O investimento econômico chinês no setor de energia no Brasil: estudo de caso da State Grid Brazil Holding

Abstract

This paper analyzes Chinese economic investment in the Brazilian energy sector, with an emphasis on the case study of State Grid Brazil Holding and the transmission line of the Belo Monte Hydroelectric Power Plant. The main objective is to understand China’s strategies for its international integration and assess the impacts of these initiatives in Brazil. The research examines the interaction between global economic growth, sustainability, and the political challenges that emerge from this bilateral relationship. The central hypothesis is that Chinese investments in the Brazilian energy sector, despite significantly contributing to the development of local infrastructure, may generate economic dependence and compromise Brazil's energy sovereignty. The methodology consists of bibliographic research, analyzing renowned authors and institutional documents, along with a qualitative review of data on Chinese investments in Brazil, particularly in the energy sector. The case study examines State Grid’s operations in Brazil, highlighting its role in constructing and managing electric transmission infrastructure, focusing on the Belo Monte transmission line project. The results indicate that Chinese investments have promoted technological and infrastructural advancements in Brazil but also raise questions about the long-term impacts related to environmental sustainability, economic autonomy, and the distribution of benefits generated by these projects. This study aims to enrich the debate on Sino-Brazilian economic relations, highlighting the opportunities and challenges posed by this strategic partnership. Moreover, it emphasizes how the cooperation model adopted by China in the energy sector may influence other areas of bilateral interaction.