Brazil stands as a global leader in the field of clean electricity, with over 88% of its electricity generation coming from low-carbon sources. More than half of Brazil’s electricity is powered by hydropower, showcasing a strong foundation in sustainable energy generation. Wind energy contributes a significant portion, generating almost a sixth of the electricity, while solar power, biofuels, and nuclear energy also add to the clean energy mix. Although close to a tenth of electricity still relies on fossil fuels, clean sources like hydropower and wind overshadow this figure. The next substantial stride for Brazil in its energy evolution is to electrify sectors such as transport, heating, and industry, which will necessitate a considerable surge in electricity generation.
Is Electricity Growing in Brazil?
Electricity consumption in Brazil has been steadily increasing. The year 2024 saw electricity consumption rise to 3584 kWh per person, up by 150 kWh from the previous year’s record of 3434 kWh per person. This uptick depicts a positive trend that aligns with Brazil’s ambition to expand its electricity usage into other sectors. Specifically, low-carbon electricity generation saw an increase to 3156 kWh per person from the previous record of 3059 kWh per person, a growth of 97 kWh. This boost in low-carbon electricity signifies Brazil’s commitment to sustainable development and highlights its potential to continue leading the path in green power generation.
Suggestions
To further enhance low-carbon electricity generation, Brazil could substantially benefit from expanding its wind energy capabilities. Wind power already plays a pivotal role in the country's low-carbon energy portfolio, and ramping up its development could further secure Brazil's position as a clean energy powerhouse. Simultaneously, investing in nuclear and solar energy can diversify sources and provide a more stable and flexible electricity grid, reducing dependence on fossil fuels while bolstering the country's energy resilience. Taking advantage of these opportunities can empower Brazil to meet growing electricity demands and address climate challenges effectively.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity in Brazil is characterized by significant developments, particularly in hydropower. In the late 20th and early 21st century, there were remarkable years of growth, notably in 1984 and 2003, with hydropower generation seeing substantial expansions. However, there have been occasional setbacks, particularly in 2001 and 2013, when hydroelectric power suffered declines. Recent years have witnessed a resurgence, with impressive increases in hydro and wind energy in 2022. Solar energy has also seen noticeable progress, with a commendable rise in 2023 and 2024. This trajectory reflects Brazil's enduring commitment to expanding its low-carbon electricity capacity, continually innovating to enhance its sustainable energy strategies.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.