Solar Photovoltaic Generation in Mané Dendê: Democratization of Solar Energy in Popular Areas
Abstract
The installation of 13 photovoltaic solar power plants, totaling 178 kWp, on the rooftops of the buildings in the Mané Dendê low-income residential complex, located in the suburbs of Salvador/BA, represents a strategic initiative of Neoenergia Coelba’s Energy Efficiency Program, regulated by ANEEL (Brazilian Electricity Regulatory Agency). The project aims to promote social inclusion and mitigate energy poverty, directly benefiting 260 low-income families by supplying energy to both common areas and individual housing units. The observed impacts span three main dimensions: democratic access to clean and renewable energy, previously unattainable due to economic constraints; a significant reduction in electricity bills, allowing the reallocation of saved resources to essential expenses such as food; and increased use of electricity, enabling the operation of previously underutilized appliances. The partnership with the Municipality of Salvador, responsible for the operation and maintenance of the plants, was crucial in overcoming infrastructure challenges and ensuring the project's sustainability without additional costs to the beneficiary families. Beyond immediate benefits, the initiative seeks to establish a replicable model for other low-income communities, contributing to reduce inequalities in energy access and accelerating the transition to renewable sources, in alignment with the principles of energy justice and sustainable development.
Keywords
energy efficiency, energy poverty, low-income population, photovoltaic solar power, renewable sources, social inclusion, sustainable development