The Role of Renewable Energies in Combating Poverty in Brazil: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Poverty reduction is a complex global challenge where renewable energy emerges as a promising solution, particularly in resource-rich countries like Brazil. Renewable energy can enhance conditions in vulnerable communities without exacerbating climate change. This paper reviews the scientific literature on the role of renewable energy in alleviating energy poverty, focusing on Brazil and its global partnerships. Using the Web of Science database with the keywords poverty, renewable energy, and Brazil, this study analyzes 38 articles. The inclusion criteria were broad, focusing on the relationship between poverty in Brazil and renewable energy use. Keywords such as specific types of renewable energy (e.g., solar, wind) were excluded to avoid omitting important renewable sources. This review encompasses theoretical models, discourse analyses, case studies, and systematic reviews, addressing topics from rural electrification to socio-economic factors influencing sustainable energy adoption. Despite growing interest and international collaboration, research gaps remain, highlighting the need for increased academic engagement. The objective of this study is to address the existing gap in the literature concerning the impact of renewable energies on energy poverty in Brazil. Through a comprehensive review, this work maps current knowledge, identifies gaps, and highlights trends by integrating socio-economic analyses with technical assessments for a holistic perspective.

1. Introduction

The United Nations’ 2030 Agenda comprises 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), among which SDG 7 aims “to ensure reliable, sustainable, modern, and affordable access to energy for all” [1], while SDG 1 proposes the comprehensive eradication of poverty, encompassing all its manifestations, including extreme poverty. This is one of the main challenges in advancing sustainable development. The connection between these two goals is evident, considering that the absence or limitation of access to electricity can generate a chain of adversities that directly affect the quality of life of communities and perpetuate the cycle of poverty.

Despite numerous initiatives and the substantial investment of financial resources, access to energy remains a distant reality for millions of people around the world [2]. The International Energy Agency (IEA)’s 2023 report shows that 760 million people worldwide lack access to electricity [3]. Thus, the persistence of this energy gap highlights the need for more effective strategies and an integrated approach that considers the socio-economic and environmental complexities inherent in the challenge of universalizing and improving access to energy. The synergy between SDGs 7 and 1 is therefore key to achieving truly sustainable and inclusive development.

In Brazil, energy poverty affects not only access to energy but also the ability of households to afford energy costs [4]. Research published by Bezerra et al. [5] shows that around 11% of Brazilian households suffer from energy poverty. This research and others indicate that most of these homes are in low-income municipalities [6].

Although Brazil had a high Human Development Index (HDI) classification in 2021, with a value of 0.76, some regions of the country do not have such favorable values [7]. This reality is even worse in the small municipalities in the country, suggesting a latent need for studies to reduce poverty in these regions.

In this context, the concept of energy poverty has been developing over the years, demonstrating significant interest in the theme, as evidenced by this bibliometric review. To understand this subject, it is necessary to conduct a detailed search in the relevant literature, and the use of tools such as bibliometric reviews has become useful for preparing high-quality scientific works. This enables the identification of methodological paths to achieve objectives, avoid mistakes, observe limitations in the application of models, and elucidate different points of view and ideas [8].

The role of renewable energies in combating poverty has been a focal point of numerous studies, yet the comprehensive impact of these energies on socio-economic factors in Brazil remains underexplored. This study aims to bridge this gap by providing a detailed bibliometric and bibliographic review of the literature on renewable energy and poverty alleviation, with a specific focus on Brazil. Utilizing the Web of Science database, this research analyzes 38 articles to map the current state of knowledge, identify gaps, and highlight emerging trends. The integration of socio-economic analyses with technical assessments offers a holistic perspective that is often missing in previous studies. This approach not only enhances the understanding of how renewable energies can address energy poverty but also provides valuable insights for future research and policy development. Additionally, this study aims to elucidate the nature of international cooperation in this field by analyzing the characteristics and research focuses of the articles surveyed.

In this context, the question problem of this paper is as follows: “How does the scientific literature approach the relationship between poverty and the use of renewable energies in Brazil, and what are the main themes, trends, and gaps observed in this relationship”?

2. Theoretical Background

2.1. Energy Poverty

According to data presented in [9], it is estimated that 13% of the world’s population lives without electricity, although access to energy has accelerated since 2018, with an increase of 118 million per year. However, this progress occurs unevenly and without the capacity to address global issues. Urban slum areas, low-income communities, and rural or remote regions are usually the most affected by these problems [4,10,11,12,13,14].

Several studies [4,12,13,15] show that the energy issue becomes even more critical in urban areas, particularly in socially vulnerable areas, where the population’s ability to afford energy costs is challenged. These vulnerable areas are the same ones that suffer the greatest impact during adverse weather events.

In the Brazilian scenario, two national programs played a key role in promoting access to electricity for the population. The first of these is the Light for All Program, established by Federal Decree 4.873/2003, which aims to enable broad electricity supply to the population [16,17,18]. The Social Tariff for Electricity, created by Federal Law No. 12.212 of 20 January 2010, guarantees a discount on the first 220 kWh consumed monthly by customers considered low-income, in addition to exempting them from taxes related to the Energy Development Account (CDE) and supporting the Incentive Program for Alternative Energy Sources known as PROINFA [19].

