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The Diffusion of Solar Photovoltaics in Brazil: A Technological Innovation System Approach

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Proceedings of IDEAS 2019 (IDEAS 2018)

Abstract

One of the most significant challenges nowadays is the transition to more sustainable energy models. In this context, renewable energies stand out, among them, solar photovoltaic (PV) technology has evidenced accelerated growth in the last years. However, Brazil has a robust foreign dependence on the required components for the manufacturing of PV modules which might jeopardize the future growth of this energy source in the future. This paper aims at understanding the critical processes behind the PV supply chain and at assessing its performance using the ‘functions of technological innovation systems’ - fTIS approach. Through the fTIS, it is possible to diagnose the functioning of the system and the linkage between several influencing actors and networks. Therefore, the paper identifies barriers and drivers for the development of a PV domestic supply chain, whereby there are a large amount of PV installation projects, with low or no participation in the intermediate processes between metallurgical silicon and module manufacturing. The technology diffusion is recent and faces several tax obstacles to its development. However, the growth of PV systems projects hiring and the increasing of panel installers may represent an expansion in this industry participation.

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Correspondence to Mauricio Uriona-Maldonado .

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Uriona-Maldonado, M., Caliari, T., de Souza Costa, L.H., Vaz, C.R. (2021). The Diffusion of Solar Photovoltaics in Brazil: A Technological Innovation System Approach. In: Pereira, L., Carvalho, J., Krus, P., Klofsten, M., De Negri, V. (eds) Proceedings of IDEAS 2019. IDEAS 2018. Smart Innovation, Systems and Technologies, vol 198. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-55374-6_37

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-55374-6_37

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  • Publisher Name: Springer, Cham

  • Print ISBN: 978-3-030-55373-9

  • Online ISBN: 978-3-030-55374-6

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