Solar Photovoltaic Distributed Generation in Brazil: The Case of Resolution 482/2012

Abstract

The current electric generation in Brazil to meet its demand is based on centralized electricity generation, however, a new decentralized model is emerging in light of the recent advance of distributed generation (DG), among them, solar photovoltaic DG. The objective of this article is to present an analysis of the evolution of solar photovoltaic DG in Brazil, after the Normative Resolution (NR) No. 482/2012 of the National Electric Energy Agency (Agência Nacional de Energia Elétrica - ANEEL). The methodology used was based on an exploratory, descriptive and bibliographic study that supported an information analysis on the growth and prospects of solar photovoltaic DG market in Brazil. Hypotheses that current national regulations need improvements, and there is a great potential for expansion to solar photovoltaic DG have been taken as a starting point. Analyzes of the Brazilian socioeconomic context and the impacts after the NR No.482/2012 on the development of a national market for photovoltaic DG in recent years were carried out. ANEEL regulations have been periodically revised and updated in an attempt to induce a growth of solar photovoltaic market in Brazil. The results indicate a growth of solar photovoltaic DG in the country since 2012, with a significant increase in 2015. In conclusion, despite the growing evolution of solar photovoltaic DG in Brazil, there is a need for further regulatory improvements to boost this market. In addition, this article proposes that existing regulations could be improved in order to: a) reduce or exempt taxes on equipment of solar photovoltaic DG, as well as provide government incentives; (b) enable consumers to enjoy greater benefits by allowing the surplus energy to be sold to the distributor or the free market; c) exempt taxes for non-profit institutions, and d) include in housing programs and projects, the requirement of energy efficiency and solar photovoltaic DG.