Energy transition in Brazil

the dilemmas of decarbonization

Abstract

This article aims to develop an analysis of one of the paths of energy transition in Brazil: the decarbonization of the energy matrix. To this end, the first section provides a brief review of the concept of energy transition, as well as the paths, nuances, and strategies that are emerging among the actors involved in the process. The following section focuses on unveiling the overall picture of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and the challenge of decarbonization in terms of targets and mechanisms for achieving GHG reductions. Finally, the last section converges concept and problem for the analysis of the Brazilian case, highlighting the three possible paths of transition: substitution, mitigation, and preservation. The conclusions systematize the idea that energy transition trajectories – once they are intrinsic to the notion of development – are not univocal and, as such, must be analyzed based on specific contexts. In the Brazilian case, for the objective outlined, considering the maintenance of our forests – Amazonian and caatinga – is essential for the energy transition strategy, since it addresses the main cause of carbon emissions in Brazil – the pattern of land use – as well as preserving strategic areas for the planet's resilience in the face of environmental threats, which act as carbon sinks.