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Energy and Natural Resources Newsletter | April 2026
May 4th, 2026
In order to keep our clients informed about the current landscape of the main energy and natural resources sectors in Brazil, we have prepared the Energy Newsletter, a monthly bulletin with the main news of the energy market.
This information channel is the result of the unification of our “Oil & Gas” and “Power” newsletters, designed in the context of the energy transition that is being targeted in Brazil, and prepared to be a complete source of information about the dynamic Brazilian energy market in the oil, natural gas, electricity and renewable energy sectors.
Enjoy reading!
This newsletter is for informative purposes only and does not constitute legal advice for any specific operation or business. For more information, please contact our team of lawyers.
OIL AND GAS
HIGHLIGHTS:
ANP publishes new tender protocol for Production Sharing Open Acreage
On April 6, 2026, the Brazilian National Agency for Petroleum, Natural Gas and Biofuels (ANP) published a new version of the tender protocol for the Production Sharing Open Acreage (OPP).
The new tender protocol increased the number of blocks eligible to receive bids in upcoming OPP cycles to 23 (15 inclusions). The required technical‑economic parameters were also updated. These blocks are located within the pre‑salt polygon, with 13 in the Santos Basin and 8 in the Campos Basin, all of which have already received favorable opinions from the competent authorities on environmental feasibility.
The eight blocks in the Campos Basin are: Azurita, Calcita, Hematita, Larimar, Magnetita, Ônix, Siderita, and Turmalina.
The 13 blocks in the Santos Basin are: Ágata, Amazonita, Aragonita, Calcedônia, Cerussita, Cruzeiro do Sul, Granada, Jade, Malaquita, Opala, Quartzo, Rodocrosita, Rubi, Safira Leste, and Safira Oeste.
Following publication, the blocks become eligible to receive declarations of interest from registered bidders, together with the corresponding bid guarantees.
Find out more: ANP publishes new notice for Production Sharing Open Acreage.
CNPE approves measures relating to biodiesel, LPG (cooking gas), biomethane, and hydrated ethanol
On April 1, 2026, the National Council for Energy Policy (CNPE) approved measures related to the legal attributions of the ANP with respect to the following matters:
- Biodiesel: The CNPE determined that at least 80% of the biodiesel traded in Brazil to meet the mandatory blending percentage with diesel B must originate from production units holding the Social Biofuel Seal (SBS). The measure stems from a Regulatory Impact Assessment conducted by an Interministerial Working Group and aims to strengthen energy security, foster regulatory stability, and stimulate domestic biofuel production.
- LPG – “Gás do Povo” Program: Strategic guidelines were established for the LPG market under the Gás do Povo Program, consolidating safety and quality requirements in accordance with the ANP, Inmetro (National Institute of Metrology, Quality and Technology), and consumer‑protection authority standards. The CNPE also deemed it in the interest of the National Energy Policy that the ANP have access to electronic tax documents of regulated agents participating in the program, as a monitoring and transparency measure.
- Biomethane: The CNPE set 0.5% reduction target for greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the natural gas market for 2026. This target is to be met by producers and importers through the incorporation of biomethane into their consumption. The CNPE also determined that the ANP implement measures to improve transparency of biomethane market data in support of the Biomethane Market Monitoring Task Force.
- Improper use of hydrated ethanol: The CNPE-approved guidelines instruct the ANP to carry out technical studies to curb the improper use of hydrated fuel ethanol in the manufacture of alcoholic beverages, to combat fuel adulteration and prevent public health risks.
Find out more: CNPE approves measures relating to biodiesel, LPG (cooking gas), biomethane, and hydrated ethanol.
NEWS
ANP approves public consultation to revise rules on differentiated treatment for micro and small enterprises
On April 10, 2026, the ANP approved the opening of a public consultation and a public hearing on the proposed revision of Resolution No. 759/2018, which establishes criteria for differentiated treatment of microenterprises and small businesses in the agency’s inspection activities and those carried out by its affiliated authorities.
The draft text initially proposed by the ANP addresses three main points:
- Updating the circumstances in which differentiated treatment does not apply, including cases involving non‑compliance with operational safety requirements –such as LPG retailers and other regulated segments where there is a direct and imminent risk – and situations involving the storage, marketing, or disposal of fuels with irregular solvent additions, to the detriment of consumers.
- Expansion of the benefit by extending notification deadlines beyond the current “double‑visit” approach, under which no notice of violation is issued upon the first identification of certain irregularities.
- Adjustments to the wording of the regulation to improve clarity and prevent ambiguities in its application.
Public Consultation No. 06/2026 will run from April 17 to June 1, 2026, and Public Hearing No. 06/2026 is scheduled for June 16, 2026.
Find out more: ANP approves public consultation to revise rules on differentiated treatment for micro and small enterprises.
ANP discusses resolution on assignment of E&P contracts
On April 16, 2026, the ANP held a public hearing to discuss revisions to the regulation governing the assignment of oil and natural gas exploration and production (E&P) contracts, with a proposal to replace ANP Resolution No. 785/2019.
