Petrobras, WEG, and Statkraft launch the largest onshore wind turbine in the Americas

Petrobras, WEG, and Statkraft have put into operation the largest onshore wind turbine in the Americas. Petrobras contributed R$ 130 million, originating from the R&D clause with the ANP, and established a partnership with WEG, a global Brazilian company of electrical and electronic equipment, to develop the equipment. The project also received contributions from BNDES and the Federal Government through the Ministry of the Environment. Built by WEG, with 7MW of installed capacity, it can generate around 2,500 MWh/month, equivalent to the annual consumption of about 15,000 Brazilian households.

The wind turbine was purchased and installed by Statkraft in the modernization project of the Seabra Wind Farm, in the Brotas de Macaúbas Complex, in Bahia. The R&D clause is part of the concession contracts for oil and natural gas exploration and production, and requires companies to invest a percentage of their gross revenue, generated by large-production fields, in Research, Development, and Innovation projects.

The modernization of the Brotas de Macaúbas Complex will bring significant gains in efficiency and productivity, taking advantage of the excellent wind conditions in the region. As a result, the venture will continue contributing to the supply of thousands of households with clean energy, maintaining its relevance in the Brazilian wind power sector.

One of the advantages of the new wind turbine is the reduction in the cost of energy. With this capacity, it produces more electricity per unit of occupied area, reducing the need for the installation of multiple wind turbines. This also optimizes land use and tends to lower overall installation and maintenance costs.