, and a Company developing such projects has to use this high degree of social and environmental responsibility as a strategy for its implementation.The article will show the case of two small power plants already in operation in the state of Paraná, Southern Brazil, where social projects brought the community close to the entrepreneur, and this fact is used when the company goes to other regions showing that their work can make a real difference in the life of the affected communities.Then will talk about the replication of this process in other power plants yet in study or already under construction, and how this experience is being transformed by the company in a strategic approach not only with local stakeholders, but also with finance institutions, governmental authorities and multilateral agencies.Finally this work shows how the company is building its way into sustainable energy being recognized as a sustainable corporation.