A Leap Toward Sustainability Drives Economic Development
Since the pioneering installation of a wind turbine in Fernando de Noronha in 1992, Brazil has been on an impressive path in adopting wind energy as a key renewable source. Currently, with 30 GW of installed capacity, the country ranks as the third largest producer worldwide of this energy source, surpassed only by China and the United States. The Brazilian Wind Energy Association (ABEEÓLICA) highlights the significant impact of this journey on national economic growth, revealing the existence of 1,016 wind farms and more than 10,941 turbines in operation.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
The development of onshore wind energy in Brazil has been a driver for the economy, generating jobs and fostering growth in Gross Domestic Product (GDP). It is estimated that the addition of a 5.0 GW wind system could create around 67,700 jobs in the supply chain and another 15,000 in operations and maintenance (O&M). This industry not only drives job creation but also promotes the domestic production of equipment, essential for the sustainable advancement of the sector.
Challenges and Opportunities in Maintenance
As Brazil advances in expanding its wind capacity, it faces the challenge of maintaining the equipment already installed. With a fleet of about 10,000 turbines that have been in use for 10 to 15 years, the demand for maintenance services is critical and urgent. Local production and the provision of these services not only ensure the operational efficiency of wind farms but also have a direct positive impact on GDP growth.
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Rio Grande do Sul is expected to receive an investment of almost R$ 4 billion in wind power.
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Saudi Arabia is building in Oxagon a US$ 8.4 billion mega green hydrogen plant with 4 GW of solar and wind energy, 5.6 million solar panels, and capacity to produce 600 tons per day, transforming the desert into one of the planet’s largest clean fuel factories.
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Germany and Denmark will transform Bornholm into a Baltic power island, connecting 3 GW of offshore wind power to the grids of the two countries via submarine cables and turning a real island into an international energy hub.
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Brazil discovers natural hydrogen in four states and enters the silent race that could redraw the energy transition: Petrobras has already invested R$ 20 million in studies.
The need for technical knowledge and specialization in wind turbine technology is fundamental to sustaining this growth. Thousands of workers and industry professionals need to understand the mechanics of the equipment they manufacture and that which is installed in wind farms. Investment in technical education is crucial for innovation, efficiency, and productivity in the production of renewable energy.
Wind energy is establishing itself not only as a vital component for a greener and more sustainable economy in Brazil but also as a pillar for innovation and technological development. The expansion of this energy source represents a significant opportunity for Brazil to not only meet its growing energy demands but also to position itself as a global leader in the renewable energy sector. With ongoing support for the local supply chain, technology development, and training of qualified specialists, the country can expect not only a more sustainable future but also robust economic growth driven by wind energy.
Source: Dipl. Ing. Mario Larco – Coordinator of standardization ABNT/ABEEÓLICA / CEE – ABIMAQ

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