Macquarie Asset Management and Hydro Rein have announced the start of full commercial operations at Ventos de São Zacarias (VSZ), a 456 MW wind power complex in northeastern Brazil. The project includes ten wind parks with 80 turbines, each standing 120 meters tall, connected by nearly 150 kilometers of medium voltage cables. An adjacent solar complex of 157 MW is also under development.
The projects have adhered to international sustainability standards set by the International Finance Corporation (IFC). These include a commitment to no net loss of biodiversity for impacts on natural habitats. To support this, the projects have established a nursery to produce over 20,000 seedlings of native plant species for reforestation efforts. Additionally, VSZ has sponsored an agricultural program to aid local farmers as part of a livelihood restoration plan.
Marcela Jacob, Head of Hydro Rein in Brazil, stated: “This achievement marks a significant step forward in our mission to promote renewable energy solutions and decarbonize industries in Brazil. Ventos de São Zacarias not only demonstrates our commitment to sustainability but also reinforces our investment in the local economy, creating jobs and supporting community development.”
The wind power complex became operational ahead of schedule while maintaining strong workplace health and safety standards. Over 5.5 million hours were worked without fatalities or life-changing injuries, achieving a lost-time incident rate below industry averages for both Brazil and Latin America.
Fernando Lohmann, Brazil Country Lead for Macquarie Asset Management, commented: “Today’s milestone is a demonstration of our commitment to generating positive long-term outcomes for our clients, portfolio companies and communities. We remain dedicated to strengthening the critical infrastructure of Brazil through Ventos de São Zacarias and other investments in the future.”
VSZ's commercial operations were supported by a syndicate of commercial banks and mark it as the first US dollar-denominated renewables wind complex in Brazil financed exclusively by such banks. This follows Macquarie Asset Management's recent acquisition of a 49.9 percent stake in Hydro Rein.
Electricity from VSZ will supply Hydro’s alumina refinery Alunorte and bauxite mine Paragominas under long-term agreements, with surplus energy sold on the open market. This is Hydro Rein's third power plant complex developed in Brazil this year after Mendubim and Boa Sorte solar plants.