Âmbar Energia is preparing a proactive logistics plan to guarantee fuel supply for thermal power plants in Roraima ahead of predicted severe drought in 2026.
Âmbar Energia, part of the J&F group, has informed Aneel (the Brazilian Electricity Regulatory Agency) of a set of strategic measures to reinforce the supply of fuel in isolated areas of Roraima state. Anticipating a harsh dry season in 2026, the company aims to safeguard the operation of its power generation units against potential logistical bottlenecks caused by falling river levels in the region.
Although the generation facilities maintain their technical capacity, river transportation emerges as the primary challenge for maintaining operations. As a result, the company has developed a protocol focused on preemptive stocking and flexible supply transportation for the remote locations served by the isolated grid.
Logistical challenges in isolated areas
The company currently manages 23 thermal power plants serving hard-to-reach communities, with 11 located on Indigenous Lands and 12 in the Baixo Rio Branco region. In these areas, cargo movement depends heavily on river navigability, a factor directly vulnerable to extreme drought cycles in the Amazon.
To mitigate impacts, the strategy involves loading the tanker barge dedicated to the Baixo Rio Branco to its maximum capacity of 200,000 liters. This measure extends the operational autonomy of local plants, reducing the frequency of trips during critical navigation periods. Should water levels drop excessively, the company plans to deploy smaller vessels to ensure continued transport.
The company stated that it is continuously monitoring stock levels and plans to expedite refueling as needed throughout the dry season.
Preparation in the capital and grid infrastructure
In regions with road access, supply safeguards are centered on a central storage facility in Boa Vista, with a capacity exceeding 800,000 liters. Âmbar Energia asserts that current suppliers are maintaining consistent deliveries, with no signs of shortages or contractual restrictions for the critical period.
Beyond fuel planning, the utility has intensified preparations for its power distribution infrastructure. Preventive actions include clearing rights-of-way, utilizing drones and acoustic cameras for inspections, and real-time meteorological monitoring through dozens of checkpoints to defend against storms and wildfires.
The company’s proactive stance in Roraima highlights the urgency of adapting regional energy infrastructure to increasingly frequent climate extremes. By mapping risks and optimizing logistics, the sector aims to ensure the continuous supply of electricity and preserve the well-being of isolated communities in the coming years.
