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The objective of the study is to extend the existing literature by investigating the effects of foreign direct investment, gross domestic products and per capita and energy diversification on the nitrogen oxide emissions in Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) by using annual data during the period 1992-2019. As per our knowledge, the present study is a first of its kind to examine the impact of a new energy diversification index, based on Herfindahl-Hirschman framework on pollution. This study has adopted a new quantile regression augmented method of moments, which is capable of producing the total impacts of the independent variables across the entire distribution of nitrogen oxides emissions. The findings suggest that an increase in foreign direct investment leads to a decrease in nitrogen oxides emissions at the aggregate level and in both manufacturing and service sectors. We observe that foreign direct investment leads to an increase in nitrogen oxides emissions in the agricultural sector in most of the quantiles. Diversification towards renewable energy causes a decrease in nitrogen oxides emissions in most quantiles at aggregate level, agricultural and manufacturing sectors, whilst diversification leads to an increase in nitrogen oxides emissions in the service sector. The findings also suggest that GDP per capita leads to an increase in NOx emissions in all the quantiles. The study suggests the policy to use and attract more clean energy through foreign direct investment for towards the achievement of sustainable development., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.)

The current study is aimed at investigating the relationship between the use of renewable energy, the rate of currency exchange, and the rate of inflation with the ARDL model. The findings of the ECM show that in the long run, a bidirectional association between exchange rate and renewable energy exists in Brazil. This shows that the rate of currency exchange affects the use of renewable energy, and the use of renewable energy affects the rate of currency exchange. The inflation rate also affects renewable energy and exchange rate in the long run. The rate of adjustment to equilibrium is also below 50%, indicating that it will take a long time to adjust to long-run equilibrium. In the short run, we ascertain that renewable energy use has a significant negative effect on the rate of currency exchange, showing that a rise in the use of renewable energy significantly causes the exchange rate to appreciate. The long-run results show that renewable energy use negatively impacts exchange rate (appreciation), while the inflation rate and rate of currency exchange significantly affect the use of renewable energy positively. Thus, in addition to lowering carbon dioxide emissions and global warming effects, renewable energy use also facilitates an improvement in the currency's value. Therefore, the use of renewable energy should be promoted, and nations should shift to the use of renewable energy. This will also promote zero carbon in the future., (© 2021. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.)

This paper investigates the intricate interplay between carbon emissions and foreign direct investment within the context of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa (BRICS) for the period spanning 2000 to 2022. In our comprehensive analysis, we incorporate ecological footprint, renewable energy, globalization, and technological innovations as exogenous variables. Employing a system of simultaneous equations across the BRICS panel, we aim to fully elucidate the proposed relationships. Our empirical findings underscore the following key insights: foreign direct investment, technological innovations, and the adoption of renewable energy sources significantly contribute to the mitigation of carbon emissions in these selected nations. However, it is essential to note that ecological footprints exhibit a positive association with carbon emissions, raising concerns on two fronts: escalating environmental degradation and increased land pressure, both of which contribute to rising ecological footprints in BRICS countries. Additionally, our analysis reveals that foreign direct investment is influenced by its capacity to reduce carbon emissions and bolster renewable energy adoption, while globalization amplifies investment trends within the BRICS nations. To address the environmental repercussions of mining activities, it is imperative to implement stringent control and regulation measures, given their potential adverse impacts, including soil pollution, acid mine drainage, erosion, biodiversity loss, excessive water resource consumption, and wastewater disposal challenges. Nevertheless, proactive steps such as recycling mining waste, adopting environmentally friendly mining equipment, combatting illegal mining, and enhancing overall mining sustainability offer promising avenues to mitigate the environmental footprint of mining operations., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

