Environmental and economic impact of the use of natural gas for generating electricity in The Amazon: A case study

Abstract

The study assessed the environmental and economic impacts of replacing heavy fuel oil (HFO) with natural gas (NG) in a thermoelectric plant in the Amazon, Brazil, from 2010 to 2012. Results showed a 20% reduction in energy generation costs (R$ 282/MWh in 2012) and significant decreases in CO₂, NOₓ, and SOₓ emissions. Despite an average thermal efficiency of 37.86%, the analysis underscores the economic and environmental feasibility of NG, recommending combined-cycle technologies for further optimization. Specific consumption, capacity factors, and emission data were compared, highlighting benefits aligned with sustainable energy policies.