With record-breaking expansion in 2024, Brazilian solar energy establishes itself as a key player in the national electricity matrix, generating jobs, investments, and sustainability.
Solar energy continues to revolutionize Brazil’s electricity sector, showcasing impressive growth rates. According to the Brazilian Photovoltaic Solar Energy Association (ABSOLAR), in 2024, Brazil secured its position as the sixth-largest global market in installed capacity, reaching 45.5 gigawatts (GW). This figure represents 16% of the national electricity matrix, positioning solar energy as the second-largest source of generation, second only to hydropower.
The sector’s advancements in 2024 generated R$ 38.9 billion in investments, strengthening the national economy. Since 2012, more than 1.4 million jobs have been created in the segment, with projections to reach 3.5 million jobs by 2030. These opportunities span power plant construction, residential and commercial system installations, and equipment maintenance.
Beyond economic impacts, solar energy has been a significant ally in environmental preservation. In 2024, approximately 24 million tons of CO₂ emissions were avoided, according to data from the Portal Solar. This achievement is equivalent to planting 170 million trees over 20 years, highlighting the crucial role of solar energy in mitigating climate change.
The coming year promises even greater potential. Brazil is expected to add 13.2 GW of solar capacity, a 25.6% growth, according to Portal Solar. Of this total, 8.5 GW will come from distributed generation – systems installed in homes, businesses, and rural properties – and 4.7 GW from large-scale plants.
The decentralization of electricity generation remains a cornerstone of the sector in Brazil. The growing adoption of rooftop and small-ground solar systems has democratized clean energy, enabling consumers to become microgenerators and significantly reduce their energy costs. In some cases, savings can reach up to 95% on electricity bills.
Globally, solar energy is already the primary driver of electric capacity expansion, accounting for 60% of new projects in 2024. China leads the market with over 500 GW installed, followed by the United States and India. While Brazil trails these global giants, it is on track to establish itself as the leader in Latin America, representing 70% of all installed capacity in the region.
Integration with other renewable sources, such as wind power, is also gaining traction in Brazil. In states like Rio Grande do Norte and Bahia, hybrid projects – combining solar and wind power plants – have strengthened, optimizing transmission infrastructure and ensuring greater stability for the electricity system.
Despite the encouraging figures, the sector faces significant challenges. One major bottleneck is transmission infrastructure, which has not kept pace with generation growth. In northeastern states, for instance, solar and wind plants encountered limitations in transmitting generated energy, resulting in financial losses and underutilized installed capacity.
To address this issue, the federal government announced a transmission network expansion plan, with 20 new auctions scheduled through 2026. These projects are estimated to attract R$ 100 billion in investments, ensuring greater safety and efficiency for the electricity system.
Additionally, the sector grapples with regulatory instability. Changes in rules for distributed generation, such as the gradual implementation of charges for grid use, have created uncertainty among investors and consumers. Experts emphasize that clear communication and stable policies will be critical to maintaining robust solar energy growth in Brazil.
The solar energy market is also driven by technological innovations. In 2024, the adoption of bifacial panels – which capture sunlight on both sides – grew significantly in Brazil, enhancing system energy efficiency. Another highlight is the advancement of storage batteries, enabling greater consumer autonomy and helping balance energy supply and demand.
Companies are investing in artificial intelligence and big data to optimize monitoring and maintenance of solar plants, reducing costs and maximizing production. In research, Brazilian scientists are developing technologies such as organic solar cells, which promise to make solar energy even more accessible and sustainable.
Beyond economic and environmental gains, solar energy contributes to energy inclusion in isolated communities. In the Amazon interior, microgeneration projects are bringing electricity to thousands of families, replacing diesel generators with clean, renewable sources.
These initiatives not only improve community quality of life but also create new economic opportunities and drive local development.
With an estimated generation potential exceeding 28,000 terawatt-hours per year – equivalent to 50 times the country’s current consumption – Brazil has all the conditions to lead the global energy transition. To achieve this, it will be essential to sustain investment momentum, overcome regulatory challenges, and focus on innovation.
The progress of solar energy in Brazil demonstrates that it is possible to combine economic growth with environmental preservation. With consistent public policies and societal engagement, Brazil’s solar-powered future is a reality that is already beginning to shine.
Comment