Some organizations, such as the United Nations (UN) and the International Energy Agency (IEA), seek to ensure universal energy availability for communities through projects and initiatives but have not yet achieved their goals [18,19].

These initiatives are not sufficient to solve this problem, as the use of electricity involves restricting the performance of basic activities such as communication, water supply and basic sanitation, food, commercial activities, lighting, and personal activities, among others, due to the lack of sufficient energy sources with the necessary quality and quantity [20,21].

Much of the non-consumption of energy is mainly linked to the price of electricity, which represents a significant cost for low-income families. And in some places, the problem of resource scarcity ends up being neglected on political agendas [22,23,24].

On the other hand, the type of energy supplied can generate local and global impacts that contribute to social disparities and expose populations to unfavorable climatic conditions and risks of phenomena that cause disasters.

Thus, in Brazil, due to the abundance of natural resources, renewable energies seem to be the most sensible choice considering the criteria of sustainable development, with respect to the environmental, social, and economic pillars. However, it is important to note that energy policies must carefully balance the taxation and costs associated with both renewable and non-renewable energy sources to avoid exacerbating energy poverty.

Projects that seek to provide low-carbon, high-quality, low-cost energy to families living in vulnerable situations are increasingly common in academia [25,26,27]. In paper [28], the author points out that among the new forms of renewable energies, solar energy is foreseen among the twelve productive systems that can contribute to the development of the country and increase Brazil’s GDP (Gross Domestic Product).

Another work [29] focused on developing a mathematical model to evaluate sustainable regional development by considering economic, demographic, and environmental interactions. The model visualized the effects of various energy policies and interventions on two different regions, demonstrating the significance of reliable energy access for regional economic development.

2.2. Renewable Energy and Poverty in Brazil

The solar and wind resources in Brazil are abundant, and the technology for the use of photovoltaic solar energy is increasingly available. Estimates for the use of this energy in Brazil are favorable, although they entail a high initial investment; however, they offer savings over time [29,30]. In Figure 1, there is a map showing the distribution of solar energy in Brazil, highlighting some states which have a high solar energy potential [31], and Figure 2 presents Brazil’s wind potential in relation to annual wind power flow [32].

In Brazil, the most common use of renewable energy is hydroelectric power, but watersheds are recognized as vulnerable ecosystems due to land use and occupation. This underscores the importance of adopting a renewable energy mix adapted to local resources and avoiding fossil fuels to minimize climate impacts and contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals [33].

Thus, this work seeks to identify how this theme has been addressed in the literature, which journals have more publications, which countries are more interested in this theme, which keywords best describe these related themes, what gaps exist in studies in this area that generate opportunities for research development, and improvements in public actions aimed at addressing this problem. Additionally, it aims to explore how these results are related to Brazil.

The focus of this work involves analyzing the occurrence of studies relating poverty to the use of renewable energies in Brazil. A new analysis is carried out, focusing on states where many of the municipalities have a low or very low Human Development Index (HDI).

Through this type of review, it is possible to identify an increase in academic research, indicating a rise in its importance. Another aspect involves decision-making correlated with research results, such as identifying the demand for articles and projects aimed at the development of specific regions.

2.3. The Importance of the Poverty Issue for Developing and Developed Countries

The impact of poverty in developed and developing countries is an extremely relevant issue that presents challenges and implications in different contexts depending on each situation. Poverty is not restricted to the lack of or limited access to energy but also to the deprivation of health services, basic sanitation, education, and economic opportunities. In developing countries, poverty generally has many dimensions. And according to Malaquias et al. [34], access to energy is essential for economic and human development, since the lack of such access deprives people of material goods and opportunities that are fundamental for development.

According to Gasparatos et al. [35], biofuel production in sub-Saharan African countries is a potential solution for rural development and poverty reduction. However, there are obstacles to this strategy, such as competition between biofuel and food production, which can increase food insecurity.

In developed countries, poverty is less frequent but still prevalent and is often associated with economic and social inequality. Even in advanced economies, there are populations facing energy poverty, which has a negative impact on their health and well-being. Policies focused on reducing inequalities and improving access to basic services are necessary to combat poverty in this context.

For both types of countries, public policies must use integrated approaches that address the multiple dimensions of poverty. This involves not only increasing access to renewable energy but also encouraging environmentally friendly farming methods and strengthening health and education infrastructures in developing countries, as well as reducing social inequality.

International collaboration, with the transfer of sustainable technologies and support for the development of local capacities, is essential for promoting sustainable development and reducing poverty globally [34].

In addition to the SDG 1 mentioned in the text, there are other specific targets in the UN’s 2030 Agenda to ensure that people have access to resources and opportunities that promote a dignified and productive life. Access to education, for example, is a crucial goal for breaking the cycle of poverty [36].