The research on Amazon wood waste focuses on the species' individual characteristics, not considering the conditions usually found in the industries, such as variations in the storage method and the waste's condition after exposure to the environment. Accordingly, the objective of this paper was to analyze the management of waste generated by wood industries located in Mato Grosso, Brazil, and to determine the physical and chemical properties of the stocked particulate waste for energy-generation purposes. Twenty-four industries located in eight cities were investigated regarding the generation, management, and trade of wood waste, and samples of the particulate waste were collected for characterization. Each of the evaluated industries processed an average of 857.92 m2 of wood logs per month, and 51.13% of this volume was waste. The species Erisma uncinatum and Qualea spp. stood out due to their greater processing volumes. The types of waste found were of firewood (in 100% of the industries), sawdust (87.5%), wood shavings (16.5%), and wood chips (12.5%). The main destinations of the traded waste were: intermediate buyers (30%), bioenergy plants (22%), cold rooms (18%), and grain dryers (16%). The humidity and bulk density of sawdust and wood chips were, respectively, over 41% and 236 kg m−3. The ash content of 76.7% of the waste was under 2.0%. If the 24 evaluated industries performed the thermochemical conversion of their wood waste, it would be possible to supply electricity to approximately 63 houses with average consumption of 162 kWh/month. The effective management of the waste will result in its commercial appreciation and increase its energy potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Energy consumption and renewable energy sources are included in the goals for the 2030 Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG7) agenda, and target buildings are the biggest electricity consumers. In turn, Netzero energy buildings (NZEB) contribute to achieve SDG7 goals. This paper aims to identify which Brazilian higher education institutions (HEIs) practices contribute to developing the NZEB concept. Design/methodology/approach: Case studies were selected to identify which implanted practices applied by HEIs in Brazil, listed in the UI GreenMetric 2020 Ranking, are related to the NZEB concept. The implemented sustainable practices were also analyzed to evaluate the connections and impact between universities and the local community. Findings: Results show the lighting and air conditioning retrofit were among the most common practices related to energy efficiency to reduce consumption. For renewable energy generation, photovoltaic solar energy is the most common practice used by HEIs. Research limitations/implications: Only Brazilian HEIs listed in the UI Green Metric Ranking were analyzed. No standard regulation or formal reports support the wide dissemination of the strategies adopted by HEIs in Brazil. Practical implications: The strategies adopted by HEIs related to Netzero buildings can reduce emissions, optimize operating costs and improve building comfort conditions, which connect all SDGs. Social implications: HEIs can promote awareness related to energy use and clean energy generation within the local community. Originality/value: This paper presents the most common strategies adopted by Brazilian HEIs. However, limitations related to lack of strategies, data transparency and specific Netzero energy regulation were also found. These issues can hinder other HEIs to adopt similar strategies and contribute to the promotion of SDG7 in Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The world is moving towards a low-carbon economy through renewable energy sources. In this context, concentrating solar power (CSP) technologies can exploit the rich solar resource in Brazil, diversifying the national electricity mix. The aim of this paper is to support the insertion of CSP generation in the Brazilian bottom-up model MATRIZ by analyzing the environmental performance of three CSP technologies: (i) solar tower power (STP) with a thermal storage system (TSS) of 7.5 h; (ii) solar thermal parabolic trough (STPT) with a TSS of 6 h; and (iii) STPT without TSS. From a life cycle perspective, their freshwater consumption and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are addressed by employing the software SimaPro, the Ecoinvent database, and the ReCiPe 2016 method, as well as information from the system advisory model (SAM) and the literature. As a result, STP is the most environmentally sound CSP alternative, presenting lower GHG emissions and water consumption than the two STPT technologies. In general, CSP generation proves to be more environmentally attractive than some fossil-fired power plants and renewable energy sources. Moreover, moving the manufacturing of CSP technologies to Brazil has the potential to reduce GHG emissions from the upstream processes of their value chain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Copyright of Revista em Agronegócio e Meio Ambiente is the property of Revista em Agronegocio e Meio Ambiente and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Sustainability in Debate / Sustentabilidade em Debate is the property of University of Brasilia, Center for Sustainable Development and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This paper examines the remarkable growth of photovoltaic (PV) solar