Cox and EPM sign solar energy deal; Colombia halts electricity exports to Ecuador

Cox has signed a 15-year power purchase agreement (PPA) with Empresas Públicas de Medellín (EPM) in Colombia. The deal involves an investment of 40 million euros to supply approximately 115 GWh of solar energy annually. The supply, which will be backed by a portfolio of solar photovoltaic projects with a total capacity of 58 MWp distributed across various Colombian municipalities, is expected to begin progressively in 2027. This agreement is intended to support EPM’s commercial portfolio and help mitigate the impact of drought seasons on electricity tariffs.

Separately, commercial electricity exports from Colombia to Ecuador have ceased as of September 7, 2026. This suspension follows a resolution by the Energy and Gas Regulatory Commission (CREG) aimed at ensuring domestic energy supply during a period of drought risk caused by El Niño. While the physical interconnection between the two countries remains active and can facilitate technical support or residual flows, scheduled commercial transactions have dropped to zero. This loss of support is significant for Ecuador, as the interconnection can provide up to 450 MW, roughly 10% of its average demand, during a period of low hydroelectric reservoir levels.