The visual communication industry is undergoing a moment of transition: with the growing demand for more sustainable solutions and the upcoming COP 30 in Belém (PA) in 2025, the sector is beginning to pay closer attention to opportunities to rethink the environmental impact of its projects.

One of the solutions emerging in this context is the use of renewable energy in projects, especially in commercial facades and OOH (Out of Home) media, such as LED panels and digital totems. The use of solar energy in these contexts is no longer just a trend for the future but has become a real and viable solution for current demands.

Below, discover how solar energy is already being applied in visual communication, explore success stories, learn about technological innovations available in the market, and uncover the opportunities for professionals and companies seeking to align with climate goals and stand out through sustainability.

Visual Communication and COP 30 Goals

COP 30, the United Nations Climate Change Conference, will be held for the first time in the Brazilian Amazon. The choice of Belém as the host city brings added responsibility to all productive sectors in the country (including visual communication), with the goal of proposing concrete solutions that contribute to decarbonization and the conscious use of natural resources.

The graphic and signage industry, historically characterized by high demand for inputs, energy, and disposable materials, now has the opportunity to reposition itself and rethink its processes and products. In this sense, the adoption of clean energy sources, such as solar power, is becoming an increasingly accessible and viable path, with real impacts that demonstrate environmental commitment and social responsibility.

Inspiring Cases: Solar-Powered Facades

Architectural projects that integrate solar energy generation into the visual communication of facades can already be found in Brazil. One example is in São Paulo, at the headquarters of the Germinare Business school, which began producing its own electricity through the application of thin flexible films on its facade. The material was used to create photovoltaic brises, developed exclusively for this building by Garantia Solar BIPV. The project utilized 564 flexible thin-film modules of 125 Wp each, with an installed capacity of 70.5 kWp and an annual generation capacity of 49.6 MWh.

Another example comes from Anápolis (GO), where the facade of the Research and Energy Efficiency Center (CPEE) of CAOA Montadora was equipped with Organic Photovoltaic Films (OPV), becoming an intelligent surface capable of producing clean energy. This installation is the largest glass facade with solar films in the world, covering an area of approximately 850m² of organic photovoltaic films encapsulated in glass. The building features a modern design, including a functional CAOA logo customized in OPV.

Renewable Energy-Powered OOH Media

In the realm of Out-Of-Home media, sustainable initiatives are also gaining prominence. A creative and functional example was carried out in partnership with the Heineken brand: billboards installed in strategic locations used photovoltaic panels to power freezers with cold beers. This campaign not only drew attention to the product but also demonstrated how solar energy can enable interactive and sustainable experiences in OOH advertising.

Additionally, companies specializing in events and activations have been investing in solar totems that function as charging stations for cell phones, Wi-Fi distribution points, and power sources for TVs and visual information displays, all without the need for connection to the electrical grid. These devices are ideal for fairs, festivals, and temporary events, offering energy autonomy and reducing the carbon footprint.

Technological Innovations: Solar Energy for Visual Communication

In response to a world increasingly attentive to the environmental impact of products and the ESG issues involved throughout the production chain, sustainable options and alternatives have been developed and refined over the past decades. Technological advancements have enabled the creation of solutions increasingly adaptable to the sector’s demands. Today, the market offers:

  • Flexible Photovoltaic Films: These can be applied to curved surfaces, glass facades, or existing structures.
  • Low-Consumption LEDs: LED modules used in digital and illuminated panels are becoming increasingly efficient, offering high performance with lower energy consumption. When powered by solar energy, their environmental impact is further reduced.
  • Intelligent Energy Management Systems: Controllers that monitor energy generation, storage, and usage, ensuring maximum efficiency. This allows visual communication to remain active at night or on cloudy days through the use of batteries.

These technologies make it possible to combine aesthetics, functionality, and environmental responsibility in a single project, something increasingly valued by consumers and investors. Moreover, they can serve as clear and direct responses to the demands and regulations discussed at COP 30.

Economic Viability and Environmental Benefits

Investing in solar energy is not just an ethical or image-driven choice: it can represent significant savings in the medium and long term. Although the initial cost of implementing solar panels or photovoltaic films is still considerable, the return on investment tends to occur increasingly sooner, especially in regions with high solar exposure.

In addition to direct savings on electricity bills, companies that adopt sustainable practices gain brand reputation, increase their chances in bidding processes, and secure contracts with major clients (especially those adhering to ESG criteria).

According to data from Absolar (the Brazilian Association of Photovoltaic Solar Energy), Brazil surpassed the 50 GW mark in installed solar energy capacity in 2024, becoming one of the leading countries in sector growth. This scenario further favors the integration of technology into the daily operations of visual communication.

An Opportunity to Innovate Responsibly

With COP 30 approaching, professionals and companies in the printing, signage, and visual advertising sectors have the chance to stand out by proposing solutions that combine creativity and environmental awareness. The adoption of renewable energy in visual communication is a concrete step in this direction.

Whether through energy-generating facades, self-sufficient OOH panels, or mobile equipment for events, the sector can play an important role in building a more sustainable future. If you work in the visual communication field, now is the time to explore these technologies, seek partnerships with specialized suppliers, and prepare to meet a market increasingly focused on sustainability.