Estudo de adequação e modernização da rede de distribuição em média tensão no campus Poeta Torquato Neto da Universidade Estadual do Piauí (UESPI): análise técnica e normativa de projetos executados e em andamento

Abstract

The distribution of medium-voltage (MV) electrical energy is essential for supplying large consumers, such as the Poeta Torquato Neto campus of the State University of Piauí (UESPI), whose internal network, complex and partially outdated, compromised operational performance and safety. The modernization of the infrastructure became imperative, driven by the system’s obsolescence and by Equatorial Piauí’s regulatory requirement to centralize metering at a single point for Group A consumers. The present work, classified as applied research with a qualitative approach, aimed to conduct a case study on the adequacy and modernization of the campus MV distribution network, with emphasis on the technical and regulatory analysis of the executed metering cubicle project and the planned interventions. The methodology involved a bibliographic survey and documentary and comparative analysis of the projects provided by the Department of Engineering and Architecture (DENG/UESPI). It was concluded that the implementation of the metering cubicle was a mandatory and successful intervention, aligning the institution with current standards (NT. 00002.EQTL and NBR 14039). The centralization of metering and the installation of modern protections, such as digital relays and vacuum circuit breakers with mechanical and electrical interlocks, ensured legal compliance, selectivity with the utility, and a substantial increase in operational safety. Regarding network modernization, the technical analysis highlighted the transition from “bare” technology to compact networks (XLPE cable) as the most appropriate solution for the university environment, mitigating chronic interruption problems caused by vegetation and wildlife and eliminating electric shock risks. Finally, the staged planning of load expansion in six phases through 2026, projecting a contracted demand of 1,042 kW and an installed load above 3 MW, ensures that UESPI will have the energy capacity to support its future activities, representing an essential investment in the quality and continuity of public education services.