The Group of 20 (G20) represents 19 countries, together with the European Union, which have the most developed economies in the world. The country leading the clean energy transition among the G20 is Brazil, with the lowest share of fossil fuels in its energy mix.
It should be noted that Brazil is the G20 presiding country in 2024, which enables it to lead the global energy transition agenda. There are numerous challenges that this country has faced on its path as a leader.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) presented an analysis of the challenges. One of them was the reliance on hydropower, which is a very unstable source due to the changing climate. As an example, the year 2001 is mentioned, when the low level of precipitation and the additional restrictions of Brazil at that time, led to a blackout. Because of this, savings measures and other interventions had to be introduced to reduce electricity consumption.
During the following years, this country began to invest in different sources of electricity, but the priorities were solar and wind power plants, as well as biomass. Efforts were also focused on the expansion and modernization of the network, which achieved greater reliability and lower losses. Auctions, bilateral agreements, tax incentives and others contributed to the increase in the share of renewable energy sources, and independent electricity producers were also supported. Although the share of hydropower decreased from 2000 to 2022, renewable sources generally remained stable, at around 90 percent of the share.
When it comes to biofuel, Brazil has been at the forefront of global demand since the beginning of the 2000s, and today, as stated, it is the global pioneer in its production. It achieved this through a successful combination of obligations related to the use of biofuels, then through financial incentives and other means. Program Pro Alcohol, which was launched after the 1973 oil crisis, mandated the blending of ethanol in fuels. This was an important strategy to reduce dependence on oil imports by using the country’s agricultural resources.
Over the years, the blend requirements have increased, and currently the requirement is 27 percent for ethanol and 12 percent for biodiesel by volume. However, there are plans for a further increase, so the goal has been set to reach 15 percent for biodiesel by 2026.
In addition to this, Brazil is implementing numerous other clean energy plans and activities. This includes, among other things, cooperation with the United States, China and the European Union on the development of low-carbon technologies.
Energy portal
Source: energetskiportal.rs
