Last year was a momentous one for Colombia’s energy sector.
Unusually dry weather conditions resulting from the El Niño weather phenomenon depleted reservoirs, leading to water rationing and skyrocketing energy prices in areas whose primary source of energy comes from hydropower.
Peace talks between the Colombian government and the National Liberation Army guerilla group broke down, leading to more than a dozen attacks on pipelines in August and September.
In September, President Gustavo Petro addressed the United Nations Security Council, criticizing governments who fail to take quick action to shift to decarbonized economies, and declaring that “fossil capital cannot go on.”
In October, Colombia hosted the 2024 United Nations Biodiversity Conference (COP 16), but the country’s proposed paragraph asserting that biodiversity goals “will not be possible to achieve without transitioning away from fossil fuels in energy systems” was left off the agenda.
In December, the increased demand for natural gas surpassed capacity of the country’s largest LNG plant, and Colombia was forced to import natural gas for the first time in 40 years.
Also in December, National Oil Company Ecopetrol and operating partner Petrobras announced results from appraisal well Sirius-2, confirming the most the largest gas discovery in Colombian history and an increase of 200 percent in the country’s natural gas reserves.
Q&A with a Colombian Geoscientist
To understand the Colombian context from a geoscientist’s perspective, the EXPLORER sat down with Flover Rodriguez Portillo, AAPG member and executive director of the Colombian Association of Energy Geologists and Geophysicists (ACGGP), an AAPG-affiliated society who has been an active part of national discussions related to energy policy and the role of professional associations.
The conversation provided valuable insights into the technical, social and policy challenges that Colombia’s energy sector has faced in recent years, particularly during the Petro administration, who took office in August 2022. The discussion also provides a message of hope for the role that both geoscientists and professional associations can play in shaping the future energy landscape.
- What are some of the biggest challenges faced by companies operating in Colombia today?
“Challenges range from global issues to those arising from Colombia’s social, environmental and political context. The energy transition has been one of the key pillars of the current government, with decisions such as not signing new exploration contracts prompting companies to design new strategies to optimize existing exploration activities. Exploring the country’s renewable energy potential is crucial, but we must ensure that the transition is fair, realistic, and efficient.
“Socially, the country is progressing in its discussion about hydrocarbons and their role in energy security and regional development. While there is still work to be done, initiatives like the ACGGP’s Regional Education Program have gained traction among companies like Ecopetrol, helping to facilitate projects through trust-building with communities and stakeholders. This approach has not only improved project viability but has also created a positive impact in the regions where exploration and production activities take place.”
- It is no secret that President Gustavo Petro is antagonistic toward the oil and gas industry, both in Colombia and globally. In your opinion, how have the administration’s policies affected Ecopetrol and other companies operating in the country?
“It is undeniable that the current government’s policies have sparked a broad debate about the future of the oil and gas industry in Colombia. The administration has focused on energy transition and diversifying the country’s productive matrix, leading to a reassessment of investment and operational strategies within the sector.
“These policies have brought changes and adjustments for operators in Colombia. The emphasis on reducing dependence on hydrocarbons has led to the evaluation of key exploration projects concerning energy security, impacting company investment plans and strategies. As a result, companies have been compelled to diversify their operations, increase their focus on renewable energy and adopt lower-impact technologies.
“In the case of Ecopetrol, for instance, the company has accelerated its decarbonization strategy, investing in hydrogen, renewables, energy efficiency and emissions reduction. At the same time, the natural gas sector has become more relevant in Colombia’s energy conversation. Given that natural gas is considered a crucial resource for stabilizing the energy matrix during the transition, interest in offshore developments, such as the Sirius discovery, has remained strong.
“While some investors have taken a more cautious stance due to regulatory and market uncertainty, the industry continues to seek dialogue with the government to build a balanced path that ensures energy security, sustainability and economic growth. The key lies in achieving a balance between transition policies and the need to secure the country’s short- and medium-term energy supply.”
