Representatives from Switzerland-based renewables firm SwissEnergy AG presented to Piaui's government a proposal for a wind equipment factory in the state.

According SwissEnergy AG president Stefan Simon, Piaui has been chosen due its potential for wind energy generation. If the parties reach an agreement, this will be the first investment in Brazil for SwissEnergy.

The wind equipment plant could be built in the regions of Picos or Piripiri. The company intends to produce in Piaui gearless turbines, generators and components, said Anja do Egito, head of SwissEnergy unit United Energies.

Currently, Piaui accounts for just 1.4% of the wind energy produced in Brazil. However in 2017 the government estimates the state will produce 10.4% of the country's wind power, second only to Bahia, Rio Grande do Norte, Ceara and Rio Grande do Sul.