History

Below is a brief history of electricity governance in Brazil, from the creation of the Water Directorate to the beginning of ANEEL’s activities in 1997.

1933

The Geological and Mineralogical Service of Brazil was reorganised, leading to the creation of the Water Directorate, later transformed into the Water Service.

1934

The National Department of Mineral Production (DNPM) was established, encompassing, among others, the Water Service, as a result of the Juarez Távora Reform.

1939

The National Council for Water and Electric Energy (CNAEE) was created by Decree-Law No. 1,285 of 18 May 1939, directly subordinated to the Presidency of the Republic, as a body for consultation, guidance and oversight regarding the use of hydraulic resources and electric energy throughout the national territory.

1960

Law No. 3,782 of 22 July 1960 established the Ministry of Mines and Energy, subordinating the CNAEE to the Ministry.

1961

The National Department of Mineral Production was detached from the Ministry of Agriculture and integrated into the Ministry of Mines and Energy.
The incorporation of Centrais Elétricas Brasileiras S.A. – Eletrobras, authorised by Law No. 3,890-A of 25 April 1961, absorbed several responsibilities previously under the CNAEE.

1996

Law No. 9,427 of 26 December 1996 established the National Electric Energy Agency (ANEEL), a special autonomous agency linked to the Ministry of Mines and Energy, headquartered in the Federal District, with the purpose of regulating and supervising the production, transmission and commercialisation of electricity in accordance with Federal Government policies and guidelines.

1997

Decree No. 2,335 of 6 October 1997 approved the organisational structure of ANEEL.
On 28 December 1997, through Ordinance No. 349 issued by the Minister of Mines and Energy, the Internal Regulations of ANEEL were approved, defining the Agency’s powers in accordance with the Water Code, Laws No. 8,987 and No. 9,074, and subsequent complementary legislation.