COP30 discusses energy transition, but distributed generation remains out of the spotlight.

The UN Conference of the Parties on climate change, COP30, held in Belém (PA), became the stage for one of the most urgent discussions of our time: the energy transition. The event seeks to consolidate a global roadmap to gradually abandon fossil fuels and migrate to clean sources such as solar, wind and biofuels.

Brazil, the host of the conference, proposed leading this movement, with Vice President Geraldo Alckmin advocating for a tripling of renewable energy and a doubling of energy efficiency by 2030.

Despite its ambitious rhetoric, the country faces contradictions: while proposing bold goals, it continues to invest in oil exploration, including in the Amazon.

Nevertheless, Brazil is recognized by the International Energy Agency as a leader in clean energy, thanks to its history with biofuels and a predominantly renewable electricity matrix.

Distributed generation: energy close to the consumer.

However, a key theme for climate resilience is absent from the central discussions at COP30: distributed generation. In simple terms, this refers to the production of electricity close to the point of consumption, such as solar panels in homes, small wind turbines, or biomass systems in communities. Unlike large centralized power plants, this generation occurs "at the point of use," meaning where the energy is consumed.

This approach is strategic in extreme event scenarios, such as floods or storms, which can damage transmission networks and leave millions without power. With distributed generation, the dependence on long transmission lines decreases, and energy can continue to be supplied locally, preventing the collapse of essential services and the economy.

Distributed energy resources and smart grids

Distributed generation relies on OERs (distributed energy resources) — technologies such as solar panels, batteries, turbines, and storage systems that operate in a decentralized manner. When integrated with microgrids, sensors, and smart grids, these systems enable efficient, secure, and adaptable energy management.

Furthermore, this model promotes consumer empowerment, allowing consumers to generate their own energy, store it, and even trade surplus energy with other consumers, creating a more democratic and dynamic market. It's a silent revolution that transforms the consumer into the protagonist of the energy transition.

Narratives that protect oligopolies and ignore resilience.

Unfortunately, in Brazil, there is a persistent—and misguided—narrative that distributed generation harms the poorest. This rhetoric, often promoted by sectors that defend energy oligopolies, ignores the potential for inclusion and security that distributed generation offers.

Instead of protecting vested interests under the guise of equity, the country should invest in modernizing distribution networks, in technical training, and in public policies that make access to distributed generation viable for all.

The energy transition is global, but Brazil's challenges are internal.

COP30 reinforces that the energy transition is a global endeavor. However, Brazil needs to confront its own dilemmas: prioritizing resilience and social well-being above the interests of investors and governments.

The shift in the energy model cannot be merely an international showcase—it must be a profound, inclusive, and strategic transformation capable of protecting society from the climate changes that are already underway.

The opinions and information expressed are the sole responsibility of the author and do not necessarily represent the official position of the author. Canal Solar.