Brazil is currently developing actions focused on reducing extreme poverty in accordance with SDG 1. In 2018, Brazil’s extreme poverty rate was reduced to 6.5%, but with the COVID-19 pandemic, it grew again to 12.8% in 2021 [37]. This demonstrates the need for continuous and adaptable policies to address emerging challenges and maintain progress in poverty reduction.

Some indicators such as the proportion of the population living below the poverty line, the rate of completion of secondary and primary education, and the share of renewable energies in the domestic energy supply are fundamental for monitoring progress in achieving the sustainable development goals [37].

Access to energy from renewable sources not only reduces poverty but also promotes environmental sustainability and economic and technological development, which is in line with SDG 7 of the 2030 Agenda, which aims to ensure universal, reliable, and modern access to affordable energy services, thus enabling countries to achieve inclusive and sustainable economic growth [38].

3. Materials and Methods

The use of bibliometrics as a tool for analyzing and understanding the structure and development process of a research field is increasingly common [39]. This type of research not only offers a comprehensive view but also analyzes important topics in specific areas of knowledge [40,41]. Typically, a bibliometric review follows well-defined stages, including data collection, processing, visualization, and analysis [42,43].

Bibliometric reviews help understand trends in the literature and evaluate the impact of specific topics, offering powerful tools for identifying prominent authors and institutions in each scientific field. Given the vast availability of articles addressing various topics in the academic literature, limiting reading to specific works without prior comprehensive analysis, such as that conducted in a bibliometric review, exposes the author to the risk of adopting biased opinions based on a limited group of citations. This can potentially accept as truth factors questionable by science. Such an approach may result in the omission of widely cited and referenced sources, compromising the integrity and representativeness of the knowledge base used to substantiate conclusions and arguments impartially.

Additionally, gaps in studies and analyses in the literature can be identified on relevant topics like the one explored in this work. Another important aspect of this analysis is the possibility of identifying the most common terms related to the keywords used, as well as the grouping of authors, countries, journals, citations, and keywords, among other information about the articles identified in the search [44].

For the development of this work, some ideas from the meta-analytical approach by Mariano and Rocha [45] were used, which consists of three stages: research preparation, data presentation and interrelation, and detailed integrative model validation through evidence. To ensure transparency and methodological robustness, this study adopted the File S1—PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) method, strictly following the 27-item checklist and flow diagram recommended by the PRISMA guidelines (Supplementary Material: Flowchart and Checklist). All stages of the process, from defining the search strategy to the selection and extraction of data, were documented in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, ensuring a systematic and detailed approach [46].

The Web of Science database was chosen for its international recognition and the impact of its indexed journals. This choice allowed for a detailed analysis of articles using specialized tools, with consultations conducted from October 2023 to April 2024. The keywords “renewable energy”, “poverty”, and “Brazil” were used, combined with the Boolean operator AND, resulting in the identification of 38 articles. The criteria for reading and analyzing the found articles were the possibility of access and adherence to the studied topic. Keywords such as specific types of renewable energy (e.g., solar, wind) were excluded to avoid omitting important renewable sources across different regions of the country.

The criteria for excluding articles included the following: (i) content duplication: Two identified articles, [47,48], were excluded due to content duplication, despite being written in different languages. This duplication was detected through a comparative text analysis, which revealed the redundancy of the information. The presence of repeated content does not significantly contribute to the diversity and depth of the literature review, thus justifying their exclusion. (ii) Only articles written in English were considered to maintain consistency and ease of analysis. This language restriction ensures that the reviewers can thoroughly understand and critically evaluate the content without potential misinterpretations arising from language barriers. (iii) Adherence to theme: The article by Griswold [49] was excluded due to its lack of adherence to the central theme of the research. This article investigated the relationship between alcoholism and mortality, a topic that, while relevant in other contexts, did not align with the focus of this study. Including articles outside the specific scope could dilute the accuracy and relevance of this review’s conclusions. (iv) Incomplete access: Another article, identified as [50], was excluded due to incomplete access. This article, sourced from a conference, lacked full accessibility, preventing a comprehensive assessment of its quality and relevance. The decision to exclude such articles helps preserve the integrity and reliability of this literature review, ensuring that only fully accessible and directly relevant studies are included.

In this bibliometric review, we initially used the keyword “poverty” in the Web of Science database, which returned 121,910 records. We refined the search by adding the keyword “renewable energy” with the Boolean operator AND, resulting in 1577 records. Subsequently, by including the third keyword, “Brazil”, using the same Boolean operator and applying the search in all fields, we obtained 38 records.

From these 38 records, we proceeded with a content analysis conducted by two independent reviewers. During this analysis, it was identified that 2 articles had duplicate content. Additionally, one article had limited access, preventing its full inclusion in the review. Another article was excluded due to its lack of relevance to the proposed research theme.

This stage of refinement and content analysis was essential to ensure the relevance and quality of the selected articles for this bibliometric review, ensuring that the final data accurately reflected the intersection of the themes of poverty, renewable energy, and the Brazilian context.

