Colombia prioritizing new e-mobility, energy storage rules

Colombia is readying new regulations for electromobility and battery storage as part of wider efforts to guarantee a seamless shift to a low-carbon economy, according to a senior energy official. 

Sector regulator Creg has also prioritized the modernization of the wholesale energy market and an overhaul of the network code to incorporate new technologies.

“The regulatory model for the energy transition must first consider the fulfillment of objectives such as security, affordability and sustainability," Creg commissioner José Prada said during the CCEnergía electric power congress in Bogotá.

He added that attempts to attract investments in new technologies must be in "harmony" with existing policies while encouraging "a more active participation of users." 

So far this year, Creg has issued resolutions related to grid connection requests, self-generation rules that allow for the sale of surplus energy and storage system provisions. 

Colombia's installed capacity from non-conventional renewable energy – namely wind and solar power – is expected to reach at least 2,500MW by the first quarter next year, up from around 1,000MW currently. 

But the diversification plan must be backed by a solid regulatory framework that prioritizes energy security and mitigates the effects of climate change, according to Prada. 

“We must ensure that energy services can be provided without compromising the quality standards ... that we have achieved over the years,” he said.