Overview
Santa Elisa - Unidade I is a 58 MW biomass power plant located in Brazil. It operates using biomass fuel and is currently operational.
Santa Elisa - Unidade I is a biomass power plant situated in Brazil, with coordinates approximately 21.1°S, 48.1°W. The facility has a capacity of 58 megawatts, placing it in the small-to-medium scale range for biomass power generation. It is currently operational and contributes to Brazil's renewable energy portfolio. The plant utilizes biomass as its primary fuel, a renewable energy source derived from organic materials. In Brazil, biomass power plants often use sugarcane bagasse, wood waste, or other agricultural residues. The regulatory framework for such facilities includes national environmental standards and grid connection rules set by the Brazilian Electricity Regulatory Agency (ANEEL). Biomass plants benefit from incentives under Brazil's renewable energy programs. As a biomass facility, Santa Elisa - Unidade I plays a role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuel plants, while also supporting local agricultural industries by utilizing waste products. Its location in a major agricultural region of Brazil aligns with the country's strategy to diversify its energy mix and promote sustainable development.
Environmental context
The plant's biomass fuel source typically results in lower net CO2 emissions compared to fossil fuels, as the carbon released during combustion is part of the natural carbon cycle. However, emissions of particulate matter and other pollutants depend on the specific technology and fuel quality. The facility's location in a rural or agricultural area may reduce direct exposure to dense populations, but local air quality impacts should be managed through appropriate emission controls. The use of agricultural residues can also contribute to waste reduction and circular economy benefits.
Frequently asked questions
Santa Elisa - Unidade I is located in Brazil, with approximate coordinates 21.1°S, 48.1°W. It is situated in a region known for agricultural activity.
Santa Elisa - Unidade I is a biomass power plant, meaning it generates electricity by burning organic materials such as agricultural residues or wood waste.
The plant has a capacity of 58 megawatts (MW), which is considered small-to-medium scale for biomass power generation.
Biomass power plants in Brazil must comply with national environmental standards set by agencies like IBAMA and CONAMA, as well as grid connection rules from ANEEL. They may also qualify for renewable energy incentives under programs such as PROINFA.
Biomass power is generally considered carbon-neutral if the fuel is sourced sustainably, as the CO2 released is offset by the carbon absorbed during plant growth. However, it can produce air pollutants like particulate matter, which require proper emission controls.