This paper presents the current situation of renewable energy for electricity generation in the South American region, describing its potential and how it is currently used in the energy integration programs at the Andean Community of Nations (Comunidad Andina de Naciones CAN) and at Common South Market (Mercado Comn del Sur MERCOSUR). It also portrays the particular state of Brazil, which addresses in a very specific manner a renewable energy program for electricity generation, giving them a special treatment, from the regulatory framework to long-term energy auctions contracts. Within this framework, it is also discusses how Brazil takes regional leadership in the process of Energy Integration Programs, throughout its national mixed capital enterprise ELETROBRAS and the National Development Bank (Banco Nacional de Desenvolvimiento BNDES) held responsible for financing these integration programs. In conclusion the paper presents the socio-environmental-political issues inherent to these kinds of Energy Integration Programs and gives suggestions on how to address these difficulties by looking for a sustainable and inclusive development program that all countries in the region could benefit from.