2023-08-11 15:23:59
Data from the most recent CCEE (Electric Energy Trading Chamber) bulletin reveal that the free energy market has grown significantly in Brazil and already represents around 37% of the country’s total electricity demand.
The Brazilian energy market is divided into two contracting environments: the ACR (regulated contracting environment), in which most consumers are found, who buy energy from the distribution concessionaires to which they are captively connected; and the ACL (free contracting environment), formed by free consumers who can contract energy supply, under negotiable conditions, directly from generators or traders.
According to the CCEE report, in the first half of 2023, the free energy market raised a record number of 3.330 new consumer units, an expansion of 52% compared to the same period last year. Among the companies that migrated to the free environment, the trade sectors (1,070 units) and services (850 units). At the end of June, the free energy market counted on the adhesion of 34,4 mil industries and commercial establishments.
Currently, only large consumers – with demand equal to or above 500 kW – can participate in the free energy market. However, a bill is being discussed in the National Congress that provides for the opening of the free contracting environment for all consumers, including residential ones.
Companies that migrate to contracting under the ACL model mainly aim at saving energy costs, as prices practiced in the free environment are lower than those in the regulated market. “In addition to reducing costs, companies have the possibility of purchasing different types of energy, depending on their needs and consumption profile”, informs Henrique Kido, director of market intelligence at Tempo Energia, an energy management company.
The expert explains that there are two types of membership in the free environment. The wholesale modality is aimed at a large-scale consumption profile, with a more intense energy demand, as in the electro-intensive and steel sectors. “Small and medium-sized companies find in the retail modality a simpler and less bureaucratic option to purchase energy”, he points out.
The director of Tempo Energia also points out that, in the free environment, consumers can choose the type of energy they want to buy. It is possible to opt, for example, for renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind and biomass energy. “This makes it possible for companies to strengthen their corporate social responsibility, effectively contributing to environmental sustainability.”
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