energy technology in Brazil, which stands out among the leading countries in photovoltaic installations. The recent implementation of Law 14300 on grid-connected PV systems has caused a stir in the Brazilian market, with investors anticipating installations to avoid reductions in benefits. This phenomenon, previously observed in Europe, instigates an understanding of the variables underlying the exponential growth of the Brazilian market. This study seeks to identify the predictors that explain the PV systems diffusion in Brazil, in two stages: a systematic review of the literature to map approaches and methods, followed by the construction of a database and the application of predictive models. The literature revealed 24 methods in six approaches, with 44 predictors. For Brazil, the database contains 90,129 instances, 22 predictors, and covers all 5570 municipalities. The results highlight the crucial importance of the electricity tariff as the main predictor, followed by irradiation and municipal Gross Domestic Product. Predictors such as the number of companies, minimum wage, HDI education, demographic density, and vehicle fleet prove to be relevant. In conclusion, the spatially explicit analysis highlights the complexity of the market, offering valuable implications for energy planners and stakeholders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a result of the "Belt and Road" and "Going Global" policies, a growing number of Chinese power companies are expanding overseas, implementing global development strategies, and making investments in the overseas power industry. Several countries are undergoing an energy transition because of the rapid development of the world economy. This is being done to address the climate change issues that are a result of the overuse of fossil fuels. Brazil is also accelerating its pace of power transformation in its position as a major power generating country in Latin America. In addition to being the largest economy in South America, Brazil is also the country in which China has made the most investments. Additionally, Brazil is increasing its development efforts in wind power, photovoltaics, and other renewable energy sources in response to a large demand for renewable energy sources. Brazil's renewable energy sector offers a great deal of potential for investment based on solid foundations for cooperation between China and Brazil. The Grey Prediction Model was used for this research to forecast Brazil's renewable energy generation installed capacity, and the results show a positive trend in Brazil's renewable energy generation. There is a rapid growth in wind and photovoltaic power generation over the next 5 years, with growth rates reaching 50.39% and 182.99%, respectively, suggesting that there is potential for a broad range of development. Following this, the research applies factor analysis to assess investment risks associated with Brazil's renewable energy sector from 2000 to 2020. Based on the results of the study, Chinese power companies investing in Brazil's renewable energy sector face the greatest political risk, while other risks gradually decrease. To avoid political risks when investing, companies should place a high priority on preventing them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to analyze the information about protection of technologies related to distributed generation (DG) of electric energy, available in the Brazilian patent bank, in the period between 2011 and 2020. Considering that the energy sector has strategic role for companies and countries, analyzing technological trends in the area can help management and decision making. As a methodological procedure, (1) data were collected from the national database of the Instituto Nacional de Propriedade Industrial - INPI (National Institute of Industrial Property) -- in July 2020, (2) associated with keywords and the Classificação Internacional de Patentes - IPC (International Patent Classification) for research and (3) treated with the aid of Microsoft Excel and IBM SPSS Statistics version 25 software. The variables found and analyzed were: nature of the patent; order status; international classification; year of filing; publication of request; countries of origin of depositors; main depositors; state of origin of depositors; electrical system structure; and types of energy sources. The results demonstrated that the number of patent filings fluctuated over the years; that there was a significant growth in the number of deposits in the years that normative resolution n° 482/2012, responsible for regularizing DG in Brazil, was published or revised and that most of the technologies deposited are intended for power generation, with emphasis on that use wind energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Countries all over the world have been seeking ways and methods so that their electrical matrices can stand out using clean and renewable energy sources. In this context, this article presents a review with analysis of sector legislation on photovoltaic solar energy in Brazil. This study was grounded in four steps: (i) sample definition; (ii) theoretical basis; (iii) network analysis; and (iv) content analysis in two stages of research. Initially, a systematic