Wind power in Brazil

Abstract: As welfare and industry production gets higher the demand for electricity increases. Almost 90 % of the electricity generated in Brazil is from renewable sources, 85 % of the renewable energy comes from hydropower. Even if Latin America has a lot of potential for wind power their installed capacity in only 1 % of the worlds total installed capacity. Lately more and more wind turbines and wind farms are appearing along Brazil’s over 7500 kilometer long coastline. Osorio wind farm is the largest wind farm in Latin America with a total installed effect of 150 MW. In the same state, Rio Grande du Sul, a farmer has shown interest for using his property for wind power. The purpose of this project is to lay the foundation for a deeper investigation about using Aguapé farm’s property for wind power and to show the future possibilities for Brazilian wind power. The study is made on set in Brazil, divided into two parts, one theoretical research part and one practical part with a field trip to Aguapé farm. In 2002 The Brazilian Government launched the PROINFA program, Alternative Sources for Energy Incentive. This year, 2009, the first wind power projects auctions are held to increase the generation from renewable electricity sources. Wind power in Brazil has the highest production when the level in the hydropower dams are at the lowest, which by integrating the electrical generating wiht wind power makes it possible to save water and avoiding lack of electricity. Aguapé farm is located between one of the worlds biggest fresh water lakes, Lagao dos Patos, and the Atlantic Ocean. The location has very good wind potential, almost like offshore because of the closeness to large areas of water. Road connections to the farm are functional in good and dry weather conditions and not far away a 138kV power line passes through. Surrounding neighbors are positive to wind power which makes it easier with problem caused by wind turbines, for example noise. About 40 kilometers from the farm Lagoa do Peixe National Park is located. Suggestion from the Aguapé owner is to stop with the rice production, which is disturbing the park’s natural hydrological system, to use the property for wind turbines instead. Conclusions of the study shows that the potential for wind power at Aguapé farm is excellent and that wind power at Aguapé farm will help both the owner, Lagoa do Peixe National Park and Brazil to a better future.