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With Almost 43 Billion Liters Produced, Brazil Establishes Itself as a Power in Biofuels and Bets on Sorghum to Increase Ethanol Production with Lower Cost and High Efficiency
The production of biofuels in Brazil hit a record in 2024. According to the Annual Report from the National Agency of Petroleum, Natural Gas, and Biofuels (ANP), ethanol and biodiesel totaled almost 43 billion liters. This number consolidates the country as a global highlight in the renewable energy sector.
Sorghum: Use of New Raw Materials
One of the highlights of production is the diversification of the raw material used in the plants. In addition to sugarcane and corn, sorghum is gaining ground.
Agronomist Ana Scavone, from Advanta Seeds, explains that the yield of sorghum in ethanol production is similar to that of corn, but the final cost is lower. This makes it economically more attractive for the industry.
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Despite this, sorghum has a disadvantage: it does not produce oil in its process, as happens with corn. This removes an important added value.
However, the meal left over after ethanol production forms the so-called DDG, a compound rich in protein. This material can be used in animal feed, such as for cattle, poultry, and pigs.
Viable Alternative for Producers
For Ana, sorghum is no longer just an opportunity but a real alternative with good profitability. The plant is versatile and tolerates heat and drought better compared to corn.
This is due to the structure of its roots and the natural protection in its leaves, which reduces water loss. Additionally, sorghum can be a way to generate extra income for rural producers.
Growth of Sorghum Cultivation in Brazil
Brazil is currently the third largest producer of sorghum in the world. Cultivation has been growing in recent years, mainly as a second crop, taking advantage of narrow planting windows. According to the specialist, investing in sorghum can yield a profitability equal to or even greater than that of corn, depending on the planting season.
Technology and Adaptation of Plants
This evolution is also a result of new technologies. One example is the Igrowth sorghum from Advanta Seeds. This type offers control of narrow-leaf weeds, keeping the crop clean during and after harvesting. This favors the following crop and brings savings for the farmer.
Ana points out that many plants already see sorghum as an ally in ethanol production. Corn ethanol is already established in Brazil, and the machines require few adaptations to process sorghum.
Three units have already adopted this hybrid model. They are located in Sidrolândia (MS), Balsas (MA), and in the Araguaia Valley (MT), where the installation is almost finished.
According to the engineer, this movement shows that sorghum is starting to occupy its space in the biofuels chain. And this change could mark the beginning of a new phase for the sector in Brazil.
With information from Power Mix.
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