The energy conglomerate is considering adding local power needs in the form of Bitcoin mining and storage systems to its largest solar power plant, Asu Sol, in eastern Brazil. This helps the complex utilize energy that the local power grid cannot absorb.
Engie considers starting Bitcoin mining operation to take advantage of energy savings in Brazil
Engie, a global power company, is exploring alternative ways to tap into Brazil’s surplus solar power.
The French energy conglomerate is considering using some of the energy produced at Asu Sol, the company’s largest solar farm, to power local Bitcoin mining and data center operations, Brazil’s Engie county manager Eduardo Sattamini said, according to reports.
Nevertheless, the company is currently considering other companies willing to take on the energy saved for these processes, although Sattamini admits it will not be a quick process, as the logistics behind this option include companies interested in building infrastructure near the complex.
“It’s not going to happen next month. It’s going to take several years,” he stressed.
Asu Sol, located in the eastern state of Rio Grande do Norte, began operations in January 2025. At the time, the complex was expected to generate 752.7MW of electricity when completed.
This high amount of electricity generation poses a problem for the company, as the grid cannot use all the energy produced, so it has to cut back on production. The process, called curtailment, will cost solar companies billions of reais, but Engie did not disclose the level of generation affected.
Engie is Brazil’s largest non-state electricity operator and, in addition to Assu Sol, manages 11 energy complexes across the country that combine hydro and thermal power generation. The company has nearly 9,000MW of installed capacity through its majority stake in Engie Brasil, formerly known as Tractebel Energia.
Engie, a fast-growing energy provider for Assu Sol’s Bitcoin miners and data centers, could also bring similar deals with more power plants if the need to sell energy that would otherwise go to waste grows. This opens a channel for third parties to partner with the company, providing new opportunities for Bitcoin miners and data center operators in Brazil.
FAQ
- What is Engie considering to take advantage of Brazil’s surplus solar power?
Engie is looking to harness that energy. Assu Sol Facilities that supply electricity to the region bitcoin mining and data center operations. - What challenges will Engie face in implementing this plan?
Logistics will require interested companies to build infrastructure near the complex, which Sattamini estimates will take a significant amount of time. several years Finally complete. - What is the capacity of the Assu Sol facility?
Assu Sol begins operation January 2025is predicted to produce 752.7MW It will be complete when completed, but currently there are cuts due to grid limitations. - How important is Engie’s role in Brazil’s energy sector?
Engie operates as Brazil’s largest non-state electricity company. 11 energy complexesthe total installed capacity is approximately 9,000MWoffering potential new opportunities for market cooperation in solar energy.
