By Alejandra Garcia on August 4, 2024
photo: Bill Hackwell
Amid the debate on the future developments of climate change and the need to reduce net emissions to zero in the next two decades, the global energy transition from fossil fuels to renewable energies cannot be postponed. Latin America, one of the regions hardest hit by climate change, is taking giant steps towards changing its energy matrix to enable a sustainable and planet-friendly future.
During a recent interview with Cuban-based news agency Prensa Latina, the executive secretary of the Latin American Energy Organization (Olade), Andrés Rebolledo, remarked that Latin America is currently the greenest region in the world, with 65 percent of electricity generated from clean sources. Due to its vast geography and abundant natural resources, it has the potential to become one of the cornerstones of the sector.
“The region is designing a greener energy future, diversifying sources and lowering costs through mechanisms such as auctions and attracting new investment,” Rebolledo said.
In recent years, the region has massively incorporated non-traditional, non-conventional sources, such as solar technology and offshore wind energy projects. This has made it possible for renewable energy capacity in the region to exceed 310 gigawatts in 2022, which represents an increase of more than 80% compared to 2010, according to official data from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).
This institution reports that Brazil and Mexico stand out as leaders in total renewable energy generation capacity. But both countries and the rest of the region in general have a long way to go on their way to the green transition.
Despite the optimistic message and projections, the use of hydrocarbons persists in several Latin American countries. Large-scale hydroelectric installations in the Amazon are an example. These installations are being challenged by activists and indigenous communities because they have caused great environmental damage and have affected the quality of life of the population.
Science Magazine studied 350 hydroelectric dams (built or being planned) in Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador and Colombia, plants that drastically modify river ecosystems, flood vast areas of forest and cause the loss of natural habitats and biodiversity.
“Productive projects, in general, have a positive impact on the territories where they are deployed and developed, and the energy sector is no exception. It is a reality that the economic development and well-being of the people in Latin America depends on the realization and development of investments, but each project must respect national regulations, and must be the result of a dialogue with the communities,” he said.
Amid the hurricane season, which highlights the constant threat of global warming for Latin America and the Caribbean, it is increasingly necessary to make urgent decisions. “The energy transition cannot be postponed; it is crucial to meet today’s energy and environmental challenges. The Day has come,” Rebolledo concluded.
Along with the immediate environmental crisis is the need for the sovereignty of nations to dictate energy policy and not multi national corporations driven by profits.
Source: Resumen Latinoamericano – English