Residential complexes in Minas Gerais have a new opportunity to secure R$ 35 million for clean energy projects through Cemig.
The pursuit of renewable energy and energy efficiency solutions is gaining significant momentum in Minas Gerais. The Companhia Energética de Minas Gerais (Cemig) has launched a robust public call, totaling R$ 150 million, with a R$ 35 million portion specifically earmarked for residential condominium projects.
This initiative represents a concrete opportunity for residential complexes in the state to modernize their infrastructure and reduce costs by adopting clean technologies, such as solar photovoltaics.
The call for proposals, which remains open until November 6, 2026, introduces important updates that expand the scope of eligible solutions. In addition to traditional solar generation, this year’s call includes the possibility of projects that combine photovoltaic panels with battery storage systems, provided they meet strict technical criteria.
This integration aims to optimize the use of generated energy, allowing it to be utilized during peak demand periods and increasing the energy resilience of the properties.
A Performance Contract for Sustainable Returns
For private condominiums, participation in this financing line involves a “performance contract” model. Unlike a direct subsidy, this structure stipulates that part of the investment is returned to Cemig over a period of up to five years, using the savings generated by the installation itself.
This mechanism ensures that the projects are economically viable and that Cemig shares in the positive results achieved by the condominiums, encouraging real and measurable efficiency.
It is crucial that condominiums understand that these resources are not an automatic grant, but a shared investment where the savings generated by reduced energy consumption are translated into a return stream. Transparency in presenting costs, projected savings, and contract terms is essential for the approval and success of the initiative.
Eligibility and Scope
Cemig‘s public call covers various consumer categories within its concession area, including not only residential condominiums but also industry, commerce and services, public authorities, public utilities, the rural sector, and even public lighting. To participate, customers must be in good standing with the utility.
Submitted projects must address a single category and request funding between R$ 300,000 and R$ 9 million. Smaller, individual projects that do not meet the condominium criteria are not automatically eligible for this specific category.
The notice details the distribution of funds by sector, with specific allocations for industry (R$ 40 million), commerce and services (R$ 25 million), and the rural sector (R$ 10 million), in addition to the reserve for condominiums.
Beyond Generation: Efficiency and Strategic Storage
The ability to combine solar power generation with other energy efficiency measures is a major draw of this call. Projects may include replacing outdated equipment with more efficient models, improvements in lighting, refrigeration, and motor systems, as well as the aforementioned integration with batteries.
Demonstrating concrete energy results and compliance with technical specifications are prerequisites. It is important to note that batteries do not generate energy on their own, but optimize its use by shifting generation to more suitable times.
A detailed comparative analysis is recommended, presenting scenarios with and without storage and with basic efficiency measures.
Evaluating Real Costs and Viability for Condominiums
For private entities without non-profit status, such as condominiums and businesses, the financing model is a performance contract with partial investment recovery. It is essential for property managers and building boards to request detailed spreadsheets covering total investment, projected annual savings, the return share to Cemig, maintenance costs, and responsibilities regarding equipment.
Estimated savings do not translate into an immediate or proportional discount on each apartment’s utility bill. A full project diagnosis, including risks associated with the installation, warranties, cost-sharing methods, and potential authorization requirements, must be brought to the condominium assembly for deliberation.
The deadline for submitting proposals is a critical factor. The recommendation is to confirm eligibility and technical feasibility as soon as possible before investing in deeper studies. Integrity and clarity in communication with official Cemig representatives, as well as verifying their credentials and scope, are essential security measures.
This Cemig public call opens a promising path toward sustainability and cost savings for residential complexes in Minas Gerais, encouraging a cleaner and more efficient energy future for all.
