INCREASING OCCURRENCE OF EXTREME WEATHER EVENTS AND EVIDENCE OF THE VULNERABILITY OF ENERGY PLANTS IN SOUTHERN BRAZIL

Abstract

The work aims to analyze and assess the vulnerabilities - of areas, regions, environments, structures and populations - to disasters and losses as a result of extreme events, associated with climate change. The study is restricted to the territory of the state of Rio Grande do Sul (RS) and, in particular, its renewable electricity generation infrastructure, focusing on the defining characteristics of the potential use of hydro, wind and solar resources. Methodologically, a historical/analytical review of the sequence of implementation and consolidation of the production infrastructure of the three energy matrices is made, as well as the frequency and intensity with which extreme events began to occur. As a result, it is proven how much these energy infrastructures, more and more present in RS, and indicated from the perspective of available technologies and under the cost-benefit screen, have been presenting vulnerabilities to recent extreme weather phenomena. Some recommendations are presented by way of conclusion, with the consideration of the variables "climate change/extreme events" in the planning and implementation processes of these facilities, aiming at reducing losses of all kinds.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56238/sevened2024.041-029