As of now, Colombia's reliability charge (Cargo por Confiabilidad) has encouraged hybrid solar + BESS projects to progress. Large energy companies have expressed that there are no Power Purchasing Agreements (PPAs) available specifically for stand-alone storage projects, making it harder to finance those projects.
An initial auction for battery storage was successful to optimise the use of the transmission grid. Colombia has a largely decarbonised power sector thanks to the significant role of hydropower and bioenergy.
Colombia's hydropower has low runoff storage capacity but good flexibility for balancing higher shares of variable renewables. There is high interannual variability from extreme weather events (droughts or rainfall). Availability needs to be ensured with sufficient dispatchable capacity.
How does the IEA support Colombia's energy transition?
The IEA supports Colombia's agenda for a just energy transition. Experience from the IEA's Global Commission on People-Centred Transitions provides useful learnings for the government of Colombia, helping to boost local economic benefits and the transition to clean energy and new job opportunities.
Colombia has a largely decarbonised power sector thanks to the significant role of hydropower and bioenergy. Electricity demand is expected to increase as a result of economic growth and the electrification of end-use sectors, an opportunity to decarbonise the transport sector over time.
Does Colombia have a geothermal future?
Colombia's geothermal development also enjoys substantial potential along the Pacific ring of fire. In 2023, work is under way on updating the National Energy Plan (PEN) towards 2050, in line with Colombia's new National Development Plan 2022-2026 (PND) and energy and climate goals towards decarbonisation.
How does income inequality affect energy policy in Colombia?
Colombia's high degree of income inequality influences energy policy making. Despite recent progress, in 2021, 3% of the population did not have access to electricity. Colombia still has 1 million families, or 6% of households, relying on firewood for cooking, lacking access to modern cooking fuels.