Colombia allows Hidroituango to raise reservoir level for El Niño

Colombia's environmental licensing authority (ANLA) has temporarily authorized Hidroituango, the country's largest hydroelectric plant, to raise its reservoir level from elevation 408 to 420 meters, preparing for a potential strong El Niño in 2026-2027. The decision, announced by Environment Minister Fabio Arjona, allows the plant to store more water from the Cauca River ahead of expected dry months Source: portafolioco, larepublicaco.

The measure

The authorization modifies the operating rule that regulates water discharge, enabling EPM to retain more water in the reservoir Source: elcolombiano. According to Arjona, the move follows technical evaluations and studies on water behavior, and aligns with the original environmental license conditions Source: infobae. The measure is temporary and subject to permanent monitoring; operations must adjust or suspend if impacts on water intakes, quality, ecosystems, or communities arise, or if hydraulic or geotechnical alerts occur Source: larepublicaco.

Climate context

The decision responds to IDEAM projections indicating a high probability of El Niño strengthening during 2026-2027 Source: infobae. XM, the market operator, estimates reservoirs should reach 80% capacity by year-end to face subsequent summer months Source: larepublicaco. Arjona emphasized the need to anticipate water deficits before they become major problems Source: infobae.

Strategic importance

Hidroituango is strategic for Colombia's energy security, and the government stresses that decisions must be based on scientific evidence Source: portafolioco. The broader context includes warnings from the energy sector about potential blackouts in 2027 due to firm energy deficits and investment gaps Source: infobae.