No additional relevant variables were identified in the process. The refinement work was conducted by two of this article’s authors. This research is funded by two agencies: FAPDF (Fundação de Apoio à Pesquisa do Distrito Federal) and FAPEPI (Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado do Piauí). No assumptions were made regarding missing or unclear information, as there were no such instances in this study.

To assess the risk of bias in the included studies, we used a systematic approach involving two independent reviewers. Each reviewer independently assessed all the articles for the possibility of bias, ensuring objectivity and reducing the likelihood of subjective influence. No automation tools were employed during this process. Additionally, funding for this research presents no conflict of interest in the topic. There were no cases of missing or unclear information in the studies analyzed, and no other assumptions regarding the data were necessary.

We used the Bibliometrix tool, an R language package for bibliometric analysis, to assess the reliability and relevance of the body of evidence. Bibliometrix allowed us to carry out comprehensive analyses of publications, such as identifying citation patterns, co-occurrence of keywords, collaboration networks between authors, and the temporal evolution of publications. These analyses help to identify trends, gaps, and the robustness of the evidence present in the literature.

For each outcome analyzed in this review, the effect measures used were primarily descriptive statistics such as mean differences and risk ratios to compare the impacts of renewable energy projects on poverty alleviation. These measures allowed for the assessment of the magnitude and direction of effects across different studies. This approach facilitated the comparison of diverse interventions and their effectiveness in reducing poverty through renewable energy initiatives.

Two independent reviewers were selected to analyze all the articles in the sample to validate the process. During the analysis stage, the Bibliometrix library in the R language was employed to conduct bibliometric analyses, allowing for a comprehensive visualization of patterns and trends in the literature. The results were tabulated and presented graphically to make it easier to understand the relationships between authors, references, and keywords. Thematic analyses were carried out to identify the main themes and research gaps. As meta-analysis was not applied due to the heterogeneity of the included studies, we focused on descriptive methods and content analysis to interpret the data. This procedure ensured a robust and coherent synthesis of the results, providing valuable insights into the impact of renewable energies on poverty mitigation in Brazil.

The visualization of the results in this review was performed using various graphical representations. These include charts showing annual scientific production, a three-field plot correlating authors, references, and keywords, and the identification of the most relevant authors. Additionally, we present a collaboration map of authors, a word cloud of the articles, a global cooperation map, and a thematic map of documents illustrating the degree of relevance and development of different themes. A classification table of the research works is also included to separate articles by their classification, such as literature reviews, case studies, discursive analyses, and model development. These visual tools facilitate a comprehensive and accessible presentation of the data, highlighting key patterns and trends in the research on renewable energy and poverty alleviation in Brazil.

To explore possible causes of heterogeneity among study results, we employed subgroup analysis and comparative assessments. Subgroup analysis involved categorizing the studies based on key variables such as geographic region, type of renewable energy source, and socio-economic context. This allowed us to identify patterns and differences within subgroups that might contribute to variations in outcomes. Additionally, we conducted a detailed examination of methodological differences, such as study design and sample size, to understand their impact on the results. These methods enabled a comprehensive evaluation of the factors contributing to heterogeneity, ensuring a more nuanced interpretation of the data.

Subsequently, a thorough reading of the articles was conducted, and they were classified into categories such as theoretical model development, discursive analyses, case studies, and systematic reviews. A summary of each researched work was then created, focusing on the main themes relevant to this study.

In preparing the data for synthesis, we implemented several methods to ensure accuracy and consistency. First, data cleaning processes were applied to address any inconsistencies and to verify the completeness of the datasets. In instances where summary statistics were missing, we contacted the original authors to obtain the necessary information. When data conversions were required, such as standardizing units of measurement or converting currencies, we employed appropriate statistical methods to maintain uniformity across studies.

Among the limitations of the work is the choice of only one reference base but with the possibility of understanding and summarizing how the identified articles can contribute to the evolution of the fight against poverty using renewable energies.

4. Results

In this section, the results of this bibliometric and bibliographic review from the initial search using the keywords “poverty”, “renewable energies”, and “Brazil” will be presented. Following this presentation, a comparative analysis will be conducted to identify similarities and differences among the researched articles.

Figure 3 is a PRISMA flow diagram that describes the search and selection process of studies for this systematic review. Initially, 121,910 records were identified in the Web of Science database using the keyword “poverty.” The first refinement of the search was conducted using the Boolean operator AND with the addition of the keyword “renewable energy”, resulting in 1577 records. Next, a further refinement was made by adding the keyword “Brazil” with the same Boolean operator, returning 38 records [46].

After obtaining these 38 records, exclusion criteria were applied to ensure the relevance and quality of the articles. The first exclusion criterion was content duplication, which resulted in the removal of one article. The second criterion was the relevance to the theme, leading to the exclusion of one more article. The third criterion was incomplete access, resulting in the removal of another article. After these exclusions, the final sample consisted of 35 articles that were read and subjected to content analysis. This process of refinement and analysis was essential to ensure that the final data accurately reflected the intersection of the themes of poverty, renewable energy, and the Brazilian context [46].

