Brazil Achieves Renewable Energy Milestone as Wind and Solar Power Surpass One-Third of Electricity Generation

In August 2025, Brazil marked a significant milestone in its energy sector as wind and solar power generated over one-third of the country's electricity for the first time. According to data analyzed by the energy think tank Ember, these renewable sources accounted for 34% of total electricity generation, producing a record 19 terawatt-hours (TWh). This achievement comes as hydropower, traditionally Brazil's dominant energy source, fell to its lowest output in four years, contributing only 48% of the electricity mix.

Wind And Solar Supply Over One-Third Of Brazil’s Electricity For The First TimeAssociated PressESG News Recap: South Korea Hesitant to Invest in U.S.

The rise of wind and solar power has been notable, with their combined share of Brazil's electricity generation increasing from just over 1% in 2019 to 24% in 2024. Specifically, solar power grew to 9.6% and wind to 15% of the total generation. This transition has helped Brazil avoid the spikes in fossil fuel reliance seen in previous drought years, where fossil fuels accounted for 26% of generation in August 2021. In August 2025, fossil fuel plants contributed only 14% of the energy mix.

Wind And Solar Supply Over One-Third Of Brazil’s Electricity For The First TimeAssociated PressBrazil solar curtailment hits 20% as renewables strain grid infrastructure

Raul Miranda, Ember's global program director, emphasized that Brazil's experience demonstrates how a growing economy can meet rising electricity demands through renewable sources, particularly during drought conditions. Ricardo Baitelo from the Institute for Energy and the Environment noted that this record reflects over a decade of steady growth in wind and solar capacity, highlighting a shift from an almost entirely hydro-based system to a diversified energy mix.

Wind And Solar Supply Over One-Third Of Brazil’s Electricity For The First Time

Despite the progress, concerns have been raised regarding Brazil's reliance on subsidies to expand renewable energy, particularly residential solar. Paulo Pedrosa, president of Abrace Energia, criticized the subsidy models for distorting the power market and increasing energy costs. He argued that Brazil should leverage its abundant clean energy to enhance industrial competitiveness while contributing to global decarbonization.

Associated PressWind And Solar Supply Over One-Third Of Brazil’s Electricity For The First TimeESG News Recap: South Korea Hesitant to Invest in U.S.

Baitelo warned that without necessary reforms, fossil fuel interests might exploit the situation to expand thermal generation, potentially undermining the gains made in renewable energy deployment.

Wind And Solar Supply Over One-Third Of Brazil’s Electricity For The First Time

Brazil's energy sector faces challenges, including rising curtailment of renewable generation due to infrastructure limitations. Reports indicate that solar generation cuts have increased, with 20% of potential solar output curtailed in August 2025, compared to 12% in the previous year. Experts stress the need for improved infrastructure and regulatory frameworks to support the growing renewable sector.

Brazil solar curtailment hits 20% as renewables strain grid infrastructure

As Brazil continues to navigate its energy transition, it remains the only G20 country on track to meet the renewable energy expansion targets set at the U.N. COP28 climate summit in Dubai in 2023. The ongoing developments in Brazil's energy landscape will be closely monitored as the country strives to balance its renewable ambitions with market realities.

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• “Brazil shows how a rapidly growing economy can meet its rising need for electricity with solar and wind,” — Raul Miranda, Ember

Associated Press

• “The excess of renewable energy subsidy models has increased the cost of energy and, ironically, promoted the contracting of expensive thermal energy, which is necessary to keep the system balanced when there is no wind and no sun,” — Paulo Pedrosa, Abrace Energia

Associated Press

While the data indicates a significant increase in renewable energy generation, there are concerns about the accuracy of curtailment statistics and the financial impacts on the sector. The National System Operator's methodology may not fully capture the extent of generation cuts, leading to potential underreporting of the challenges faced by renewable energy producers.

Brazil solar curtailment hits 20% as renewables strain grid infrastructure