Colombia's New President Pledges Oil and Gas Revival, Energy Security
Colombia's new president prioritizes oil and gas revival, promising to rebuild Ecopetrol and expand exploration for energy security.
Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella used his inauguration on Friday to outline a major shift in national energy policy, pledging to revive the country's oil and gas sector and rebuild state-owned Ecopetrol. He framed energy security as a foundational pillar of his administration.
While affirming support for a long-term energy transition toward wind and solar power, de la Espriella insisted this shift must not weaken the fossil fuel industry. "I believe in the energy transition," he said, "but that transition must be built from strength, not from weakness, from self-sufficiency and not from dependence."
The stance marks a clear departure from the policies of former President Gustavo Petro, who halted new oil and gas exploration contracts and prioritized renewable energy and Amazon protection. Just months ago, Petro's government hosted an international summit in Santa Marta to advocate for a global move away from fossil fuels.
De la Espriella described energy security as "a matter of national sovereignty," arguing that Colombia cannot achieve lasting prosperity by leaving its natural resources untapped. He pledged to make the restoration of Ecopetrol, a major source of government revenue and export earnings, a "definitive and absolute priority," accusing the previous administration of weakening the company.
The new president also confirmed plans to authorize fracking under what he called "the strictest technical and environmental standards." His administration intends to expand oil and gas exploration to rebuild declining reserves, attract investment, and secure the nation's energy future.
Warning that Colombia's energy system faces a "critical situation," de la Espriella cited falling reserves, delayed projects, and rising electricity demand. He noted the approaching El Nino weather phenomenon, which can bring drought and reduce hydroelectric output, as an urgent reason to act. "The El Nino phenomenon won't wait for us," he said. "To overcome it, it is imperative to implement urgent solutions."