4.1. Bibliometric Review

A summary of the search results for the keywords in Web of Science is shown in Figure 4. A total of 38 publications [4,11,34,35,36,37,38,43,44,47,48,49,50,51,52,53,54,55,56,57,58,59,60,61,62,63,64,65,66,67,68,69,70,71,72,73,74,75,76] were identified from 27 sources, spanning from 1998 to 2023, with an average growth rate of 5.7%. These studies involved 585 authors and 2165 references and utilized 151 keywords across the articles.

In Figure 4, in the panorama of the scientific literature, it is notable that there is a gap in publications utilizing the three keywords in years prior to 1998, and the annual growth rate of publications on this subject was 5.7%. It is interesting to note that the problem of poverty and its association with the use of energy dates to well before 1998.

The global scientific production is depicted in Figure 5, correlating the number of articles with the respective years. It can be observed that publications began to increase from the year 2008, with the peak occurring between 2018 and 2022, indicating a heightened interest in the association of these themes during this period. However, the growth is still limited when compared to the necessity for energy access for a significant portion of the population to alleviate poverty in a country.

In Figure 6, a graph depicting three fields—authors, references, and keywords—is presented. From this figure, it is evident that the most cited keywords in these articles were “energy poverty”, “renewable energies”, and “Brazil.” Additionally, the most frequent authors are Bonatto, Costa, and Onu, who in some cases published papers together.

In Figure 6, the terms biofuels, sustainable, renewable energy and energy poverty are word widely used to relate these three topics, and, in addition to the search words that can be seen in the sequence, Brazil and distributed generation were part of the database search, so it would be likely that they existed in the selected articles.

In Figure 7, the most notable authors of the selected articles are presented, with classification based on the number of studies published on this theme. Authors with the highest number of publications on the subject were Bonatto, Coelho, and D’Aquino, each with three articles.

Figure 8 depicts the authors’ collaboration map; wherein distinct groups form isolated islands without intersecting relationships. This observation suggests the formation of knowledge clusters that reinforce each other within this subject, rather than seeking a broader analysis with diverse perspectives. Three main collaboration groups were identified: the Blue Group consisting of Bonatto, Onu, and Costa; the Green Group comprising 13 authors, with Renzaho and Carvalho being the most frequent; and the Red Group represented by Coelho and Sanches Pereira.

A brief review of the articles will be presented below (Figure 8), and a classification of the types of articles will be made. Three main collaboration groups were identified: the first, more robust with thirteen authors; the second, consisting of three authors; and the third, comprising two authors.

In the word cloud (Figure 9), the most frequent word was “renewable energy”, as it was one of the search words used in the articles, and it indicates, using the three words, that this is a central theme. The second most frequent word was “consumption”, as poverty often leads to a significant reduction in consumption by a large portion of the population.

Both “power” and “consumption” feature prominently, indicating an interest in analyzing energy consumption and generation capacity in the studies carried out; this suggests that the availability of renewable energy is an aspect addressed in these studies, as solutions adapted to geographical and socio-economic conditions must meet the needs of the population (Figure 9).

The words “wind” and “rural electrification” suggest a high incidence of articles dealing with wind energy and the application of these systems in rural communities; this can be seen in the abstracts of the articles.

Figure 10 illustrates the world map of collaboration, where the intensity of the color corresponds to the number of publications, and the number of collaborations between countries is represented by the lines connecting them. Evaluating the social structure of global coverage of a given scientific theme is crucial. This structure is assessed by the number of publications on the subject, and collaboration networks are established through publications involving authors from different countries.

With one of the search words being “Brazil”, it is likely that the country has the most publications on the subject. Other countries with intense colors on the map include South Africa, Sweden, China, India, England, Japan, the United States, and Australia.

From the thirty-eight articles analyzed, the main locations of thirty-five articles could be identified: seventeen were focused on Brazil and its various regions, eight had global applications, two were based in Latin America, one in the BRICS countries (Brazil, China, India, Mexico, and Russia), one in China, one in Guinea-Bissau, one in India, one in Malaysia and Indonesia, one in India, Pakistan, and Tanzania, one in Nigeria, and one in New Zealand.

In the Clustering by Coupling analysis using keywords and references, seven clusters and their respective frequencies were identified. These clusters include the following:

• Consumption and cointegration (5);
• Agenda and analysis (7);
• Consumption and wind (8);
• Transesterification and acid (2);
• Grid rural electrification and hybrid (4);
• Buildings and cities (3);
• Clean development mechanism and CDM (2).

In the thematic map (Figure 11), Keywords Plus was utilized, enabling the identification of different themes within a given domain. Centrality indicates the importance of the theme in the entire domain, while density serves as a measure of the theme’s development. Therefore, emerging themes or topics of significant interest in the area are positioned in the rightmost quadrant and higher up. In this study, these themes include electricity generation, renewable energy systems, and rural electrification; power, wind, and rural electrification; and renewable energy, feasibility, and models. The positioning of other subjects can help identify more mature topics or even gaps in the study area, depending on their location on the map.

