A solar energy system with batteries installed in an isolated Amazonian community is changing the lives of agro-extractive families by reducing their dependence on diesel generators, lowering energy costs, and increasing the income of the local population.
Developed on Ilha das Cinzas, in the Marajó archipelago (PA), the project was recognized with the Expressão de Ecologia Award – promoted by FIESC (Federation of Industries of the State of Santa Catarina) and recognized by the MMA (Ministry of the Environment) – for combining socioeconomic development and environmental preservation.
The initiative is the result of a partnership between WEG, Natura and ATAIC (Association of Agro-extractive Workers of Ilha das Cinzas) and brought solar energy to a community-based agro-industry responsible for processing vegetable oils and butters.
The system implemented operates off-grid, meaning without connection to the conventional electrical grid, using a set of solar panels and batteries to guarantee a continuous supply of energy.
According to those responsible for the project, the solution increased the community's autonomy, reduced diesel consumption, and boosted the agro-industry's production capacity.
The system benefits 470 families.
The project features a 150 kWp photovoltaic system and a battery bank with a storage capacity of 300 kWh.
According to WEG, the initiative benefits approximately 470 agro-extractive families, reduces electricity costs by 78%, and increases local income by up to 60%.
In addition to the economic impacts, the project prevents the emission of approximately 30 tons of CO₂ equivalent per year and generates an estimated additional economic impact of R$ 420 annually for the community.
According to the company, the experience could serve as a reference for other isolated communities in the Amazon, where the energy supply still depends, in many cases, on generators powered by fossil fuels.
The project was recognized with a sustainability award.
The initiative was one of the winners of the Expressão de Ecologia Award, which in this edition brought together 146 projects focused on environmental preservation and the adoption of sustainable practices.
In total, 16 projects developed by companies from Santa Catarina were awarded. The winners received the Onda Verde Trophy during a ceremony held on June 26th in Florianópolis.
Created in 1993 and recognized by the Ministry of the Environment, the Expressão de Ecologia Award has already received 3.697 project entries, establishing itself as one of the main Brazilian awards focused on corporate and institutional sustainability.
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