EDF Group, through its subsidiary EDF Renewables, has unveiled its most extensive wind energy facility in South America, the Serra do Seridó wind farm located in Brazil’s northeastern Paraíba state.
Equipped with 85 wind turbines and boasting an impressive installed capacity of 480 MWp, the farm will generate enough electricity to power approximately 1.5 million Brazilian homes annually.
Solidifying EDF’s Commitment to Brazil
The completion of Serra do Seridó reinforces EDF’s enduring dedication to Brazil and showcases its contribution to the energy transition, leveraging its expertise across a diverse range of complementary technologies.
A portion of the electricity generated by the project is guaranteed through a tariff secured in a 2019 Brazilian federal government auction. The remaining electricity has been sold on the market through long-term Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs).
Construction and Community Impact
Construction of the wind farm was executed in two phases, commencing in 2021. The project mobilized nearly 2,000 workers, with 30% of the workforce sourced locally.
Demonstrating its commitment to local communities, EDF Renewables has undertaken various socio-economic development initiatives, including farmer training on restoring degraded rural areas, in collaboration with the Paraiban state company.
EDF Group’s Extensive Presence in Brazil
The EDF Group has been operating in Brazil for nearly three decades. The company’s portfolio includes a total of 1.8 GW of wind and solar projects across the country.
Additionally, EDF operates the 402 MW Sinop hydroelectric power plant and the Norte Fluminense (827 MW) and Marlim Azul (565 MW) combined cycle gas turbine (CCGT) power plants.
The Group recently secured its first project in the electricity transmission sector and is also actively developing energy storage solutions.
Leadership Perspective
Béatrice Buffon, EDF Group Senior Executive Vice-President in charge of the International Division and Chairman of EDF Renewables, remarked: “The inauguration of the Serra do Seridó wind farm marks a significant achievement that highlights our ongoing dedication to a carbon-neutral future, while also contributing to our clients’ decarbonization strategies.
By providing sustainable energy, we play a part in combating climate change and promoting socio-economic advancement for local communities surrounding our facilities, a crucial endeavor to foster a just and equitable energy transition.”