The number of consumers who migrated to the free energy market totaled 4.827 units in the first quarter of 2026, according to data released this week by CCEE (Chamber of Electric Energy Commercialization).
The volume represents a 36,5% drop compared to the same period in 2025, when 7.603 migrations were recorded, indicating a slowdown after the strong expansion cycle observed in 2024 and 2025.
In the free market, consumers can choose their energy supplier, negotiate prices, terms, and contractual conditions, which increases competitiveness and creates opportunities for reducing operational costs.
In a statement, CCEE assessed that the market is undergoing a natural adjustment period following the full opening of the high-voltage segment.
“Following the rapid expansion of migrations to the free market in 2024 and 2025, the first two years of the segment's opening to all high voltage, the growth rate is going through a period of adjustment. The volume of new entrants remains at high levels compared to the average observed until 2023, but at a more balanced pace,” the Chamber highlighted.
The fact is that the free market has become less attractive with the considerable increase in energy prices from 2025 onwards, reflecting low hydrology and regulatory changes in price formation models.
Among the states, São Paulo led in the volume of new migrations between January and March, with 1.311 consumer units. Following were Minas Gerais (387), Rio Grande do Sul (386), Santa Catarina (370), and Paraná (351), reinforcing the concentration of growth in the South and Southeast regions. Bahia also stood out in the Northeast, with 340 new consumers in the free market.
The service, commerce, sanitation, and food sectors continue to be among the main drivers of increased migration.
Data from ANEEL (National Electric Energy Agency) indicates that the expectation for 2026 is approximately 10 new migrations to the free market. Although the number remains significant, it is lower than that recorded in the last two years: 21.707 migrations in 2025 and 26.834 in 2024.
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