Argentina extends Río Hondo and Los Quiroga hydroelectric concessions

Argentina's Secretariat of Energy has issued Resolution 198/2026, extending the operating concession for the Río Hondo Hydroelectric Complex and the Los Quiroga Hydroelectric Plant in Santiago del Estero until December 15, 2026.

The current operator, Hidroeléctrica Río Hondo S.A., must submit a letter of adherence within 10 business days to accept the extension. If the company declines, it is still legally obligated to continue electricity generation for a minimum of 90 days to ensure service continuity while the state prepares for a new competitive bidding process.

The government intends to launch a new national and international public tender for these facilities. This process involves complex tasks, including drafting technical specifications, defining water management rules, identifying mandatory investments to extend asset life, and establishing environmental protection and dam safety manuals.