ONS Launches First Competitive Bidding for Transmission Grid Capacity in 2026

The National Electric System Operator takes a historic step by initiating its first competitive bidding process for transmission grid capacity, marking the 2026 cycle.

Brazil’s clean energy and electrical infrastructure sector is undergoing a period of regulatory transformation. The ONS (Operador Nacional do Sistema Elétrico – National Electric System Operator) has achieved a significant milestone by facilitating 30.7 GW in access requests to the Basic Grid for the year 2026. This volume is the result of a thorough analysis that surpassed the 43 GW evaluated since the implementation of PNAST (National Policy for Transmission System Access).

The current phase, stemming from a structured transition in accordance with Decree No. 12,772/2025, demonstrates the agency’s commitment to organizing the expansion of the national electrical system. In total, over 180 opinions were issued, encompassing both the expansion of renewable generation and the growth of industrial and consumer demand, ensuring that Brazilian energy planning keeps pace with new connections.

Innovation in Energy Allocation

Within this context, the first Access Season of 2026 introduced a fundamental technical novelty. Of the 11 GW submitted to this phase, 3.42 GW received direct service indication, while 451 MW of consumption projects were directed to an unprecedented Competitive Process. This initiative aims to allocate 228 MW of remaining capacity strategically located in the state of São Paulo.

The Operator highlighted:

This will be the first time an available transmission margin is distributed through this type of procedure, ensuring equal treatment for all interested agents.

The adoption of competitive bidding is a watershed moment for energy efficiency and market transparency. By establishing clear and pre-disclosed rules, the ONS aims to prevent bottlenecks in transmission infrastructure, allowing the system’s limited capacity to be utilized by projects with the highest technical feasibility and positive impact on the grid.

Next Steps for the Electric Sector

The timeline for finalizing this process is set. The capacity auction is scheduled for October 6, the date on which selected entrepreneurs will receive detailed guidance on the final procedures. The official conclusion of the entire 2026 stage will occur the following day, October 7, in Brasília, consolidating a new benchmark in the management of the country’s transmission system.

The expectation is that the success of this competitive model will pave the way for future capacity allocations, making the expansion of the Brazilian generation and consumer base more technical, agile, and equitable. With the detailed data provided by Relevant Communication No. 06/2026, market agents are now preparing for a new era of predictability in accessing electric energy infrastructure.