Worldwide, few countries as Brazil have an energy matrix with such an important share of renewable energy sources: in 2007, almost 46% of its primary energy supply was covered by renewables, being the share of biomass sources estimated as 29.3% of the total energy consumption (2,350 PJ). The most remarkable biomass experience is due to fuel ethanol production/consumption at large-scale, reaching the production 27.6 billion litres in 2008 (19.6 BL consumed in Brazil and 5.1 BL exported). More recently, Brazil started a biodiesel program (by the end of 2004) and since July 2009 B4 blends (4% of biodiesel in fuel blends, volume basis) are mandatory countrywide; in 2008, biodiesel consumption was close to 1.2 BL. Regarding ethanol, Brazil is an important player in the international trade scenario, with perspectives of enlarging its share in the years to come. On the other hand, regarding biodiesel, Brazil can consolidate in short-term a position as one of the top world producers, but barely will be in an exporter. There are also constraints regarding solid biofuels (such pellets), and the existing potential will be barely be developed in short-term. The lack of adequate logistics is currently the main barrier for trading biomass at large scale, even in case of ethanol. Sustainability of biofuels/biomass production is the challenge to be faced in the years to come, despite the fact that a significant share of ethanol production in Brazil – also regarding forest products – could be already considered sustainable.

By: A. Walter (FEM-NIPE, UNICAMP), P. Dolzan

download this document:    2420 kb