Source: CSTA via Brazil Energy

From CGN Brazil: In partnership with the Government of Piauí, we are advancing the structuring of an innovative initiative for the development of concentrated solar power (CSP) technology with thermal storage — still unprecedented in Brazil.

The agreement, signed with the Piauí Institute of Technology, provides for technical, economic and regulatory feasibility studies for the implementation of a first tower CSP project of approximately 100 MW in the state. The proposal aims to expand the supply of dispatchable renewable energy, helping to overcome challenges such as the intermittency of solar sources and grid evacuation constraints.

[Ed note: China’s SOEs have experience building infrastructure in Brazil. State Grid Corporation of China owns a large slice of Brazil’s electricity transmission network, acquired through a series of purchases from the 2010s onward. Chinese companies have built numerous wind and (PV) solar farms, despite a rocky relationship with the previous Bolsonaro government. CGN’s existing 506MW of solar (PV) and wind in Piauí suggests they know the local regulatory, grid and permitting environment.]

According to CGN Brasil president Mingzhu Li:

“The project represents an important step towards expanding the reliability of renewable energy in Brazil, combining technological innovation and regional development.

CSP technology with thermal storage stands out for enabling power generation even in the absence of sunlight, offering greater stability to the electricity system. With our consolidated experience with this technology in international projects, we reinforce its potential application in the Brazilian market.

The project will initially involve technical cooperation activities at the national level, including exchanges between Brazilian professionals and technical visits to operational plants in China.

As part of the technology development and talent formation strategy, a call will be launched to select students, master’s and doctoral candidates from universities across Brazil, who will contribute analyses and solutions to the project.

Piauí Governor Rafael Fonteles: “Piauí has sought to position itself as a hub of innovation in renewable energy. This partnership helps attract investment, generate knowledge and strengthen regional development.”

CGN Brasil currently operates 506 MW in Piauí across solar and wind assets. Our new initiative reinforces our alignment with the government in promoting sustainable solutions, technological innovation and economic growth, consolidating the state as one of the country’s leading clean energy hubs.”