The Impact of Renewable Energy for Occupational Health in the Smart Grid Era

Abstract

The aim of this study is to analyze how the growth of renewable energy in the power market is affecting workers health and what are the cost implications of having a healthier workforce. To tackle this issue, Big Data from occupational health surveillance carried out to over 4,000 workers in Spanish companies is used to unveil hidden patterns and relevant factors affecting workers health. Machine learning is used to create a predictive Bayesian model in order to seek out relevant patterns that allow to design more effective prevention plans. The results obtained shed light on the positive impact that an increasing renewable generation of electricity can produce to workers health in the electric industry. Skin problems are the main pathology identified, where nervous system diseases are found to be reduced for renewable generation workers.