literature review was carried out in order to map all the major and most cited works. The second stage consisted in reading and performing a critical analysis of government documents and reports from the energy sector in Brazil using a few bibliometric resources for such a purpose. Its results reveal that photovoltaic solar energy in Brazil has grown and expanded to different applications, since floating solar plants and subscription to solar energy are becoming increasingly attractive. Furthermore, a possible replacement of photovoltaic solar generation for thermoelectric plants has been investigated once there are a few positive aspects yet to be found thereof. As samples of the results obtained, we have that the replacement of works would allow the photovoltaic solar energy source to increase by 1% in the electrical matrix and would stop emitting 10,738,478 tons into the atmosphere, there would be a progressive decrease in the use of tariff flags (which affect directly to the final consumer) and a reduction in operating costs would also be achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines the potential for wind and solar energy generation in the state of Amapá, Brazil, using ERA5 data from between 1991 and 2020. Key metrics considered include wind power density, capacity factor, photovoltaic potential, and concentrated solar power output. Analyses revealed pronounced wind speeds offshore during summer and in continental regions during spring. Solar irradiance was notably higher in the spring. Differences in wind potential were observed between northern and southern offshore areas. Concentrated solar power efficiency and photovoltaic potential were influenced by location and cloud cover, respectively. Overall, summer presents the best offshore wind energy potential, while spring is optimal for onshore solar energy in Amapá. This study underscores the importance of understanding local climatic patterns when planning energy installations in the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of renewable energy sources has become strategic in the production of electricity worldwide due to global efforts to increase energy efficiency and achieve a net zero carbon footprint. Hybrid systems can maximize stability and reduce costs by combining multiple energy sources. A conventional metric, such as the levelized cost of energy (LCOE), that is appropriate for assessing the cost-effectiveness of an option may not be appropriate when evaluating the economic feasibility of hybrid systems. This study proposes a stochastic discounted cash flow model (DCF) to assess the economic viability of a hybrid renewable energy system (HRES) in Brazil. The objective is to determine the combinations that will provide the highest 50th percentile internal rate of return (IRR) and the lowest coefficient of variation (CV). Model variables include capital expenditures (CAPEX), operation and maintenance (O&M) costs, sectoral charges, taxes, and long-term energy production metrics. The results demonstrate that the synergies modeled contributed to the higher economic outcomes for the HRES obtained by combining both energy sources rather than opting for a stand-alone configuration. A wind-dominant combination of 60% wind was able to increase the 50th percentile of the IRR, while a solar-dominant combination of 65% solar minimized the CV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The micro- and mini-distributed generation (MMDG) has significantly increased after the normative resolution No. 482/2012 in Brazil; the installed capacity surpassed 7 GW in 2021. In the international context, a similar event was observed, whose process generated a cross-subsidy for other consumers, in addition to other problems that affect the economic balance of concessionaires. To mitigate this issue, the National Electric Energy Agency (ANEEL) is in the process of revising current rules. Thus, this study estimates the weight of this decision, through a methodology adapted from international assessment models, based on information from the Brazilian regulatory system. In order to achieve it, this paper presents metrics to define the potential market MMDG, based on the consumption patterns of consumers. Then, through time series analysis, the MMDG demand curve is estimated under two scenarios up to 2030. Finally, the economic impact on tariff adjustments and revisions, and their effect on the electric power concessionaires are evaluated. In the distribution companies of the Enel Group alone, economic losses are estimated at USD 1.2 billion by 2030; 53% of this will be passed on to consumers' tariffs. Thus, based on international experiences, it can be concluded that the best model is the adequate grid remuneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reaching decarbonization goals has become a top focus for several industrialized and emerging economies globally. The greatest effect of human behavior is global warming. Utilizing fiscal decentralization (FDST), export diversification (EDI), and environment‐related technological innovation (ERTI) may be necessary to address global pollution and accomplish environmental sustainability goals. Additionally, these strategies could aid various levels of government and nations in pursuing what