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This paper presents a comparative analysis of energy governance regarding nonconventional renewable energy sources (NCRES) in Brazil and Germany. Brazil is a world leader in the use of conventional renewable energy sources, such as hydro power, while Germany has been achieving outstanding results in fostering NCRES. The focus is on two critical issues: the legal and regulatory framework and the institutions created to support the NCRES market development. The comparison shows that, despite the very different energy situations and policy drivers, valuables lessons can be extracted from the German experience. The main lesson for Brazil is to think NCRES as a strategic opportunity to rely less on fossil fuel and large hydroelectric power plants, to decentralize the electric power sector, to use the huge solar, biomass and wind power potential available in the country and to create a environment-friendly NCRES industry. To this end, three critical points were identified: (1) the legal and regulatory framework should be improved; (2) long-term energy planning taking into account social, economic and climate issues and; (3) the current institutions supporting NCRES in Brazil should be upgraded and/or new ones, such as more specific energy agencies, should be created. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electricity affordability for the low-income population is still a challenge in Brazil. In this paper, we propose specific affordability indicators to categorize the socio-economic complexity of each utility concession area, also aggregating current information on customers' non-payment, presenting an analysis and maps electricity affordability countrywide. The results show areas in regions North, Northeast, and Southeast, where electricity affordability is still a matter of concern, in spite of existing access. These findings indicate the need to continue implementing public policies that promote affordability and also suggest indicators for use in monitoring the performance and progress of such efforts. • We proposed an affordability indicator mapping electricity affordability according to utilities concession areas in Brazil. • We define the affordability indicator using the Socioeconomic Complexity Index and the Average Default Rate. • The results warning about the need to new actions that increase affordability and accelerate the programs in progress. • The affordability indicator makes the process of address energy poverty measurable, therefore more efficient and assertive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]