Abstract
This study examines mainstream TV coverage of blackouts and energy rationing in Brazil, which has experienced recurring energy supply shortages since 2001. We examine how the relationship between the press and the central government influences coverage by analyzing three periods of energy shortages, corresponding to the administrations of Fernando Henrique Cardoso (center-right), Dilma Rousseff (center-left), and Jair Bolsonaro (far-right). The content analysis revealed that relations between the press and politicians significantly influence media coverage. Specifically, the mention of the term hydric crisis increased as contentious relationships grew, with reports quoting more experts and fewer official sources during Bolsonaro's tenure. Broader environmental factors, such as deforestation in the Amazon, barely appear among the explanations for the shortages. However, quotes from the affected citizens and experts were frequent, suggesting TV stations are diversifying voices in environmental communication about energy.