Introduction
The federal government recently approved the Decennial Energy Expansion Plan 2035 (PDE 2035), prepared by the Energy Research Company (EPE). The plan aims to reinforce Brazil's leadership in the energy transition, but a more in-depth analysis of the numbers reveals a dominance of investments in fossil fuels, with only a rearrangement of figures for renewable sources.
Investments in Oil and Gas
According to the plan, of the investments of R$ 3.5 trillion planned, R$ 2.8 trillion (80% of the total) will be allocated to oil and gas. This value represents more than seven times the amount projected for renewable energies, which totals R$ 374 billion. Compared to the previous plan (2034), the total figure increased by approximately R$ 300 billion, with almost the entire growth going to oil and gas.
Development of Pre-Salt Reserves
The concentration of investments in oil and gas reflects the development of pre-salt reserves. Therefore, the PDE projects 74% of the total value to the exploration and production (E&P) segment. According to the plan, the country will reach 2035 producing 4.9 million barrels per day, an increase of 22% over current production.
Investments in Renewable Energies
The plan also highlights fossil gas, with greater growth in both supply (71%) and demand (65%) over the next decade. The investment in thermoelectric power, which includes fossil gas but also nuclear energy, is expected to be R$ 167 billion. The projected figure for renewable energy includes R$ 38 billion for storage systems (batteries); R$ 79 billion for wind power; R$ 54 billion for hydroelectric power; R$ 36 billion for solar energy; and R$ 115 billion for biofuels.
Electric Sector
In the electric sector, the government also plans to invest R$ 117 billion in transmission. The lack of lines and batteries has led the National Electric System Operator (ONS) to limit the generation of electricity from wind and solar power plants in operation in the Northeast.
Conclusion
The Decennial Energy Plan 2035 reveals a clear priority for investments in oil and gas, with a significant increase compared to the previous plan. Although there is a rearrangement of figures for renewable sources, the value allocated to these sources is significantly lower than that invested in fossil fuels. It is essential that the government reevaluate its priorities and invest more in renewable energies to ensure a sustainable future for the country.
Source / Reference
Original URL: https://climainfo.org.br/2026/07/05/plano-decenal-de-energia-preve-80-dos-investimentos-para-petroleo-e-gas/