Colombia challenges decision on gas exploration in the Uchuva 2 well

This statement from the Ministry of Mines and Energy of Colombia was translated from Spanish by an automated system

Recognizing that prior consultation is the fundamental right of ethnic groups to decide on measures, projects, works or activities carried out within their territories, the Ministry of Mines and Energy has decided to challenge, with solid arguments based on the general interest, the decision of a judge in Santa Marta prohibiting gas exploration in the Uchuva 2 well. This step seeks to ensure that decisions are made with a robust technical basis and fair consideration of the rights of those involved, including those of the affected communities.

As of December 31, 2023, according to the latest Resource and Reserve Report (IRR 2023), the Uchuva discovery was in the delineation stage and had no history of commercial production. The Uchuva 2 well, currently being drilled, has been designed to delineate this discovery and reduce uncertainties about the reservoir, essential to determining its commercial potential.

It is imperative to carry out an evaluation of this well, since it is estimated that, if its productivity is confirmed, the Uchuva field could provide a recoverable volume equivalent to 20% of the 1P reserves (proven), 32% of the 2P reserves (proven plus probable) and 45% of the 3P reserves (proven plus probable plus possible). Without an adequate evaluation, the country will lose the opportunity to incorporate these potential reserve volumes, which would aggravate the gas supply and demand situation in the country.

The Ministry of Mines and Energy believes that the development of this field is crucial for medium-term energy sustainability, and that it will allow the country to use natural gas as an energy transition fluid. This action would contribute to the supply of clean energy to the Colombian population and generate income from royalties that will directly benefit the regions.

The Ministry of the Interior has already taken action on the same issue, according to the statement published on September 13, in which it also supported the importance of respecting the rights of ethnic communities through prior consultation, without neglecting the general interests of the country. This is within the framework of the National Government's commitment to the ongoing search for solutions that allow for the coordination of actions in favor of economic development and respect for fundamental rights.

“At the Ministry of Mines and Energy we reiterate our commitment to responsible management of natural resources that guarantees the well-being of all Colombians and the country's energy security. Therefore, we will continue to take the necessary actions to ensure that the evaluation and development of the Uchuva 2 well are carried out in a timely and effective manner,” concluded the Minister of the portfolio, Andrés Camacho Morales.