The Executive Secretary of the Latin American Energy Organization (OLADE), Andrés Rebolledo, participated in the seminar “Challenges and Solutions for Regional Gas Integration”, organized by the Ministry of Mines and Energy of Brazil, where he emphasized the critical role of natural gas in the energy integration of the Southern Cone.
During his remarks, Rebolledo stated: “In the last decade, natural gas trade in the region has increased by 58%. Seventy-five percent of consumption is supplied by regional production, which demonstrates a strong foundation of self-sufficiency that supports energy security, integration, and a low-emission transition.”
He also noted that even under carbon neutrality scenarios by 2050, natural gas will still account for 20% of the region’s energy matrix. In this context, he announced that OLADE, in partnership with CAF, is promoting investments, infrastructure studies, and tools such as the Methane Observatory to support the decarbonization of gas production.
Guido Maiulini, Head of Strategic Advisory at OLADE, also participated in the seminar and emphasized the strategic value of natural gas in improving electric system reliability and regional competitiveness. “The reliability of our power systems also depends on stronger gas integration. If we move forward pragmatically and with cooperation, the entire region can benefit. Often, what holds back integration is how collective rents are distributed. That’s a barrier we must overcome,” he stressed.
OLADE is currently leading a technical study with CAF’s support to identify opportunities for shared infrastructure and move toward effective gas integration with a long-term vision and strong regional commitment.
