With historic progress in 2024, the country exceeded expectations and positioned itself among the four largest in the world in photovoltaic generation
Brazil's performance in the solar energy sector in 2024 has attracted international attention: the country has reached a new level of installed capacity and is now among the largest in the world in this strategic segment. The data, revealed in a report by SolarPower Europe, consolidates solar energy as a key part of the Brazilian electricity matrix and reinforces the country's leading role in the energy transition.
Brazil assumes a central role in the global energy transition
The solar energy in Brazil reached a historic milestone in 2024, adding 18,9 gigawatts (GW) to the country's installed capacity, according to a report by the European association SolarPower Europe, published in May 2025. With this performance, Brazil now occupies fourth place in the world ranking of new solar energy markets, behind only China, the United States and India. The advance demonstrates the country's commitment to large-scale renewable sources, despite the logistical and regulatory challenges faced.
This expansion elevated solar energy to second place among sources in the Brazilian electricity matrix, totaling 56 GW in operation and representing 22,5% of the total capacity of the national electricity system, according to data released by Examination based on studies by ABSOLAR (Brazilian Association of Photovoltaic Solar Energy).
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Brazil attracts billions in investments and generates thousands of jobs in the solar sector
Even with technical obstacles, such as generation cuts without adequate compensation and limitations on the connection of small systems, the Brazilian solar sector maintained strong traction in 2024. This year alone, investments reached R$53,7 billion, which resulted in the creation of 457 thousand new jobs, according to data released by Examination.
Since 2012, the total volume of accumulated investments in the sector has exceeded R$254 billion, generating more than 1,7 million jobs. The figures are from ABSOLAR and reflect the growing economic relevance of solar energy not only as an energy solution, but as an axis of productive and social development in Brazil.
With almost 90% of its matrix clean, Brazil stands out among green nations
With 89,2% of its electricity grid based on renewable sources such as solar, wind and hydro, Brazil is among the world leaders in the energy transition. While powers in the northern hemisphere still face a strong dependence on fossil fuels, the South American country is moving forward with a diversified, sustainable grid with a lower environmental impact.
The Ministry of Mines and Energy highlights that Brazil is in a privileged position to attract even more investments and assume a reference role in meeting climate and energy goals, especially in view of the growing international pressure for decarbonization.
Solar energy: a long-term bet for Brazil
In addition to centralized generation, distributed generation, solar panels in homes, businesses and small industries, has been one of the driving forces behind the sector's growth. This decentralization expands access to clean energy, reduces costs and offers a viable alternative for energy autonomy for thousands of Brazilians.
ABSOLAR emphasizes that the growth potential is still enormous and depends on consistent public policies, regulatory security and incentives for domestic equipment production. The current scenario shows that, even amid challenges, Brazil is building a solid path towards a greener, more innovative and socially inclusive energy model.