Brazil faces challenges with unauthorized solar energy expansion

The expansion of solar energy in Brazil is facing challenges regarding unauthorized installations and grid planning. The National Electric System Operator (ONS) has identified that distributed solar generation may be significantly higher than official records from distributors and the National Electric Energy Agency (Aneel).

Conservative projections from the ONS suggest that by 2025, at least 14 gigawatts (GW) of photovoltaic power could be operating irregularly. This volume is comparable to the installed capacity of the Itaipu Hydroelectric Plant and is nearly three times the additional 5.7 GW estimated for 2024.

These unauthorized expansions can distort data used for grid operations, increase accident risks, and cause system overloads. Vinicius Gibrail, a director at TÜV Rheinland South America, noted that failing to communicate capacity increases to Aneel is illegal and can result in additional costs for other consumers, similar to traditional electricity theft. Aneel is currently conducting public consultations to improve regulations regarding excess energy generation and distributor audits.