Desafios técnicos e ambientais na construção de redes de distribuição para a universalização da energia elétrica no Brasil: o papel do engenheiro de energia no planejamento sustentável

Abstract

The universalization of electricity access in Brazil represents an important milestone for the socioeconomic development of the population that, even in 2026, still suffers from the total or partial absence of electricity supply, a condition often associated with living in remote or hard-to-reach areas. This study aims to analyze the technical and environmental challenges involved in the expansion of electricity distribution networks, highlighting the role of the Energy Engineer as a strategic agent in the sustainable planning of this sector. The methodology adopted is based on a qualitative and exploratory approach, developed through a bibliographic review, analysis of electricity sector legislation, and case studies related to government programs, such as the Luz para Todos Program. The results indicate that the main technical obstacles are related to the country’s geographical and territorial adversities, electrical losses in distribution networks, and the integration of renewable energy sources into hybrid energy systems. Environmental challenges, on the other hand, are concentrated on the complexity of environmental licensing processes and the need to reduce the environmental impacts resulting from the implementation of electrical networks. It is concluded that the Energy Engineer has the technical capacity to act in energy planning aimed at the expansion of distribution networks, promoting actions that contribute to reducing technical and environmental challenges, mitigating impacts, and strengthening energy security.