The energy transition represents an essential global movement to curb the advance of climate change. It involves the gradual replacement of fossil fuels, such as oil and coal, with renewable and low-emission sources, such as solar, wind, biomass, and even new-generation nuclear energy. After more than a century of dependence on a predominantly fossil fuel-based energy matrix, the world now faces the urgent need for a profound and accelerated transformation.
In this context, Brazil stands out as one of the global leaders. With an energy matrix that is significantly cleaner than the world average, the country is uniquely positioned to lead the new green economy.
Check out the four main highlights on the topic below and, if you want to delve deeper into the developments, listen to the inaugural episode of our special series on COP30, with Congressman Arnaldo Jardim, chairman of the Energy Transition Committee of the House of Representatives [Chamber of Deputies].
- BRAZIL: A NATURAL LEADER IN THE ENERGY AGENDA
Unlike countries such as the United States and China, whose energy matrices are still heavily dependent on fossil fuels, Brazil is already a leader in renewable energy. Currently, more than 49% of Brazil's energy matrix is composed of clean sources, a rate well above the global average. São Paulo, for example, is not among the 100 most polluted cities in the world thanks, among other factors, to the use of biofuels such as ethanol and biodiesel.
- LEGISLATIVE ADVANCES THAT STRENGTHEN THE GREEN AGENDA
In recent years, the National Congress has approved important legal milestones that consolidate Brazil's leading role in the decarbonization agenda. Among the highlights are:
- Low Carbon Hydrogen Legal Framework
- Fuel of the Future Program
- Offshore Wind Energy Law
- Energy Transition Acceleration Program (Paten)
- Carbon Credit Market Regulation
- ESG-focused infrastructure debentures
- Geological storage of CO₂
These initiatives create a more robust regulatory environment that is attractive to investment and aligned with international climate goals.
- BRAZIL HEADING TO COP30: WHAT ARE THE EXPECTATIONS?
With COP30 approaching, Brazil will have the opportunity to reinforce its strategic role in the international climate agenda. To do so, Brazil will need to:
- Value its clean energy matrix
- Strengthen financing instruments, such as the Climate Fund and green bonds
- Demand effective international regulation for the carbon market
- OPPORTUNITIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Brazil has competitive advantages to lead the global energy transition. However, this leadership requires continued investment in technological innovation, regulatory frameworks, and professional training—including in the field of law, which will be essential to ensure regulatory certainty and attractiveness to the sector.
Listen to the full episode of our Energy Transition podcast series, COP30 special edition, by clicking here.
