Technical and economical viability in the use of solar energy in UNIVASF, Campus Juazeiro

Abstract

The world is living in a new technological phase and conventional energy sources are not sufficient to maintain the ongoing process. Alternative sources are required that supplement energy matrixes. They should focus on clean production and on sustainability. Within current chaotic environmental degradation, the term sustainability becomes a keyword for the development of companies. It is more than a competitive differential factor to be incorporated to the philosophy of firms. It is actually a question of organizational survival. Northeastern Brazil is characterized by high solar incidence that generates several energy sources. The Universidade Federal do Vale do São Francisco (UNIVASF), campus Juazeiro (BA), a recently-founded institution, with several engineering courses, has become a source for regional development. It has generated employment and earning in the region of the Vale do São Francisco, and has trained highly qualified professionals in different areas. Current paper deals with a technical and economic analysis of the use of solar energy with the photovoltaic system in UNIVASF, campus Juazeiro, supplying all energy demands. Results show the technical and economic viability at medium term, with environmental, social and economic benefits for the institution and the region.