they define as sustainable development. This study evaluates the combined benefits of FDST, EDI and ERTI in meeting the environmental sustainability goals of the Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa (BRICS) economies from 1970 to 2020. Using the augmented mean group method, the long‐run dynamic equilibrium between the chosen variables is examined. The findings demonstrate that while the adoption of ERTI and renewable energy (REC) benefits the environment, EDI, FDST, and economic growth exacerbate environmental deterioration. Our findings suggest that the BRICS countries should proceed cautiously when adopting FDST and EDI plans. The adoption of ERTI and REC should be promoted by the government to increase environmental sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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This review investigates the effects of the Brazilian agriculture production and forestry sector on carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. Residual biomasses produced mainly in the agro-industrial and forestry sector as well as fast-growing plants were studied. Possibilities to minimize source-related emissions by sequestering part of carbon in soil and by producing biomass as a substitute for fossil fuel were extensively investigated. The lack of consistency among literature reports on residual biomass makes it difficult to compare CO2 emission reductions between studies and sectors. Data on chemical composition, heating value, proximate and ultimate analysis of the biomasses were collected. Then, the carbon sequestration potential of the biomasses as well as their usability in renewable energy practices were studied. Over 779.6 million tons of agricultural residues were generated in Brazil between 2021 and 2022. This implies a 12.1 million PJ energy potential, while 4.95 million tons of forestry residues was generated in 2019. An estimated carbon content of 276 Tg from these residues could lead to the production of approximately 1014.2 Tg of CO2. Brazilian biomasses, with a particular focus on agro-forest waste, can contribute to the development of sustainable alternative energy sources. Moreover, agro-waste can provide carbon credits for sustainable Brazilian agricultural development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to evaluate the energy potential of Astronium fraxinifolium and Enterolobium gummiferum wood species that grow in the Savannah of Minas Gerais, Brazil, focusing on the production of charcoal. Two discs were removed at 1.30 m from the ground of three trees of each species, and these were later sampled into wedges that were applied in the analysis of wood characteristics and charcoal production in a muffle furnace. The extractives content and basic density of the wood species were determined, and apparent density of charcoal, ash content, heating value, and energy density of both materials were also determined. The woods under study have potential for application in energy production. Emphasis was placed on A. fraxinifolium, which presented wood and charcoal that was denser, had higher energy density, and achieved greater gravimetric yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined an Organic Rankine Cycle powered by a parabolic trough collector and a two-tank thermal storage system based on the development of a mathematical model, for the conditions of the city of Itajubá in Brazil. First, geometrical optics and heat transfer models of the collector–receiver set were used to determine the thermal equilibrium of the solar thermal collector system and parameters such as the efficiency of the solar field, heat and optical losses, and thermal energy of the outlet fluid. Next, the thermal equilibrium of the Organic Rankine Cycle was found in order to establish its operational parameters. Finally, the behavior of the thermal storage system was analyzed through its modeling. Once the characterization of the storage system was completed, the integrated operation of the proposed system was evaluated. Given Itajubá's weather conditions, the results indicate that an electricity generation system can be implemented with the Solel UVAC Cermet selective coating for the absorber tube, water as the heat transfer fluid, and R-245fa as the working fluid. Based on the solar irradiation profile (1 March 2019), the parabolic trough collectors provided 63.3% of the energy required by the Organic Rankine Cycle to generate 7.4 kW, while the thermal storage system provided 36.4% of the energy demanded by the power generation block. Additionally, the results demonstrate the main conclusions that the turbine's efficiency was influenced by parameters such as rotational speed, which is affected by the turbine inlet temperature, which, in turn, depends on the behavior of the solar irradiation profile onsite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Sustainability in Debate / Sustentabilidade em Debate is the property of University of Brasilia, Center for Sustainable Development and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

