Electricity in Brazil in 2024

Brazil is a powerhouse in clean electricity generation, with over 88% of its electricity sourced from low-carbon technologies. More than half of Brazil's electricity comes from hydropower, a testament to the country's abundant water resources. Wind and solar also contribute significantly, with wind accounting for around 14% and solar close to 10%. These clean sources demonstrate Brazil's commitment to a sustainable future, with fossil fuels gradually diminishing and now constituting just under 10% of electricity. This solid foundation offers Brazil a tremendous opportunity to electrify other energy-intensive sectors like transport, heating, and industry, which will require an increase in electricity demand.

Suggestions

To further increase low-carbon electricity generation, Brazil can expand its wind power capabilities, capitalizing on the large contributions it currently makes. Favorable conditions along Brazil's coastline provide an ideal landscape for wind farms, enabling further growth in green electricity. Additionally, solar energy can be scaled up significantly, taking advantage of Brazil's sunny climate to boost the existing infrastructure. Furthermore, despite its slow growth historically, Brazil could consider ramping up nuclear energy to reinforce a stable low-carbon energy mix, benefiting from its reliability and ability to provide consistent baseload power.

History

The history of low-carbon electricity generation in Brazil shows considerable achievements over the decades. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, hydropower gained momentum with substantial increases in electricity generation. However, the early 2000s witnessed episodes of decline, with notable drops in 2001 and 2013, illustrating the variability in hydropower due to changing rainfall patterns. By contrast, the past decade has seen a trend of resilience and growth, especially in recent years. Significant increases in both solar and wind energy, such as in 2023 and 2024, signal an embrace of diverse low-carbon technologies. These advancements have fortified Brazil's energy security while reducing reliance on fossil fuels, ensuring a sustainable energy landscape.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources