São Paulo’s Clean Energy Horizon: EMAE Unveils Brazil’s Largest 7 MW Floating Solar Plant

In a significant stride towards clean and renewable energy, the State Government of São Paulo has unveiled the largest floating solar plant in Brazil. Governor Tarcísio de Freitas inaugurated the first phase of the Floating Photovoltaic Plant (UFF Araucária) at the Billings dam in the capital on January 17. Developed through a partnership between the Metropolitan Water and Energy Company (EMAE) and private entity KWP Energia, the project boasts 10,500 solar panels on the water, with an initial investment of R$30 million.

This innovative 7 MW plant, with a capacity to generate up to 10 GWh annually, equivalent to powering 4,000 homes, utilizes the water surface to harness solar energy. Governor Tarcísio de Freitas lauded the project, emphasizing its potential to provide clean, affordable energy and marking a significant step in the state’s sustainability energy policy.

The ceremony, attended by key officials including Secretary of Environment, Infrastructure and Logistics Natália Resende, showcased the commitment of São Paulo towards sustainable energy development. The plant is part of a larger initiative, coordinated by the Secretariat of Environment, Infrastructure and Logistics, set to complete by the end of 2025, delivering an additional 75 MW of renewable energy with a total investment of R$450 million.

With 7 MW peak installed power, the plant operates in the Distributed Generation modality, contributing to generators located near consumption centers. Scheduled to commence power generation after obtaining the operating license from the Environmental Company of the State of São Paulo (Cetesb), the project reflects the state’s dedication to clean energy and environmental stewardship, creating jobs and ensuring minimal environmental impact. EMAE’s CEO, Marcio Rea, expressed commitment to the project’s expansion, anticipating substantial job creation in the coming years.