Final answer:
Brazil has become energy independent by focusing on renewable energy sources like biodiesel and hydropower, along with domestic oil production. Hydropower is a major contributor, complemented by advancements in biodiesel, reducing reliance on imported oil.
Step-by-step explanation:
Brazil has achieved energy independence largely through its extensive use of renewable energy sources, particularly biofuels, hydropower, and oil production.
The original source of energy that powers renewable resources like wind energy and hydropower is mainly precipitation, which is part of the hydrological cycle crucial for hydropower generation. Additionally, investment in biodiesel production, using domestic sources like soybeans, has played a significant role in reducing dependency on foreign oil. Brazil's domestic oil production, through the development of offshore oil fields, has also contributed to its energy independence, lessening the impact of imported oil from places like the Russian Federation and OPEC nations.
Hydropower is the most significant renewable energy source in Brazil, representing a sizeable percentage of the country's energy matrix. The country's commitment to renewable energy, its diversification of energy sources, and its continuous efforts towards energy efficiency have been crucial in achieving energy independence.