Colombia energy sector sees projected growth in coal and gas

Colombia's energy sector is seeing shifts in investment and production forecasts following a change in administration. The coal industry association, Fenalcarbon, stated that annual coal production could potentially rise to 90 million tons by 2030, up from a 2026 forecast of 53 million metric tons. This growth would require adjustments to taxation, licensing, freight costs, and port expenses, as well as increased controls on illegal mining.

The new government, led by President Abelardo De La Espriella, is reviewing approximately 330 decrees from the previous administration that impact mining and power generation. Energy Vice Minister Luis Francisco Madrinan indicated that officials are evaluating ways to restore national competitiveness, which may include scrapping previous bans on coal exports to Israel.

In the natural gas sector, Naturgas projects that industry investment will rise 17% to US$1.031 billion in 2026, compared to US$883 million in 2025. The majority of this funding, approximately US$839 million, is earmarked for exploration and production. Other allocations include US$129 million for transport infrastructure and US$62 million for distribution and commercialization.