Brazil sees rise in electrical accidents in 2025

The Associação Brasileira de Distribuidores de Energia Elétrica (Abradee) reported that electrical‑grid accidents in Brazil increased from 685 cases in 2024 to 703 in 2025. Fatalities fell slightly, from 257 to 252 deaths.

Construction work remains the leading cause, accounting for 227 incidents and 68 deaths in 2025. The sector also saw 241 serious injuries, including mutilations, and 210 minor injuries. Accidents involving machinery operating near power lines jumped to 66 cases – almost double the previous year. Illegal connections, known locally as “gatos” or “macacos,” were linked to 30 incidents and 15 deaths.

Regionally, the Southeast recorded the highest numbers with 243 accidents, 78 deaths, 91 serious injuries and 74 minor injuries. The Northeast reported 187 accidents, the North 122, the South 81, and the Central‑West 70.

Abradee’s Communication and Sustainability Director Cristina Garambone stressed the human impact, saying “porque, por trás de cada acidente, há a vida de uma pessoa e uma família impactada.” She added, “O que a gente percebe é que, muitas vezes, os acidentes com mortes ocorrem em momentos de distração ou quando a pessoa acha que está dando um jeitinho.” Abradee urges that only qualified professionals handle electrical work.

The association is running its 20th National Electrical Safety Campaign, themed “Energia liga. Segurança protege,” which runs through September with a heightened “Red August” focus on public awareness.