Photovoltaic solar energy is one of the growing sources of electricity production in Brazil, being used as a resource for the energy matrix and for the use of the earth’s surface. The theme of soil conservation, a fundamental resource for biological and productive activities, is addressed on World Soil Day (December 5), in conjunction with the development of renewable energy technologies.
The micro and mini distributed generation (MMGD) segment, in which solar panels are installed in consumption units, has shown growth. Brazil represented more than 3.33 million distributed generation (DG) systems connected to the network, according to updated data from the National Electric Energy Agency (ANEEL). The installation of these systems, when carried out on pre-existing structures such as roofs and facades, takes advantage of urban space without requiring new areas. “When we install solar panels on roofs, warehouses or land that is no longer used for agriculture, for example, we make better use of space without having to deforest or damage the environment,” explains Flávio Abreu, founder of i9 Solar.
Use of solar energy on rural properties
The application of solar energy occurs in both urban and rural areas. In the rural sector, the use of solar systems for self-production of energy is adopted on several properties. Rural properties represented 9.9% of consumption units powered by their own solar production until March 2025, according to a report published by Agência Brasil based on data from the Brazilian Photovoltaic Solar Energy Association (Absolar).
The use of technology in rural areas aims to use land that is not intended for planting or has low productivity. According to Flávio Abreu, “in several regions of the country we have managed to transform areas of low productivity into spaces that generate clean energy. This helps the environment, brings savings to the producer and also adds value to the land.”
Flávio also emphasizes that “the installation of photovoltaic systems does not require major civil engineering works or the use of chemicals that could permanently alter the soil. The structure of the panels can be moved or removed without leaving permanent damage to the land.”
In agricultural areas, agrivoltaic system technology combines energy production and agricultural cultivation in the same space. In this model, solar panels are installed in the plantations. The CEO of i9 Solar describes the benefits by saying: “The farmer reduces costs, improves productivity and even conserves the land. At the same time, the efficiency of the panels increases because the crops underneath help reduce their temperature, improving energy production.
Speaking about the importance of soil, the company founder reinforces: “Soil is a precious and limited asset. Using solar energy is a way to grow consciously, care for our planet and ensure a better future for future generations.
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