Shell has announced the discontinuation of its solar and onshore wind power generation projects in Brazil, citing a portfolio adjustment, as reported by Reuters.
The decision reflects the challenging environment for renewable investments in the country, characterised by an oversupply of energy, sluggish demand growth and regulatory uncertainties.
Go deeper with GlobalData
The company’s move aligns with a broader strategy that includes a reduction in expenditure on low-carbon and renewable businesses.
Shell said in a statement: “We are always exploring ways to create value from our power generation portfolio, including exiting activities that do not fit into our strategy or do not generate sufficient returns.”
Documents from the Brazilian government’s official gazette indicate that Shell has been seeking to revoke its rights to operate certain solar plants in central-west and northeastern Brazil with the country’s energy regulator.
These operations pertain to large-scale centralised power generation plants.
Despite this shift, Shell will maintain its presence in Brazil’s renewable sector through Prime Energy, which manages smaller solar generation assets within the distributed generation segment.
In December 2024, Shell announced plans to scale back its offshore wind investments and reorganise its power division after a thorough review.
Throughout 2024, Shell continued to develop its portfolio of renewable and low-carbon solutions, focusing on energy storage, flexible generation and power trading.
The objective is to optimise returns from onshore assets by employing capital-light business models, debt financing and strategic partnerships.
In a related development, Shell Energy North America, a subsidiary of Shell, signed a sale and purchase agreement in October 2024 to acquire a 609MW combined-cycle gas turbine power plant in Johnston, Rhode Island, US.
