Brazil is emerging as one of the key players in the global solar energy sector. With more than 50 gigawatts (GW) of installed capacity in 2024, the country currently holds the sixth position in the global ranking, alongside powerhouses like China, the United States, and Germany, according to the Brazilian Association of Photovoltaic Solar Energy (ABSOLAR). The rapid growth trajectory positions Brazil as an emerging leader, driven by favorable climate conditions, strategic public policies, and robust investments.
Moreover, the expansion of the photovoltaic sector in Brazil reflects the country’s commitment to global sustainability goals, aligning with the directives of COP28 and the Paris Agreement. ABSOLAR estimates suggest that installed capacity could surpass 123 GW by 2030, further cementing Brazil’s strategic position in the renewable energy market.
As the photovoltaic sector expands, so does the need for qualified professionals. Since 2012, solar energy has already generated over 1.4 million direct and indirect jobs in Brazil. This figure is expected to soar to 3.5 million by 2030, covering technical roles such as installers and designers, as well as administrative and engineering positions.
A report by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) highlights that Brazil is one of the countries poised to benefit most from the creation of green jobs but faces the challenge of meeting this demand with a skilled workforce. Data from SENAI (National Service for Industrial Training) shows that courses related to renewable energy, such as photovoltaic system installation, saw a 65% increase in enrollment in 2023.
“We are witnessing a movement that values technical expertise. The solar sector requires professionals with specific knowledge, and this qualification can be a gateway to social mobility for thousands of Brazilians,” says Bárbara Monteiro, a renewable energy specialist and coordinator of educational programs focused on sustainability.
Since the beginning of the decade, the solar sector has attracted more than R$230 billion in investments and generated approximately R$71 billion in taxes, according to ABSOLAR. These figures demonstrate the positive economic impact that the energy transition can bring to the country, creating not only jobs but also opportunities for small and medium-sized businesses.
A notable example is the rise of local businesses related to the manufacturing of components, such as photovoltaic panels and inverters. Localizing part of this production chain can reduce costs, boost Brazil’s competitiveness in the international market, and open new avenues for exporting technology.
Additionally, the solar sector directly contributes to the decentralization of Brazil’s energy matrix. It is estimated that by 2030, 40% of the country’s solar generation will come from distributed sources, such as residential and commercial rooftops, offering not only clean energy but also autonomy and cost reduction for consumers.
The growth of solar energy in Brazil plays a crucial role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. In 2024, photovoltaic generation avoided the emission of approximately 30 million tons of carbon dioxide (CO₂), according to the National System Operator (ONS). This positive impact helps Brazil advance in meeting its goal of net-zero emissions by 2050.
Moreover, adopting solar energy alleviates the pressure on other energy sources, such as hydropower, which is vulnerable to water shortages. This diversification makes the energy system more resilient to climate crises, ensuring stability for the national supply.
On the international stage, Brazil is already seen as an example of efficiency in the energy transition. Although the country has traditionally been known for its clean energy matrix—dominated by hydropower—solar energy is rapidly gaining prominence. According to the annual IHS Markit ranking, Brazil is the country with the highest solar growth potential in Latin America and ranks among the top three global destinations for renewable energy investments.
“Brazil has the privilege of combining high solar incidence with a booming domestic market and public policies that support the sector. This unique scenario makes the country highly competitive in the global market,” says Cláudio Ribeiro, an energy consultant at BloombergNEF.
The outlook for Brazil’s photovoltaic sector is extremely promising. In addition to expanding installed capacity, new technological advances are expected to play a central role. These include the use of storage batteries, which enhance solar systems’ efficiency, and the development of floating solar plants installed in water reservoirs.
Innovation is also present in integrating solutions such as bifacial panels, which capture energy on both sides, and artificial intelligence technologies applied to energy management. These advancements not only improve solar system performance but also reduce costs, making solar energy more accessible to all Brazilians.
Solar energy in Brazil is not just a passing trend but an essential element of the national energy matrix and a driver of socio-economic development. While generating millions of jobs and attracting investments, the sector also contributes to environmental protection and reducing regional inequalities.
With the continued growth of photovoltaic generation and the increasing demand for skilled professionals, Brazil has the opportunity to establish itself as a global leader in solar energy, building a more sustainable future for generations to come.
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