USO Reaffirms Support for Fracking and Rejects Permian Sale
The Workers’ Union Organization (USO) has strengthened its commitment to the exploration and exploitation of hydrocarbons in Colombia during its recent national plenary session held in Bogotá. This event brought together key leaders of the organization to discuss critical issues surrounding the country’s energy policies.
Opposition to the Permian Sale
A significant outcome of the plenary session was the USO’s firm stance against the sale of the Permian field, a major oil resource in the United States co-owned by Ecopetrol. Union President César Loza emphasized that selling these assets would negatively impact Ecopetrol’s financial health. Loza stated, “We ratify the request not to sell the Permian due to the negative impact it has on Ecopetrol’s finances.” This declaration demonstrates the union’s unwavering support for preserving national hydrocarbon assets.
Advocacy for Fracking Pilots
The USO’s plenary session also highlighted the urgent need for revitalizing fracking pilots. The organization is urging the Colombian government to allocate new areas for oil and gas exploration, asserting that these measures are essential for strengthening national hydrocarbon reserves. Loza further remarked, “We ask the national government to assign new rounds to search for oil and gas reserves,” stressing that the depletion of reserves poses a threat to the country’s energy sustainability and tax revenues.
Energy Security and Fracking Controversy
Fracking continues to be a controversial subject in Colombia. Despite this, 80% of the union leaders present supported the development of fracking pilots. Loza defended this technique as a responsible choice for ensuring energy security, stating, “It is necessary to advance the pilots of unconventional deposits. They are responsible decisions, thinking about the energy security that the country requires.” This indicates the USO’s evolving perspective on fracking, contrasting with its previous anti-fracking stance.
Concerns Over Environmental Proposals
Additionally, the USO has expressed concerns regarding the Ministry of Environment’s proposal to establish a forest reserve over the Amazon biome, which could restrict oil activity in 43% of the national territory. The union argues that such measures would severely impact energy production and stability. A joint declaration is being prepared to formally oppose this initiative during the assembly of delegates scheduled for next year.
Internal Campaign and Recognition of Challenges
In light of these developments, the USO has initiated an internal campaign to disseminate the plenary’s conclusions among its members. The upcoming assembly could potentially shift the union’s official antifracking position that has been in place since 2019. During the plenary session, leaders cited Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva as a role model for advocating hydrocarbon development, highlighting a contrast with President Petro’s more restrictive approach to fossil fuels.
The Future of Ecopetrol and Investment Plans
In tandem with USO decisions, Ecopetrol’s Board of Directors announced significant changes, including the resignation of Guillermo García Realpe and the appointment of new executives. The board also approved the Annual Investment Plan for 2026, which allocates a substantial portion of its budget—approximately 70% or COP 17.2 trillion—toward the profitable exploration and production of oil and gas.
The future appears challenging for Ecopetrol as it anticipates a lower Brent oil price along with strategies focused on cost reduction and sustainability. The union’s push for expanded hydrocarbon exploration aims to bolster economic resources, underscoring the critical interplay between energy policies and Colombia’s financial stability.
In conclusion, the USO’s recent plenary session reaffirmed its commitment to hydrocarbon exploration while advocating for fracking as a viable solution for Colombia’s energy needs. The intersection of economic, environmental, and political factors will undoubtedly shape the future of Colombia’s energy landscape.