• Vector Shift Relay islanding detection capability versus system stability; • The need of Vector Shift Relay standardization for its secure applicability; • A Vector Shift Relay adjustment procedure for grid-tied synchronous generators; • A case study on Brazil's anti-islanding commissioning for distributed generation. The increasing electricity demand has encouraged consumers to invest in distributed energy resources and, among these, synchronous generators fed by biogas. One of the main concerns over this is the possibility of these sources feeding a section of the grid while a loss of mains, known as islanded operation. To prevent it, distributed generators must have protection devices that can identify this loss of connection. Vector Shift Relays are one of the most popular methods for island detection applied to synchronous generators. However, an increasing concern on false tripping of these relays has led the Brazilian electricity regulatory agency to ponder about their removal. In this paper, a detailed analysis of the Vector Shift Relay operation and configuration is done and a new procedure to determine the relay threshold value is proposed, considering different power-load mismatches. It is shown that this protection device is quick to detect islanding when there is a power unbalance greater than 30% but it may risk false tripping if adjusted to a lesser power mismatch. Finally, a discussion is presented to show that there are issues with correctly using this device and still complying with current standards, and further investigations are recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The insufficient supply of electrical energy, in addition to frequent disturbances and interruptions, has motivated the inclusion of solar, biogas, biomass or wind energy systems in many Brazilian farms. However, there are few studies that have addressed the technical and economic impacts of renewable sources for generating electricity in rural applications, leading farmers not to invest in these technologies for fear of financial losses. This study was carried out to evaluate the potential of grid-connected photovoltaic systems for supplying the electricity demand in dairy farms located at Minas Gerais State, Brazil. The electricity generated by grid-connected photovoltaic systems was estimated from global solar radiation measurements, considering six municipalities of Minas Gerais State, Brazil. Electricity consumption was monitored monthly during one year in 12 farms. The average percentages of electricity consumption in the main operations executed at farms were 4, 27, 12, 33 and 24% for lighting, milking, cleaning/disinfection (water heating and pumping), milk cooling/refrigeration and miscellaneous, respectively. The monthly differences between the electricity generation and consumption for the studied municipalities demonstrated the technical feasibility of grid-connected systems installed directly in the dairy farms, helping to achieve energy sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brazil is a country with excellent conditions to achieve the “electrification of the economy” based on renewable energy sources. It is one of the best examples of sustainable development of energy sources based on the abundant natural environment. Brazil has already reached the goal of the World Power Renewable Energy Plan, and is meeting the goal of diversifying renewable energy sources from a political point of view. However, the current insertion of Brazil into the energy transition paradigm presents gaps in socioeconomic aspects. As all countries have different characteristics, it is important to guarantee national independence and autonomy for Brazil's energy transition. Although the advanced model of developed countries deals with the economic efficiency and soundness of implementation of the electricity sector, the most important question is what kind of benefits the industry can provide to consumers in the domestic market. If a new public infrastructure project ignores the social public interest, the energy industry may lose its meaning. If domestic consumers are disadvantaged by overly foreign-oriented industrial policies, the future of the national economy may not be guaranteed either. Just as fossil energy caused irreversible natural destruction, if the generation of renewable energy is not ensured in the interests of the country's consumers, renewable energy will lose its own value. Above all, the energy sector is a strategic industry and an important economic resource related to all industries. In this context, the opening of the electricity market in Brazil and the “electrification of the economy” must be redesigned and adapted for Brazil. It is necessary to establish a regulatory system suitable for Brazil and lay the foundations for renewable energies in which Brazilian society enjoys its uses as domestic consumers. Although the expansion of renewable energy sources for the benefit of Brazilian society, what is more important is that the actors dealing with the energy transition and with the insertion in the new paradigm in the electricity sector must be responsible for public, social and environmental integrity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Hybrid polygeneration systems offer a great opportunity to meet growing energy demands with cost efficiency and environmental benefits. The identification of the optimal solution (configuration and operational strategy) is