Demand for light fuels in Brazil: An approach using spatial panel data models

Abstract

The need for changes in the current energy matrix is a reality due to the possibility of a shortage of fossil fuels and the environ-mental damage caused by emissions related to fossil fuel use. The correct prescription of public policies for energy markets depends on the knowledge of demand elasticities. Hence, the aim of this work was to estimate the main determinants of light fuel demands in Brazil. Dynamic and non-dynamic estimators were used, and the results indicated that both demands respond more to changes in gasoline prices than changes in ethanol prices. Therefore, public policies that aim to change consumption patterns should focus on gasoline prices.