On Colombia’s Caribbean coast, the fishing town of Taganga sits between steep green hills and a turquoise bay that has become a focal point in the country’s debate over its economic future. Nearby, energy companies plan to drill the nation’s deepest offshore gas wells, a reminder that Colombia still relies on fossil fuels even as it wants to reimagine its position in a world steadily transitioning to cleaner energy systems.
President Gustavo Petro has repeatedly argued that Colombia must prepare for an economy where fossil fuel demand gradually declines. Beginning in 2023, he committed to halting new exploration contracts for oil, gas and coal, marking a significant shift for a country that is one of Latin America’s major hydrocarbon producers. With coal exports among the largest in the region and oil revenues playing an essential role in domestic finances, Colombia’s challenge is not only technical but also political and economic.
The national debate now centers on how quickly and effectively the country can diversify. Studies from Colombian institutions warn that failing to adapt could expose the economy to long-term risks, including the potential loss of more than 27% of national GDP by 2050 due to fossil fuel decline. Local analysts and energy experts emphasize that moving too slowly would leave Colombia vulnerable, while moving too fast without planning could destabilize public finances. This balancing act is shaping the next chapter of the country’s energy policy.
To better understand the pace of change, many observers point to the transformations already under way within Ecopetrol, Colombia’s national oil company. The company has been expanding into new areas such as electricity transmission, geothermal development, and large-scale solar projects. According to strategic executives at Ecopetrol, the hydrocarbon business will remain active, but its long-term goal includes steadily increasing the share of non–oil-based operations within its portfolio. These changes reflect a broader national strategy aimed at modernizing the country’s entire energy matrix. For more details on Ecopetrol’s projects, visitors can explore its official website at https://www.ecopetrol.com.co.
Renewables Gain Ground Across the Country
Solar energy has been one of the fastest-growing components of Colombia’s installed power capacity. Government data shows that solar represented about 9% of national capacity in 2024, compared to just 1.5% two years earlier. Much of this momentum comes from national initiatives to help communities without reliable electricity access. Through new “energy communities,” the government supports solar installations and battery systems designed to reduce diesel dependence in remote regions.
The regulatory environment is also evolving. Recent reforms have streamlined environmental licensing for solar developers, accelerating the approval of medium- and large-scale projects. Local companies like Colibri Energy say that shorter timelines have already improved investor engagement and interest in utility-grade solar opportunities. At the same time, Colombia continues to evaluate expansion of offshore wind potential, supported by research networks and academic institutions.
Still, the sector faces obstacles. In several regions, transmission infrastructure is insufficient to absorb new renewable output. Many potential solar and wind installations overlap with Indigenous territories, requiring stronger agreements, consultation processes and long-term partnerships. Several international developers have withdrawn from large wind projects after facing delays, social conflicts or logistical challenges. In some cases, Ecopetrol has stepped in to take over abandoned plans and incorporate them into its long-term diversification strategy. For additional insights into Colombia’s energy planning, the UPME website (https://www1.upme.gov.co) offers valuable national energy data.
Public Debate and Communication Challenges
Despite the global attention Colombia has received for pledging to end new fossil fuel exploration, the domestic response has been mixed. Many Colombians worry that the transition might reduce government income and slow economic growth. Analysts argue that some of these fears stem from miscommunication, as the government often emphasized climate motivations rather than local benefits such as job creation, lower pollution levels and strengthened rural electrification.
Economic experts say the country needs a clearer long-term narrative that connects decarbonization with financial resilience. They note that Colombia already has a more diversified economy compared to fossil fuel–dependent states, with strong sectors like agriculture, manufacturing, technology, and tourism. Highlighting these strengths could help reduce public anxiety and build broader support for the transition. Insights into Colombia’s tourism industry, for instance, are accessible through https://colombia.travel, which highlights how sustainable travel initiatives are becoming increasingly relevant to regional development.
At the policy level, energy planners continue coordinating with environmental ministries, local governments and international partners to ensure that renewable expansion aligns with community priorities. Updates on regulatory frameworks and national energy goals are frequently published by the Ministry of Mines and Energy at https://www.minenergia.gov.co, where Colombians can learn about new programs supporting renewable adoption.
Colombia’s energy transition remains a complex, evolving process. While progress is clear in solar expansion, institutional reforms and corporate diversification, challenges persist in infrastructure, public communication, and territorial inclusion. Yet, as the country strengthens its renewable base and continues to outline a post-oil economic model, Colombia is shaping one of the most significant energy debates in the region—and one that will influence its economic stability for decades to come.
