O Government of Rio Grande do Norte announced a partnership with the Norwegian Scatec for the construction of the largest solar plant in the state and one of the largest in Brazil, according to Hugo Fonseca, Energy Development coordinator at Sedec.
The Mendubim project, which will be the company's largest global venture in the area of photovoltaic solar energy, has 532 MW of installed power and will occupy an area of 1,2 thousand hectares in the municipality of Assu.
With investments of R$1,7 billion and construction scheduled to begin in April, construction will last 17 months, generating around 1,2 direct and indirect jobs throughout the period, with priority given to hiring local labor.
The Mendubim complex is one of more than 40 solar energy projects with a closed and signed contract, scheduled to operate in Rio Grande do Norte until 2026, representing a total investment of R$7 billion.
Currently, according to the Authority, there are two large systems in operation in RN, one in Assu and the other in Areia Branca. “In the conversation they talked about the enterprise and the social intervention that accompanies their projects. Through its assistance, the government presented demands regarding female labor, incorporation of sectors excluded from the project”, said vice-governor Antenor Roberto.
“It is a complex that will make maximum use of local labor, including the necessary training. Their concern with social issues, with preserving the environment, with social issues is simply the best in the world”, highlighted Jaime Calado, Secretary of Economic Development.
About Scatec
Founded in 2007, with headquarters in Oslo, Scatec is present in 23 countries. The company develops, builds, maintains and operates solar, wind and hydroelectric plants and storage solutions.
In 2017, the company signed a partnership with Equinor for the development of solar parks in Brazil. “We hope to be a good neighbor,” said Roar Haugland, executive director of Scatec.
