New Fortress Energy Inc. announced it has achieved first fire at its CELBA 2 power plant, with a capacity of 624 megawatts, located in northern Brazil. This step marks the beginning of the hot commissioning process, a prerequisite for the commercial start of the facility.
The CELBA 2 plant is an integral part of the gas and power infrastructure developed by the company in the port of Barcarena. Once operational, it will supply electricity to a region experiencing strong economic growth, relying on liquefied natural gas (LNG) secured by New Fortress Energy.
Expansion of energy capacity in Pará
The CELBA 2 project is part of a broader portfolio of power generation projects led by New Fortress Energy in Brazil. The Barcarena terminal represents a total installed capacity of 2.2 gigawatts, including the 1.6 GW PortoCem power plant. The latter is already financed and 75% complete, with commercial operation scheduled for August 2026.
These developments aim to increase installed electricity generation capacity and meet growing regional demand, particularly from industrial sectors. They also strengthen New Fortress Energy’s position as a key player in Brazil’s integrated gas-to-power market.
Preparing for upcoming power auctions
At the same time, New Fortress Energy is positioning itself to participate in upcoming power auctions scheduled for March. These tenders offer an opportunity to secure long-term contracts and expand the company’s presence in a rapidly evolving market.
The company stated that its current investments and integrated infrastructure provide a strong foundation for these tenders. The simultaneous development of CELBA 2 and PortoCem illustrates its strategy of deploying power generation capacity across Brazilian territory.