The energy matrix of a country is the combination of available energy sources used to meet its consumption needs. It reflects the energy policies, natural resources, and economic and environmental priorities of a nation. In Brazil, the energy matrix is diverse and largely based on renewable sources, positioning the country as a leader in the global clean energy landscape.
Historically, Brazil’s energy matrix has been characterized by the predominant use of hydroelectric power, due to the abundance of water resources. However, in recent decades, Brazil has sought to diversify its energy sources, incorporating other forms of generation such as wind, solar, biomass, and nuclear power. This movement aims not only to meet the growing demand for energy but also to reduce dependence on a single type of source, which is crucial in times of climate change and hydrological variations.
The composition of Brazil’s energy matrix is marked by a high participation of renewable sources. According to the Ministry of Mines and Energy, in 2023, about 83% of the electricity generated in the country came from renewable sources, with hydroelectric power accounting for approximately 60% of this total. Wind and solar energy have rapidly gained ground, representing 11% and 2% of electricity generation, respectively. This scenario places Brazil in a favorable position to meet its climate goals and lead the global energy transition.
Technological advances, coupled with public incentive policies, have been fundamental to the growth of renewable energy in Brazil’s matrix. Moreover, the country has invested in improving energy efficiency and in innovation projects aimed at increasingly integrating these clean sources into the electrical system, ensuring energy security and sustainability.
Energy generation in Brazil is a complex and multifaceted process, involving various technologies and sources. Hydroelectric plants continue to be the main energy source, taking advantage of the country’s vast hydrographic network. However, excessive dependence on hydroelectric power has been a challenge, especially during prolonged drought periods. To mitigate this risk, Brazil has invested in diversifying its electricity matrix.
Wind energy, for example, has shown impressive growth. In 2023, Brazil’s installed wind energy capacity reached about 23 GW, making the country the largest producer of wind energy in Latin America and the sixth largest in the world. This growth results from favorable geographic conditions, especially in the Northeast, where the winds are constant and strong, ensuring efficient and continuous production.
Another rising source is solar energy. Brazil, with its vast territorial extension and high solar incidence, has enormous potential for this source. In 2024, the installed capacity of photovoltaic solar energy surpassed 15 GW, establishing itself as one of the main alternatives to traditional sources. The reduction in installation costs and the implementation of incentive policies, such as the ProGD program, have driven the growth of this sector.
Biomass, which utilizes agricultural, industrial, and forestry residues to generate energy, also plays a significant role in Brazil’s energy matrix. In 2023, biomass accounted for about 9% of the country’s electricity generation. In addition to contributing to matrix diversification, this source helps manage waste, promoting a circular and sustainable economy.
In the first seven months of 2024, Brazil’s electricity matrix saw significant growth, adding 6.5 gigawatts (GW) to its installed capacity. This progress reflects the country’s ongoing efforts to expand its energy infrastructure, focusing on renewable sources.
Most of this increase came from wind energy, which alone added 2.8 GW to the system. Brazil has leveraged its natural resources, particularly in the Northeast and South regions, to boost this clean and sustainable energy source. As a result, the country has established itself as one of the largest wind energy producers in the world.
Solar energy also made a significant contribution during this period, with an increase of 1.5 GW in its installed capacity. The growing adoption of solar plants, both in large projects and in distributed generation systems, has driven the diversification of Brazil’s energy matrix, offering a viable and increasingly accessible alternative to traditional energy sources.
In addition to these sources, biomass played a relevant role in the matrix’s expansion, adding 0.5 GW. The use of agricultural and industrial residues for energy generation has been an effective strategy to utilize resources that would otherwise be underutilized, contributing to a more diversified and resilient energy matrix.
These figures highlight Brazil’s commitment to advancing the transition to a cleaner and more diversified energy matrix, promoting sustainable development and reducing carbon emissions.
Brazil’s energy matrix is an example of how diversification and investment in renewable energies can transform a country’s electricity sector. With a predominantly clean and ever-expanding matrix, Brazil positions itself as a leader in the global energy transition, while facing the challenges of meeting the growing demand for energy sustainably.
The significant growth in installed capacity in recent years, especially in the areas of wind, solar, and biomass energy, demonstrates the country’s commitment to advancing the sustainability agenda. However, the continuity of this progress will depend on consistent public policies, investments in innovation, and a long-term strategic vision that balances economic growth, environmental protection, and social inclusion.
By maintaining its focus on renewable sources and modernizing its energy infrastructure, Brazil can not only ensure energy security for future generations but also contribute significantly to combating climate change and promoting more sustainable and equitable development.
