Brazil’s CNPE creates working group to diversify feedstock, include family farmers and small producers in biofuel production

Photo: Tauan Alencar, Ministry of Mines and Energy

Brazil’s National Energy Policy Council (CNPE) approved Feb. 18 the creation of a working group to expand the diversity of raw materials and strengthen the inclusion of family farmers and small producers in the production of biofuels.

The objective is to develop guidelines and regulatory proposals that encourage sustainability and growth in the sector, promoting greater regional development and social inclusion in the biodiesel production chain.

For Alexandre Silveira, the minister of mines and energy, the initiative reinforces the government’s commitment to energy security and sustainable development.

“Brazil is already a world leader in biofuels, and this new working group will help make our matrix even more diversified, competitive and socially fair,” he said. “The inclusion of family farmers and small producers in biodiesel production is essential to generate jobs and distribute income throughout the country.”

The working group will be coordinated by the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAPA) and will have the technical support of the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa) and the Energy Research Company (EPE), institutions recognized for their expertise in innovation and development in the agro-energy sector.

The initiative comes at a strategic time, following the enactment of the Fuel of the Future Law, which strengthens the decarbonization of the transportation sector and encourages new investments in the energy transition.

The diversification of raw materials will be essential to increase the production of biofuels and reduce dependence on specific inputs, promoting greater stability and sustainability for the market.

“We want the benefits of biofuels to reach all regions of Brazil, especially the north, northeast and semi-arid regions, where there is great production potential,” Silveira said. “We are diversifying the raw material beyond soybeans to include other oilseeds, such as macaúba, palm and babassu, generating income and promoting regional development. This working group will structure policies that guarantee opportunities for all, strengthening our commitment to a socially inclusive energy transition.”

Brazil is a global leader in the agro-energy segment, with a biofuels sector that stands out for its ability to promote clean energy, generate jobs and reduce greenhouse-gas emissions.

The recent enactment of the Fuel of the Future Law established a regulatory framework that will stimulate new investments and increase the production and use of biofuels in the country.

The working group will have a period of 12 months to present its conclusions to CNPE, which may be extended if necessary.