R4 Energias Renováveis has just taken a strategic step toward expanding its operations in the domestic market. The company sold a 70% stake to Unifique, a Santa Catarina-based telecommunications company listed on the B3 (Stock Exchange).
The partnership comes at a time of global energy transition and increased demand for more sustainable technological solutions. On the one hand, R4 brings its expertise in distributed generation, photovoltaic plant operations, and subscription-based energy.
On the other hand, Unifique — which won lots in the 5 2023G auction — seeks to expand its presence with solutions that involve high energy consumption, such as fiber optic networks, data centers, and state-of-the-art antennas.
The agreement also provides for investments in new solar plants, projects with energy storage systems (BESS) and the implementation of a network of charging stations for electric vehicles in the southern region of Brazil, over the next two years.
The expectation is that this merger will not only strengthen the operations of both companies, but also bring to the market integrated solutions that combine connectivity, clean energy, and technological innovation.
In an interview with Canal Solar, Ruy Carlos Tiedje, CEO of R4, details the acquisition process, the differentiators of the new phase, and future plans that should position the company as one of the main players in renewable energy in the country.
Check out the main excerpts from the interview below:
R4 has partnered with Unifique. How did this negotiation come about?
We've been studying this synergy for a long time. Unifique is a solid, publicly traded company with over 800 customers and a strong presence in southern Brazil, particularly in fixed internet, cable TV, digital solutions, and 5G mobile telephony.
They've been growing a lot, especially after winning the 5G auction in 2023. This expansion demands a lot of energy and quality of supply—something that's very much in line with what we do here at R4.
What was the model of the operation?
Unifique acquired 70% of R4. The deal figures will not be disclosed at this time. But the objective is clear: to combine technology, renewable energy, and quality customer service.
How will the two companies operate together from now on?
We will continue with R4 operating normally, with autonomy in several areas, but now with a very strong arm to scale our projects. We already operate our own distributed generation plants in Santa Catarina and offer subscription-based energy. With this partnership, we will expand these areas to Unifique's entire customer base.
Unifique also operates in telecommunications. How does this connect with the energy sector?
Very directly. They have a huge demand for energy to keep their 5G, fiber optic, and data center infrastructure running smoothly. We already work with subscription-based generation and solutions that generate savings for our customers. The synergy is complete.
You also talked about expanding the number of plants. Is there a defined goal?
Yes. We currently have our own power plants in operation, with significant expansion expected in the coming years. Our focus is distributed generation plants with capacities ranging from 1,5 MW to 3,5 MW.
In addition to the plants, are there plans to install electric charging stations?
We have a robust plan to install a network of charging stations over the next 24 months, starting in southern Brazil. The idea is to install charging stations in strategic locations where users stay for more than 30 minutes. We already have the technology, validated models, and even a digital management platform.
Does this electric charging station project also involve the use of batteries?
Yes, in many cases. BEES (Battery Energy Storage) is an ideal solution to complement fast-charging infrastructure. Often, the location lacks sufficient available power from the grid. With BEES, we can guarantee stable energy and meet this demand. We already have pilot projects in operation and are modeling full integration with charging stations.
Does R4 already have cases with BESS operating today?
Yes, we do. One of them is a 400 kWh system that replaces the use of diesel generators during peak hours, at a company that was already our solar generation client. The results have been very positive—with real savings and an accelerated return on investment.
Does this partnership also impact customer service?
Absolutely. Unifique is widely recognized for its quality service, and this is fully aligned with our DNA here at R4. From the beginning, we've always invested in after-sales and customer relationships. Now, with this merger, we're going to raise that bar even further.
Finally, what does this new phase represent for R4?
It's a turning point. We continue our mission to make people's lives easier through renewable energy, and now we have even greater capacity to do so on a large scale. This new phase brings incredible opportunities—both for technological expansion and for bringing comprehensive, sustainable solutions to thousands of new consumers.
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Congratulations on the report, Henrique. We also work with subscription-based energy and the free market, offering discounts on our customers' energy bills in over 20 states. I'm looking for partners for our project. Interested parties can contact us at 51984863327.