Determining Factors and Scenarios of Influence on Consumer Migration from the Regulated Market to the Deregulated Electricity Market

Due to the constant evolution of the electricity markets around the world, new possibilities for contracting electricity are emerging. In Brazil, there are two models available to the consumer: the regulated contracting environment and the free contracting environment. Because of these possibilities for contracting electricity, it is important that consumers know how to migrate from the regulated to the free environment when it is an advantage. This study was conducted following the premises of three techniques: systematic literature review, gray literature review, and expert panel. The following question was asked: What are the determining factors to be considered by the consumer at the moment decision to migrate from the regulated electricity market to the free market? In total, 7 factors were identified and discussed in the literature review. The experts who participated in the study pointed out 3 influential scenarios in this decision making to migrate. The main contribution of this study is to provide the consumer with subsidies for decision making, given the determining factors to be taken into account when deciding on migration or not. In addition, the study contributed to the sector through a comprehensive discussion about the scenarios faced by consumers and how they can influence decision making.