Solar Energy Gains Strength in Bahia with the Operation of the Irecê Solar Complex, Which Totals 133.40 MW and Integrates the New PAC Projects Portfolio.
Solar energy continues to advance in the Brazilian electricity matrix and consolidates Bahia as one of the main hubs of the sector in the country. The start of commercial operation of the Irecê Solar Complex – Phase 1 represents another step in this trajectory, reinforcing renewable energy generation in the Northeast and boosting regional development.
Located in the municipality of João Dourado, the project began operations on December 9 and now contributes directly to the National Interconnected System (SIN).
The project comprises two photovoltaic plants and reflects the expansion movement of investments in clean sources, aligned with the energy transition and sustainability guidelines adopted by Brazil.
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Installed Capacity Strengthens Photovoltaic Generation in the State
The Irecê Solar Complex – Phase 1 is composed of the Solar Irecê and Solar Irecê 3 plants, which together total 133.40 megawatts (MW) of installed capacity. The structure was designed to optimize solar energy production in a region with high irradiation potential, a strategic factor for the efficiency of photovoltaic systems.
The Solar Irecê plant has 23 generating units. Each has a power of 3.20 MW, resulting in a total of 73.60 MW installed. On the other hand, the Solar Irecê 3 plant consists of 19 generating units, with an individual capacity of 3.14 MW, reaching 59.80 MW.
Together, the 42 generating units ensure scale for the project and increase the share of solar power in the Bahian electricity matrix.
Investment Drives Economy and Job Creation
With an estimated investment of R$ 647 million, the Irecê Solar Complex also plays a significant role in regional economic development. The implementation of the project has stimulated the local production chain, generated direct and indirect jobs, and encouraged the provision of services in the João Dourado region and neighboring municipalities.
Moreover, the operation of the complex strengthens local revenue and contributes to the diversification of the economy, historically linked to agricultural activities. In this context, solar energy emerges as a vector for economic transformation in the interior of Bahia.
Integration with the National Interconnected System Enhances Energy Security
The connection of the project to the basic network of the National Interconnected System occurs through the 138 kV busbar of the Irecê 230/138 kV Substation. This infrastructure allows for the evacuation of generated energy and its distribution to different regions of the country.
The integration with the SIN enhances the security of electricity supply, especially during periods of higher demand, in addition to reducing dependence on fossil sources and hydroelectric plants in times of water scarcity.
Environmental Licensing Guarantees Project Compliance
The environmental licensing of the Irecê Solar Complex was conducted by the Institute of the Environment and Water Resources of the State of Bahia (INEMA). The agency is responsible for evaluating the environmental compliance of the project, ensuring that the implementation and operation meet current regulations.
This process reinforces the commitment of the solar energy sector to sustainable practices, mitigation of environmental impacts, and responsible use of natural resources.
Project Integrates New PAC Portfolio
The Irecê Solar Complex – Phase 1 integrates the portfolio of projects under the New Growth Acceleration Program (New PAC). The program brings together investments coordinated by the Government of Brazil in partnership with the private sector, states, municipalities, and social movements.
In the Energy Transition axis, under the Energy Generation sub-axis, the New PAC currently has 584 registered plants. Of this total, 368 are already completed, highlighting the progress of projects aimed at increasing the installed capacity of renewable sources in the country.
In this scenario, the start of operations of the Baiano complex reinforces the role of solar energy as one of the main bets for the sustainable growth of the Brazilian electricity sector.

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