R$ 535 million deal marks the entry of the J&F group into nuclear power generation and reinforces its position in clean energy and energy security
Âmbar Energia, a business unit of J&F S.A., signed on Wednesday (15) an agreement to acquire the entire stake held by Eletrobras in Eletronuclear, the company responsible for the Angra dos Reis Nuclear Complex, in Rio de Janeiro. The R$ 535 million operation marks Âmbar’s entry into nuclear power generation and reinforces its strategic position in the Brazilian electricity system.
The deal, subject to regulatory approval, will further diversify Âmbar’s power generation portfolio. Currently, the company has 50 units, considering businesses in the closing phase: solar, hydroelectric, biodiesel, biomass, biogas, natural gas, among others. “Nuclear energy combines stability, predictability and low emissions, fundamental characteristics at a time of decarbonization and growing demand for electricity driven by artificial intelligence and the digitalization of the economy,” says Marcelo Zanatta, president of Âmbar Energia.
Eletronuclear operates the Angra 1 plants, with an installed capacity of 640 megawatts (MW), Angra 2, with 1,350 MW, and the Angra 3 project under development, with 1,405 MW. Together, the three units can generate up to 3,400 MW, enough to supply more than 10 million people.
The two plants in operation have long-term contracts, which guarantees predictable revenues. Angra 1 is contracted until 2044 and Angra 2 has a contract until 2040. “The stake in Eletronuclear ensures us a stable flow of revenues, with energy generated close to the largest consumption centers in the country,” says Zanatta. In 2024, Eletronuclear recorded net revenue of BRL 4.7 billion and net income of BRL 545 million.
Under the agreement, Âmbar will hold a 68% stake in the total capital and 35.3% of the voting capital of Eletronuclear, previously held by Eletrobras. The Federal Government, which is not part of the transaction, will continue to control Eletronuclear through Empresa Brasileira de Participações em Energia Nuclear e Binacional (ENBPar), which holds 64.7% of the voting capital and about 32% of the total capital. “With this acquisition, we consolidate the most diversified portfolio in the Brazilian electricity sector, combining different sources to ensure energy security, sustainability and competitiveness,” says Zanatta.
