Thermal Power Plants in Brazil: Essential but Transforming

Termelétricas no Brasil: Essenciais, mas em Transformação

Thermal power plants occupy a strategic position in Brazil’s energy matrix, serving as a sort of “Plan B” for renewable sources and ensuring the stability of the national electrical system. This role has become even more relevant in a global context of energy transition. In 2024, Brazil saw the commissioning of 20 new thermal power plants, adding 869.70 megawatts (MW) to the installed capacity, according to data from the National Electric Energy Agency (ANEEL). This number underscores both the importance of these plants and the challenges related to environmental sustainability and technological innovation.

These plants utilize a wide range of fuels to generate electricity, including natural gas, coal, diesel oil, and biomass. Among these options, natural gas stands out as the primary source, both for its wide availability and its lower environmental impact compared to other fossil fuels. Biomass, on the other hand, has gained traction as a renewable alternative, contributing to the diversification of the energy matrix and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

The diversity of fuels reflects the need for flexibility in a country with continental dimensions and diverse regional energy realities. For instance, natural gas is more prevalent in regions with access to gas pipeline infrastructure, while biomass plays a larger role in areas with high agricultural production, such as the Midwest and Southeast.

Although essential, thermal power plants face significant challenges regarding carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions. According to the 4th Inventory of Atmospheric Emissions in Thermal Power Plants, published by the Institute for Energy and Environment (IEMA), 67 inventoried plants emitted 17.9 million tons of CO₂ equivalent in 2023. This figure represents an 8% reduction compared to the total emitted by the fossil thermal power plant fleet of the National Interconnected System (SIN) in 2022. Despite the reduction, the numbers remain high, highlighting the need for robust strategies to mitigate environmental impacts.

In December 2024, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva signed Law 15.042, which regulates the carbon credit market in Brazil and establishes the Brazilian System of Trade for Greenhouse Gas Emissions (SBCE). This legislation aims to encourage more sustainable practices in energy industries and other economic activities, promoting a market-based approach to reducing emissions.

The SBCE creates a structure where high-emission companies can purchase carbon credits generated by sustainable initiatives such as renewable energy projects or reforestation. This measure aligns Brazil with international best practices and attracts investments to low-emission sectors, boosting the national climate agenda.

Alongside the role of thermal power plants, Brazil has made significant strides in adopting renewable sources. In 2024, the country added 9.35 gigawatts (GW) to its electricity matrix, with 90.22% coming from renewable sources. Among them, photovoltaic solar energy led the growth, accounting for 48.59% of the total, followed by wind energy, with 41.43%.

This evolution reflects the national commitment to sustainability and the pursuit of solutions to reduce dependency on fossil fuels. Government incentives and advances in solar and wind generation technologies have been instrumental in consolidating this scenario. However, challenges remain, such as the intermittency of these sources and the need for investments in transmission infrastructure.

Despite the progress of renewable sources, thermal power plants continue to play a vital role in the security of the electrical system. During drought periods, when hydroelectric production decreases significantly, or in emergency situations, such as transmission line failures, thermal plants ensure the continuity of power supply.

This “backup” role is particularly relevant in a country that relies heavily on hydroelectric energy, a renewable source but one vulnerable to climatic conditions. To balance the need for supply stability with environmental commitments, it is crucial to promote investments in cleaner and more efficient technologies for thermal plants.

Emerging technological solutions play a critical role in the quest for a cleaner and more efficient energy sector. Promising initiatives include carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies, which can significantly reduce CO₂ emissions from thermal power plants.

Furthermore, the development of hybrid plants, which combine different energy sources such as solar and biomass with traditional thermal power plants, is another solution gaining prominence. These plants optimize resource usage and offer greater flexibility to the electrical system.

Thermal power plants are an indispensable component of Brazil’s energy infrastructure, providing critical support to renewable generation and system security. However, the path forward is clear: Brazil’s energy future depends on a continuous commitment to sustainability.

Investing in cleaner technologies, promoting robust public policies, and fostering the carbon credit market are fundamental steps to align economic growth with environmental protection. Brazil has the potential to lead the global energy transition, balancing its rich diversity of energy sources with the urgency of preserving the environment for future generations.