Análise do uso da energia fotovoltaica em universidades

Abstract

Electric energy consumption has been a significant part in budgets of universities, so that the applying of distributed generation projects may be an alternative to reduce financial costs related. The objective of this paper was to analyze the usage of photovoltaic solar energy in Brazilian universities. For this, a case study of financial feasibility and mitigation of greenhouse effect gases were conducted due to the application from a photovoltaic system at the Federal University of Espirito Santo (UFES), Campus Sao Mateus. Moreover, a survey of the conditions on photovoltaic energy usage at Federal universities in Brazil took place. In this case study, it was clear that the solar energy project is economically viable with a 4-year discounted payback, and an internal rate of return of 13.5%. Other research has indicated the financial attractiveness of the use of this technology in higher education institutions in the country. Still in this case study, the solar energy project demonstrated that it would avoid the emanation of 327,916 kgCO2/year. It was canvassed that, of 69 federal universities, 35% already have photovoltaic systems installed, 13% are installing as of now and 3% of them have approved budget to acquire the necessary equipment. Lastly, an increase of the usage of solar energy at Brazilian universities is expected in the next years due to the urge of costs reduction and the inevitable growth of environment sustainability at these institutions.