Photovoltaic energy program in the state of Minas Gerais-Brazil

This paper describes the work done over in the field of photovoltaic technology in the State of Minas Gerais, from its R&D to the Rural Electrification Program. The analysis of the global solar radiation data (over 5 kWh/m/sup 2//day) has shown that photovoltaic systems can perform well all over the state, mainly in the north and northeast regions of the state. The potential for the utilisation of PV systems in Minas Gerais is large, mainly when considering the high number of consumers in rural remote areas that are not and cannot be supplied from CEMIG's grid in the immediate future or in the long term. As a consequence of the demonstration projects, which have shown that photovoltaics can perform well and be cost effective in rural areas, a Rural Electrification Program was launched. To support it a training program has been set up.