Brazil's electricity consumption boasts a strong emphasis on low-carbon sources, with an impressive 86% of its electricity derived from hydropower, wind, solar, biofuels, and nuclear energy. More than half of the country's electricity comes from hydropower, which is a testament to its commitment to sustainable energy. Wind and solar, as clean technologies, also contribute nearly a quarter to the mix, showcasing Brazil's potential for harnessing these eco-friendly resources. On the other hand, fossil fuels like gas and coal contribute to almost 14% of electricity generation, pointing to areas ripe for improvement. Maximizing low-carbon electricity sources could help Brazil surpass its remarkable achievements and meet the increased demand from sectors like transport, heating, and industry as it continues to electrify.

Is Electricity Growing in Brazil?

However, recent data suggests that Brazil's electricity growth has experienced a slight decline. In 2026, electricity consumption reached 3559 kWh per person, a decrease from the previous peak of 3590 kWh per person in 2024. Similarly, the latest low-carbon electricity numbers also saw a drop to 3067 kWh per person, showing a decline from the 2024 record of 3116 kWh per person. This downward trend is concerning as Brazil seeks to cater to growing electricity needs. It highlights the urgency to step up efforts in boosting electricity generation, especially from low-carbon sources, to sustain the nation's energy demands while minimizing environmental harm.

Suggestions

To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Brazil can focus on expanding its wind and solar capacities, as these sectors have already shown promising contributions within the country's energy landscape. Investing in solar infrastructure in particular is crucial, given its rapid growth and potential to provide green electricity. Additionally, there is a valuable opportunity to explore nuclear energy, which offers a dependable and sustainable clean power source. Supporting and scaling these energy sources will be vital for Brazil as it navigates a future where electricity demands are expected to grow significantly, driven by technology and economic expansion.

History

The history of low-carbon electricity in Brazil has seen dynamic shifts, especially concerning hydropower. In the early 2000s, hydropower witnessed significant increases in generation, with notable gains in 2002, 2003, and 2005. Following intermittent declines, hydropower rebounded with strong performances in years such as 2011 and 2016. Recent years saw an impressive surge in 2022, reflecting Brazil's capacity for resilience and recovery. Meanwhile, wind and solar have emerged as promising sectors, particularly post-2021 when these technologies were expanded significantly. Advancing these clean technologies further aligns with historical trends and Brazil's evolving commitment to sustainable electricity generation.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

* 12M = Last 12 months (May 2025 – Apr 2026) — a rolling 12-month period, not a calendar year.