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The Role of Renewable Energies in Combating Poverty in Brazil: A Systematic Review

Author

Listed:
  • Eugenia Cornils Monteiro da Silva

    (Department of Political Science, University of Piauí, Teresina 64049-550, Brazil)

  • Marcos Antonio Tavares Lira

    (Department of Political Science, University of Piauí, Teresina 64049-550, Brazil)

  • Marcelo Carneiro Gonçalves

    (Mechatronic Systems Graduate Program, University of Brasilia (UnB), Brasilia 70910-900, Brazil)

  • Osvaldo Augusto Vasconcelos de Oliveira Lopes da Silva

    (Department of Political Science, University of Piauí, Teresina 64049-550, Brazil)

  • Wesly Jean

    (Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Brasília (UNB), Brasilia 70910-900, Brazil)

  • Raimundo Batista dos Santos Júnior

    (Department of Political Science, University of Piauí, Teresina 64049-550, Brazil)

Abstract

Poverty reduction is a complex global challenge where renewable energy emerges as a promising solution, particularly in resource-rich countries like Brazil. Renewable energy can enhance conditions in vulnerable communities without exacerbating climate change. This paper reviews the scientific literature on the role of renewable energy in alleviating energy poverty, focusing on Brazil and its global partnerships. Using the Web of Science database with the keywords poverty, renewable energy, and Brazil, this study analyzes 38 articles. The inclusion criteria were broad, focusing on the relationship between poverty in Brazil and renewable energy use. Keywords such as specific types of renewable energy (e.g., solar, wind) were excluded to avoid omitting important renewable sources. This review encompasses theoretical models, discourse analyses, case studies, and systematic reviews, addressing topics from rural electrification to socio-economic factors influencing sustainable energy adoption. Despite growing interest and international collaboration, research gaps remain, highlighting the need for increased academic engagement. The objective of this study is to address the existing gap in the literature concerning the impact of renewable energies on energy poverty in Brazil. Through a comprehensive review, this work maps current knowledge, identifies gaps, and highlights trends by integrating socio-economic analyses with technical assessments for a holistic perspective.

Suggested Citation

  • Eugenia Cornils Monteiro da Silva & Marcos Antonio Tavares Lira & Marcelo Carneiro Gonçalves & Osvaldo Augusto Vasconcelos de Oliveira Lopes da Silva & Wesly Jean & Raimundo Batista dos Santos Júnior, 2024. "The Role of Renewable Energies in Combating Poverty in Brazil: A Systematic Review," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(13), pages 1-23, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:16:y:2024:i:13:p:5584-:d:1425570
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Khanna, Rupali A. & Li, Yanfei & Mhaisalkar, Subodh & Kumar, Mahesh & Liang, Lim Jia, 2019. "Comprehensive energy poverty index: Measuring energy poverty and identifying micro-level solutions in South and Southeast Asia," Energy Policy, Elsevier, vol. 132(C), pages 379-391.
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    4. Onu, Uchenna Godswill & Silva, Giuseppe Scabello & Zambroni de Souza, Antonio Carlos & Bonatto, Benedito Donizeti & Ferreira da Costa, Vinicius Braga, 2022. "Integrated design of photovoltaic power generation plant with pumped hydro storage system and irrigation facility at the Uhuelem-Amoncha African community," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 198(C), pages 1021-1031.
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    7. Khan, Zeeshan & Haouas, Ilham & Trinh, Hai Hong & Badeeb, Ramez Abubakr & Zhang, Changyong, 2023. "Financial inclusion and energy poverty nexus in the era of globalization: Role of composite risk index and energy investment in emerging economies," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 204(C), pages 382-399.
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