This article shows that Brazilian companies in the electric power sector are increasingly building technological paths, materialized through their efforts in R&D&I activities. It analyzes the dynamics of technological innovation in this sector, considering its motivation to innovate, organizational strategies (competitive and technological), and the supply chain, which is formed by the processes of generation, transmission, distribution and commercialization. In order to evidence its strategic importance to Brazil, the electricity sector grew at average rates of roughly 4% per year, which have surpassed the growth of the GDP during the first decade, regarding the demand side (EMPRESA..., 2011a). This article explores the hypothesis that the energy companies pursue technological complexity and invest in technology and innovation, contributing to the construction of a Sectoral System of Innovation in Brazil. This can be observed through the evaluation of the R&D&I dynamics and institutional actions of four energy companies (Cemig, Furnas, CPFL and Eletronorte), which correspond to the existence of R&D&I centers, research networks, R&D planning and partnerships with governmental agencies. However, the use of organizational and sectoral indicators lead to the conclusion that technological innovation efforts are not sufficient to constitute a robust Sectoral System of Innovation in Brazil.
Research and development; R & D & I dynamics; Technology strategy; Competitive strategy; Sectoral System of Innovation