In recent years, Colombia has aimed to revolutionize its energy landscape with a strong emphasis on wind energy, particularly in the wind-rich La Guajira area. However, this aspiration has been hindered by significant challenges, as several major corporations have retracted their involvement, stalling numerous projects.
Margarita Nieves, head of the Colombian Offshore Wind Research Network, has expressed concern over the country’s pace in achieving its wind energy objectives. From a 2019 plan to generate 1.1 gigawatts, only a small fraction—approximately 32 megawatts—of capacity is operational as of today, spread across two partially-functioning wind farms.
Colombia possesses the potential to significantly impact its energy infrastructure. Data from the country’s Mining and Energy Planning Unit suggests the possibility of harvesting up to 18 gigawatts of wind energy, nearly equivalent to its existing electricity grid currently at 20 gigawatts.
Yet, despite the initial enthusiasm where companies imported equipment around 2021, many projects have not progressed to completion. This stagnation is attributed to limited grid connectivity in La Guajira, recent amendments in regulations affecting financial outcomes, and intricate social dynamics involving leadership and community interactions.
Gustavo Petro, Colombia’s first leftist president, pledges environmental stewardship and drives for an equitable energy shift. However, Colombia still heavily leans on oil as a primary export and revenue generator.
The transition witnessed notable disruptions in 2023 when Enel from Italy withdrew from a critical project in La Guajira. Shortly after, EDP Renewables ceased two high-profile initiatives: Alpha and Beta wind farms in the same locality. Further exits were observed from Statkraft, a Norwegian entity, as it transitioned nine of its upcoming solar and wind projects to Colombia’s state-run Ecopetrol. These projects are poised to cumulatively generate 1.3 gigawatts once operational, although the completion timeline extends to 2026 and beyond.
Ecopetrol’s acquisition aligns with its broader goal of diminishing dependence on fossil fuels, but the path is fraught with challenges including bureaucratic hold-ups, governance issues, and implications for Colombia’s economic framework.
Nieves flags the situation as dire, highlighting that only two projects out of many have shown tangible progress. The urgency to streamline regulatory processes, engage effectively with Indigenous Wayuu communities, and bolster electrical infrastructure is underscored as crucial for advancement.
The broader ambition of fostering offshore wind facilities is similarly at risk. According to Nieves, Colombia lags behind significantly in wind energy, whereas Brazil has made substantial strides, boasting over 1,300 wind farms, making it a significant player globally in turbine production.
While the aim of these wind projects is to support a cleaner energy future while assisting local communities, there’s contention, particularly from Indigenous groups. The region’s history with resource extraction is epitomized by the Cerrejon coal mine, highlighting potential economic voids post its closure.
The socio-cultural fabric of La Guajira, notably the Indigenous Wayuu, poses complex issues in project implementation. Samuel Lanao, overseeing the environment in La Guajira, cites entrenched societal challenges and cultural dissonance during consultations as primary barriers to successful project execution. The hope for regional development is at a crossroads due to these roadblocks.
For some within the Wayuu, the economic advantages of wind initiatives are appealing, while others express doubts over cultural and environmental ramifications.
Diego Patron, leading the Jemeiwaa Ka’I wind farm initiative, recognizes the historic hurdles faced by initial wind projects in Colombia. This pioneering venture took off amid regulatory uncertainties and evolved institutional dynamics, but Patron sees them as paving the way for future success.
He remains optimistic, citing that substantial progress has been achieved regarding community representation, environmental approvals, and contract resolutions, setting a foundation for more sustainable advancements in Colombia’s energy sector.
Despite setbacks, there is a persistent belief in overcoming misinformation and conflict, enabling coexistence between development projects and local communities.