Brazil’s PV capacity surges past 55 GW
Brazil has reached a remarkable milestone in renewable energy, surpassing 55 GW of installed solar power capacity. According to the Brazilian Association of Photovoltaic Solar Energy (Absolar), solar now accounts for 23.7% of the country’s total electricity capacity. This achievement places solar energy ahead of the legendary Itaipu hydroelectric plant, which has a capacity of 14 GW.
Of the impressive 55.1 GW solar power capacity, 31.8 GW comes from distributed generation, while the remaining 23.3 GW is from centralized generation. Absolar emphasized that solar power has seen an extraordinary 25-fold increase in capacity from early 2018 to September 2024. In the past year alone, the sector added 13 GW of new capacity.
A major contributor to Brazil’s energy mix
Absolar President Rodrigo Sauaia underscored solar’s strategic importance, noting that it has emerged as the second-largest energy source in Brazil’s electricity mix.
“Solar energy has established itself as the second-largest energy source in Brazil’s electricity matrix, demonstrating its strategic importance for the country’s energy transition and sustainable development. The growth of solar energy in Brazil has been driven by the competitiveness and attractiveness of technology for consumers and investors, in addition to its positive impact on job creation and the fight against climate change,” said Sauaia.
Economic impact of solar expansion
The report also details the significant economic influence of Brazil’s solar sector. Since 2012, the industry has attracted BRL 264 billion ($51.8 billion) in new investments and created over 1.1 million jobs. This expansion has also prevented 50.6 million tons of CO2 emissions and contributed BRL 86.8 billion in taxes.
Solar energy stands out as the most cost-effective renewable source for consumers, offering substantial savings on electricity bills. On average, solar power costs BRL 0.11/kWh, while electricity from the distribution grid costs BRL 0.95/kWh—a potential reduction of up to 88%.
Sustainability and environmental benefits
Solar energy plays a key role in Brazil’s sustainable development. The sector has helped avoid 50.6 million tons of CO2 emissions and has lessened the country’s reliance on thermoelectric plants, which are costlier and more environmentally damaging.
Solar is also the fastest and most economical renewable source to install in the country. According to a study by Absolar, the average time for installing a photovoltaic solar plant in Brazil is only five months. The cost of solar energy is also the lowest, at BRL 0.11/kWh, compared to other renewable sources such as wind, hydroelectric, biomass, and biogas.
The future of solar in Brazil
Driven by its economic and environmental advantages, solar energy is poised for continued growth in Brazil. The sector is set to play an increasingly vital part in the country’s energy transition and sustainable development.
Absolar’s report highlights Brazil’s significant progress in expanding its solar power capacity, underscoring the sector’s economic, environmental, and social benefits. With solar now playing a central role in Brazil’s energy mix, the country is well-positioned to advance towards a more sustainable future. For a deeper analysis of the market trends shaping the Brazil photovoltaic market, explore the Brazil Solar Panel Manufacturing Report.
