solar energy, renewables, solar farm

Brazil to Increase Solar Energy Capacities by 2023

Brazil’s Minister of Mines and Energy, Bento Albuquerque said that solar power should account for 17% of Brazil’s energy mix by 2023. According to the minister, photovoltaic sources and solar energy capacities currently account for 7.7% of electricity generated in the country.

“Last year, distributed energy in Brazil was the fourth fastest-growing globally. I think we are in an excellent position,” said the minister, speaking at the opening of a seminar organized by the National Electricity Agency (Aneel).

Distributed energy is a concept for energy development, which implies the construction by consumers of electric energy of energy sources of compact size or mobile design and distribution networks that produce heat and electricity for their own needs.

Regarding wind power, Bento Albuquerque explained that it is projected to maintain an 11% share of the country’s energy over the next decade. “Since 2014, wind generation has grown by 330%. And it is currently responsible for more than 11% of our electricity,” he said.

Albuquerque confirmed that the concession auction for the construction of transmission lines and facilities is due to take place in June. The auction will feature 13 lots, covering 13 states, with a projected investment of 15.3 billion reais and the installation of 4,500 kilometers of transmission lines.