- How would you describe Colombia’s energy industry today compared to August 2022, when President Petro took office?
“In the past two years, the Colombian oil industry has been marked by a greater focus on sustainability, adjustments in exploration and production policies and continuous adaptation to global market dynamics and social expectations. At the beginning of the Petro administration, the energy transition debate was characterized by tension between energy security and decarbonization. Regulatory uncertainty, geopolitical crises and investor pressure for sustainability influenced corporate strategies.
“Today, in 2025, there is a more mature approach. The energy transition has become more pragmatic: governments and companies have understood that diversifying the energy matrix does not imply a sudden abandonment of hydrocarbons but rather a strategic evolution. Natural gas has solidified its role as a transition fuel, and new subsurface energy resources such as white hydrogen and geothermal energy, along with energy efficiency, have progressed in their deployment, though they still face economic barriers.
“In geosciences, artificial intelligence and advanced data analysis have accelerated resource exploration and optimization. There is greater synergy between mining, energy and the environment, with an emphasis on circular economy and the recovery of critical minerals for the energy transition.
“In Colombia, the discussion has shifted from political promises to technical and economic realities. Companies still face regulatory uncertainty, but there are signs of adjustments toward more balanced models. Renewable energy projects have advanced, but the lack of transmission infrastructure remains a bottleneck.
“In summary, the industry today is more strategic, with a less ideological and more technical vision of the energy transition, although regulatory and financial challenges continue to set the pace of progress.”
Portillo cited some key data about Colombia’s political and industry landscape:
- According to the National Hydrocarbon Agency,there has been a decline in exploratory well drilling, dropping from 499 to 375, representing an annual reduction of 33 percent. If this trend is not reversed, it could affect future production.
- According to data from the Colombian Oil, Gas and Energy Chamber, as of June 30, 2024, the number of active drilling rigs in Colombia had decreased to 103, compared to 124 in the same period in 2023. This number has been steadily declining since November 2022, when there were 155 active rigs, showing a 50-percent reduction to date.
- Despite the uncertainty, 80 percent of Colombians believe that the oil industry has a positive impact on the country. (This number, published by the Petroleum Barometer polling group in 2024, represents an increase from 72 percent in 2019.)
- To what extent are Colombia’s current energy challenges related to the national government versus other factors?
“Colombia’s current energy challenges result from a combination of structural, situational and political factors. While government decisions influence the sector’s dynamics, there are also external and long-term elements that have contributed to the current situation.
“On one hand, uncertainty surrounding the country’s energy policy has raised concerns in the sector, particularly regarding hydrocarbon exploration and production. The lack of new exploration contracts in recent years may have limited the development of additional reserves, potentially affecting the country’s self-sufficiency in the medium term. Additionally, regulatory and market signals have impacted investor and operator confidence, delaying potential projects.
“However, significant external factors also play a role. Global supply chain disruptions, rising logistics costs, and fuel price volatility, along with geopolitical events, have affected energy supply and costs in Colombia. Furthermore, armed conflict and public order issues have caused disruptions to critical infrastructure, making gas and electricity production and transportation more difficult in certain regions.
“Climate effects have also played an important role. Colombia’s reliance on hydroelectric generation makes it vulnerable to phenomena such as El Niño, which can significantly reduce reservoir levels and increase pressure on other energy sources, driving up electricity costs.
“The key to addressing these challenges lies in adopting a comprehensive strategy that combines incentives for responsible exploration and production, strengthening the technical capabilities of national institutions, regional education initiatives to build trust, promoting renewable energy, investing in infrastructure, and implementing public policies that ensure stability and reliability in the energy supply.”
- How has Colombia’s internal conflict affected onshore oil and gas production?
“Colombia’s internal conflict has significantly impacted onshore oil and gas production, affecting both company operations and energy supply stability.
“The presence of armed groups in certain regions has complicated the movement of workers and equipment, delaying exploration and production projects in strategic areas that are essential for ensuring energy security and resource availability for key consumption centers.
