Understand how Bahia stands out in the generation of solar and wind energy, promoting economic growth and environmental preservation based on official data and continuous actions
Since 2015, with the national energy auctions promoted by ANEEL, Bahia has played a central role in the expansion of renewable sources in Brazil. For this reason, since 2016, municipalities in the interior began to receive solar and wind energy projects with support from the State Government and the private sector. In addition, favorable geographical conditions and tax incentives have driven the advancement of this energy model. Therefore, the population began to notice the first results in 2018, with positive repercussions in several regions of the semi-arid region of Bahia.
Bahia consolidates itself as one of the national leaders in solar and wind energy
Bahia has shown impressive results in the clean energy sector. According to the Electric Energy Commercialization Chamber (CCEE), in 2023 the state accounted for 41,59% of national wind power generation, reaching an average of 3.450 MW. Furthermore, according to data from the Energy Research Company (EPE), Bahia closed 2023 with 64 solar plants in operation, totaling 2.047 MW of installed capacity. Therefore, the state occupies a prominent position alongside Minas Gerais and Piauí. Thus, Bahia establishes itself as one of the main regions for sustainable energy production in the country, with investments in infrastructure and local generation.
Renewable energy sector contributes to job creation and regional dynamism
Since 2020, the sector's expansion has contributed to job creation and increased income in municipalities in the interior. The Bahia State Department of Economic Development generated more than 167 direct and indirect jobs in the sector by February 2025, according to data from the agency. Municipalities such as Umburanas, Campo Formoso, and Oliveira dos Brejinhos stand out as beneficiaries of this growth. Between 2021 and 2023, according to the IBGE, the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of some of these municipalities grew by more than 15%. Therefore, renewable energy has been integrated into local economic development, creating opportunities and reducing dependence on traditional activities.
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Social projects are part of the implementation of wind and solar farms
Since 2020, several energy operators have implemented social projects in the communities where they operate. One of the main examples is the Morro do Chapéu Sul Wind Complex, operated by Enel Green Power Brasil. The company invested more than R$6 million between 2020 and 2023 in actions focused on health, education and technical training in the region. In addition, it promoted renovations in schools and health centers, supported family farming and encouraged cultural initiatives. These actions complement structural investments and strengthen the bond between the companies and the local populations.
Environmental preservation is a priority in renewable energy projects in the state
The intensification of renewable activities has led to more rigorous monitoring of environmental impacts. According to the Bahia State Department of the Environment, reforestation and recovery programs for degraded areas near energy parks were implemented between 2022 and 2024. In addition, the Bahia Institute of the Environment and Water Resources (INEMA) has coordinated actions to conserve the Caatinga and control fires. As of 2022, Bahia became a member of the Brazilian Climate Monitoring Panel. In 2023, the International Energy Agency cited the region as one of the most outstanding in the balance between clean generation and environmental protection.
Attracting new investments reinforces Bahia's strategic role in the national energy sector
From 2018 to 2024, more than R$38 billion were invested in Bahia in wind and solar generation projects, according to information from the State Government. Companies such as Omega Energia, Voltalia and Atlas Renewable Energy announced new plants in the state between 2022 and 2025. In addition, the São Francisco Hydroelectric Company (CHESF) has been investing since 2023 in the modernization of the electrical transmission infrastructure, allowing greater integration with the National Interconnected System. Projections from the Energy Research Company indicate that, by 2030, the installed renewable energy capacity in Bahia could double. This growth has occurred in a planned manner, based on regulatory guidelines and technical and environmental assessments.
Challenges persist, but are addressed with public policies and training
Despite the progress, the sector still faces logistical and institutional challenges. According to the CCEE, in a technical report from January 2025, the environmental licensing process continues to be one of the main bottlenecks for expansion. In addition, there is a shortage of qualified professionals in the most remote regions. In response, between 2023 and 2024, technical training programs were created in partnership with SENAI Bahia, municipal governments and operators in the sector. These actions aim to qualify local workers, promoting productive inclusion and strengthening the regional energy chain. Since 2015, Bahia has stood out nationally in the implementation of renewable energy in a technical, gradual manner and based on consistent public policies. By generating jobs, attracting investments and ongoing environmental actions, the state has become a reference for other regions of the country. The model adopted, with a focus on sustainability, transparency and planning, shows that it is possible to grow responsibly.