Voltalia, a pioneer in the renewable energy sector, announced that SSM3-6, a 260-megawatt solar power plant located in the Serra Branca cluster, Brazil, has commenced electricity production.
Voltalia serves as the controlling shareholder of a majority of the plants in the cluster. The ownership of other plants has been transferred to other entities. Nevertheless, Voltalia is responsible for providing all the services associated with the development, construction, and maintenance of the transferred plants.
The construction of the SSM3-6 solar farm (Solar Serra do Mel 3, 4, 5, and 6) commenced in March 20221. Out of 260 megawatts, 17 megawatts have started production from the last week of June 2023 while the remaining capacity will be commissioned gradually over the next few months. The power plant is a result of a 14-year-long power purchase agreement between Voltalia and Copel, a Brazilian utility.
SSM3-6 is part of the Serra Branca cluster which is the largest wind and solar complex globally. It has been completely developed by Voltalia and serves as one of the most competitive energy sources in Brazil. The cluster also benefits from ample wind and sunlight. The projects located in the cluster have access to shared infrastructure (grid connection and access) and operational synergies. A 320-megawatt solar power plant commissioned in 2022 helped in the construction of SSM3-6 and SSM1-2.
Speaking about the development, Sébastien Clerc, CEO of Voltalia, said, “We are very pleased to announce the commencement of the commissioning of SSM3-6. This is the result of several years of development and construction work that is bearing its first fruits. I would like to thank the teams that have contributed to this significant milestone.”
