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The municipality of São Vicente Férrer, in the Agreste region of Pernambuco, has begun an energy transformation that has been attracting attention in the country. With 16.677 inhabitants and 107 kilometers from Recife, the city has installed 1.850 solar panels in schools, hospitals and public offices.
In addition, the city government acquired eletric cars to renew the municipal fleet. The estimate is that the initiative will generate a annual savings of up to R$1,5 million, a value that will be entirely directed to the area of public health.
Investment and strategy in solar energy
The change began in 2023, when the city obtained a R$4 million credit line near to Bank of Brazil. Instead of building a centralized plant, the technical team chose to install solar sub-plants on the roofs of public buildings.
According to the municipal secretary of Planning and Management, Adilson Carlos Ferraz, it was necessary to reinforce the structures of the properties and connect the systems to the network neoenergy.
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The initiative involved four schools, one daycare center, seven health units and the main administrative bodies. Since then, the city's energy consumption has fallen dramatically.
Electric car fleet and social mobility
Along with the solar transition, the city invested R $ 700 thousand when purchasing four electric vehicles, with resources from fundeb and the municipal budget.
The new fleet serves the departments of Education, Health and Social Assistance. One of the cars transports patients for treatment in other cities, while two vehicles assist students in hard-to-reach areas. The last one serves families in vulnerable situations.
The city plans to replace all 12 vehicles in the fleet by the end of 2025, making it fully electric.
Agreste's solar potential drives project
Located in one of the areas with highest solar radiation in Brazil, São Vicente Férrer takes advantage of a strategic natural condition.
According to Brazilian Solar Energy Atlas, published by Inpe, the region has high potential for photovoltaic generation, which makes the investment even more efficient.
In 2024, Brazil surpassed the mark of 54 gigawatts of installed solar energy capacity, which represents almost four times the generation of Itaipu power plant.
Experts point out that the return on investment in solar energy can occur between seven and ten years, even with high initial costs.
The experience of Saint Vincent Ferrer shows that small towns can also lead the energy transition, as long as they have planning and access to credit.
Direct impact on health and the environment
With the economy generated, the city reinforces investments in medical care, hospital infrastructure and acquisition of supplies.
At the same time, it reduces the emission of polluting gases, advances sustainability and contributes to the country's climate goals.
Even facing logistical and financial challenges, São Vicente Férrer proved that it is possible to balance innovation, economy and environmental responsibility. The city now serves as an example for other regions that wish to implement smart and sustainable solutions in public management.
