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See how the steel giant is transforming itself into a renewable energy powerhouse and promises to revolutionize the market by 2031
Gerdau, known as one of the largest steel producers in the world, is taking a giant leap into the renewable energy sector. With investments of R$ 3 billion in the last 12 months, the company is not only building solar parks and acquiring hydroelectric plants, but also increasing its share of the clean energy market. The goal? Reach 80% renewable energy by 2031, according to the Neofeed website.
Self-production of energy: the key to competitiveness
Gerdau is the fifth largest energy consumer in Brazil, with an annual consumption of 6 MW. To reduce costs and align itself with decarbonization goals, the company decided to invest heavily in the self-production of clean energy. Two solar parks and the acquisition of small hydroelectric plants (PCHs) are already part of the company's portfolio.
The Arinos solar park, in Minas Gerais, inaugurated this year, has the capacity to generate 420 MWp, equivalent to 7% of Gerdau's annual consumption. In addition, the company acquired two PCHs in Mato Grosso for R$440 million, which will supply 8% of the energy demand of Brazilian operations.
Clean and cheap energy: an irresistible combo
Flavia Souza, Gerdau's global energy and supply director, reveals that the clean energy produced by the company costs 30% less than conventional energy. “Our process is very energy intensive, so this is a decision that affects our pocketbook and competitiveness,” he says.
The strategy doesn’t stop there. Gerdau is already planning new investments in hydroelectric plants and wind farms for 2025, in addition to continuing to prospect acquisitions of renewable energy assets. “We want to diversify our energy matrix and ensure that the energy is ours, not contracted from third parties,” explains Flávia.
Newave Energia: expanding market share
Gerdau is also increasing its stake in Newave Energia, a joint venture focused on renewable energy. The Gerdau subsidiary, which previously held 33,33% of Newave, now controls 40% of the company. This means greater influence in the Barro Alto solar park, in Goiás, which will come into operation in 2025 with a capacity of 452 MWp.
In addition to supplying Gerdau's operations, surplus energy will be sold on the market. “Gerdau Next is interested in selling energy, including to competitors,” reveals Flávia. However, the company does not intend to compete directly with giants such as Enel or Engie.
wonderful initiative by Gerdau
because in addition to increasing the company's portfolio, of course, it gives a boost to countering carbon emissions by doing its part and contributing to the common good.
I'm a big fan of this giant Brazilian multinational