The core element of the draft resolution is the dissolution of the Committee for the Evaluation of Partnership Proposals (CAPP), as part of an agenda to modernize and simplify regulatory governance. Responsibilities currently centralized in the committee would shift directly to the technical departments involved in assignment processes, following procedures to be set out in a specific normative instruction.
According to the ANP, this change seeks to eliminate an intermediate layer without compromising specialized and multidisciplinary technical analysis, while preserving the decision‑making authority of the Collegiate Board and ensuring an integrated view of contracts and counterparties. The ANP further stated that the new resolution incorporates necessary improvements identified over more than five years of the current rule’s effectiveness, aiming to address gaps, clarify provisions, correct inconsistencies, and improve legal certainty in assignment processes.
The matter was subject to a 45‑day public consultation and received 32 contributions. The technical department will review the suggestions submitted during the consultation and the public hearing for potential adjustments to the text. It will then be submitted for review to the Federal Attorney’s Office attached to ANP and, subsequently, to the Collegiate Board’s approval before final publication.
Find out more: ANP hears companies in review of E&P contract assignment regulation
POWER
INSTITUTIONAL
Federal Executive Branch: Brazilian Government summons 14 electricity distribution companies for concession renewals
Brazil’s Federal Government published an official order summoning 14 electricity distribution concessionaires to initiate the concession renewal process.
The measure applies to distributors whose contracts expire between 2025 and 2031 and is aligned with the policy of the Ministry of Mines and Energy (MME) to fast-track discussions on extensions and assess compliance with technical, economic‑financial, and regulatory requirements, as well as quality of service.
The order published on April 2, 2026, requires individual administrative proceedings to assess the feasibility of extending the concessions according to the legal framework governing the power sector. News outlet Agência Infra has reported that renovations are expected to be signed in the first week of May.
Find more details:
MME: New ordinance regulates updated transmission access procedure
On April 28, 2026, the MME published Normative Ordinance No. 129/2026, establishing the National Policy for Access to the Transmission System (“PNAST”).
The new regulation governs access seasons – a new procedure that allows generators and consumers to permanently connect to the transmission system or to increase their contracted level of use.
Key innovations of the ordinance include:
- Structural changes resulting from the modification of the access request dynamics;
- The elimination of the first‑come, first‑served criterion as a basis for access;
- the requirement of a new type of financial guarantee and, depending on the case, payment of a financial premium to secure access through a competitive process; and
Find out more:
- Client Alert Demarest
- MME Normative Ordinance No. 129/2026
- PNAST – Decree No. 12.772/2025
MME: Ministry of Mines and Energy extends public consultation on dual accounting
The Ministry of Mines and Energy (MME) extended the deadline for the public consultation on the implementation of dual accounting in the short‑term market. The discussion complements the ongoing modernization of the energy price-formation and settlement model, particularly given the growing share of variable renewable sources and the need for closer alignment between scheduled and real‑time system operations.
See the ordinance in full:
ONS: Authority evaluates changes to price-formation calculation models
Within the context of discussions on dual accounting in the market, the Director of Planning of the National Electric System Operator (ONS), Alexandre Zucarato, announced the ONS’s intention to launch a shadow model to replace the Newave and Decomp models by January, 2028. These models are currently used by the sector to define medium‑ and short‑term operation policies and, as a result, play a key role in short‑term price formation.
Find more details:
Auctions
Transmission: ANEEL opens public consultation for transmission auction with BRL 11.3 billion in investments
ANEEL opened Public Consultation No. 006/2026 to discuss the draft bid notice for the upcoming transmission auction, anticipating approximately BRL 11.3 billion in investments to expand and reinforce the SIN grid.
The auction includes new transmission line and substation projects focused on increasing system reliability and enabling the evacuation of generation, particularly from renewable sources. According to ANEEL, the consultation seeks contributions on technical, regulatory, and economic‑financial aspects of the auction, including the definition of lots, implementation schedules, and remuneration parameters, seeking to improve the auction design and ensure its attractiveness to investors.
See the full public consultation:
LRCAP: Federal Court of Accounts rules on investigation into winning bids
After reviewing a filing by the Public Prosecutor’s Office attached to the Federal Court of Accounts (MPTCU), the TCU denied an injunction filing that would have suspended the 2nd Capacity Reserve Auction (LRCAP) of 2026, while allowing investigations into the winning bids to proceed.
The decision rendered at a plenary session on April 15 does not prevent the auction from moving forward nor invalidate acts already carried out, but advances the investigation into the allegations raised by the MPTCU.
The auction and its review by the TCU were also the subject of a public hearing held on April 28, 2026, before the Mines and Energy Committee of the Brazilian National Congress (CME). The merits of the case are expected to be adjudicated by the TCU before May 21, 2026, which is date scheduled for ratification of the first contracts.
See in full:
Regulation
ANEEL: First-time authorization to integrate battery system into a solar power plant
In April, ANEEL granted the first ever authorization for the installation of an energy storage system co‑located with a photovoltaic power plant: UFV Sol de Brotas 7. The decision was welcomed by ANEEL and industry associations, as it represents a significant step forward in the adoption and integration of new technologies and market dynamics.
