Análise econômica de projeto fotovoltaico integrado na rede elétrica para associação de catadores de materiais recicláveis na Vila Torres em Curitiba - PR

Abstract

The global concern for the environment is increasing, leading to measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote the use of renewable energy. In Brazil, drought has affected a large part of the country, prompting research efforts and improvements in energy generation, as the Brazilian electricity grid relies primarily on hydropower resources. The use of thermal power plants was necessary to prevent a collapse in the electrical sector, resulting in increased generation costs and higher energy bills for the population. Photovoltaic solar energy, due to the high level of solar radiation in Brazil, has gained importance in diversifying the energy matrix, especially through distributed generation. To promote widespread adoption of solar energy and other protective measures, it is necessary to develop public policies. The United Nations’ Agenda 2030, with its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including clean energy, communities, and action against climate change, is an example of this global effort. Therefore, the present study aimed to assess the feasibility of implementing a photovoltaic energy generation project, in the form of a solar cooperative, at the Recicapanema Association of Recycling Collectors, by developing the system sizing. Considering a system efficiency of 75%, the study concluded that 65 solar panels and an inverter to meet 40 kW would be necessary, along with costs for materials, labor for installation, and infrastructure for structures and cabling, resulting in a total cost of R$129,293.05. With the budget value, the economic viability was analyzed in two ways: through bank financing funded by the cooperative, and with external financial support for implementation. The analysis considered the payback for the investor and the savings generated by the system for the cooperative members over a period of 25 years, using the savings account interest rate. It was concluded that the long-term economic viability is advantageous for both analyzed options. However, considering the low-income community involved, the best option to make the implementation of the PV system feasible in the association would be to raise external funds, adopting the Revolusolar NGO project as a model, só that the individuals involved in the solar cooperative could have a more advantageous return without the commitment of financing expenses for a long period.