If you’re looking for ways to cut costs and increase your company’s efficiency, understanding the difference between ACR (Regulated Contracting Environment) and ACL (Free Contracting Environment) can be a game changer. In this article, we clearly explain how these two energy models work — and why ACL, the Free Energy Market, is the smartest strategic choice for businesses.
What is ACR and what is ACL?
The Brazilian electricity sector operates in two main environments:
- ACR (Ambiente de Contratação Regulada): Regulated Contracting Environment — energy is purchased from local distributors at prices set by the government.
- ACL (Ambiente de Contratação Livre): Free Contracting Environment — companies negotiate directly with energy generators or traders, choosing the best terms and prices.
The table below summarizes the main differences:
Key Differences Between ACR and ACL
| Aspect | ACR – Regulated Market | ACL – Free Market |
| Energy price | Fixed by ANEEL | Negotiable between consumer and supplier |
| Negotiation power | None | Full freedom to negotiate |
| Supplier choice | No choice | Free to choose among several suppliers |
| Contract type | Standard distributor contract | Customized based on company’s consumption profile |
| Cost transparency | Low | High — clear and detailed cost structure |
| Energy source | Not selectable | Can choose renewables (solar, wind, etc.) |
| Budget predictability | Limited | High — fixed-price contracts for defined terms |
| Distributor dependency | Total | Partial — distributor only delivers the energy |
Why Should Your Company Consider the Free Energy Market?
Switching to ACL can reduce your electricity bill by up to 30%. But it’s not just about savings — it’s about predictability, flexibility, and strategic control over your energy usage.
Main advantages of ACL:
- Significant cost reduction
- Control over suppliers and contract conditions
- Option to choose clean energy
- Greater budget predictability
- Active consumption management based on real data
Can My Company Switch to ACL Now?
Yes. Since January 2024, all Group A consumers — that is, companies served at medium or high voltage — can migrate to the Free Energy Market.
This includes industries, large retailers, hospitals, shopping centers, universities, and even smaller businesses that meet the Group A criteria. The previous restriction requiring a minimum contracted demand of 500 kW has been removed.
The migration process takes, on average, 4 to 6 months and involves:
- Technical analysis of your energy usage
- Contractual and regulatory adjustments
- Support from a specialized consultancy or energy trader
While the process requires planning and attention, the return is usually quick and substantial — with cost savings, greater predictability, and more control over energy management.
Conclusion: ACL Is More Than Just Savings — It’s a Business Decision
Companies that migrated to the Free Energy Market gained a competitive edge, optimized their energy expenses, and positioned themselves strategically in the market. In times of tight margins and rising costs, not taking control of your energy spend is leaving money on the table.
Want to know if your company is ready to switch to ACL? Talk to a specialist and discover how much you could save.
