Brasília, July 22, 2003 (Agência Brasil - ABr) - The new model for the electric sector can reduce energy rates over the medium and long run. This declaration was made by the Minister of Mines and Energy, Dilma Rousseff, at the 7th Meeting of the National Energy Policy Council. According to the Minister, the institutional model proposed for the sector will produce stability, assure a continuous supply of energy, and avoid problems of rationing and possible black-outs.

Rousseff pointed out that the change in the electric sector will guarantee cheaper rates through the selection of less expensive projects and bidding processes that stimulate competition favoring projects with lower rates. (DAS)