Raising expectations: Brazil's Construtora Elevação preparing to enter new markets next year

Brazilian infrastructure firm Construtora Elevação is looking to boost its activities in the sanitation, oil and gas, and energy sectors in 2025.

The firm is also looking beyond Brazil and expanding to North America.

BNamericas conducted an email interview with CEO Marco Fontoura, who described the company's plans for next year.

BNamericas: What is Construtora Elevação focused on right now?

Fontoura: Elevação, founded 48 years ago, carries out infrastructure projects for both the private and public sectors, primarily in the areas of sanitation, oil and gas, and energy. 

Through EPC, DBOT [design, build, operate, transfer] and asset-leasing regimes, among others, it operates in the sanitation sector by developing water supply systems, sewage treatment, industrial effluent treatment and water reuse projects.

In the oil and gas sector, we are recognized for the construction, assembly and maintenance of large-diameter and long-length pipelines.

Regarding energy, our expertise lies in substations and transmission networks, and we now have significant opportunities in transmission lines and renewable energies, particularly solar and wind power projects.

BNamericas: Where do you see the greatest potential for new business in 2025 and why?

Fontoura: We see great potential in the three areas mentioned.

In sanitation, this is due to the maturation of the regulatory framework, which is creating more structured opportunities. 

In the oil and gas sector, we view transportation pipelines as most promising. Additionally, thanks to international prospects and new strategic partnerships, like the one with [pipeline and offshore contractors association] Iploca, new business opportunities are likely to emerge.

In energy, the expansion of transmission infrastructure for renewable energy is another focus, driven by the growing need to connect wind and solar farms to the integrated system. These markets offer not only financial opportunities but also the chance to reinforce our commitment to innovation, sustainability and safety.

BNamericas: Does the company focus on specific regions, or does it operate throughout the country?

Fontoura: Elevação has been operating nationwide for nearly 50 years, with the exception of the northern region, but that is about to change.

Internationalization is also close to becoming a reality, as we have received several invitations from partners and conducted visits abroad.

BNamericas: Is the company interested in pursuing projects outside Brazil?

Fontoura: Yes, our membership in Iploca is a strategic step in that direction, as it positions us globally and connects us to a broad ecosystem of companies and opportunities in the pipeline construction sector.

Additionally, we are evaluating markets in North America, where our expertise in value engineering for infrastructure can make a significant difference.

BNamericas: What else would you add regarding the decision to join Iploca?

Fontoura: Our affiliation with IPLOCA is a strategic milestone that reinforces Elevação’s commitment to global standards of excellence in value engineering. This membership allows us not only to access the best construction practices in the pipeline sector but also to deepen our focus on safety – a core value for our company. Therefore, we partnered with DSS+, formerly DuPont, a year ago, elevating us to a distinguished level in this area. 

We aim to be recognized as leaders in corporate ethics, governance, safety and sustainability within the sector. This is a significant step in our journey, one that will bring benefits to our entire business ecosystem.

BNamericas: What are the main bottlenecks hindering projects in the sanitation area?

Fontoura: The main challenges remain the lack of structured financing, delays in environmental licensing processes, and the need for greater coordination between the government, private companies and society.

Despite the progress made with the new regulatory framework, there is still a long way to go to ensure the universalization of sanitation services by 2033. We need a clearer and more stable regulatory environment, as well as incentives to attract private capital.

BNamericas: How do you see the business environment for infrastructure?

Fontoura: The sector is experiencing a moment of transition and potential. Growing private interest in infrastructure, combined with the support of more modern regulatory frameworks, is creating a more favorable environment for investments.

However, we still face challenges such as bureaucracy, a lack of long-term planning, and macroeconomic uncertainties. Companies like Elevação, which are well-structured and have decades of proven expertise, are now seeking a leading role and drive projects with significant social and economic impact.