Colombia Minister promotes natural gas for energy transition

Colombia’s Minister of Environment and Sustainable Development, Fabio Arjona, has identified natural gas as a critical component for the country’s energy transition. During meetings with the Colombian Natural Gas Association (Naturgas), Arjona emphasized that gas can ensure energy security and reduce greenhouse gas emissions if decisions are based on scientific data.

Arjona warned that moving away from natural gas could lead to higher emissions, noting that 16% of the country's industry has already migrated to more polluting substitutes. He estimated that replacing natural gas could result in up to 27 million additional tons of CO2 equivalent emissions, a 10% increase in the national inventory.

In Córdoba, the Minister highlighted potential gas supply opportunities through projects in the Chinú area. To mitigate energy rationing risks, the government has authorized the expansion of the regasification port pier in Cartagena to 58 meters, with a capacity of 58 million cubic feet. This expansion is expected to benefit regional industrial operations, including Cerro Matoso.