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European Companies Are Looking to Start New Renewable Energy Generation Projects, with Ceará Being the “Perfect” State for the Undertaking, with Huge Potential in Wind Energy
European companies in the renewable energy sector are eyeing the offshore wind energy potential of the state of Ceará. Currently, the state has 22 offshore wind energy projects undergoing environmental licensing at the Brazilian Institute of Environment and Renewable Natural Resources (Ibama), totaling 56.6 GW of power. Along with Rio Grande do Sul, Ceará is the federation unit with the most projects underway at Ibama, according to the Diário do Nordeste website.
22 Offshore Wind Energy Projects at Ibama
The offshore wind energy projects in Ceará are primarily located along the west coast, between the municipalities of Caucaia and Camocim. However, having offshore projects undergo licensing at Ibama does not mean that the projects will be realized, as there may be a federal auction offering these points for wind energy generation.
According to Jurandir Picanço, energy consultant at the Federation of Industries of Ceará (Fiec): “The first step is to request environmental licensing. So, this first step does not mean that these offshore projects will materialize, because it can only happen if there is a federal auction purchasing energy. It is especially important that there is regulation establishing the responsibility for approval.”
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Regulation and Legal Framework
In order for the projects in Ceará to be realized, there must be a legal framework for offshore energy. The first projects will always face greater difficulty and higher costs, as occurred with the first onshore wind and solar projects.
Picanço adds that several projects will compete for the same contract and only one will win. Investors do not invest without assurance that they have buyers. Therefore, it is necessary to guarantee that the energy will be sold before they compete.
European Companies Invest in Wind Energy Projects in Ceará
European companies in the oil and gas segment are interested in investing in offshore wind energy projects in Ceará. This includes Shell from Great Britain and TotalEnergies from France. In addition, there are companies based in Spain (Neoenergia from Iberdrola), France (Qair), Norway (Equinor), and Japan (Shizen).
“Our wind potential is excellent. This has sparked interest from companies, almost all of which are internationally active, to reserve their area,” according to Picanço.
Among the projects undergoing environmental licensing, the largest in total capacity are: Alpha (6,000 MW), Asa Branca III (4,320 MW), and Asa Branca IV (4,320 MW).
Offshore wind energy is one of the most promising worldwide. It can generate a significant amount of energy, is more consistent, and is not influenced by physical obstacles such as buildings or mountains. In addition, Ceará has one of the best offshore wind resources in the world and the potential to become a leader in renewable energy in Latin America.
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