Brazil is expected to see a substantial rise in its use of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) starting in 2027, according to a recent report by the Energy Research Company (EPE). The study projects that SAF consumption will reach 0.03 million tons of oil equivalent (Mtoe) by 2035, accounting for around 12% of Brazil's domestic energy demand associated with passenger air transport. The expansion is driven by international emission reduction commitments such as CORSIA and national initiatives like ProBioQAV, part of the Fuel of the Future program.
Major companies such as Petrobras and Acelen are actively pursuing research and planning for SAF production within Brazil, although some firms like Brasil Biofuels have temporarily paused their projects due to restructuring. While diesel fuel remains predominant in the country's transportation sector, alternative fuels including biodiesel, liquefied natural gas, ammonia, and hydrogen are anticipated to gain significant traction especially after 2030, with applications extending into maritime operations.
The overall transport energy demand in Brazil is forecasted to reach 115 Mtoe by 2035. Road transport will continue to dominate, representing 93% of total energy use. The report indicates that electric vehicles will constitute approximately 6% of the vehicle fleet by that year, whereas flex-fuel vehicles will still account for about 87%. Investments in rail and waterway infrastructure are expected to support sector growth, alongside expected expansion in urban public transportation systems, highlighting Brazil's shift towards sustainable mobility.