Find more details:
ANEEL: Board opens public consultation to discuss exceptional termination of use agreements by generation companies
On April 14, ANEEL launched Public Consultation No. 7/2026. The consultation ran for 15 days, at first, seeking contributions on a potential exceptional regulatory mechanism concerning the continuation of Transmission System Use Agreements (CUST) executed by generation facilities.
ANEEL’s technical department issued a note assessing the feasibility of continuing such contracts and decided to adopt the proposed mechanism, which would result in:
- Revocation of the generation authorization, with the return of the respective performance guarantees, where applicable;
- Exemption from any fines arising from ongoing inspection proceedings; and
- Authorization for the National Electric System Operator (ONS) to terminate the CUST without applying termination charges, provided that specific criteria are met.
Find more details:
System Operation
ONS updates the Generation Evacuation Margin Dashboard through 2031
The ONS updated the Generation Evacuation Margin Dashboard, a tool that indicates the remaining capacity of the SIN to connect new generation projects within the medium‑term power planning horizon (PAR/PEL 2026), covering the 2027-2031 cycle.
In addition to fully recalculating evacuation margins at Basic Grid substations, the ONS highlighted updates to the informational tab on the evolution of the electricity mix and load at the state level. The interactive map consolidates data on installed capacity by source and maximum and minimum demand by state, based on PAR/PEL 2026 studies. The tool is intended to support investors and market participants in decision-making related to connection points, both in the Regulated Contracting Environment and in the Free Market.
Find more details:
Demarest in the Media
“Day of Forgiveness” Unlikely to Clear the Gold Rush Backlog
ANEEL is assessing a new “Day of Forgiveness” mechanism that would allow project developers to terminate CUSTs without the application of penalties, with the aim of freeing up connection capacity in the Basic Grid. However, technical teams estimate that only 9.5 GW, out of a total of 18.5 GW in projects that have not yet begun construction and have near-term commercial operation deadlines, are likely to adhere to the measure.
Henrique Reis, partner at Demarest, analyzed the matter in a report published by Agência Infra. See more details in the REGULATORY MONITORING section of this newsletter.
See the full report:
REGULATORY MONITORING
ANEEL: Board decisions
In April, ANEEL made progress on industry matters that had significantly impacted market participants. Below we highlight key items, with links to Board Members’ votes and published acts:
- Transmission auction: ANEEL approved the opening of a public consultation to collect contributions and information for the Bid Notice of Auction No. 4/2026, aimed at contracting public electricity transmission services (CP 006/2026).
- Storage: After presentation of the rapporteur’s vote, Board members Fernando Mosna (rapporteur) and Gentil Nogueira voted to:
-
- Declare null and void the prior votes of former directors Daniel Danna and Ivo Nazareno, due to the enactment of Law No. 15,269/2025 after those votes;
- Approve the regulation establishing the requirements and procedures to obtain authorization grants for energy storage systems, pursuant to Annex I of Joint Technical Note No. 3/2026‑SGM‑SCE‑STD‑STR‑SFT/ANEEL, incorporating the adjustments presented in the dissenting opinion of Director Fernando Mosna;
- Approve the regulation establishing the regulatory treatment for the implementation of electricity storage, as well as amending several normative resolutions (RENs), pursuant to Annex II of the same technical note and the dissenting opinion;
- Amend Submodule 5.5 of the Tariff Regulation Procedures (PRORET), pursuant to Joint Technical Note No. 3/2026; and
- Amend Modules 1, 2, 3 and 5 of the Electricity Transmission Services Rules, pursuant to Joint Technical Note No. 13/2025‑SGM‑SCE‑STD‑STE‑STR‑SFT/ANEEL.
-
- After the vote was read at the 7th Ordinary Public Meeting (RPO), Director Willamy Moreira Frota requested a review of the matter, indicating the need to further analyze certain details and discuss the topic with ANEEL’s legal department and technical staff. At the close of the session, Director‑General Sandoval Feitosa suggested that a new public consultation may be required to address the recent amendments introduced by Law No. 15,269/2025.
- Public Asset Use (“UBP”): Reporting Director Agnes Costa voted in favor of issuing an order establishing guidelines to be observed in the allocation of any funds collected through the renegotiation of Public Asset Use (UBP), as provided for in paragraphs 8 and 9 of Article 4 of Law No. 15,235/2025.
- After the rapporteur’s vote was read at the 7th RPO, Director Gentil Nogueira requested a review of the matter, citing the need for further analysis, particularly because, in his view, there were three distinct proposals on the topic: (i) that presented by the reporting director; (ii) that presented by Director Fernando Mosna at the 2nd RPO of January 27, 2026; and (iii) that drafted by the technical staff, although not formally presented in any of the votes.
