Is Brazil ready for a smart grid power system?

Decarbonization, Digitalization and Decentralization are considered the main key drivers for this power system transition and Brazil is no exception to this universal trend. A search of the literature revealed few studies which attempt to address the main challenges and opportunities towards a smart grid power system in Brazil.

Are smart grids a barrier to development in Brazil?

Although there have been some advances in the Brazilian regulatory structure, many gaps still stand as a barrier to the development of smart grids. Smart grids are expected to be at an intermediate level of development in Brazil by 2030 ( Carvalho, 2015 ).

What is smart metering in Brazil?

Smart metering is considered an emerging and under development technological system in Brazil. Currently, the use of smart metering is Brazil is restricted to pilot smart grid projects of specific distribution utilities. The deployment of smart meters is a fundamental step for the deployment of smart grids in Brazil.

Why are Brazilian electric utilities studying smart grid?

In 2010, almost all Brazilian electric utilities began studying Smart Grid in order to prepare themselves and to strategically direct their investments in new infrastructure and Research and Development (R&D) projects towards the modernization of the Brazilian electric system.

What are the challenges and opportunities for a smart grid power system?

Challenges and opportunities for a smart grid power system in Brazil are addressed. An inadequate net-metering system for DG may shift the costs from DG to non-DG users. The deployment of storage technologies is at a slow pace of growth. Regulation for electrical vehicles is still emerging.

Who regulates the electric grid in Brazil?

This system was proposed by the Brazilian Electricity Regulatory Agency (ANEEL) in 2013, and it is regulated by the RN nº 547 ( ANEEL, 2013 ), although the starting point of its implementation is dated to 2015.