The heterogeneity observed in the study results was mainly attributable to variations in geographical regions, types of renewable energy sources, and socio-economic contexts. Subgroup analysis was employed to categorize the studies based on these main variables, which helped to identify patterns and differences within the subgroups that could contribute to variations in the results. In addition, methodological differences, such as study design and sample size, were examined to understand their impact on the results. These methods allowed for a comprehensive assessment of the factors contributing to heterogeneity, ensuring a more detailed interpretation of the data.

4.2. Literature Review

Of the 38 articles obtained from the search, 35 were included in this analysis. The types of work were classified according to

Table 1. Classification of the research works.

Classification	Number of Jobs	Authors
Model development	4	[11,20,56,57]
Discussion and analysis	9	[37,50,58,59,60,61,62,63,64]
Case studies	10	[39,47,52,53,54,55,65,66,68,69]
Literature reviews	11	[35,38,51,67,70,72,73,75,77,78,79]

. The classification for this study consisted of 11 literature reviews, followed by 10 case studies, discussions, and analyses, and finally, the development of models. Out of the thirty-five articles consulted, only two had no significant relationship with the theme studied. No articles like this study were found, highlighting the novelty of this research. The articles were reviewed by two independent reviewers to avoid bias.

4.2.1. Principal Findings and Contributions

The bibliometric review identified 38 relevant articles, revealing a growing interest in the intersection of renewable energy and poverty alleviation. The key findings indicate that renewable energy projects, particularly in solar and wind energy, have significantly improved energy access and economic conditions in vulnerable communities across Brazil. This study also highlights the critical role of international collaborations and interdisciplinary research in advancing this field. The thematic analysis of the articles shows that while there is a substantial body of work focusing on technical and economic aspects, there is a notable gap in research addressing the socio-economic impacts of renewable energy projects. This study contributes to filling this gap by providing a comprehensive review that integrates these dimensions, thus offering a more complete understanding of the potential of renewable energies to combat poverty.

4.2.2. Articles on Model Development

Studies focused on the development of models for the energy sector have adopted quantitative approaches, exploring the interaction between technological innovation, environmental quality, and energy poverty. For instance, using global data, a model was developed to assess energy poverty and suggest public policies. The analysis highlighted that in China, factors such as fiscal decentralization and national risks can exacerbate energy poverty, while economic growth and investment in renewables and innovation are key to mitigating it [56]. Other research has underscored the significance of energy as a crucial factor in reducing economic inequalities, demonstrating this through the application of a model in two distinct regions [20].

Furthermore, the implementation of a photovoltaic energy system in a deprived rural community has been demonstrated to be not only effective in generating energy but also as an additional source of income for the families involved [11].

Finally, the Brazilian experience was leveraged to assess the potential of a biodiesel program in Guinea-Bissau, highlighting positive impacts such as poverty reduction and improved food security for smallholder farmers [57].

4.2.3. Articles on Discussion and Analysis

The study conducted by Khan et al. [58] examined data from emerging countries including Brazil, China, Russia, and Mexico. It analyzed the interaction between financial inclusion and energy poverty in these economies and concluded that financial inclusion and investments in energy can reduce energy poverty.

Similarly, the research by Koengkan, Poveda, and Fuinhas [60] suggests that globalization has a positive impact on the diffusion of renewable energies in 10 Latin American countries. Utilizing an autoregressive-distributed panel with data from 1980 to 2014, their findings can aid policymakers in combating energy poverty.

Supporting this perspective, Goldemberg and Coelho [61] discuss the essential role of renewable energies, especially biomass, in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. The authors express concern about the traditional unsustainable use of biomass like firewood and advocate for the utilization of sustainable biomass, just like Ramos [59] who analyzed the use of biodiesel in Brazil.

Neri et al. [62] provide empirical evidence on the role of financial inclusion, renewable energy, globalization, income, human capital, and energy poverty, further contributing to the discourse on this theme.

Swift-Hook’s work [63] outlines various benefits of renewable energies, including the reduction in global warming and the potential for achieving energy independence, particularly through wind energy. The study advocates for the development of energy strategies to fulfill broad economic and security objectives.

Conversely, Zorzo et al. [36] analyzed a Brazilian indicator for each Sustainable Development Goal, identifying progress or setbacks. They suggest that future studies could evaluate a set of indicators or all indicators within one of the seventeen targets. One issue raised is that although there has been substantial growth in the availability of energy due to renewable energies, the reduction in poverty has not been significant.

On a different note, the work by Camargo, Alvarez, and Baveye [64] primarily focuses on the evolution of Brazilian soil. While it touches on environmental and social issues, including renewable energies, food production, and water quality, it diverges from the main theme of the other works.

Similarly, Griswold et al. [49] primarily addresses the social effects of alcohol consumption, with poverty consequences presented as a cross-cutting theme. Thus, it deviates somewhat from the main theme of the other studies.

