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Learn how technology, innovation and environmental preservation are aligned to reduce CO₂ emissions, promote energy efficiency and position the island as a global example of sustainability.
First of all, it is essential to emphasize that Fernando de Noronha is preparing for a historic milestone. The installation of first floating solar plant on the island was officially announced in January 2023. The project, which will be completed in 2025, reinforces the island’s commitment to sustainability. Furthermore, the initiative promises to transform the local energy model and serve as an example for Brazil.
Therefore, the idea was born within the Noronha Sustainable Energy Program, an initiative launched in 2020 by Neoenergia. In this way, the island continues to advance in sustainable development, showing that it is possible to reconcile environmental preservation and technological innovation.
Why is floating solar power plant so important?
Without a doubt, the floating solar plant is a significant innovation. First, the structure will be installed in the Xaréu Reservoir, occupying an area of 4.400 square meters. The project was licensed by the archipelago's administration in March 2023 and approved by the government of Pernambuco in April of the same year.
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Furthermore, the system has a capacity of 630 kWp, which will allow it to produce around 1.238 MWh per year. This energy capacity was calculated during feasibility studies carried out over 2022.
This way, it will be possible to meet more than 50% of the energy consumption of Companhia Pernambucana de Saneamento (Compesa). Most importantly, the project will contribute to the reduction of 1.663 tons of CO₂ per year, according to data provided by the Institute of Energy and Environment (IEMA) in 2023. Therefore, the environmental impact will be significant, reinforcing the need for clean and sustainable solutions.
Project Benefits:
- Environmental Sustainability: Reducing dependence on fossil fuels and preserving the local ecosystem.
- Energy Efficiency: Reduction of operating costs for the region.
- Global Example: Fernando de Noronha as a reference in sustainable solutions.
Furthermore, the project directly contributes to the preservation of the island's biodiversity, which has been recognized worldwide by UNESCO since 2001.
How does a floating solar power plant work?
First of all, it is important to understand that floating solar plants use photovoltaic panels installed on water. This technology began to be developed in Brazil in 2019, with the first pilot project implemented in Minas Gerais.
In this way, floating panels generate energy in a sustainable and efficient manner. In addition, this technology brings several advantages.
Advantages:
- Evaporation Reduction: Preserves essential water resources for the island.
- Greater Efficiency: Water cools the equipment, increasing its durability and energy efficiency.
- Space Optimization: Does not use land that could be used for other purposes.
Consequently, this model is ideal for locations with limited space and high environmental concerns, such as Fernando de Noronha.
Innovation in electric mobility in the archipelago
On the other hand, in addition to the floating solar plant project, the island is advancing in electric mobility. Em 2021, Neoenergia inaugurated the Vacaria Solar Power Plant, with a capacity of 50 kWp, exclusively intended for supplying electric vehicles.
Additionally, in March 2022, four charging stations were installed on the island. These stations have six points each, allowing tourists and residents to use electric vehicles in a sustainable way.
Highlights:
- Sustainability: Encouragement of the use of non-polluting transport.
- 100% Renewable Energy: Supplying vehicles with clean and sustainable energy.
- Environmental Preservation: Reduction of emissions and impacts on the ecosystem.
Therefore, electric mobility reinforces the island's commitment to a sustainable future.
Investing in the future: Advanced measurement technology
Even more interesting is the investment in measurement technology. Modernization began in 2022, with the replacement of all the island's energy meters by smart models. This progress was led by Neoenergia and monitored by National Electric Energy Agency (ANEEL).
This way, residents gain a more reliable and sustainable service, with less waste. Thus, the island continues to stand out as a model in energy efficiency.
Benefits of modernization:
- Real Time Monitoring: Greater control over energy consumption.
- Fault Detection: Faster resolution of supply problems.
- Waste Reduction: Encouragement of the conscious use of energy.
Therefore, these changes reflect a commitment to innovation and sustainability.
Environmental and social impact: What changes for residents?
With these initiatives, Fernando de Noronha is transforming the lives of its residents. First, reducing dependence on fossil fuels benefits both the environment and the health of the population. Furthermore, electricity costs tend to decrease.
On the other hand, sustainable tourism is gaining even more strength. After all, visitors looking for eco-friendly experiences will find an example of sustainability on the island.
Advantages for the community:
- Reduced Costs: Savings on electricity and greater efficiency.
- Environmental awareness: Education on the importance of preservation.
- Sustainable tourism: Attracting visitors interested in eco-friendly practices.
Thus, Fernando de Noronha consolidates itself as a reference in sustainability and quality of life.
Brazil as a leader in renewable energy
Finally, it is important to highlight Brazil's role in the global renewable energy scenario. Since 2019, the country has been moving forward with floating solar power plant projects. Furthermore, the largest floating solar plant in Brazil, inaugurated in Minas Gerais in 2020, reinforces this leading role.
Very good indeed