The largest power plant currently in operation in the country, UTE GNA II will contribute to the energy security of the National Grid
UTE GNA II Geração de Energia S.A. announces that it has received today, June, 02 2025, authorization from the Brazilian Electricity Regulatory Agency (ANEEL) to begin commercial operation of its four generating units, totaling 1,673 MW of installed capacity. The second power plant in operation at the Port of Açu, Rio de Janeiro, UTE GNA II represents an investment of R$ 7 billion and is the largest natural gas–fired power plant in Brazil.
Selected as a strategic project under the Federal Government’s New Growth Acceleration Program (Novo PAC), UTE GNA II has the capacity to supply approximately 8 million households and represents about 10% of the natural gas generation in the national power matrix. Powered by natural gas, a fuel recognized as a catalyst for the global energy transition, the plant ensures cleaner, firm and reliable energy, independent of weather conditions.
Together with UTE GNA I, which has been in operation since 2021, the start–up of UTE GNA II consolidates GNA’s position as the LNG to Power Complex Latin America, with 3 GW of installed capacity, connected to a privately operated LNG terminal.
“We are pleased to celebrate the COD of our second plant, GNA II, which marks GNA’s transition to a fully operational company, reaching the milestone of 3 GW of installed capacity. This strengthens our contribution and commitment to the resilience of the Grid. I would like to thank the GNA team, our shareholders, financiers, partners, and institutional stakeholders at the federal, state, and municipal levels for their support and trust,” said Emmanuel Delfosse, CEO of GNA.
Energy efficiency and socio–environmental commitment
UTE GNA II is a thermal power plant composed of three gas turbines and one steam turbine in a combined cycle configuration, providing very high efficiency, in addition to a substation and a 500 kV transmission line.
The plant uses cutting–edge technology, with efficiency exceeding 60%, one of the highest in Brazil, which allows it to generate approximately 572 MW (35% of its installed capacity) without additional gas consumption, thereby reducing emissions. The plant is also designed to operate using up to 50% hydrogen as a substitute for natural gas.
Another key feature is the use of nearly 100% seawater, treated through its desalination plant, thus maximizing the preservation of water resources. During construction phase, approximately 10,000 jobs were created.
To support the local community development, GNA implemented a free Professional Qualification Program offering 450 training spots, 41% of which were filled by women — reinforcing its commitment to gender equity.
Another standout is the safety culture: UTE GNA II achieved over 20 million man–hours worked without lost–time– injury during construction, setting a benchmark for the industry.
Expansion
Looking to the future, the company holds environmental licenses for an additional 3.4 GW, which will allow it to expand the installed capacity of its thermal power complex to up to 6.4 GW. The company is also working to integrate its LNG terminal into the national gas pipeline network as well as to construct Brazil’s first onshore LNG storage terminal.
The strategic location of the Port of Açu is a key advantage for consolidating the gas and energy hub led by GNA, with the potential to attract industries and boost the socioeconomic development of the state of Rio de Janeiro and the country.
Shareholding structure
One of UTE GNA II is its solid shareholder structure, composed of Siemens Energy and SPIC Brazil, companies that are leaders in their respective fields. The partnership brings technical expertise, credibility and resources to develop and operate a key project for the country, such as UTE GNA II.
“The inauguration of GNA II reinforces the role of gas–fired thermal power plants in ensuring Brazil’s energy security. This type of energy source is essential for providing supply stability and supporting the expansion of renewables, contributing to a responsible energy transition. It is through a diversified and well–planned energy matrix that we move toward a more sustainable energy future,” adds Adriana Waltrick, CEO of SPIC Brasil.
About SPIC Brasil
SPIC Brasil is a company that invests in the generation of reliable energy with a focus on renewable sources and respect for the communities where it operates, contributing to the energy transition and enhancing the country’s energy potential.
With assets totaling approximately 4 GW (3,958.2 MW) in Brazil, it operates the São Simão Hydroelectric Power Plant, located on the border between the states of Minas Gerais and Goiás, two wind farms in Paraíba – Millennium and Vale dos Ventos – and holds a stake in the largest natural gas complex in Latin America, GNA (Gás Natural Açu), in São João da Barra (RJ).
It also holds a 70% majority stake in the Marangatu (PI), Panati (CE), and Luiz Gonzaga (PE) Solar Complexes, which have a combined installed capacity of 852 MWp. For more information, please refer to SPIC Brasil’s Annual Sustainability Report available on the website.
The company is part of the SPIC Group, which operates in 47 countries, with over 130,000 employees, 246 GW of installed capacity, and continuous investment in renewables, being the world’s largest solar power generator and the second largest in wind energy.
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