4.2.4. Articles on Case Studies

The following are summaries of the case studies identified in this research: Cunha et al. [47] explored the potential of solar energy in Brazil for poverty reduction and sustainable development. They emphasized a pilot project in Juazeiro, Bahia, which saw a significant impact on residents’ income following the implementation of a photovoltaic system.

Pereira, Freitas, and da Silva [65] analyzed the impact of rural electrification in combating energy poverty in Brazil. The study presented empirical evidence supporting the positive contributions of electrification and emphasized the necessity of public policies for expanding access to electricity, particularly in rural areas. The research also showed a decrease in the percentage of people considered poor after rural electrification.

Costa, Capaz, and Bonatto [52] conducted a life cycle assessment of a photovoltaic system and a battery energy storage system in an indigenous community in Brazil. They suggested the development of public policies for sustainable energy production to combat energy poverty as a future orientation.

A study in India examined three community-based projects using solar energy, emphasizing their role in promoting social justice and improving energy services in rural areas. The research discussed the policy implications of community technological innovations in combating energy poverty [66].

Coelho et al. [54] explored the potential of biomass waste as a source of electricity generation in isolated areas of Brazil with a low Human Development Index (HDI). They highlighted how local energy solutions can reduce poverty and improve living conditions in isolated areas.

D’Aquino [55] identified significant potential for electricity production from organic waste in the favelas of São Paulo, Brazil. The study mapped the potential of bioenergy in urban slums, aiming to reduce poverty through waste-to-energy production.

Ridbgill et al. [68] examined the global potential for kinetic energy conversion (HEC) in rivers and its limitations. They proposed this technology for isolated communities without access to electricity, suggesting its political implications in understanding the energy potential of river flow to combat poverty.

Onu et al. [38] focused on developing an integrated, off-grid renewable energy system for a Nigerian community in isolated Africa. Their approach involved creating a hybrid system combining photovoltaic power generation and pumped hydroelectric storage to address energy poverty challenges in rural areas.

Jean, Brasil Junior, and Monteiro da Silva [4] studied the electrification of slums and discussed access to clean, affordable energy for poverty reduction. They analyzed a project in the Pilar community in Rio de Janeiro, which involved installing a photovoltaic plant.

Mori-Clement [69] investigated clean development projects and their long-term beneficial effects on poverty. Despite short-term benefits, the study found limited contributions to poverty reduction.

Onu, Souza, and Bonatto conducted a discussion on how small networks can contribute to access to water and food, promoting economic development and reducing poverty. The study was applied to a rural community in Nigeria [53].

4.2.5. Articles on Literature Reviews

The study conducted by Sanches and Tudeschini [67] examined energy consumption in Brazilian households from 2000 to 2014, highlighting regional differences and consumption trends over the years. The analysis focused on the impact of poverty alleviation on energy demand, particularly regarding cooking fuel choices.

Zubi et al. [70] addressed energy poverty by utilizing renewable energy, specifically domestic photovoltaic systems, to meet the basic energy needs of developing regions within the Earth’s Solar Belt.

An analysis of the relationship between energy, development, and sustainability in Latin America was conducted by consulting 93 energy sector companies from 2012 to 2017. The study identified inequalities in energy access among Latin American countries, emphasizing the necessity for sustainable energy solutions [70].

Jayed’s study [51] explored the potential of biodiesel in Malaysia and Indonesia as an alternative fuel, emphasizing the need to adapt engines to optimize the use of this alternative fuel. The study also conducted a comparative analysis between Brazil’s success in ethanol production and the implications for biodiesel commercialization.

Dos Santos and Balestiere [37] investigated the metropolitan region of Vale do Paraiba and the North Coast, including cities like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, focusing on the relationship between socio-economic factors, energy consumption, and the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). The article discussed initiatives to combat energy poverty and facilitate access to basic services such as health care and underscored the importance of renewable energy for environmental preservation and sustainable development.

Another article [35] examined the impact of biodiesel production on food security in low-income countries and its implications for the Performance Goals. It discussed issues such as competition for land and natural resources and challenges associated with producing second-generation biofuels.

In [71], the reduction in water and air pollution resulting from reduced fossil fuel use and vehicle operation was analyzed. Despite the catastrophic effects of the pandemic on public health, environmental improvements were found to have positive consequences.

Van Els et al.’s study [72] emphasized the significance of decentralized generation for rural electrification in the Brazilian Amazon, advocating for community involvement and institutional support for successful implementation, while also highlighting the role of renewable energies in sustainable development.

In a study focusing on the eastern part of New Zealand’s North Island, understanding cultural factors and community assets to promote human development and combat climate change effectively was emphasized. It involved sectors such as the energy industry to develop renewable energy use for poverty alleviation and climate change mitigation [74].

