Does Brazil need a microgrid?

The regulatory framework in Brazil is still adapting to include microgrids in its power sector. In this sense, micro and minigeneration regulation and energy storage R&D, besides the white tariff and smart metering, are important to support its development. One of the largest energy consumers at UFRJ is the CT.

Why are microgrids so expensive in Brazil?

In Brazil, microgrids are still at an incipient stage. 3 Because the technological foundation and expertise are concentrated in foreign markets and, due to the low participation of national industry in the manufacturing of microgrid components, their technological dependence and costs are high in the country.

What is the cost sharing model for microgrid development?

Fig. 1. Microgrid USA development cost sharing (Hatziargyriou, 2014). The more common models used by the USA microgrid developers are Power Purchase Agreement and Energy Performance Contract, often used by energy supply companies and energy efficiency projects, respectively (EEM, 2016).

Can a microgrid improve the economy?

Market challenges Microgrids’ ability to supply energy and services could generate revenues and improve their economy. Some of New York’s microgrids (New York University, Coop City, and Cornell University), can sell their surplus energy to the grid (Leonhardt et al., 2015, Nyserda, 2010).

Can a microgrid reduce energy costs at UFRJ?

One of the largest energy consumers at UFRJ is the CT. With that in mind, in order to decrease its costs, considering the single-user model, six microgrid arrangements were simulated. Furthermore, some business models that could enable their implementation were suggested.

What is a microgrid economic evaluation?

Unlike traditional energy projects, a microgrid’s economic evaluation represents unique challenges, which need a local and specific assessment. Microgrid financing often covers generation, storage, energy efficiency retrofits, the distribution system, and energy control and management systems.