Brazil is the world’s fifth-largest nation, and one of the world’s leaders in renewable energy. Nearly 12% of the planet’s freshwater flows in Brazil, so hydropower generates 61% of the country’s electricity.  So, when climate phenomena like La Nina -a warming of the Pacific Ocean- are associated with the devastation of the Amazon forest and its consequent lack of evapotranspiration, there is a water crisis. And when there is a water crisis, the entire nation suffers. 

Most of Brazil’s energy comes from hydroelectric plants. But as it experiences its worst recorded drought in history, the country is rethinking its energy model. 

One possible alternative could come from one of its main export products. Maria Valls reports.