Overview
Serra das Vacas IV is an operational onshore wind farm in Brazil with a capacity of 22.295 MW. It contributes to Brazil's growing renewable energy portfolio, leveraging strong wind resources in the northeastern region.
Serra das Vacas IV is an operational onshore wind farm located in Brazil, specifically in the northeastern state of Pernambuco near the coordinates 8.9138° S, 36.7296° W. With a capacity of 22.295 MW, it is a medium-scale wind facility that forms part of the broader Serra das Vacas wind complex. The facility is operational and contributes to Brazil's renewable energy generation, which is heavily reliant on wind power, particularly in the Northeast region known for consistent trade winds. The facility operates under Brazil's regulatory framework for renewable energy, which includes incentives such as the PROINFA program and competitive auctions for wind power. Brazil has a strong wind energy sector, with over 20 GW of installed capacity, and the Northeast region accounts for a significant share. The 22.295 MW capacity places Serra das Vacas IV as a moderate-sized installation within the country's wind fleet, which includes both larger and smaller projects. Environmentally, the wind farm helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions by displacing fossil fuel-based electricity. It also supports local energy security and economic development in the region. The facility's location in the semi-arid Caatinga biome requires careful management of land use and potential impacts on local wildlife, though wind energy generally has a lower environmental footprint compared to conventional power sources.
Environmental context
The Serra das Vacas IV wind farm is situated in the Caatinga biome, a unique semi-arid ecosystem in northeastern Brazil. Wind energy development in this region must consider land-use changes and potential impacts on local fauna, particularly birds and bats. However, wind power offers significant environmental benefits by reducing reliance on fossil fuels and contributing to Brazil's climate goals. The facility's operation supports the transition to a low-carbon energy system while requiring ongoing monitoring to minimize ecological disruption.
Frequently asked questions
Serra das Vacas IV is located in Brazil, in the northeastern state of Pernambuco, near coordinates 8.9138° S, 36.7296° W.
Serra das Vacas IV has an installed capacity of 22.295 MW, making it a medium-scale onshore wind farm.
Serra das Vacas IV is an onshore wind farm that generates electricity from wind energy, contributing to Brazil's renewable energy mix.
Brazil supports wind energy through programs like PROINFA and competitive energy auctions, which have driven significant wind capacity growth, especially in the Northeast region.
Wind farms reduce greenhouse gas emissions and fossil fuel dependence, though they require careful siting to minimize impacts on local ecosystems, such as the Caatinga biome.