Warmer winter causes increase in electricity consumption, economist warns

The high temperatures recorded so far during the winter are among the causes of the increase in electricity consumption so far.

In an interview with CNN Radio the researcher of the Climate Policy Initiative at PUC-RJ, Amanda Schutze, explained that, “with the heat, the air conditioners and fans are more used, not only in homes, but also by commerce and companies.”

“Electrical equipment ends up consuming more energy, simply because the ambient temperature is higher,” he added.

According to the Instituto Nacional de Meteorologia, the capital of the state of São Paulo, for example, experienced the hottest July since the beginning of the historical series of temperature measurements, in 1943.

Another important factor for the high consumption is the recovery of the commerce sector in relation to last year.

“Consumption increased 7% this semester compared to last year, due to the return of activities that were stopped or reduced by the pandemic, the commercial sector represents almost 20% of total consumption in Brazil.”

As a consequence of higher consumption, comes the most expensive electricity bill. “We know that it weighs heavily on the family budget, this high cost can harm an already difficult time of post-pandemic recovery.”

According to the expert, the ideal would be the rational consumption of energy “because it reduces the need to expand the energy supply, and this reduction must be guided by long-term planning, with constant concern, not only in a supply crisis.”

*Produced by Camila Olivo

Source: CNN Brasil

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