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Juiz de Fora Stands Out in Brazil’s Energy Transition by Attracting R$ 2 Billion in Investments for Solar and Biomass Energy Projects by 2026, Including the Construction of Plants and Expansion of Photovoltaic Panel Production.
With an expected investment of around R$ 2 billion by 2026, Juiz de Fora, in the Zona da Mata region of Minas Gerais, is taking decisive steps to become a national reference in renewable energy. Projects involving biomass, solar energy, and circular economy are already underway, positioning the city as a protagonist in Brazil’s energy transition.
The construction of a modern biomass plant, strengthening the photovoltaic panel supply chain, and creating a facility for solid waste recycling are the main highlights.
Biomass Plant Will Start in 2026 and Is Expected to Boost Local Economy
Among the main investments planned is the installation of a biomass plant in the city’s industrial districts.
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The project, which is expected to start in January 2026, is part of a joint initiative between a Brazilian company and European and North American groups, as announced by the municipal secretary of Sustainable and Inclusive Development, Innovation, and Competitiveness, Ignacio Delgado.
In addition to generating clean energy, the plant has the potential to stimulate the local economy by utilizing available forest resources in the region.
“It is a little-explored Brazilian potential. Besides the logistical advantages, by strengthening this sector, the city has all the potential to position itself at the forefront of the energy transition,” highlights Delgado.
Solar Energy Gains Momentum with Industrial Production in the Municipality
The solar energy sector is also expanding in Juiz de Fora. MTR-Arcol, a company already established in the industrial district, is advancing solar panel production with support from the City Hall.
The goal is to increase production capacity and consolidate the city as an important link in the solar equipment supply chain.
The investment in solar energy strengthens the goal of diversifying the local energy matrix, combining technological innovation with sustainability.
City Invests R$ 40 Million in Plant to Turn Waste into Energy
Another impactful project planned for the municipality is the construction of a solid waste recycling plant, with completion estimated for 2027.
With an investment of R$ 40 million, the facility will be installed on a 16,000 m² plot near BR-040, with the capacity to process up to 100 tons of waste per day and turn it into fuel and energy.
Part of the funding has been secured through negotiations with the Municipal Chamber and BNDES. For Delgado, it represents a structural transformation:
“It’s a complete shift for Brazil as a whole. Many cities still bury waste, and being able to use it for energy and fuel production strengthens the circular economy and contributes to the energy transition and changes in economic patterns,” he emphasizes.
Industrial District Undergoing Modernization to Welcome New Enterprises
To meet the new industrial demand, the Juiz de Fora City Hall is revitalizing the Industrial District in the Northern Zone.
So far, 50% of the work has been completed, with improvements in drainage, paving, and road infrastructure.
Among the new structural projects are:
- Paving completion: R$ 5 million via a parliamentary amendment from Deputy Ana Pimentel;
- Construction of the fifth water main and a new Water Treatment Plant: R$ 160 million and R$ 40 million, respectively, with resources from BNDES.
These interventions aim to ensure water supply and adequate infrastructure to attract large companies.
Even with a focus on innovation, the city does not abandon already established sectors. The secretary emphasizes the importance of strengthening areas like textiles and food.
“We want to show that the city is a safe harbor not only for attracting investments but also for enhancing the companies already established in Juiz de Fora,” explains Delgado.
The atmosphere of innovation and investment in clean energy has also favored the business environment. According to Aloísio Vasconcelos, president of the Commercial and Business Association of Juiz de Fora (ACEJF), municipal management measures have contributed to energizing the local economy.
“The deregulation, speed, and simplification carried out by the current management of the development secretary have favored the business environment in the municipality,” he states.
In the last four years, 52,000 new companies have been opened in the city. The average opening time has decreased from 38 hours to just 9 hours.
As a result, ISS (Tax on Services) has surpassed IPTU in revenue, while local employment has grown above national and state averages.
Juiz de Fora Aims for the Future with Investments in Renewable Energy
The city also has a technological park, dry port, several universities, and a strategic location, connected by highways, railways, and an airport.
With this infrastructure, Juiz de Fora emerges as a safe and competitive destination for investments in solar energy, biomass, and sustainable innovation.
The municipal strategy is clear: to transform the energy matrix, attract investments, and ensure growth with environmental responsibility and social inclusion.
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