- Director Fernando Mosna, following the review request, stated that because the rapporteur’s vote referred to “new facts,” it might warrant a new phase of Public Consultation No. 47/2025, the results of which are still under discussion. Initially, the reporting director opposed opening a new phase, noting that the alleged new facts were, in fact, developments that occurred throughout the course of the proceeding.
- Bid‑notice penalties: ANEEL’s Board of Directors unanimously denied the issuance of a summary statement addressing the applicability of Articles 36 to 45 of Normative Resolution No. 846/2019 for purposes of enforcing penalties arising from bid notices for the contracting of transmission services and new generation projects.
- MMGD, energy surpluses and constraints: ANEEL’s Board unanimously decided, pursuant to the vote of Reporting Director Gentil Nogueira, to open a new public consultation aimed at obtaining additional contributions from stakeholders regarding Technical Note No. 148/2025‑STD/ANEEL and the draft normative resolution that addresses, among other details:
- measures to curb unauthorized changes to the original technical characteristics of MMGD facilities;
- system signaling of transmission constraints for new connections at the distribution level;
- increased operational flexibility through temporary connections of power plants; and
- regulatory clarity improvements in the implementation of the Energy Surplus Management Plan.
The Board also requested the immediate enforcement of the rules on system signaling of transmission constraints for new distribution‑level connections, which are likewise addressed in the consultation.
The ruling states that “for the review of new access requests with similar characteristics – that is, equal or higher injection capacity and within the same electrical region – distribution utilities are not required to submit new inquiries to the ONS while the technical infeasibility persists. In such cases, provided there is no technical alternative, the impossibility of connection set forth in paragraph 2 of Article 17 of Normative Resolution No. 1,000/2021 applies, as provided for in paragraph 4 of Article 76 (Vote and ANEEL Public Consultation No. 9/2026):
ANEEL: allocation of proceedings
In April, new proceedings were randomly assigned and distributed among ANEEL’s Board members. Among them, the following stand out due to their scope and subject matter:
| Case | SUBJECT MATTER | Randomly assigned reporting |
| 48500.032821/2025-67 | Auction No. 2/2026‑ANEEL (LRCAP 2026), aimed at contracting Electric Capacity under the availability modality, from new and existing generation projects, consolidated after assessment of contributions submitted in Public Consultation No. 35/2025. | Willamy Moreira Frota. |
| 48500.035979/2025-99 | Improvement of the Efficiency Criterion related to Economic‑Financial Management, regulated under Annex VIII of Normative Resolution No. 948/2021, applicable to electricity distribution concession agreements. | Gentil Nogueira de Sá Júnior. |
| 48500.037386/2025-67 | Feasibility of maintaining Transmission System Use Agreements executed by generation facilities. | Gentil Nogueira de Sá Júnior. |
| 48500.009874/2026-65 | Amendment to the Electricity Transmission Services Rules to allow adjustment of the start date for performance of Transmission System Use Agreements (CUST), as provided for in Article 26, paragraph 1‑W, of Law No. 9,427/1996. | Agnes Maria de Aragão da Costa. |
| 48500.037295/2025-21 | Establishment of the Market Monitoring Sanctioning Process (PSM) within the CCEE. |
Gentil Nogueira de Sá Júnior. |
MONITORING
Brazilian Congress – Highlighted legislative proposals
| Proposal | Content | House | Date |
| Supplementary Law Bill 100/2026 | Establishes general rules on public finance law, governance, and accountability in the management of extra‑budgetary funds, charges, and subsidies in the electricity sector, among other matters. | Brazil’s House of Representatives | April 09, 2026 |
| Bill 1581/2026 | Amends Law No. 12,111, dated December 9, 2009, to reallocate, from 2026 to 2030, the portion of the reduction in expenditures of the Fuel Consumption Account (Conta de Consumo de Combustíveis – CCC) resulting from the 2025 interconnection of an electricity distribution concessionaire to the National Interconnected System, toward tariff affordability in the respective concession area. | Brazil’s House of Representatives | April 01, 2026 |
| Bill 1582/2026 | Provides for national rules governing the licensing, implementation, operation, monitoring, and oversight of Waste‑to‑Energy Plants (Usinas de Recuperação Energética – URE) that use thermal treatment of municipal solid waste to generate electricity, among other matters. | Brazil’s House of Representatives | April 01, 2026 |
| Bill 1652/2026 | Establishes rules on transparency, fiscal responsibility, and consumer protection in the electricity sector, prohibiting the postponement or deferred transfer of costs arising from tariff‑related public policies without prior legal authorization, and creating mechanisms for control, traceability, and accountability in electricity tariff formation, among other measures. | Brazil’s House of Representatives | April 17, 2026 |
