Overview
Santa Helena Açúcar e Álcool is a 4.4 MW biomass power plant in Brazil. It converts agricultural residues into electricity, supporting renewable energy generation.
Santa Helena Açúcar e Álcool is a biomass power plant located in Brazil, with coordinates approximately 17.8°S, 50.5°W. The facility has an installed capacity of 4.4 MW, placing it in the small-scale category for power generation. It is currently operational and utilizes biomass as its primary fuel source. The plant operates within Brazil's regulatory framework for renewable energy, which includes incentives under the PROINFA program and environmental licensing requirements from IBAMA and state agencies. Biomass power plants in Brazil typically use sugarcane bagasse or other agricultural residues, contributing to the country's diversified energy mix. As a biomass facility, Santa Helena Açúcar e Álcool plays a role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuel plants, while supporting local agricultural industries. Its small capacity suggests it may serve local grid needs or provide power for industrial processes.
Environmental context
The plant uses biomass, a renewable fuel that can reduce CO2 emissions relative to fossil fuels. However, biomass combustion still releases particulate matter and other pollutants. The facility's small capacity (4.4 MW) limits its overall environmental footprint. Its location in Brazil's agricultural region suggests proximity to biomass feedstock sources, reducing transportation emissions.
Frequently asked questions
Santa Helena Açúcar e Álcool is located in Brazil, with approximate coordinates 17.8°S, 50.5°W.
It is a biomass power plant, meaning it generates electricity by burning organic materials such as agricultural residues.
The plant has an installed capacity of 4.4 megawatts (MW), which is considered small-scale for power generation.
Biomass plants in Brazil must comply with environmental licensing from IBAMA or state agencies, and may qualify for incentives under the PROINFA renewable energy program.
Biomass is renewable and can reduce greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuels, but combustion still produces air pollutants. Sustainable sourcing of fuel is important.