Company is evaluating expanding factory in Manaus or building a new unit; project can generate 400 direct jobs
The Chinese automaker will invest up to R$500 million in the production of battery energy storage systems in Brazil. The project could expand the factory in Manaus (AM) or lead to the construction of a new industrial unit in the country, although the location has not yet been defined.
The investment will be made gradually and still depends on location studies and regulatory issues, such as that of the Ministry of Mines and Energy, to define the final format of the operation.
According to the senior vice president of BYD in Brazil, Alexandre Baldy, this is the largest investment ever announced in the country in the BESS (battery energy) storage systems sector. For him, the project can consolidate Brazil as a reference in technology.
“This investment of R$500 million is the most representative announced for the sector in the country and could be a milestone for the strategic consolidation of Brazil as a reference in the use of stationary batteries”he stated.
The project aims to advance electrical storage infrastructure in the country, in a scenario of imbalance between energy generation and consumption. In the Northeast, the surplus of renewable sources can reach 175%, according to data cited by the company.
WHAT ARE STATIONARY BATTERIES
Stationary batteries store electrical energy for later use. In practice, they help to balance the electrical system, storing energy when there is excess and releasing it at times of greater demand. The technology is also aimed at sectors such as mining and agribusiness, which need greater stability in supply.
The demand for this type of solution is growing in the country because there are regions with excess renewable energy generation, such as the Northeast, and others with a greater need for consumption at peak times.
The company estimates the creation of 300 to 400 direct jobs in the initial phase of the project. It also foresees an increase in the use of components produced in Brazil.
BYD already operates in the country with electric buses and trucks, solar panels and urban mobility projects, such as , in São Paulo.
With the new factory, the company will integrate generation, storage and use of energy within the so-called clean energy ecosystem
“BYD was born as a battery technology company and Brazil is not just a consumer market, but an innovation and leadership partner”said Baldy. According to him, the expansion reinforces the company’s global strategy of integrating energy solutions on an industrial scale.
The final decision on the location of the unit in Manaus must occur after the completion of technical studies.
