BNDES approves BRL 180.7 million investment for biomethane projects in São Paulo and Espírito Santo, boosting clean energy from waste.
The Brazilian Development Bank (BNDES) reaffirms its commitment to sustainability by releasing substantial financing for the renewable energy sector. A total of BRL 180.7 million has been approved for the creation of two new biomethane production units, an environmentally friendly fuel derived from biogas from landfills. This initiative marks an important step in the energy recovery of waste and the diversification of Brazil’s energy matrix.
The ventures, located in Vila Velha (Espírito Santo) and Mauá (São Paulo), are the result of a strategic partnership between the Lara and MDC Energia groups, through their entities GNR Vila Velha and GNR Mauá. This investment not only strengthens the country’s clean energy infrastructure but also demonstrates the potential to transform environmental liabilities into sources of development and innovation.
Investment and Project Details
Of the total BRL 180.7 million approved by BNDES, BRL 78.8 million will be allocated to the plant in Espírito Santo, while BRL 101.9 million will boost the unit in São Paulo. The funds originate from the Fundo Clima (Climate Fund) and the BNDES Finem line, signaling the bank’s focus on projects with high environmental and social impact.
The global investment for the realization of the GNR Mauá and GNR Vila Velha plants, which includes both BNDES financing and the companies’ own capital contributions, totals BRL 245 million. These funds ensure the necessary infrastructure for the efficient capture and processing of biogas generated by the decomposition of urban solid waste in landfills managed by Grupo Lara.
Impact and Outlook for Biomethane Production
The future facilities will have a combined biomethane production capacity of 97,000 Nm³ per day, with 32,000 Nm³/day in Vila Velha and 65,000 Nm³/day in Mauá. This significant volume of biofuel represents a step forward in reducing reliance on fossil fuels and decreasing greenhouse gas emissions.
Commercial operations for the units are expected to begin in the first half of 2027. Ultragaz has already signed long-term contracts for the commercialization of the production, ensuring the stability and economic viability of these important clean energy projects. In addition to environmental benefits, the ventures are expected to create 575 jobs during the implementation phase and over 50 permanent jobs during the operational stage, generating income and boosting local economies.
BNDES‘s decision to financially support these biomethane projects reinforces Brazil‘s strategy to consolidate itself as a reference in sustainable development and the circular economy. By transforming waste into clean energy, the country advances its environmental agenda and generates economic and social opportunities, solidifying its role at the forefront of the global energy transition.
