Papel da concorrência na comercialização de energia elétrica no Brasil

Abstract

Throughout the history of the Brazilian electricity market, there have been numerous changes in the market structure, from a state monopoly to an oligopoly, and the recent regulatory changes are expected to promote greater competition in this market. Particularly in the commercialization segment, with the regulation of the free commercialization environment (ACL). The aim of this study is to analyze the role of competition in electricity trading in the Brazilian electricity sector after the publication of Normative Decree No. 50/GM/MME, of September 27, 2022. Based on a discussion of the notions of contestable markets and economic regulation, the conditions of competition in the electricity trading segment before and after the aforementioned regulation are analyzed. Methodologically, this study is characterized as applied and descriptive research based on a survey of bibliographic and documentary data. The main results show that the gradual opening up of the electricity market in Brazil, especially after the enactment of Normative Ordinance No. 50/GM/MME in 2022, intensified competition in the Free Contracting Environment (ACL), allowing new Group A consumers (medium and high voltage) to choose their suppliers, significantly expanding the buyer base and thus the competitiveness between suppliers. This market has attracted thousands of new consumer units, promoting an environment of free competition close to the contestable markets model, with a low barrier to entry and a tendency for prices to fall for end consumers due to the increase in the supply and diversity of services offered by suppliers.