Energy sector updates in Argentina and Colombia

In Argentina, the National Energy Secretariat has authorized the Empresa Provincial de Energía de Chubut (EPECH) to operate as a commercial participant in the Wholesale Electricity Market (MEM). Formalized through Resolution 239/2026, this move is intended to strengthen the province's energy management tools and autonomy, supporting regional productive growth.

In Colombia, XM, the administrator of the Wholesale Electricity Market and operator of the National Interconnected System, has issued a warning regarding potential energy crises driven by the El Niño phenomenon. Projections indicate a 98% probability of very strong intensity during the final quarter of 2026.

Due to four consecutive months of water inflows below historical averages, reservoir levels are at risk of falling below 20-year minimums. To mitigate this and ensure supply reliability amidst record-breaking electricity demand, XM recommends increasing thermal generation and promoting energy savings to protect dwindling hydroelectric reserves.