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Brazil's Renewable Energy Future at Risk Under Bolsonaro's Policies

Brazil's renewable energy dominance is under threat. President Bolsonaro's policies could stall progress and increase environmental risks.

In the center of the image we can see a car. At the bottom there is grass. On the left there is a...
In the center of the image we can see a car. At the bottom there is grass. On the left there is a bush.

Brazil's Renewable Energy Future at Risk Under Bolsonaro's Policies

Brazil, the ninth largest economy globally and a significant energy power, finds itself at a crossroads. It's the world's ninth largest oil producer and second largest biofuels and hydropower producer, yet its new president, Jair Bolsonaro, may hinder the country's renewable energy transition and Paris Agreement commitments.

Brazil's electricity generation is predominantly renewable, with 81.9% coming from such sources. Hydropower, the main energy source, accounts for 63.7%. However, recent droughts have reduced hydroelectricity production, leading Brazil to import energy from neighboring countries like Argentina and Uruguay.

Bolsonaro's government plans a 'liberal shock' for the energy sector, potentially privatizing state-owned giants Electrobras and Petrobras. This could reverse Brazil's energy transition, as Bolsonaro's policies often favor fossil fuel interests and reduce environmental regulations. This shift may increase environmental risks, such as pollution from mining and oil extraction, and hinder efforts against climate change.

Brazil's energy future hangs in the balance. Despite being a global leader in renewable energy production, Bolsonaro's policies could stall this progress. With wind and solar power growing significantly, the country's energy mix could shift dramatically, impacting both its economy and environment.

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