Solar and wind power accounted for 34% of Brazil's electricity generation in August 2025, the highest level ever recorded. Their combined production reached 19 TWh, surpassing the previous record of 18,6 TWh, set in September 2024.
The increase comes as hydroelectric generation has fallen to 48%, its lowest level since 2021, amid the drought. The data is part of Ember Energy's September 11 survey.
Even with the decline in hydroelectric plants, fossil generation was only 14% (7,8 TWh), well below the 26% recorded in the same month of 2021. According to Ember, expanding renewable capacity has been crucial to avoid greater use of coal and gas. "Energy diversification has made Brazil more resilient, even in water crisis scenarios," says Raul Miranda, global director of Ember.
Over the past five years, solar energy's share of the electricity grid has increased sixfold, from 2,2% to 13%. Wind power also increased, from 15% to 21% over the same period. In 2024, these sources together accounted for 24% of the country's electricity generation, more than double the 2019 figure, contributing to a 31% drop in the sector's emissions.
The challenge now is to maintain the pace of expansion. Installed solar capacity fell from 9,9 GW to 7,1 GW in the first half of 2025, impacted by grid connection bottlenecks and regulatory uncertainty. Transmission auctions and new compensation rules aim to unlock investment and ensure that the growth of renewables continues to meet growing electricity demand.
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