“Another major factor is the social unrest surrounding the industry. Protests and blockades in producing areas have disrupted operations, logistics and hydrocarbon transportation, reflecting tensions among communities, companies and the government. While some of these protests stem from legitimate socioeconomic concerns, they have also been leveraged by unlawful actors to exert pressure on the industry.
“Despite these challenges, onshore production has remained resilient thanks to ongoing community engagement, security measures, and innovative operational strategies. Through the ACGGP, we have contributed to trust-building by engaging more than 30,000 people in various regions over the past seven years. Our Regional Education Program has played a crucial role in closing the knowledge gap about petroleum activities, fostering informed decision-making in local communities.”
- How would you respond to oil and gas companies hesitant to enter Colombia due to economic and security risks?
“Colombia offers significant potential in energy resources, particularly offshore, as demonstrated by the recent Sirius discovery offshore. However, it is understandable that companies assess risks before investing. The key is to showcase that Colombia has made progress in legal security, the development of a clearer regulatory framework, and the strengthening of energy infrastructure.
Some key points to highlight are that, although political uncertainties exist, the country continues to honor its contracts and commitments to investors. There are various companies in Colombia that may be interested in partnering with investors looking to drive the development of hydrocarbon exploration and production activities. Ensuring energy supply is a national priority, which keeps the government interested in promoting investment. Sirius, as a discovery, demonstrates real growth opportunities in the country’s gas sector. Additionally, the Middle Magdalena Valley holds significant gas potential in source rock reservoirs, which is worth evaluating.”
- I understand that ACGGP occasionally meets with the Ministry of Energy and that you have personally spoken before the Colombian Congress. What advice do you share with them? How do they respond to your recommendations?
“ACGGP’s messages are based on technical and scientific knowledge, aiming to responsibly contribute to public policy development in energy and geosciences … Conversations with both entities focus on linking geology to regional needs.
“At the Ministry of Energy, officials are usually receptive if provided with technical information that helps justify political decisions. However, implementation often depends on internal dynamics and government priorities.
“In Congress, responses vary. Some legislators engage when geology is linked to regional or national benefits, while others shift the debate toward more political positions. Success depends on presenting messages strategically and with strong technical backing. However, ACGGP does not only engage in dialogue with the government; we also facilitate efficient, two-way discussions with social actors, environmental leaders and local and regional administrative and environmental authorities. Our goal is to strengthen their decision-making capacities for sustainable territorial development.”
- What do you think is the role of professional associations in energy policy?
“Professional associations serve as a bridge between professionals, industry and the state. They help communicate specific needs, defend technical knowledge, and have the ability not only to provide high-quality information but also to convey it effectively and develop useful proposals to address the country’s challenges.”
- How would you describe the current environment for geoscientists working in Colombia’s energy sector?
“The current environment is full of challenges: Onshore exploration has declined, but offshore opportunities are expanding. Additionally, there is a growing need for experts in geological CO₂ storage, geothermal energy, and white hydrogen, though many of these fields still face significant research challenges.
“Moreover, the energy industry does not only require skilled professionals to unlock new exploration opportunities but also to manage associated risks, design climate change adaptation proposals, and develop environmental, geological, and hydrological baselines, among others, to support comprehensive territorial planning and informed decision-making.
- What advice would you give to young geoscientists considering a career in oil and gas but unsure if it is a secure professional path?
“The energy industry is evolving, and geoscientists play a crucial role in this transition. We must continue exploring new subsurface energy sources, further offshore exploration (as it represents the future of Colombia’s gas sector), and assess source rock reservoirs as a potential short- and medium-term gas resource for the country.
“It is vital for professionals to remain engaged in traditional energy areas, as energy challenges persist. However, it is also prudent to explore new fields where geoscientists can make a significant impact: policy development, energy law, environmental assessment, climate adaptation strategies, and geological knowledge dissemination.
“In summary, geoscientists have a unique and valuable skill set that will continue to be essential for shaping the energy landscape, both in traditional and emerging sectors.”