Colombia ‘s National Hydrocarbons Agency (ANH) plans to invest more than $135 million in renewable energy knowledge as the country seeks to transition to cleaner energy sources. The decision is part of the government’s policy to reduce the country’s dependence on oil exports, which have traditionally been an important source of revenue for the Andean nation. Clara Guatame, the new president of ANH, made the announcement at an industry event in Barranquilla, a city on Colombia’s Caribbean coast.
Renewable energy in Colombia: a priority for sustainable development
As part of its energy policy, the Colombian government has pledged to stop awarding contracts for hydrocarbon exploration and production, instead encouraging companies to make the most of the licenses they have already obtained. This shift to renewable energy sources is a crucial step in Colombia’s energy transition, which is expected to reduce the country’s greenhouse gas emissions and create a more sustainable future.
To achieve this goal, the ANH will invest 640 billion pesos ($135.8 million) in projects over the next four years to develop its knowledge of renewable energy sources, such as wind, geothermal and hydrogen. This investment is part of the Colombian government’s four-year development plan, currently being debated in Congress.
Colombia, a key player in the energy transition in Latin America despite its oil production
Despite this transition to cleaner energy sources, Colombia remains a major oil producer, with current production of approximately 765,000 barrels per day (b/d). However, the government has stated that it will no longer award contracts for hydrocarbon exploration and production, signaling a shift to renewable energy sources.
Guatame pointed out that 39% of Colombia’s current oil production comes from projects where companies have implemented improved recovery technologies. This indicates that there is a growing commitment by companies to adopt new and improved recovery technologies that can make oil extraction more efficient and reduce its environmental impact.
Thus, Colombia’s investment in renewable energy knowledge marks a crucial step in its transition to cleaner energy sources. ANH’s commitment to investing in renewable energy research will not only help the country reduce its dependence on oil exports, but also contribute to global efforts to combat climate change.
