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The 2034 Ten-Year Energy Plan provides scenarios with viable and lower-cost solutions to reduce emissions in transport
Brazil has defined a bold and pragmatic strategy to cut emissions in the transport sector. According to the new Ten-Year Energy Expansion Plan (PDE 2034), the focus is on flex-fuel vehicles and the use of advanced biofuels as an immediate and viable solution, while hydrogen is on the radar as a promising technology for future applications, starting in 2040.
Flex vehicles and biofuels gain priority
Instead of exclusively following international trends focused on full electrification, Brazil is opting for a path more aligned with its current capabilities. As reported by the Eixos Energia portal, the PDE 2034 highlights flex-fuel vehicles, already widely used in the country, as short- and medium-term pillars of the energy transition.
The plan reinforces the role of second-generation biofuels, such as ethanol from agricultural residues and advanced biodiesel, taking advantage of the existing infrastructure and Brazilian expertise accumulated over the last decades. The proposal is promote a reduction real emissions without relying exclusively on high-cost technologies that are still in the maturation phase.
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Hydrogen enters the plan with a long-term focus
Although hydrogen is not the star of the show at the moment, it is a strong presence in transition scenarios for the future. The PDE 2034 recognizes the potential of this energy vector, especially in indirect applications such as fuel cells fueled by ethanol — a solution that can combine innovation and sustainability with the Brazilian agricultural reality.
However, the plan is clear in pointing out that the use of hydrogen on a significant scale should only happen from 2040 onwards. This forecast takes into account the technological challenges, high production costs and the lack of adequate infrastructure. Even so, Brazil intends to position itself strategically so as not to be left out of this promising market when it reaches global maturity.
Different scenarios to achieve decarbonization
The study by the Energy Research Company (EPE) presented three possible paths to achieve decarbonization in the transportation sector by 2050. All scenarios are based on the premise that no single technology will solve the problem. Therefore, Brazil is betting on a diversified matrix, taking advantage of what it already has: an adaptable fleet, a consolidated base of biofuels and, in the future, the entry of hydrogen as an important piece of this energy puzzle.
This more flexible approach allows the country to move forward without relying exclusively on billion-dollar investments in electrical infrastructure, which gives it a competitive advantage, especially in regions where electrification is still unfeasible. The full document is available for public consultation and marks a decisive step forward in energy planning national.
