Rio de Janerio is currently responsible for 80% of national petroleum production, 42% of natural gas, the largest concentration of gas thermal plants, a series of new energy generation and technical innovation projects, the only nuclear plants in Brazil and houses offices for all major energy companies.

Although CO2 emissions from Brazil’s energy system are comparatively low, insufficient security of supply is harmful to the growth of the Brazilian economy. Therefore, the challenge is to achieve a cost-effective increase in security of supply without causing higher emission levels. Here, modern energy efficiency technologies and the use of renewables can make a significant contribution.

The objective of the program is to commission projects in: 

The objective is for each of these areas to be replicated in four strategic sectors:

The lead agency is Rio de Janeiro State Ministry for Economic Development, Energy, Industry and Services (SEDIS), which partnered with leading companies, professional associations and community organizations related to the energy sector. The project is commissioned by the German Federal Ministry for Economic cooperation and Development (BMZ).

Coordination of Rio Capital Energy program is managed by a strategic committee, chaired by the Governor of Rio de Janeiro with the participation of presidents of institutions and organizations with established headquarters in the State. Its purpose is to advise the State Ministry for Economic Development, Energy, Industry and Service on the strategic alignment and steering of the program.

To directly coordinate the projects, technicians of each company or association are assigned the task of detailing the project, defining resources and monitor the implementation.

To support project implementation, capacity development is being carried out with a view to enhancing operational and management skills. Project officers and staff receive application-oriented advice and training at the operational level on topics related to renewables and energy efficiency for demonstration projects. Experience gained in pilot projects is systematically recorded, evaluated and made available for developing relevant urban sub-markets.

The program is funded by Rio de Janeiro State Ministry for Economic Development, Energy, Industry and Services (SEDIS) with additional financial contributions from other pubic agencies and the business sector. The overall project cost amounts R$ 2,2billion (US$ 0.6billion).

The program now has a substantial role within the state government as the initiator of activities in the field of renewables and energy efficiency. For instance, the State Ministry for Social Housing has initiated the process for introducing energy efficiency indicators into new buildings. Similarly, the State Ministry of Planning is now implementing an action plan for increasing energy efficiency in public buildings.

Development partnerships with the private sector, public institutions and universities have been established to run pilot projects including:

Many of the initial projects have tended to be of an academic nature. Moving forward, greater focus is to be placed on promoting projects with practical relevance to the development of competitive markets in renewable energies and energy efficiency. 

The participation of stake holders from diverse background (public, private, academic, community-led) in the program strategy has improved cooperation among institutions at both state and municipal level. 

The pursuit of a low-carbon economy is a benefit to society and ensures a sustainable future for the city. Investing in efficient energy consumption and renewable and clean energy initiatives helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) that occur in other types of energy generation and transport.

RIO CAPITAL DE ENERGIA - Rio de Janeiro as a reference centre for renewable energy, http://www.connective-cities.net/connect/gute-praktiken/rio-capital-da-energia/, (accessed December 8, 2016).