The MoU encompasses a broad range of activities, including technical, environmental, social, and regulatory studies, all aimed at harnessing the potential of wind energy in the region.

Neoenergia, a key player in the renewable energy sector, recently announced that it has signed a  memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Government of Rio Grande do Norte to explore offshore wind power generation projects along the state's coastline. This collaboration, which was announced during the 14th edition of Brazil Windpower, Latin America's premier wind energy event, signifies a major step towards clean energy development.

According to the company, the MoU encompasses a broad range of activities, including technical, environmental, social, and regulatory studies, all aimed at harnessing the potential of wind energy in the region. Marcelo Lopes, the director of Hydraulics and Offshore at Neoenergia, and Fátima Bezerra, the Governor of Rio Grande do Norte were both present for the signing ceremony.

Lopes emphasized Neoenergia's commitment to advancing Brazil's energy transition, stating, "This is another partnership that is in line with Neoenergia's strategy. We are protagonists of the energy transition in Brazil. We believe that new business opportunities are guided by decarbonization, innovation, and the development of new technologies to generate clean, safe, and reliable energy."

An essential aspect of this partnership is the establishment of a regulatory framework for the burgeoning offshore wind energy market in Brazil. Lopes highlighted the significance of this step, stating, "This is fundamental for the development of the industrial chain with added value and the valuation of the socio-environmental attributes of the source. We also consider that the framework will be important for legal and regulatory certainty and predictability for investors."

Governor Fátima Bezerra expressed her commitment to maintaining Rio Grande do Norte's leadership in clean energy production. She explained that the memorandum with Neoenergia is part of a series of conversations and meetings aimed at achieving mutual interests, including the development of offshore projects and logistical support for port infrastructure.

This marks Neoenergia's fourth MoU signing for offshore wind generation development in Brazil. The company is actively evaluating the feasibility of offshore wind projects in the states of Rio de Janeiro, Rio Grande do Sul, and Ceará.

Neoenergia currently operates three wind farms in the state: Mel, Arizona, and Rio do Fogo, which commenced operations in 2006. Additionally, through Neoenergia Cosern, the company serves approximately 1.5 million customers in the distribution segment. The company is also working towards adding an extra 0.2 GW through the completion of onshore wind farms, further solidifying its commitment to clean energy production.

According to the company’s press release, the partnership between Neoenergia and the Government of Rio Grande do Norte promises to drive forward the development of clean, sustainable energy solutions for the region, aligning with Brazil's broader goals of embracing renewable energy sources.

Source: Neoenergia