Energy Transition

• Grant number: 25/03815-2
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: September 01, 2025
• End date: August 31, 2030
• Field of knowledge: Interdisciplinary Subjects
• Principal Investigator: Luiz Moreira Coelho Junior
• Grantee: Luiz Moreira Coelho Junior
• Host Institution: CENTRO ENERGIAS ALTERNATIVAS RENOVAVEIS/UFPB
• Pesquisadores principais: Camila Seibel Gehrke ; Celso Augusto Guimarães Santos ; Cleonilson Protasio de Souza ; Cristiano das Neves Almeida ; Fabiano Salvadori ; Felipe Vigolvino Lopes ; Flavio da Silva Vitorino Gomes ; Gustavo Barbosa Lima da Silva ; Hidelbrando Jose Farkat Diógenes ; IGOR FERNANDES GOMES ; Joácio de Araújo Morais Júnior ; José Felix da Silva Neto ; Kelly Cristiane Gomes da Silva ; Kleber Carneiro de Oliveira ; Monica Carvalho ; Nataly Albuquerque dos Santos ; Paulo Rotella Junior ; Raphael Abrahão ; RAPHAEL LEITE DE ANDRADE REIS ; Sayonara Andrade Eliziário ; Silvia Layara Floriani Andersen ; Taynara Geysa Silva do Lago

Abstract

The energy transition is one of the major challenges and opportunities of the 21st century, driven by the global need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, adapt energy systems to climate change and ensure a sustainable future. This process requires technological innovations and structural changes that reduce dependence on fossil fuels and promote the use of renewable energy sources and innovative solutions. The Energy Transition HRP aims to train highly qualified human resources to work in the energy sector with a focus on energy transition, promoting integration between academia, the productive sector and society. The program aims to transform energy matrices and decarbonize the economy fairly and equitably in both the short and long term. The justification for the Energy Transition HRP is based on pillars such as climate challenges and technological innovation, demand for skilled professionals, strengthening research and innovation, just and inclusive transition, support for energy policies and the international integration of the UFPB. Northeast Brazil, especially Paraíba, has strong potential in renewable energies like solar, wind, and bioenergy, making it a key hub for clean electricity production. However, the region faces challenges related to the waste of surplus renewable energy, which is discarded at times of low demand, such as weekends and off-peak hours. Between April 2024 and February 2025, Brazil recorded 914.69 GWh of unused solar energy, while Paraíba recorded 22.87 GWh. In the wind sector, Brazil wastes 3.94 TWh, while Paraíba wastes 63.40 GWh, with economic consequences for producers and potential increases in energy costs. Curtailment has led to a growing conflict between generators, regulators and consumers, highlighting the urgent need for innovative solutions. The problem of curtailment is not unique to Brazil, and several other countries have adopted technological and market solutions to mitigate the impact of this waste, such as energy storage in batteries, demand response and dynamic hourly price signalling. While these solutions have great potential, they still face significant technical and economic barriers in Brazil, making applied research and technological innovation essential to make these alternatives viable at scale and in an economically viable manner. The Energy Transition HRP will contribute to the training of professionals capable of developing and applying sustainable technologies that make the best use of available renewable resources. The expected results, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), include: Training of reference professionals; development of innovative technologies; integration of energy and ecosystems; promotion of decarbonization of the economy; socio-economic and inclusive impacts; promotion of clean energy and energy efficiency; digital innovation in the energy transition; leadership and commitment to the energy transition; impact on public policies and global regulation; and strengthening of national and international cooperation. (AU)