Brasilia High Temperature Solar System

Are solar power plants a problem in north-eastern Brazil?

Many communities in north-eastern Brazil live close to solar power plants but lack connections to the grid, meaning they cannot access the electricity generated by such facilities (Image: Alan Santos, Palácio do Planalto, CC BY)

Which region has the most solar power in Brazil?

Today, the north-east leads the country’s solar market. According to the Brazilian National Electric Energy Agency (Aneel), the region has accumulated more than 60% of the total power solar capacity that is authorised to operate in the national system (excluding distributed generation).

Is solar a viable source of electricity in Brazil?

Solar is now Brazil’s second-largest source of electricity. Experts say its growth must also reach and respect communities cut off from the grid Student Brenda Rodrigues da Silva works on the installation of solar panels at Fábrica Social, a professional training centre in Brasília, Brazil.

Where do Brazil's solar panels come from?

Dornellas says almost all of Brazil’s photovoltaic modules and inverters (which convert solar energy for use in electronic devices) are bought from Chinese companies.

How resilient is Brazil's hydropower?

Although hydropower itself has felt impacts from extreme weather, with the country resorting to the use of thermoelectric plants during periods of severe drought, Brazil’s hydro-dominated electricity mix is nevertheless resilient enough to accommodate the variable nature of solar and wind power, says Pereira.

Is Brazil a good producer of solar energy?

Just three years ago, Brazil did not feature among the world’s top producers of solar energy, but by 2023 it had risen to sixth place in the rankings. The pace of growth has been notable: since 2022, the country has added, on average, roughly one gigawatt of solar capacity every month.