Why are photovoltaic systems important in Colombia?

The implementation of photovoltaic systems in Colombia has enabled 2% of the population in areas that do not have access to electric energy to meet their lighting, refrigeration and leisure needs, allowing them to expand their capacities and improve their quality of life. The systems that have been installed are mainly focused on the rural sector.

How much electricity does Colombia produce?

Colombia’s installed electric power generation capacity currently stands at 17,771 MW, with hydro accounting for 68 percent, gas and coal-fired power plants accounting for 31 percent, and the remaining one percent from wind and solar units. The country’s energy matrix is clean but highly dependent on climatic conditions to generate hydro power.

Will Colombia build a hydrogen value chain?

With abundant natural gas reserves and the largest coal producer in Latin America, Colombia is focusing on blue hydrogen production as a base from which to start building the hydrogen value chain. In 2022, Colombia published its roadmap for offshore wind development, part of a broader plan to wean the country off hydropower and fossil fuels.

What is Colombia's energy transition process?

Colombia’s energy transition process is underway. Former President Ivan Duque set a goal to increase non-conventional renewable energy installed capacity from one percent to more than 12 percent of the energy matrix by 2022.

Is photovoltaic technology a viable option for ZNI zones?

Current electricity demand is approximately 61.684 GW h/year. Recognizing that photovoltaic technology is the most viable for ZNI zones because of the average radiation in Colombia, it is recognized that there is a deficit at the National level, inasmuch as less than 3% of the population is supplied with this type of energy.