Argentina's Río Negro and Neuquén provinces advance energy projects, secure local jobs

The Río Negro provincial government audited the Duplicar Norte energy project to ensure compliance with the local‑employment Law 80/20. Inspectors counted 386 workers on the site, of which 274 were residents of Catriel, reflecting the law’s goal of channeling new investment into provincial jobs. Labor secretary María Martha Avilés said the rule is “fundamental for the development of energy to deliver concrete benefits to our communities.”

In Neuquén, Governor Omar Figueroa endorsed a planned LNG plant near Plaza Hincul and Cutral Co, arguing the project will create jobs and boost the province’s growth. He criticized past opposition, noting that those who once opposed LNG were involved in the 1990s YPF privatization, and highlighted support from the gas‑and‑oil union leader Marcelo Rucci, local mayors and many deputies. Figueroa framed the initiative as a “generational challenge” intended to give future Neuquén residents new opportunities.