INSTALLATION OF WIND POWER AND ESTIMATIVE OF ENVIRONMENTAL LOSSES IN A SECTOR OF THE WEST COAST OF CEARA, BRAZIL

Abstract

Brazil, which relies on hydroelectric power, has developed other sources of renewable energy, mainly wind power. The state of Cear, in the northeastern region, has a potential wind power of 26.2 GW; however, this form of energy production, when installed on coastal plain environments, creates social and environmental impacts Aiming to analyze this problem, this study provides an estimate of the environmental losses caused by this activity in the municipality of Acarau, west coast of Cear. We conducted field work, survey of documents, and analysis of satellite images. The study revealed negative effects such as the removal of mangrove vegetation, changes in morphologies of beaches and dismantling of coastal environmental dynamics. Sustainable development of this wind power, including economic, social and environmental metrics, is possible in an alternative location that would take advantage of the tabuleiros (flat uplands) where geomorphological stability is greater compared to the leeward of sand dunes.