Transformative trackers help reach carbon neutrality goals
“The Caldeirão Grande 2 plant, with its 400,000 solar panels over an 800-hectare (1,977-acre) area, is the biggest utility-scale solar installation for Ibitu Energia. The power company has a renewables
portfolio of 849.8 MW via wind and hydropower.
”
Brazil was the first country in the world to legally recognize the Paris Agreement as a human rights treaty, meaning the climate pact supersedes national law. To reach its goal of carbon neutrality by 2050,
Brazil has committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) by 37% by 2025 and 50% by 2030, based on the levels recorded in 2005. This means the country’s power companies must strengthen
investments in renewable energy technologies. Ibitu Energia, one of Brazil’s largest renewable energy generation companies, is already a large wind power generator. Now, recognizing Valmont Solar as a leader in conserving resources and improving life, Ibitu Energia added our technology to its Caldeirão Grande 2 plant in the northeastern region of Brazil. Valmont Solar leveraged its heritage of field-proven single-axis solar trackers powered by Convert™ technology.
The tracker’s simple and sophisticated design features shorter rows which help to ensure long-term durability and stability in different terrain tilts, while lowering overall installation and maintenance costs, with guaranteed equipment performance. It helps that our Convert-1P Single-Axis Solar Trackers can easily adapt to a mix of module power classes used at this site. Plus, working with a premium supplier with a robust local supply chain means fast response, good lead times and a high level of service.
The 252 MWp generated with the help of the trackers could power 148,000 homes and reduce carbon emissions by 600,000 tons in a year. At the same time, using weathering steel provides an eco-friendly
alternative to galvanization while still offering high strength, reduced lead times for manufacturing and delivery at site and requiring low maintenance.
With the first fields already generating power since November 2022 and more coming online in 2023, the project will help further diversify Brazil’s sustainable energy resources. After all, every photon of solar energy gained helps the economy and supports a greener future.