ONS faces 25 GW ramp after Brazil game and exit from solar generation

The end of the match between Brazil and Japan, this Monday (29), caused a strong resumption of energy consumption in the country. In just over two hours after the final whistle, demand for electricity increased by more than 25 GW, just as around 50 GW of solar generation gradually left the system as the sun set.

This 25 GW ramp is equivalent to the power of the Itaipu and Belo Monte plants combined. During the game, which started at 2pm, energy consumption fell to levels close to those recorded around 6am. The behavior reflected the paralysis of part of economic and domestic activities while millions of Brazilians watched the team's match. During the interval, there was a temporary increase in demand, followed by a further drop during the second half.

With the game ending at 4pm, the scenario changed quickly. The simultaneous resumption of activities caused demand for electricity to jump from approximately 66.7 GW to approximately 91.8 GW by early evening.

At the same time, photovoltaic generation decreased rapidly with sunset. Throughout the afternoon, around 50 GW of solar generation left the system, requiring other sources, such as hydroelectric and thermoelectric plants, to take over meeting the increase in consumption in a short space of time.

Earlier, during the match, the ONS (National Electric System Operator) confirmed that it had restricted around 20 GW of renewable generation. The measure was necessary due to the high distributed generation and exceptionally low consumption recorded during the game. The objective was to preserve the stability of the SIN (National Interconnected System) and guarantee the continuity of energy supply.

The match ended with Brazil beating Japan 2-1 and was played at a time considered particularly challenging for the operation of the electrical system. Unlike previous World Cup games, held at night, the match took place during the period of maximum solar generation. As a result, the resumption of consumption coincided with the rapid reduction in photovoltaic production, making the system's operation more complex.

Source: CNN