strongly affected by the relationship between the system and its surroundings. Previous studies have analyzed the influence of boundary conditions on the synthesis of polygeneration systems for buildings. However, local regulations are often disregarded or oversimplified in those studies. Therefore, this paper aims to evaluate the influence of legal conditions on the integration of renewable energy technologies in polygeneration systems for buildings. A comprehensive synthesis model is developed, including different types of legal conditions, such as power exchange modalities, subsidies/surcharges on energy prices and investment costs, and total ban on fossil fuels. Then, the model is applied to the case study of a Brazilian hospital. The current Brazilian net metering scheme is implemented. Results show that natural gas cogeneration is an attractive solution to cover the hospital's energy demands with or without the possibility of selling/exporting electricity. Also, the Brazilian net metering scheme, by itself, is not enough to ensure renewable energy deployment. An in-depth discussion about the conditions that would promote renewable energy integration is reported and recommendations are made on how current policies can be improved, including the need to explicitly address renewable technologies, the application of minimum renewable fractions, and the role of renewable heat/cooling. While the case study considers the specific circumstances in Brazil, it provides insights that can be extended to other countries or applications. • Synthesis model of hybrid renewable polygeneration systems for buildings. • Influence of legal constraints on the integration of renewable energy technologies. • Power exchange modalities, subsidies/surcharges, and fossil fuel ban are considered. • Technical, economic, and environmental analysis of a Brazilian hospital case study. • The Brazilian net metering scheme did not promote renewable energy technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global electricity sector is responsible for a large share of greenhouse gas. Renewable energy (RE) is a feasible alternative to maintain sustainable growth and economic development, as it appears to be a means to reduce emissions and decarbonize economies. Renewable energy projects present some uncertainties and flexibilities that are ignored by traditional methods of evaluation, such as the net present value (NPV), which can lead to undervaluation. This paper aims to assess the switch-output option and defer option for RE projects according to their features in the Brazilian electricity market. The real options approach (ROA) for RE projects seeks to capture the value of uncertainties and flexibilities that all projects have from an investor's point of view. Then, when we adopted a more sophisticated approach that values flexibilities and uncertainties for RE projects, it was possible to conclude that there was a clear increase in value when compared to traditional investment analysis methods like the NPV. • The penetration of renewable energy in the Brazilian Electricity Market is growing. • The Real Options Approach represents an alternative to traditional methods of investments analysis. • Real options deals with the inherent characteristics of renewable energy projects. • Real Options show an increase in value when compared to traditional methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper focuses on the estimation of annual energy production (AEP) by simulating the flowfield on a complex terrain located in the northeast region of Brazil using different numerical approaches: CFD RANS with k-ε and k-ω turbulence models (WindSim), simple mass-conserving (WindMap), and refined mesoscale (SiteWind). The last two are run through OpenWind software. Wind observations from five meteorological masts are used to adjust the models. Optimal layouts for a hypothetical wind farm with 50 wind turbines are obtained over each of the four wind fields to predict the power generation. As non-negligible differences are found on the spatial distribution of the winds simulated by the different models, the layouts are also substantially different. The AEP is calculated to compare scenarios varying the layouts over the wind fields. The distinct micrositing generate differences of up to 13 % on AEP prediction, which could mean the impact of an improper siting on the wind farm profitability. It is not plausible to categorically claim the superiority of accuracy of one model over the others. Nonetheless, the observed data provide an indicative that the refined mesoscale model was able to better capture the wind acceleration in the western region of the studied site. • CFD, mass-conserving and refined mesoscale approaches are used for micrositing study. • AEP prediction for a high wind farm potential area but scarce published works. • Wind power exploitation can be harmed if the turbine positioning is not well suited. • An improper siting of wind turbines can impact up to 13 % on AEP prediction. • A given numerical tool can not be categorically claimed as the most accurate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Ciência e Natura is the property of Revista Ciencia e Natura and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)