The free electricity market in Brazil has shown significant growth in recent years. According to data from the Electric Energy Trading Chamber (CCEE), in the first quarter of 2023 alone, more than 1,400 new consumer units adhered to the model, representing an increase of 30% compared to the same period of the previous year.
As a result, the free market already has more than 32,000 consumption points, which is equivalent to 37% of the country's total electricity demand. Among the new points of consumption in the first quarter, around 850 are in the Special category, which allows agents to choose incentivized sources, such as wind, solar, biomass and small hydroelectric plants. The remainder is in the Free range, which allows negotiation with any type of source. Most free market consumption units are concentrated in the commerce, services and food sectors. In addition, the regional survey showed that the points are more concentrated in São Paulo, Rio Grande do Sul and Minas Gerais.
The Electric Energy Trading Chamber (CCEE) has been active in opening up the free market to more consumers, with contributions to the Ministry of Mines and Energy (MME) and the National Electric Energy Agency (ANEEL). For the entity, it is essential that this process be sustainable, continuous and predictable. In this sense, the figure of the retail trader is fundamental, as he will be responsible for representing consumers in the day-to-day trading of energy. The CCEE argues that the transformation of the free market must be accompanied by regulatory improvements that guarantee effective competition and the performance of the retailer.
Last year, the MME published Ordinance 50/2022, which allows all consumers connected to high voltage, such as industries and medium-sized companies, to operate in the free market from 2024 onwards. receive contributions from the market regarding the opening schedule for homes, small businesses, rural units and the public service.
Given the current scenario, it is possible to state that the free electricity market should continue to grow in the country, with more and more consumers adhering to the model. This movement can boost the development of renewable energy sources and promote the diversification of the Brazilian energy matrix.
