Solar energy and its contribution to the energy mix

This book sets out to assess the contribution of solar energy to the energy matrix, analysing what influence the installation of solar heating systems and solar photovoltaic micro-generation systems have on the electricity consumption of homes that use these technologies, as well as verifying the environmental perception of the residents of these installations. The aim was to provide an overview of the Brazilian energy balance, to identify the main sources of energy used and describe the electricity generation matrix, as well as to draw up a profile of electricity consumption in the various sectors of the economy. Also, to present the evolution and current scenario of the use of solar heating technologies and photovoltaic solar energy generation in Brazil, surveying government policies and programmes to encourage the use of solar energy for heating and photovoltaic solar energy micro-generation. Analyse the costs of implementing these projects, as well as the existing incentive programmes.