National Energy Policy: Brazil

cogeneration The simultaneous production of power (either electrical or mechanical) and useful heat (e.g., process steam) using a single fuel source. firm power Continually available power, or power that is available for a large, prespecified, part of the time. “free” electricity or gas consumer A consumer free to choose a supplier of electricity or gas, in contrast to a “captive” consumer. energy service company A business that implements energy conservation measures for its customers and is paid by them part of the corresponding cost savings. independent power producer An electrical power producer that is not a generation utility, i.e., does not have a concession contract and is not regulated. Independent producers compete, at their own risk, with other producers and, sometimes, with generation utilities in a power supply market. indicative forward planning Prospective studies, carried out or contracted by government bodies, indicating possible expansion paths and providing guidance about future investment needs to interested agents.