Digitalization in the Brazilian Electricity Sector

Abstract

This book chapter provides an overview of the digitalization process in the electricity sector, highlighting its relation and contribution to the energy transition to a low-carbon system and its current scenario in Brazil. First, we systematize the main technologies related to digitalization. From this, we identify the segments of the electricity sector in which these technologies can be applied to assist energy transition. Then, we evaluate how these elements are evolving in the Brazilian electricity system through the investigation of government initiatives and the historical (2008–2021) of Research and Development (R&D) projects. We found 263 projects related to digitalization, which represents only around 10% of the total number of projects. Digitization contributes to the energy transition by providing technologies that optimize the generation and efficient energy use, allowing greater penetration of renewables and better use of energy resources. However, for this, it is necessary to restructure market and regulatory models. Although the Brazilian government has been developing some plans and strategies for technologies such as the Internet of Things, cyber security and overall digitalization issues, few practical structural changes were identified. Thus, digitalization in the Brazilian electricity sector is still in its infancy, with a need for initiatives to speed up reforms and to make the most of the national renewable energy potential.KeywordsEnergy transitionDigitalizationElectricity systemRenewable energy sourcesBrazil