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Nov 274 min read

Energy Transformation in Colombia: Opportunities for Collaboration Between Japanese and Colombian Companies


At COP16 in Cali, the Colombian Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry presented "Energy Transformation in Colombia: Collaboration Between Japanese and Colombian Companies for Carbon Neutrality," highlighting Colombia's leadership in the energy transition and growing bilateral partnerships for a sustainable future.


By: Sakura NAKANO – International Business Internship CCJC, Tobitate! Study Abroad Initiative. 


Colombia: A Pioneer in Energy Transition

Foto: Minenergia

Colombia has become a benchmark in Latin America by setting ambitious decarbonization goals: a 51% reduction in GHG emissions by 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2050. These objectives are based on leveraging its abundant resources: hydroelectric, solar, wind, biomass, and geothermal.


The Colombian government has implemented various support policies, including Law 1715 of 2014 and the 2050 Strategy, creating an attractive framework for investment in clean energy. The current challenge is to accelerate the transition and overcome existing barriers, such as the need for greater investment in transmission infrastructure and the development of key technologies for hydrogen.


This is where collaboration with Japan becomes essential. Japan stands out for its advanced hydrogen energy technology, leading the world in patent applications related to fuel cells. This Japanese expertise, combined with Colombia's resources and commitment, creates a powerful synergy to drive innovation and accelerate the energy transition.


Through bilateral cooperation, technological and financial barriers can be overcome, positioning both countries at the forefront of the global energy transition. With a strong government commitment, increasing private sector participation, and valuable collaboration with Japan, Colombia has the potential to achieve its ambitious decarbonization goals.


Strategic Alliances: Japan and Colombia United for Sustainability

Foto: Autos de Primera

Collaboration between Japanese and Colombian companies is crucial for driving the energy transition. Japan, with its advanced technology and experience in energy efficiency, is an ideal partner for Colombia. These strategic alliances seek to maximize the potential of renewable energy in Colombia and develop innovative solutions in green hydrogen and sustainable mobility. Here are some key collabolation:


  • Toyota and Ecopetrol:

    In 2022, Toyota and Ecopetrol launched a pilot program for green hydrogen-powered vehicles. The three-year test will be conducted at innovation and technology center in the Caribbean, Cartagena. Through this pilot project, they aim to promote sustainable mobility, evaluate hydrogen technology, analyze business models, and develop infrastructure. A Toyota Mirai will be loaned to Ecopetrol for three years to promote hydrogen mobility in Colombia and contribute to technological development and knowledge accumulation for a hydrogen-based society.


  • Promigas y Sumitomo:

    In 2022, Sumitomo Corporation Andes began efforts to promote the adoption of hydrogen electric vehicles in Colombia. With the global goal of achieving carbon neutrality, Sumitomo seeks to leverage Colombia's abundant renewable energy resources to build a hydrogen-based society. Taking advantage of Colombia's abundant renewable energy (solar, wind, hydro, etc.), the commercial viability of a local hydrogen production and consumption model will be assessed in Cartagena. In the long term, the possibility of establishing a large-scale hydrogen production and export operation based in Colombia is being considered.

  • JBIC y EPM:

    The Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) and Empresas Públicas de Medellín E.S.P. (EPM), a Colombian public services company, signed a cooperation agreement to promote initiatives in hydrogen and ammonia, leveraging Colombia's abundant renewable energy resources. The agreement seeks to accelerate the development of green hydrogen production projects and establish a supply chain, facilitating collaboration between Japanese companies and EPM in areas such as renewable energy, power transmission and distribution, water, sanitation, and waste treatment.

Investment Opportunities and a Promising Future

Foto: Sakura NAKANO en COP16

Japanese companies have a unique opportunity to invest and collaborate in developing a sustainable energy future in Colombia. The country offers a favorable investment environment, with abundant natural resources, a supportive regulatory framework, and a strong government commitment to the energy transition. The growing demand for clean technologies and the need for infrastructure represent significant business opportunities. We invite you to explore these opportunities and join Colombia's energy transformation.


The collaboration between Colombia and Japan represents a promising example of how international cooperation can drive the development of clean and sustainable energy. Both countries are working to leverage Japanese technological knowledge and Colombia's natural resources, and joint initiatives in solar, wind, and green hydrogen not only foster the transition to low-carbon economies but also generate economic opportunities and strengthen diplomatic ties. This collaborative effort not only benefits both countries but also contributes to the achievement of 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, paving the way for a cleaner and more resilient future for generations to come.


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