This publication is the product of an international effort to develop a novel approach to the comprehensive assessment of national energy systems within a sustainable development context. It represents the first of a series of national studies being conducted through a partnership initiative under the World Summit on Sustainable Development and the United Nations Commission on Sustainable Development. The study comprises a quantitative and qualitative analysis of Brazil's energy needs, supply and security; domestic resources; technology development and innovation; and alternative future scenarios taking into consideration sustainable development criteria and goals defined by Brazilian experts. Social, economic and environmental issues and trends are examined in detail using statistical analysis of historical data, integrated demand and supply modeling systems and energy indicators for sustainable development. The quantitative assessment is accompanied by discussions of major institutional and infrastructural considerations. The report summarizes the analyses, identifies major energy priority areas for Brazil and explores policy options useful to decision makers and specialists in energy and the environment.--Publisher's description.