| Bill 1715/2026 | Establishes the National Circular Economy Policy for Batteries (PNECB) as a structural response to the rapid growth of electrified vehicle fleets, distributed generation, and stationary energy storage, which, in the absence of specific regulation, may turn energy solutions into a significant environmental liability. | Brazil’s House of Representatives | April 08, 2026 |
| Bill 1592/2026 | Establishes general rules for the legitimization, management, and modernization of overhead utility infrastructure networks; provides for the removal of unused cables and wiring; sets guidelines for the progressive adoption of underground networks in urban areas; and amends Law No. 9,427, dated December 26, 1996. | Brazil’s House of Representatives | April 06, 2026 |
| Bill 1930/2026 | Provides for the duty of public service concessionaires to pay compensatory damages and pain and suffering, including loss of profits and collective pain and suffering claims arising from failures in the provision of services. | Brazil’s House of Representatives | April 22, 2026 |
Federal Court of Accounts (“TCU”)
| Case | Highlights | Topic | Judgment |
| 005,363/2026-8 | Ruling No. 693/2026-Plenary | Provisional Measure No. 1,212 – Possibility of a Technical Cooperation Agreement (ACT) | Extends the deadline by an additional 30 days, counted from issuance of the ruling (March 25, 2026), for the Ministry of Mines and Energy (MME) to comply with the determinations set forth in Ruling No. 292/2026‑TCU‑Plenary. |
| 022,280/2024-3 | Ruling 803/2026-Plenary | REGULATORY AGENCIES | Denial of the motions for clarification filed by the Federal Government against Ruling 280/2026. |
| 006,423/2026-4 | Ruling 925/2026-Plenary | LRCAP 2026 | Denies the injunction filed by the MPTCU, while highlighting concerns regarding impacts on supply security, LRCAP price caps, and the auction’s bid terms, modeling, and calibration. The proceeding was consolidated with Case No. 008.289/2025‑5, authorizing investigation of the allegations. |
| 007,080/2026-3 | Order | LRCAP 2026 | Acknowledges the filing submitted by the MPTCU challenging aspects of LRCAP, but denies the requested injunction to suspend the auction. |
Published Studies and Tools
| Study | Author |
| 1st Four‑Month Revision of the 2026–2030 Planning | ONS/CCEE/EPE |
| Energy Operation Plan (PEN) | EPE |
| Report Criteria | EPE |
| Fact Sheet: Natural Gas Law 5 Years of the New Legal Framework | EPE |
| Update: Distributed Micro‑ and Minigeneration Data Dashboard | EPE |
| Regulatory Sandbox in the Brazilian Electricity Sector | GESEL |
| Workshop: BESS Integration and Transmission Planning | EPE |
WHAT’S NEXT
National Sector Agenda – May
| Days | Event | Segment | Information |
| 3 | 8th Meeting of Brazilians (FGV Energia) | Fuels | Website |
| 18 a 21 | 14th Energy Show 2026 | Sector-wide | Website |
| 27 a 29 | Bahia Oil & Gas Energy 2026 | Fuels | Website |
| 28 and 29 | CAMBI – Congresso Ambiental (environmental congress) | Sector-wide | Website |
Auctions
| October 2026 – Transmission Auction 002/2026
To be held by ANEEL. |
| April 2027 – Transmission Auction 001/2027
To be held by ANEEL. |
| October 2027 – Transmission Auction 002/2027
To be held by ANEEL. |
| Undetermined/2026 – Transmission Auction 001/2026 – 2nd Stage
More information here |
| Undetermined – LRCAP 2026 – Storage
More information here |
RENEWABLES
DESTAQUES
First agent approved for issuance of biomethane guarantee-of-origin certificate
On April 6, 2026, an order was published approving the accreditation of the first Origin Certifying Agent (Agente Certificador de Origem – ACO) authorized to certify biomethane producers for the issuance of the Biomethane Guarantee of Origin Certificate (CGOB).
The accreditation marks an important advance for the National Program for Decarbonization of Natural Gas Producers and Importers and for Incentivizing Biomethane, established by Law No. 14,993/2024 (the “Future Fuel Law”).
Find out more: First agent approved to issue biomethane guarantee-of-origin certificate.
NEWS
Brazilian Development Bank releases BRL 244.9 million for biomethane plant in Goiás
On April 2, 2026, it was announced that the Brazilian Development Bank (BNDES) approved total financing of BRL 244.9 million for Tropical Biogás Ltda., a subsidiary controlled by bp bioenergy, to build a biomethane plant in the municipality of Edéia, state of Goiás.
With BRL 193.4 million in resources from the Climate Fund (Fundo Clima) and another BRL 51.4 million from the Finem credit line, the facility will have the capacity to produce approximately 67,000 Nm³ of biomethane per day.
The feedstock will be vinasse, a by‑product of sugarcane ethanol production that is currently applied directly to crops as a nutrient source. Once the project is implemented, vinasse will undergo biodigestion for biomethane production, while the resulting digestate will continue to be applied to the fields.
“With the financing approved by the BNDES, the project will support the decarbonization of the company’s operations and help expand the supply of biomethane to the industrial and transportation sectors, contributing to a reduction of up to 90% in greenhouse gas emissions compared to the diesel currently used,” said BNDES President Aloizio Mercadante.
The project is scheduled for completion in 2027 and is expected to generate approximately 300 direct and indirect jobs. Total investments amount to BRL 275.8 million.
