INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
Colombia recently confirmed its most significant gas discovery since the 1990s
The Sirius project, formerly known as Uchuva, has proven the existence of 6 trillion cubic feet of natural gas.This offshore project in the
import gas next year to meet domestic demand
One significant challenge is the requirement to complete 116 prior consultations.These consultations involve dialogue between the state and
(Photo Internet reproduction)The process aims to reach agreements on administrative or legislative measures that might affect the collective
rights of these groups.Challenges and Potential of the Sirius Gas FieldA recent court ruling in Santa Marta ordered a halt to operations
until the prior consultation processes are completed
Several government entities, including the Ministry of Mines and Energy, have challenged this ruling.The National Environmental Licensing
Authority has also opposed the decision
They argue that they met all requirements and did not need any additional consultations.Sergio Cabrales, a professor at the University of
Further tests are needed to determine the percentage of gas that can be effectively produced.At the current consumption rate of 0.3 trillion
Colombia, compared the size of this deposit to the Chuchupa field, which had initial reserves between 5 and 5.6 trillion cubic
feet.Ecopetrol and Petrobras aim to start production in 2029
However, they must overcome various operational, legal, and social challenges before reaching this goal.Bruce Mac Master, president of ANDI,
noted that this new gas discovery could provide between five and seven years of supply
He also mentioned that the project would require an investment of 5 billion dollars.
