Analysis of the hydrological cycle and its impacts on the sustainability of the electric matrix in the state of Rio de Janeiro/Brazil

Abstract

Between 20132015 and, the state of Rio de Janeiro, which is the second most economically important state in Brazil experienced a double crisis that incurred several consequences, including a shortage of drinking water in many cities and a reduction in hydroelectric generation. Therefore, the aim of this research was to analyze the impacts of this crisis on the state's electrical matrix from socioeconomic and socio-environmental viewpoints. The work included documental research of the data and correlations among them for the generation of electricity, the volumes of the reservoirs of hydroelectric plants, and thermoelectric and thermonuclear generation during this water crisis. Thermoelectric plants (TEP) provided 61.3% of the total installed capacity in Rio de Janeiro, thermonuclear plants (NPT) provided 23.46%, and only 14.86% originated from hydroelectric plants. During the studied period, the average power generated by the TEPs was five times higher than that recorded for hydroelectric generation. This scenario has negatively impacted the sustainability of the electric matrix, as it has resulted in high energy costs and increased greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. However, the state could diversify its matrix in a sustainable a manner of exploiting existing wind and solar potential, thus allowing the electric matrix to follow global and national initiatives to reduce GHG emissions.