Shared generation advances and expands access to clean energy in the country
Shared generation models are improving access to clean energy in Brazil while reducing costs for consumers.
In Brazil, there has been significant progress in energy efficiency solutions, particularly the growing model of shared generation, which allows both companies and residential consumers to access clean energy without the need for physical installations like solar panels on their properties. This model, regulated since 2012 by the National Electric Energy Agency (Aneel), enables consumers to use electricity produced in remote power plants, leveraging cooperatives or consortia to gain access to lower-cost electricity while benefitting from clean energy sources.
The shared generation system primarily involves solar energy plants that inject energy into the local distribution grid. This energy production is then transformed into credits that are allocated proportionately to each consumer's usage, effectively providing a mechanism for consumers to offset their monthly electricity bills with clean energy credits. Such solutions not only promote environmental sustainability but also make renewable energy more accessible and affordable for a broader range of consumers in Brazil.
The implications of this model are far-reaching, as it democratizes access to renewable energy solutions, particularly for those who may not have the resources to install solar panels directly. It encourages a shift towards more sustainable energy practices while supporting the growth of clean energy infrastructure across the country, ultimately contributing to Brazil's broader environmental goals and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.