Scatec ASA, a prominent player in renewable energy solutions, has recently secured a 10-year power purchase agreement (PPA) with Statkraft Energia do Brasil Ltda in Brazil. The agreement is for a 142-megawatt (MW) solar plant to be established in Minas Gerais, Brazil. The PPA, denominated in Brazilian Real (BRL), covers approximately 75% of the anticipated power output, with the rest to be sold under short, medium, and long-term contracts. The project, with an estimated equity return surpassing Scatec’s hurdle rate of 1.2 times the project’s cost of equity, boasts an estimated total capital expenditure of USD 94 million.
In terms of financing, the solar plant will mostly rely on non-recourse financing, covering around 63% of the amount, while the remaining funding will come from equity from Scatec. Additionally, Scatec is in advanced discussions with lenders for a debt facility of approximately EUR 15 million to partially finance Scatec’s equity share in the project. The financial close and construction start for the solar plant are expected in the latter half of the year, with commercial operations set to begin by the end of 2025.
Terje Pilskog, CEO of Scatec, expressed enthusiasm about the project, stating its strategic importance as the company’s third solar venture in Brazil. He underlined the significance of securing a PPA with Statkraft, a renowned player in renewable energy, for their inaugural plant in the southeast submarket, highlighting Brazil’s importance as a focus market for Scatec. Scatec plans to retain 100% ownership of the solar plant initially, with intentions to introduce equity partners post-commercial operation to enhance value creation. Additionally, Scatec will serve as the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) manager for the project, though with a limited scope.
Natasha Gaertner, VP of Statkraft Markets, praised the partnership with Scatec as a significant step towards Brazil’s sustainable energy future. She emphasized the shared vision for a greener tomorrow and commitment to providing clean, reliable energy. This partnership between Scatec and Statkraft signifies the increasing momentum towards sustainable energy solutions in Brazil and the global context.