Brazil is projected to add 19.2 GW of solar capacity in 2025, reaching a total installed capacity of 54.9 GW by the end of the year. This expansion will boost the share of solar PV in the country’s energy mix from 12.6% in 2024 to 18.2% in 2025.
Key Drivers of Brazil Solar Capacity 2025 Expansion
Brazil’s Ministry of Mines and Energy (MME) announced that the country is set to install 19.2 GW of new solar capacity in 2025. This expansion will bring the total installed solar capacity to 54.9 GW by the end of the year. As a result, the share of solar photovoltaic (PV) in Brazil’s energy mix is expected to rise from 12.6% in 2024 to 18.2% in 2025.
The forecast also predicts the addition of 11.5 GW of wind energy, 1.9 GW of hydropower, and 1.3 GW of biomass energy. The significant growth in solar capacity is mainly driven by the distributed generation (DG) segment. In 2025 alone, DG is expected to add 14.4 GW of capacity, bringing its total to 42.7 GW.
The centralised generation segment will also see growth, with an additional 4.8 GW of capacity. This will bring the total capacity from centralised solar projects to 12.2 GW.
Current Brazil Solar Capacity 2025 and Future Projections
As of September 2024, Brazil’s installed solar capacity stood at 35.7 GW. This includes 25.4 GW from distributed generation and 10.3 GW from centralised generation. The country’s solar capacity has been growing rapidly, with 11.3 GW added in 2023 and a projected 12.5 GW to be added in 2024.
Looking ahead, the Ministry of Mines and Energy expects Brazil’s solar capacity to reach 74.6 GW by 2028. This will include 53.5 GW from distributed generation and 21.1 GW from centralised generation. By 2033, the total solar capacity is projected to hit 114.4 GW, with distributed generation contributing 81.6 GW and centralised generation adding 32.8 GW.
Recent Brazil Solar Capacity 2025 Projects and Investments
Brazil’s solar sector has been attracting significant investments from both domestic and international players. For instance, the British company Atlas Renewable Energy recently began commercial operations of the Lar do Sol – Casablanca II solar plant in Minas Gerais. This plant, with a capacity of 239 MW, is one of the largest in the region and represents an investment of $200 million.
Another notable project is the Xingu Solar complex, developed by Canadian Solar. This 381 MW solar park is located in the northeastern state of Piauí and was commissioned in August 2024. Canadian Solar has been actively expanding its footprint in Brazil’s solar market, and the Xingu Solar complex is a key part of its strategy.
The growth of Brazil’s solar sector is also reflected in the broader Latin American context. According to the Latin American Energy Organization (OLADE), the region’s solar capacity has reached 54 GW. Brazil accounts for a significant share of this capacity, demonstrating its leadership in renewable energy development in Latin America.
Brazil’s Renewable Energy Goals and Solar Capacity 2025 Commitments
The rapid growth of solar capacity in Brazil is part of the country’s broader commitment to renewable energy. The government has been implementing policies to promote solar energy, including tax incentives and streamlined regulatory processes. These measures have made it easier for both local and international companies to invest in Brazil’s solar sector.
In addition to government support, the falling costs of solar technology have also played a crucial role in the sector’s expansion. Solar PV has become increasingly competitive compared to traditional energy sources, making it an attractive option for both utility-scale and distributed generation projects.
The projected addition of 19.2 GW of solar capacity in 2025 marks a significant milestone in Brazil’s renewable energy journey. With a total installed capacity expected to reach 54.9 GW by the end of the year, solar energy will play a crucial role in meeting the country’s growing energy demands. As Brazil continues to expand its solar capacity, it reinforces its position as a leader in renewable energy in Latin America.