Find out more: Brazilian Development Bank releases BRL 244.9 million for biomethane plant in Goiás
BNDES approves BRL 140 million for green corridor in São Paulo
On April 17, 2026, it was announced that the BNDES approved financing totaling BRL 140 million to support the investment plan of TransJordano Ltda., covering the implementation of a green corridor in the state of São Paulo and the modernization of the logistics operator’s fleet.
The amount financed by the BNDES represents 92% of the project’s total value, with BRL 98 million from the Climate Fund and BRL 42 million from the BNDES Machinery and Services line. With this funding, TransJordano Ltda. will implement a green corridor in São Paulo, including:
- The construction of three biomethane refueling stations in the cities of Sumaré, Cubatão, and Ribeirão Preto (state of São Paulo);
- The acquisition of 100 heavy‑duty vehicles powered by biomethane; and
- The acquisition of equipment designed to increase the autonomy of biomethane storage tanks, known as “mochilões.”
“The project approved by the BNDES is part of President Lula’s energy transition policy, which seeks to provide sustainable solutions, including for cargo transportation logistics in Brazil. This project, developed in São Paulo, will reduce 6.5 tons of CO₂ equivalent emissions in the first year of operation, solely from the fleet fueled with biomethane,” explained BNDES President Aloizio Mercadante.
Erik Trencht, Director of Renewable Gases at Ultragaz, highlighted that approval of this landmark financing is a milestone for decarbonizing national logistics and demonstrates the feasibility of large‑scale sustainable solutions.
Find out more: BNDES approves BRL 140 million for green corridor in São Paulo.
Green hydrogen is expected to become more competitive by 2030, claims ABIHV
On April 14, 2026, the Brazilian Association of the Green Hydrogen Industry (ABIHV) released a technical note predicting that green hydrogen could soon become an energy alternative capable of competing with fossil fuels.
According to the study, green hydrogen (H2V) is expected to gain market share by 2030, driven by factors such as:
- The anticipated decline in costs of green hydrogen, green ammonia, and green methanol;
- The advancement of economies of scale; and
- The internalization, through regulatory and market instruments, of carbon and other negative externalities associated with fossil fuel use, such as local pollution and public‑health impacts.
Currently, green hydrogen, ammonia, and methanol still have higher energy costs, but the note projects significant cost reductions by 2030. Based on projections by the International Energy Agency (IEA) and BloombergNEF, hydrogen costs are expected to fall from USD 3.97/kg to USD 1.85/kg over this period, driven by declining electrolysis Capex (from approximately USD 1,000 to USD 400-600 per kW) and lower renewable electricity costs, which currently account for up to 70% of the total cost of the molecule.
The study also highlights the impact of carbon pricing on market dynamics. With carbon prices around USD 100 per ton of CO₂, green hydrogen is expected to reach economic parity with fossil‑based hydrogen, reducing the “green premium” and expanding adoption potential across industrial and transportation sectors.
To translate these advantages into effective competitiveness, the ABIHV recommends reducing project capital costs, advancing implementation of a regulated carbon market, and developing integrated industrial hubs for hydrogen and its derivatives.
Find out more: Green hydrogen expected to become more competitive by 2030, claims ABIHV.
| TYPE | DESCRIPTION | CONTRIBUTION PERIOD | CODE / NOTES |
| Petrobras Contracting | Supply of goods and EPC services by the contractor, covering detailed engineering (executive design), civil construction, electromechanical assembly, commissioning, testing, start‑up support and assisted operation, technical assistance, and final documentation (data book and as‑built) for the RPBC Revamp Project (UFCC – Machinery), at the unit located in Cubatão‑SP, as per the tender and its addenda.
|
May 15, 2026
12:00 PM |
7004545884 |
| Petrobras Contracting | Design, supply, construction, and installation (“EPCI”) services for the Revamp of the Oily Water Basin (“BAO”) and the Auxiliary Contaminated Water Basin (“BAC Auxiliar”) at Replan’s Industrial Waste Treatment Unit (“UTDI”), in accordance with the specifications of the tender notice and its addenda. | May 13, 2026
5:00 PM |
7004523308 |
| Petrobras Contracting | Chartering of an AHTS-type vessel and provision of specialized technical services. | May 27, 2026
12:00 PM |
7004345558 |
| Petrobras Contracting | Specialized technical services in support of safety, environmental, and health management of subsea activities, in accordance with the bid notice and its addenda. | May 04, 2026
12:00 PM
|
7004564150 |
| Petrobras Contracting | Chartering of helicopters to assist Petrobras, regarding Lots A, B, C, and D, in accordance with the specifications of the tender notice and its addenda.
