ENERGY POVERTY: Methods for implementing photovoltaic generators in low-income urban communities - Case study of the Paraisópolis slum - São Paulo, Brazil
Energy poverty is directly linked to people's quality of life and is most evident in low-income urban communities, the slums. The use of solar photovoltaic technology is on the rise worldwide and has a high potential for implantation in the Brazilian territory. The installation of photovoltaic generators produces clean and low-cost energy, bringing more security to the electrical installations in the communities, in addition to reducing losses due to theft and default. In this dissertation, a case study of the Paraisópolis slum, located in the city of São Paulo, is carried out, where the technical and financial viability of the deployment of distributed generation of a photovoltaic solar system connected to the grid is evaluated. The initial investment would be made by the energy distribution company of São Paulo, ENEL Distribuição São Paulo, which suffers from the burden of energy theft and has funds for Energy Efficiency Projects. Three different types of photovoltaic system arrangements were developed: individual installation, centralized arrangement in a cooperative and grouping by 5 houses. Estimated the energy demand of families with non-regular power connections, the solar photovoltaic system and its implantation value were designed for each type of arrangement. Of the three types of dimensioned arrangements, the most advantageous was the arrangement of 5 houses per photovoltaic system, with an average energy cost of R$ 4,192.00/kW. ENEL would have a return on investment in 15 years. It was concluded that the implantation of the system is economically viable and feasible. However, ENEL's engagement and governmental incentives are necessary for the project to develop.