How much solar capacity does Brazil have in pre-construction?

And with 113,147 MW of solar capacity in the pre-construction phase alone, Brazil ranks second only to China (241,744 MW) in the solar pre-construction tally globally. But recent and impending changes to the costs of imported panels and components cast a shadow over the outlook for Brazil's entire solar sector.

Why are solar panels exempt from import taxes in Brazil?

In recent years, solar panels have been exempted from import taxes in Brazil – a subsidy that was revoked this year, as a 10.8% tax was introduced. The exemption had helped to make solar equipment cheaper to source from China than domestically, and contributed to Brazil emerging as the second-largest importer of Chinese solar panels.

Where do Brazil's solar panels come from?

Dornellas says almost all of Brazil’s photovoltaic modules and inverters (which convert solar energy for use in electronic devices) are bought from Chinese companies.

Is solar a viable source of electricity in Brazil?

Solar is now Brazil’s second-largest source of electricity. Experts say its growth must also reach and respect communities cut off from the grid Student Brenda Rodrigues da Silva works on the installation of solar panels at Fábrica Social, a professional training centre in Brasília, Brazil.

Is Brazil a good producer of solar energy?

Just three years ago, Brazil did not feature among the world’s top producers of solar energy, but by 2023 it had risen to sixth place in the rankings. The pace of growth has been notable: since 2022, the country has added, on average, roughly one gigawatt of solar capacity every month.