|
May 12, 2026
5:00 PM |
7004562497 |
| Petrobras Contracting | Supply of goods and provision of services related to the preparation of the preliminary design, detailed design, civil construction, electromechanical installation, and commissioning (preservation, conditioning, testing, pre-operation support, start-up, and assisted operation), including technical assistance for the implementation of a Pretreatment Unit for Bio Aviation Kerosene (“BIOQAV”) at the Presidente Bernardes Refinery, located in Cubatão-SP (“RPBC”), in accordance with the specifications of the tender notice and its addenda. | May 25, 2026, 12:00 PM | 7004461520 |
| Petrobras Contracting | Chartering of an AHTS-type vessel and provision of specialized technical services. | May 27, 2026
12:00 PM |
7004345558 |
| Petrobras Contracting | Supply of goods and provision of services related to the preparation of the preliminary design and detailed design, civil construction, electromechanical installation, and commissioning (maintenance, conditioning, testing, pre-operation support, start-up, and assisted operation), including technical assistance for the implementation of a Pretreatment Unit for BioQAV at the RPBC, in accordance with the specifications of the tender notice and its addenda. | May 25, 2026
12:00 PM |
7004461520 |
| Petrobras Contracting | Supply of an FPSO-type stationary production unit (“UEP”), and pre-operation, operation, and maintenance services, in BOT mode, for the Albacora revitalization project. | May 25, 2026
12:00 PM |
7004415516 |
| Petrobras Contracting | Chartering of Pipe Laying Support Vessels (“PLSV”), including the provision of specialized technical services for the laying of subsea pipelines, interconnections, inspection, maintenance, and support for subsea operations, in accordance with the specifications established in the tender notice and its addenda. | May 13, 2026
12:00 PM |
7004549819 |
| Petróleo Brasileiro S.A. | EPC (engineering, procurement, and construction) Hydrotreating (HDT) Unit and Sulfur Recovery Unit (URE) – Boaventura | May 18, 2026
12:00 PM |
7004519688 |
| Petróleo Brasileiro S.A. | EPC RPBC Revamp (“UFCC”) – Supply of goods and provision of services related to the detailed design, construction, electromechanical installation, commissioning, testing, start-up, and operational support at the RPBC in Cubatão (SP). | May 15, 2026
5:00 PM |
7004545884 |
| Petróleo Brasileiro S.A. | Chartering of PLSV vessels and provision of specialized technical services. | May 13, 2026 12:00 PM | 7004549819 |
| Petróleo Brasileiro S.A. | Lot A1-BB AUP-5 – linked to main opportunity 7004549819, regarding the chartering of PLSV vessels. | May 13, 2026 12:00 PM | 7004553008 |
| Petróleo Brasileiro S.A. | Lot A2-BB AUP-1 – linked to main opportunity 7004549819, regarding the chartering of PLSV vessels. | May 13, 2026 12:00 PM | 7004553010 |
| Petróleo Brasileiro S.A. | Lot A3-EE AUP-5 – linked to main opportunity 7004549819, regarding the chartering of PLSV vessels. | May 13, 2026 12:00 PM | 7004553012 |
| Petróleo Brasileiro S.A. | Lot A4-EE AUP-1 – linked to main opportunity 7004549819, regarding the chartering of PLSV vessels. | May 13, 2026 12:00 PM | 7004553033 |
| Petróleo Brasileiro S.A. | Lot B1-BB ARP-1 – linked to main opportunity 7004549819, regarding the chartering of PLSV vessels. | May 13, 2026 12:00 PM | 7004553034 |
| Petróleo Brasileiro S.A. | Lot B2-BB ARP-2 – linked to main opportunity 7004549819, regarding the chartering of PLSV vessels. | May 13, 2026 12:00 PM | 7004553036 |
| Petróleo Brasileiro S.A. | Lot B3-EE ARP-1 – linked to main opportunity 7004549819, regarding the chartering of PLSV vessels. | May 13, 2026 12:00 PM | 7004553037 |
| Petróleo Brasileiro S.A. | Lot B4-EE ARP-2 – linked to main opportunity 7004549819, regarding the chartering of PLSV vessels. | May 13, 2026 12:00 PM | 7004553038 |
| Petróleo Brasileiro S.A. | Lot C1-BB ARP-4-HLS – linked to main opportunity 7004549819, regarding the chartering of PLSV vessels. | May 13, 2026 12:00 PM | 7004553039 |
| Petróleo Brasileiro S.A. | Lot C2-EE ARP-4-HLS – linked to main opportunity 7004549819, regarding the chartering of PLSV vessels. | May 13, 2026 12:00 PM | 7004553041 |
| Petróleo Brasileiro S.A. | Procurement of UPS systems and DC/AC inverters for telecommunications equipment, under a global contract. | May 04, 2026
12:00 PM |
7004585746 |
| Petróleo Brasileiro S.A. | Supply of a Floating Production Storage and Offloading Unit (FPSO) and provision of pre‑operation, operation, and maintenance services, under the BOT (Build‑Operate‑Transfer) model, for the Albacora Revitalization Project. | July 06, 2026
12:00 PM |
7004415516 |
| Petróleo Brasileiro S.A. | General maintenance services for tanks, spheres, pipelines, and other equipment inherent to the full maintenance of the transfer and storage area, including the supply of parts and components. | May 07, 2026,
12:00 PM |
7004583196 |
| Petróleo Brasileiro S.A. | Services for loading and unloading tanker trucks and the operation of the weighing system. | May 04, 2026,
