In Short : In August 2025, Brazil achieved a significant milestone by generating over one-third of its electricity from wind and solar energy for the first time, reaching a record 19 terawatt-hours (TWh) of clean energy—sufficient to power 119 million homes for a month—according to an analysis by the think tank Ember.
Fueling Strategic Expansion and Innovation
This achievement highlights Brazil’s swift advancement in renewable energy. Over the past 15 years, solar and wind energy have been steadily increasing, leading the country to shift from a hydro-centric energy system to a more diversified mix that includes hydro, solar, and wind. This balanced growth enhances resilience during drought periods, decreases dependence on fossil fuels, and positions Brazil as the only G20 nation currently on track to fulfill COP28 renewable energy objectives.
Preserving Equity While Growing Tech Capabilities
The growth of solar and wind energy has generated new employment opportunities, stimulated manufacturing, and enhanced energy accessibility in both rural and urban areas. However, experts warn that it is essential to address subsidies for residential solar and market disparities to ensure fair growth. Without necessary reforms, the expansion of fossil fuels could jeopardize the advantages of renewable energy, posing a threat to long-term sustainability.
Clean Energy Impact / Relevance
In August, wind and solar contributed to 34% of electricity generation, while hydro dropped to 48% and fossil fuels remained low at 14%—a significant difference compared to drought years when reliance on fossil fuels surged above 25%. Since 2014, emissions from Brazil’s power sector have decreased by 31% even as demand increased by 22%, primarily due to a fifteenfold rise in wind and solar production. This demonstrates how renewable energy can effectively reduce emissions while fostering economic growth.
About Brazil’s Energy Transition
Brazil, which was once nearly entirely reliant on hydroelectric power, now operates on three clean energy foundations: hydro, solar, and wind. Its renewable energy model exemplifies how a rapidly growing economy can sustainably meet increasing electricity demands, while also serving as a global benchmark for the integration of solar and wind energy in promoting climate resilience and decarbonization.
