With a gas deficit, how is coal gaining ground to face the unpredictable El Niño at the end of the year?
View of the Temotasajero thermal power plant Photo: Website, Termotasajero
TL;DR
- Colombia's energy system is preparing for increased demand due to the likelihood of an El Niño phenomenon.
- There is currently sufficient fuel availability for thermal generation, but gas prices are causing uncertainty.
- Industries are beginning to adjust their consumption patterns due to the rising cost of gas.
- The regasification plant on the Caribbean coast is a key support for the thermal park, with expanded capacity projected.
- Coal consumption has reached high levels and remains relevant in the thermal matrix, especially during electricity system restrictions.
- The price of natural gas for industrial users is nearing $25 per million BTU, while coal is between $7 and $8.
- Industrial consumers, particularly medium-sized businesses, are switching from gas to coal to reduce costs.
- An increased demand for coal could pressure the response capacity of small-scale mining.