Brazil: STF approves 370 MW of solar power plants

Neoenergia Brasília and the Supreme Federal Court (STF) have signed a technical cooperation agreement to install solar power plants on the roofs of the STF annex buildings. The project, scheduled for completion by the end of the year, aims to reduce the institution’s energy costs. The agreement signed by Eduardo Capelastegui, CEO of Neoenergia, and Frederico Candian, CEO of Neoenergia Brasília, as well as by ministers Luís Roberto Barroso, president of STF, and Edson Fachin, vice-president, represents an estimated investment of R$ 1 million. This investment, which is part of the Neoenergia Energy Efficiency Program (EEP), regulated by ANEEL (Agência Nacional de Energia Elétrica), will allow the construction of two solar power plants with a total capacity of over 250 kWp. The estimated annual production of these plants is 370 MWh, which means annual savings of R$ 275,000 for the national budget.

Impact on energy costs

This initiative is part of a series of actions undertaken by Neoenergia Brasília since March 2021 to improve the energy efficiency of federal agencies, including the Federal Police, the Air Force, the Brazilian Army and the University of Brasília (UnB). Moreover, the Brazilian solar energy market is growing rapidly, and numerous projects are underway across the country. In two years, the company has replaced more than 146,000 inefficient lamps with LED models, saving the public budget approximately R$ 7.2 million. STF President Luís Roberto Barroso stressed that reducing energy costs is a priority. “We are trying to take all possible measures to minimize energy costs for the Supreme Court and the entire judicial system,” he said. This agreement with Neoenergia is an important step in this direction.

Financial and technological benefits

Photovoltaic systems, which generate energy from solar radiation, offer a reliable, long-lasting power source, even on cloudy or rainy days. The higher the solar radiation, the higher the electricity production. This initiative will not only reduce energy costs but also provide a degree of energy independence for STF. In addition, through the ANEEL Energy Efficiency Program, Neoenergia promotes efficient and safe electricity consumption for residents of the Federal District. Over the past two years, more than 50,000 families have benefited from the installation of 230,000 more efficient lamps and 5,000 refrigerators. The installation of these solar power plants represents a significant step forward for STF in terms of managing energy costs. This partnership with Neoenergia demonstrates the institution’s commitment to economically viable and technologically advanced energy solutions.