According to GWEC, the Americas are expected to add 60 GW by 2023. Brazil leads in wind energy, with competitive auctions and strong production in the Northeast.
Brazil is consolidating itself as one of the protagonists in wind energy generation in the Americas, alongside the United States and Mexico. According to data from Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC), recently released, the Americas — encompassing North, Central and South America — were responsible for 25% of global installed capacity in 2018, highlighting the region's growing role in the global energy transition.
In total, the total installed capacity of wind power in the Americas reached 135 gigawatts (GW) in the period, representing an increase of 12% compared to 2017.
Wind energy grows steadily in the Americas
The expectation for the coming years is that this progress will continue. The GWEC foresees the addition of 60 GW in new wind capacity between 2019 and 2023, driven by public policies, energy auctions and investments in infrastructure.
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The expansion of wind energy in the Americas reflects the regional commitment to clean and renewable sources, in addition to highlighting the still untapped growth potential, especially in Latin America.
Brazil stands out as regional leader
In South America, Brazil stands out as the main producer of wind energy. In 2018, the country added 2 GW to its energy matrix from this source, according to GWEC.
Brazil's prominence is also due to the competitiveness of prices charged: auctions held during the period reached values of just US$ 20 per megawatt-hour (MWh), a level considered competitive globally.
Reive Barros, Secretary of Planning and Energy Development at the Ministry of Mines and Energy, highlighted the importance of wind energy in the national energy matrix: “Brazil currently has an installed wind energy production capacity of 14,7 GW. This represents approximately 8% of the total in the Brazilian energy matrix. The goal is for this percentage to rise to 10% in 13 years.”
Northeast Brazil concentrates most of the wind energy production
Brazil's leading role is driven mainly by the Northeast Region, which accounts for 85% of the country's wind energy production. The states of Piauí, Rio Grande do Norte and Bahia are the main generation hubs.
“In the longer term, however, Bahia should assume leadership, due to its territorial dimensions and potential,” stated Barros.
The installed infrastructure and the constant wind potential make the Northeast one of the most favorable regions in the world for the exploration of this type of renewable energy.
The combination of abundant natural resources, tax incentives and technology has made it possible to install new wind farms at a rapid pace.
Auctions and investments promise to accelerate expansion in Brazil
For 2025, the Ministry of Mines and Energy already plans two auctions aimed at implementing new wind farms.
One is scheduled for the first half of the year, with a four-year execution period, and another for the second half of the year, with completion estimated in six years.
“Our goal for wind energy in Brazil is to grow 2,2% per year,” reinforced Barros.
Latin America continues growth trajectory in wind energy
In addition to Brazil, other Latin American countries are also advancing in wind energy production. In 2018, installed capacity in the region grew 18,7% compared to the previous year.
According to GWEC, governments’ commitment to public auctions has been essential to boost the sector. Colombia, for example, held its first wind energy auction in February 2019.
“The development of the wind energy market in Latin America is looking very positive. Brazil has once again held large-scale auctions and we expect the first auction in Colombia to take place this February. Further supply chain investments by major original equipment manufacturers in Argentina demonstrate the long-term potential of the market,” said Ben Backwell, Director of GWEC.
With consistent public policies, expansion of the supply chain and favorable natural conditions, wind energy continues to gain prominence in the Americas.
Brazil, with its consolidated leadership, positions itself as a global reference in the energy transition, contributing to a more sustainable future that is less dependent on fossil fuels.
With information People's Mail.