Brazil offers an important model for energy generation and security. Domestically, hydroelectric and nuclear projects are underway but new oil refineries are needed to meet growing demand. At the same time, President Lula continues to traverse the region to promote biofuels and energy cooperation.

John Sheehan, a senior strategic analyst at the U.S. National Renewable Energy Laboratory, analyzes the long-term limits of greater biofuel use. Alternative energy topped the agenda at recent meetings between U.S. President Bush and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

To explore energy policy in the Andean Region, with a specific focus on Colombia, the Americas Society and Council of the Americas convened media and public sector experts to look at energy reform, energy integration, and oil production and exploration. This summary provides an overview of the main points from the discussion.

Otaviano Canuto, an executive director at the World Bank, believes biofuels may yield a triple dividend: greater energy security, a cleaner environment, and more economic development. For less developed countries, biofuels offer an outlet for using idle or underemployed human and natural resources.

Driven by energy security and environmental concerns, global calls for greater biofuel production will involve important trade-offs. With Brazil and the U.S. jointly producing 70 percent of the world's ethanol supply, panelists highlighted possibilities for greater bilateral cooperation.

Stefan Krauter, chair of Rio World Climate and Energy Events, and Keith Parsons examine alternative energies in Brazil and throughout the Americas. Both large and small projects, including wind energy initiatives, will be critical to meeting energy demands.

Topics in this issue:
• Chávez’s new term
• Nationalization plans
• Oil companies