The paper by Renzaho, Kamara, and Toole [75] provided an in-depth analysis of the socio-economic, environmental, and political implications of biofuel production, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa and other low- and middle-income countries. It underscored challenges such as commodity constraints, fragmented policy frameworks, and socio-economic impacts, advocating for coherent strategies and policies within the African Union to regulate and monitor biofuel production, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Lastly, a systematic literature review analyzed the social effects of technology transfer in the context of sustainable development. The review, covering 137 articles, mostly focused on developing countries and their alignment with the SDGs [76].

5. Discussion

Virtually all the articles reviewed provide valuable insights and information applicable to studies concerning the alleviation of poverty using renewable energies in Brazil. However, several studies stand out for their significant contributions.

The study conducted by Pereira, Freitas, and Silva [55] offers empirical evidence regarding poverty reduction through rural electrification across 21 states in Brazil, supporting the theoretical framework addressed in this study. Works by Cunha [48] et al. and Costa, Capaz, and Bonatto [52] shed light on successful implementations of photovoltaic systems in low-income housing projects in Brazil. These case studies underscore the tangible improvements observed within vulnerable communities at the local level.

The research by Tsuruda et al. [22] identified optimal energy usage configurations in social housing projects in Goiás, demonstrating that integrating a photovoltaic system with electric showers led to simultaneous savings and efficiency gains in energy and water consumption. This finding could serve as a model for similar initiatives in others states of Brazil.

The project undertaken by Onu, which developed a water pumping and storage system powered by photovoltaics for a community in Nigeria, holds potential for implementation in certain regions of Brazil, addressing both hydropower supply and irrigation needs [39].

Numerous studies exploring the use of biodiesel, biomass, and biogas in Brazil to combat poverty offer valuable insights and highlight the country’s potential in utilizing these renewable energy sources. These findings serve as guidelines for prioritizing the adoption of such energy solutions.

Furthermore, it is important to highlight that the findings of these studies have significant implications for the development of public policies in Brazil. By demonstrating the positive impacts of rural electrification, the implementation of photovoltaic systems in low-income housing, and the optimization of energy usage in social projects, these research efforts provide valuable insights for policymakers at both state and federal levels. The evidence presented suggests that investing in renewable energies not only contributes to poverty reduction but also promotes sustainable development and resilience in the most vulnerable communities. Thus, public policies that incentivize and facilitate the adoption of these technologies can play a key role in seeking effective solutions to the socio-economic challenges faced by Brazil [78,79,80].

Moving forward, it is essential to acknowledge the limitations of existing studies and identify areas for future research. One limitation is the relatively small number of articles specifically addressing poverty, renewable energy, and Brazil, indicating the need for more in-depth investigations in this field. Future studies could focus on exploring the socio-economic and environmental impacts of renewable energy projects in different regions of Brazil, assessing their effectiveness in poverty reduction and sustainable development. Additionally, research could delve into the barriers and challenges faced in implementing renewable energy solutions in vulnerable communities and propose strategies to overcome them. Moreover, interdisciplinary approaches involving collaboration between researchers, policymakers, and local communities could provide valuable insights into the design and implementation of effective renewable energy policies tailored to the unique socio-economic contexts of Brazil [79,80]. By addressing these limitations and focusing on future studies, we can further advance our understanding of the role of renewable energy in poverty alleviation and sustainable development in Brazil and beyond [80,81].

6. Conclusions

This study conducted a bibliometric analysis of the literature associating the keywords “poverty”, “renewable energy”, and “Brazil” across the Web of Science database. This approach highlights the necessity for research focusing on Brazil, which exhibits high poverty levels despite ample natural resources available to address community vulnerability.

An observed trend is the increasing interest in these interconnected topics, evidenced by the growing number of publications over time and the emergence of a global network of researchers dedicated to these areas, crucial for advancing global sustainability objectives. The relevance of successful projects extends beyond local problem-solving, offering valuable lessons applicable to similar contexts worldwide.

This bibliometric review revealed a limited number of articles, 38, specifically addressing poverty, renewable energy, and Brazil, comprising only 2.6% of searches on this topic when the keyword Brazil is removed from the search in the broader scientific research database. This discrepancy underscores the dissociation between a problem (poverty) and its potential solutions (renewable energy) within the literature, reflecting broader societal challenges like climate change and poverty that demand global attention.

Among the analyzed articles, more than 30 emphasized the pivotal role of renewable energy in poverty reduction and sustainable development, demonstrating a consistent theme across diverse geographical locations and research methodologies. This literature consistently advocates for renewable energy as a pathway to achieving Performance Goals, both locally and globally.

The identified relevant studies and international cooperation offer valuable insights and potential solutions applicable to municipalities with vulnerable communities, such as those present in Brazil. Several articles suggest actionable practices for achieving development goals in similar regions, highlighting the efficiency and relevance of these approaches.

Throughout this literature review, a noticeable trend is the increasing interest in the study’s theme, underscoring its growing significance within academic discourse. However, despite this recognition, there remains a dearth of Brazilian-focused research in this area, indicating an opportunity for increased academic engagement and the formulation of targeted public policies promoting renewable energy access as a poverty alleviation strategy in Brazil.