Brazilian grid operator ONS forecasts a sharp drop in consumption during the Round of 16 match and is reinforcing operations to ensure grid stability. According to PV association ABSolar, the challenge lies not in a lack of information, but in the need to adapt the electrical system to an increasingly renewable energy mix.
Electricity demand on Brazil’s National Interconnected System (SIN) fell by 10.9% during the Brazilian national team’s FIFA World Cup victory over Paraguay on Friday. According to the National Electric System Operator (ONS), demand dropped by about 9.4 GW between 4:50 p.m. and 5:20 p.m., a pattern the operator says is typical during major sporting events.
The ONS expects an even steeper decline during Brazil’s Round of 16 match today, forecasting a 15% to 20% reduction in electricity demand because the game will take place during business hours. The operator said it has reinforced grid operations through enhanced monitoring, dispatch of fast-ramping power plants, and coordination with generators and transmission companies.
Bárbara Rubim, chair of the board at the Brazilian solar energy association ABSolar, said the phenomenon has been well understood for years. “The challenge is not a lack of information but adapting the system to a reality that has already changed.”
