As part of Brazil’s 2010 Alternative Energy Auctions, GE (NYSE: GE) today announced deals with four developers to supply more than 400 megawatts of wind-generated electricity to the Brazilian grid. These commitments will be for 258 of GE’s 1.5 and 1.6-megawatt wind turbines.
“Being able to supply the best technology fit for Brazil’s wind conditions is at the center of our continued success in the country’s wind auctions,” said Victor Abate, vice president—renewable energy for GE Power & Water. “We are focused on making our customers the most competitive in Brazil as they concentrate on helping the country reach its renewable energy goals.”
The commitments announced today are as follows:
* Renova – 163 megawatts with 102 units
* DESA – 60 megawatts with 38 units
* Contour Global – 150 megawatts with 100 units
* Bioenergy – 28.8 megawatts with 18 units
While DESA and Renova selected GE for wind energy projects in a 2009 auction, these are the first GE contracts with Contour and Bioenergy. As per the agreements, GE will supply, install and commission the 258 wind turbines. Additionally, GE will provide service agreements of at least two years.
Brazil is Latin America’s leading wind market with 31.6 gigawatts of capacity expected to be installed by 2025, according to a recent study from IHS Emerging Energy Research.
The growth in the Brazilian wind energy sector is emblematic of the country’s growing energy demands as well as an effort from the Brazilian government to expand beyond its hydropower-centered electricity base. According to the Energy Information Agency, 85 percent of Brazil’s electricity comes from hydropower.
Article by Timothy B. Hurst, appearing courtesy Earth & Industry.