12:00 PM |
7004587396 |
| Petróleo Brasileiro S.A. | Procurement of UPS systems and DC/AC inverters for telecommunications equipment, under a global contract. | May 04, 2026,
5:00 PM |
7004585746 |
| Call for Contributions (“TS”) (ANEEL) | |||
| CP 010/2026 NEW | Obtain contributions on the preliminary database for calculating the Transmission System Use Tariffs (TUST) and Distribution System Use Tariffs for Generation Facilities (TUSDg) for the 2026-2027 tariff cycle. | Until May 18, 2026 | |
| CP 009/2026 NEW | Obtain contributions to improve the proposal related to the Periodic Tariff Review of Companhia Campolarguense de Energia (Cocel), to take effect as of June 29, 2026. | Until June 01, 2026 | |
| CP 008/2026 NEW | Obtain contributions to improve several Grid Procedures submodules, including: – Submodule 2.5 – Operating Criteria; – Submodule 2.9 – Minimum power quality requirements for access to or integration with the Basic Grid; – Submodule 3.5 – Consolidation of load forecasts for power system operation planning; – Submodule 3.8 – Updating technical data of hydroelectric developments; – Submodule 4.2 – Scheduling of interventions in Operational Grid facilities; – Submodule 4.3 – Monthly energy operation scheduling; – Submodule 4.5 – Daily Operation Scheduling; – Submodule 4.7 – Inclusion of hydraulic operating constraints for hydroelectric developments; – Submodule 5.7 – Load management; – Submodule 8.1 – Contract administration; – Submodule 8.3 – Monthly settlement of transmission services and sector charges; and – Submodule 9.7 – Power quality indicators of the Basic Grid. |
Until May 25, 2026 | |
| TS 007/2026 | Obtain contributions to improve the criteria used for issuing and managing generation authorizations and for managing transmission authorizations, in compliance with Strategic Objective 05 of ANEEL’s 2024-2027 Strategic Plan. | Until May 07, 2026 | |
| TS 006/2026 | Obtain contributions related to the Periodic Review of the Annual Allowed Revenue (Receita Anual Permitida – RAP) of electricity transmission concession agreements for projects with a review date in July 2026. | Until May 08, 2026 | |
| Public Consultations (“CP”) – ANEEL | |||
| CP 009/2026 NEW | Obtain contributions to improve the regulation of energy surplus treatment and expand operational flexibility in the distribution grid. | Until June 06, 2026 | |
| CP 008/2026 NEW | Obtain contributions on the proposed regulation of Article 21, paragraph 1W, Law No. 9.427, dated December 26, 1996, included by Law No. 15,269, dated November 24, 2025. | Until May 12, 2026 | |
| CP 006/2026 NEW | Obtain contributions to improve the Bid Notice for Auction No. 4/2026, aimed at contracting public electricity transmission services. | Until May 25, 2026 | |
| CP 005/2026 NEW | Obtain contributions to improve the proposal related to the 2026 Periodic Tariff Review of Copel Distribuição S.A. – Copel‑Dis, to take effect as of June 24, 2026. | Until May 22, 2026 | |
| CP 004/2026 NEW | Obtain contributions to improve the proposal related to the 2026 Periodic Tariff Review of Energisa Minas Rio – Distribuidora de Energia S.A. – EMR, to take effect as of June 22, 2026. | Until May 15, 2026 | |
| CP 003/2026 NEW | Obtain contributions to improve Submodule 6.2 of the Tariff Regulation Procedures (PRORET). | Until May 18, 2026 | |
| Public Consultations – MME | |||
| CP 221/2026 NEW | Proposed improvement to Normative Ordinance GM/MME No. 86/2024, which establishes guidelines for the export of interruptible electricity generated by thermoelectric power plants in commercial operation, centrally dispatched by the National Electric System Operator (ONS), and that is available but not used to meet the energy needs of the National Interconnected System (SIN). | Until May 07, 2026 | |
| CP 220/2026 NEW | Proposed improvement to the guidelines for the export of interruptible electricity without repatriation, destined to the Argentine Republic or the Oriental Republic of Uruguay, arising from surplus electricity generation from hydroelectric power plants centrally dispatched by the National Electric System Operator (ONS), made available to serve the National Interconnected System (SIN), whose generation is transmissible but not allocable to load. | Until June 11, 2026 | |
| CP 218/2026 | Proposed guidelines for adopting dual accounting in the Short‑Term Market (MCP) and for transitioning to electricity quantity offers to be considered in energy optimization and short‑term price formation processes. | Until May 15, 2026 | |
| External Consultations (ONS) | |||
| PNAST System | Obtain contributions from interested stakeholders and the general public on the criteria, stages, and procedures that will govern the 1st Access Season, to be carried out as part of the implementation of the National Transmission System Access Policy (PNAST). |
Until May 05, 2026 | |
* Please note that the deadlines in the table above are constantly changing and correspond to the deadlines disclosed at the time of publication of this newsletter.
