SWOT analysis of Brazilian energy policy: A comparative panel data analysis of the twenty largest economies

This article endeavours to analyse Brazil's continuities and changes in energy policies with the transition from the Lula-Rousseff government to the Temer-Bolsonaro government. The comparative approach makes it possible to identify the endogenous and exogenous factors of the transformations in the energy market. The methodology intends to demonstrate the main strengths/opportunities and weaknesses/threats of market opening policies between 2003 and 2022. The findings show fiscal responsibility, the development model, internal and external demand, price, and private and political interests impacted by the results of these policies over the analysed period. It is evidenced that Brazil's performance in renewable energy is comparable to that of developed countries despite its lower investment capacity. The high potential for expansion also favours the prospects for biofuels, wind, and photovoltaics. The conclusion underscores that the Brazilian State emphasises the strategic nature of energy and its indispensable role in guaranteeing its energy offer development attempts. •Brazil has renewable and non-renewable energy resources, poised for surplus.•Uncertainties prompting the need for a legal framework for offshore projects.•Private capital substitutes limited state investment in small hydro, solar, and wind.•The Brazilian renewable energy industry outperforms developed countries.•An energy surplus boosts the country's industrialisation and global competitiveness.