Is Brazil embracing solar energy?

Brazil isn't just embracing solar energy—it’s revolutionizing its potential in the global energy sector. As we count down to the Solar World Congress 2025 in Fortaleza, let’s dive into Brazil’s solar energy history. Fifteen years ago, no one could have imagined that Brazil would become one of the world’s largest powers in photovoltaic solar energy.

Does Brazil have a potential for photovoltaic energy?

During the era of isolated systems, some companies began to recognize Brazil’s potential for photovoltaic generation. But it wasn’t only the private sector that became interested in this source—the public sector also began seriously considering the possibility of expanding the electricity matrix with photovoltaic solar energy.

How much solar power does Brazil have?

In the last five years, Brazil has increased its solar photovoltaic energy generating capacity by more than 6-fold. In 2020, the country’s installed solar PV capacity stood at 8.5 gigawatts. By the end of 2024, this had grown to roughly 53 gigawatts.

Are wind and solar power reshaping Brazil's energy mix?

Wind and solar power are also reshaping the country’s energy mix. In 2024, they generated 24% of Brazil’s electricity, more than double their share from five years earlier. Solar power grew from just over 1% of generation in 2019 to 9.6% in 2024, while wind climbed from 8.8% to 15% over the same period.

Should Brazil invest in solar and wind energy?

“Brazil is among those showing that investing in solar and wind energy offers enormous socioeconomic benefits, providing affordable electricity to citizens and creating multiple opportunities for new green jobs.

When did photovoltaic installation start in Brazil?

The first grid-connected, building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) installation in Brazil in Florianópolis (27°S, 48° W). The photovoltaic (PV) installation has an installed power of 2.078 kWp and started operating in 1997. Moving into the 2010s, Brazil saw a movement that would gain increasing momentum.