Between January and August 2023, Brazil added 7 GW to its electrical grid, with 6.2 GW derived from solar and wind.
Renewable energy now makes up 83% of Brazil’s total power grid. This positions Brazil as a key player in the clean energy field globally.
Solar energy added three GW to the grid, and wind energy contributed 3.2 GW.
Alexandre Silveira, the Energy Minister, said, “Over 80% of our electricity is renewable. We are ready to lead in global energy transition.”
The country saw record growth in centralized solar power this year. By comparison, the whole of 2022 saw an increase of only 2.5 GW.
Even this figure might rise further. It doesn’t account for micro and mini-generation systems, like home solar panels.
Nearly 90% of the new capacity in 2023 came from wind and solar. Specifically, wind provided 46% and solar 43.9%.
The target for grid expansion this year is 10.3 GW. In terms of large solar farms, Brazil now has 18,000 panels with a combined capacity of 10.3 GW.
The National Interconnected System (NIS) also includes 954 wind turbines, adding another 10.3 GW.
The Brazilian government plans to invest $14.62 billion in energy projects. Of this amount, $12.96 billion will go towards renewable sources.
Solar power plants alone are set to contribute 8.5 GW. Investment in this sector is pegged at $8.3 billion.
Brazil is putting its resources into renewable energy, setting new records and paving the way for a cleaner future.
Background
This surge in renewable energy is monumental for Brazil. It signifies a focused shift towards clean energy.
First, it has economic implications. By investing in renewables, Brazil reduces reliance on imported fuel.
This can significantly impact its trade balance positively. Second, there’s an environmental angle. Lowering greenhouse gas emissions helps combat climate change.